Looking for luxury, charm, and Riviera beauty? Head to Portofino! Tucked into the Ligurian coastline, Portofino is a pastel-colored fishing village turned glamorous retreat. With its yacht-filled harbor, cliffside trails, and upscale boutiques, this Italian Riviera gem is perfect for romantic getaways, scenic strolls, and coastal indulgence.
Portofino, Italy Highlights:
- Stroll the Piazzetta: Relax with espresso or wine in the charming harbor square surrounded by luxury shops and colorful buildings.
- Hike to Castello Brown: Visit this historic fortress for panoramic views of Portofino and the glittering Ligurian Sea.
- Swim or sunbathe at Paraggi Beach: A small, pristine bay with emerald waters just a short walk from the village.
- Walk the trail to the Church of San Giorgio: This scenic cliffside church overlooks the harbor and is a peaceful photo-worthy spot.
- Charter a boat along the coast: Discover hidden coves, enjoy seaside dining, or sail to nearby towns like Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli.
Best Time to Visit Portofino, Italy
The best time to visit Portofino is from May through September, when the weather is sunny and warm—perfect for boating, hiking, and dining outdoors. July and August are the busiest (and most expensive), while late spring and early fall offer quieter luxury with ideal temperatures.
Where to Stay in Portofino, Italy
- Belmond Hotel Splendido – A legendary 5-star hotel perched above the village with sea views, luxury spa, and elegant dining.
- Eight Hotel Portofino – A chic boutique hotel near the town center offering contemporary comforts and a tranquil garden spa.
- Albergo Nazionale – A charming, centrally located hotel with harbor views, ideal for those seeking classic Italian hospitality.
⮕ Sail, Drive, or Stroll In: Your Guide to Getting to Portofino
How to Get to Portofino, Italy
- By train: Take a train to Santa Margherita Ligure, then a short bus, taxi, or scenic 1-hour walk to Portofino.
- By car: Portofino is accessible via narrow coastal roads. Parking is limited and expensive—consider parking in Santa Margherita and walking or taking a shuttle.
- By boat: Ferries and private charters run from nearby coastal towns and offer a stunning approach by sea.
The closest major airport to Portofino is Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, commonly known as just Genoa Airport. This airport is served by several major airlines like British Airways, Air France, Easy Jet, Lufthansa, KLM, and Ryanair, so it's relatively easy to get there, though you may have to take a connecting flight from a city like Paris, London, Munich, or Amsterdam. From there, Portofino is about 30 miles east along the coastline. The drive takes about an hour, so renting a car is an option. If you prefer to rely on public transport, you can hop on a train to Santa Margherita and then take a bus or taxi to Portofino.
⮕ Sleep in Style: Where to Stay in Portofino
There are multiple hotels to be found in Portofino, as well as private rented accommodation. Read on to learn all about the best accommodation options in the area.
- Hotel Eden - Vico Dritto, 18/20, 16034 GE, Phone: +39-01-85-26-90-91
Located less than five minutes from Portofino's iconic, beautiful harbor, Hotel Eden is one of the best options for accommodation in this gorgeous Italian town. It's a simple hotel, with nicely decorated rooms, affordable rates, free breakfast included for every guest, and a nice outdoor space with garden and terrace. Free Wi-Fi access is also offered to all guests and this is a good spot to base yourself for a trip to Portofino.
- Piccolo Hotel Portofino - Via Duca degli Abruzzi, 31, 16034 Portofino GE, Phone: +39-01-85-26-90-15
Nestled in a wonderful spot right on the coastline, with rooms offering stunning sea views, the Piccolo Hotel Portofino is one of Portofino's best hotels. Past guests have fallen in love with this charming location, which features a nice array of contemporary rooms with good features and facilities. The on-site restaurant serves some really tasty food and breakfast is served free of charge every morning. The rustic exterior of this hotel is nicely contrasted with the modern decor and this is a great place to stay if you're looking for luxury and comfort during your time in Portofino.
- Hotel Nazionale - Vico Dritto, 3, 16034 Portofino GE, Phone: +39-01-85-26-95-75
If you're traveling with a special someone and looking for an intimate, romantic hotel in Portofino, the Hotel Nazionale could be the right choice for you. It's right by the marina, offering stunning views from the on-site restaurant and many of the rooms, some of which feature balconies. Free breakfast is included with every reservation and the hotel is just a short walk from many of the best attractions and landmarks in Portofino too. Not only that, but the room rates here are very attractive.
⮕ If You’re Wondering How to Spend a Perfect Day, Start with These Things to Do in Portofino
- Visit Castello Brown – Tour the 16th-century castle and enjoy one of the best views in the Italian Riviera.
- Relax at Paraggi Beach – Rent a lounger or enjoy lunch at one of the beachfront cafés by the turquoise bay.
- Hike in Portofino Natural Park – Trails wind through lush Mediterranean vegetation with scenic lookouts and peaceful seclusion.
- Tour the Abbey of San Fruttuoso – Take a boat to this hidden cove with a stunning monastery tucked between cliffs and sea.
- Shop along Via Roma – Browse designer boutiques, artisan jewelry shops, and gourmet delicacies in the heart of the village.
Where to Eat in Portofino, Italy
- Ristorante Puny – Iconic waterfront restaurant known for Ligurian seafood dishes and a favorite among celebrities.
- Trattoria Tripoli – Cozy, family-run trattoria serving pasta al pesto and fresh fish just steps from the harbor.
- DaV Mare at Belmond Splendido Mare – Upscale dining with innovative Mediterranean cuisine and a refined atmosphere.
If you are interested in local events:
- Portofino Regatta (May) – Luxury yachts and classic boats gather in the harbor for sailing races and elegant social events.
- Festa di San Giorgio (April 23) – Celebrate Portofino’s patron saint with music, fireworks, and a festive atmosphere.
- Open-air classical concerts (Summer) – Enjoy music under the stars at venues like the castle or the church terrace.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Portofino, Italy:
- Santa Margherita Ligure (10 min) – A chic seaside town with a grand promenade, villas, and excellent dining.
- Camogli (25 min) – A charming fishing village with pastel buildings, delicious focaccia, and pebbled beaches.
- San Fruttuoso Abbey (Accessible by boat or hike) – Discover the 10th-century monastery and snorkel near the famous underwater “Christ of the Abyss” statue.
- Rapallo (20 min) – Visit the waterfront castle and take the cable car up to the Sanctuary of Montallegro for panoramic views.
- Cinque Terre (Under 2 hours) – Explore colorful cliffside villages, scenic trails, and dramatic views along the Ligurian coast (best as a full-day trip).
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Question: What is notable about Italy's coastline?
- Answer: Italy is a country with a very long coastline and many lovely seafront resort towns and beaches.
- Question: What makes Portofino stand out among Italy's coastal cities?
- Answer: Of all the many beautiful coastal cities in Italy, Portofino stands out above the rest.
- Question: Where is Portofino located?
- Answer: Portofino is located within the Metropolitan City of Genoa on the Italian Riviera, in the northwestern part of the country.
- Question: What is the history of Portofino?
- Answer: Portofino is an old fishing village that has grown and developed over time into one of Italy's favorite resort locations.
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