Visit Portofino Italy: Your Travel Guide

Portofino isn’t just a place, it’s a vibe. Tucked into a jewel-toned cove along the Ligurian coast, this tiny fishing village turned icon is where glossy yachts, lemon spritzes, and cliffside hikes all coexist under the same Mediterranean sun. Think pastel facades glowing in the morning light, bougainvillea spilling from balconies, and that first seafood lunch you’ll dream about for years. Whether you’re sailing in, hiking from San Fruttuoso, or just people-watching in the piazzetta, Portofino has the kind of effortless charm that feels like a movie set, but it’s all real. And if you’re here for the full Italian Riviera experience, don’t skip the Liguria wine tours. Local whites like Vermentino pair perfectly with a sea breeze and a plate of trofie al pesto. Trust us, it’s your new favorite place on Earth.

Visit Portofino: The best things to do

Wander at the harbor

Let’s be honest, Portofino’s harbor is pure Italian Riviera fantasy. With pastel-painted facades hugging the curve of the bay and superyachts gently swaying in the turquoise water, this little port punches way above its size. The famed Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta is where everything happens: espresso sipping, luxury shopping, romantic strolls, and, yes, the occasional celebrity docking in from the Med.

Walk to the Church of Saint George

Just five minutes uphill from Portofino’s iconic harbor, the Church of San Giorgio rewards you with the kind of views that make postcards jealous. The stroll is short and scenic, lined with wildflowers, sea breezes, and peeks of the pastel village below. This little church may be modest, but it’s steeped in local history and legend (they say it holds relics of Saint George himself). Once at the top, take a moment to breathe it all in: sapphire water, bobbing boats, and the Ligurian coastline stretching out like a dream.

Climb to Castello Brown for the best views

If you’re chasing that jaw-dropping panorama of Portofino, the one you’ll never forget, head up to Castello Brown. This 16th-century fortress-turned-museum sits high above the harbor and delivers cinematic views of the Ligurian coast. The walk up is steep but gorgeous, winding through gardens, olive trees, and sea-scented breezes. Inside, you’ll find old photos, art, and quirky relics that trace the castle’s history from military lookout to dreamy villa.

Hike the Portofino natural park trails

Need a break from yachts and boutiques? Lace up and hit the trails of Portofino Natural Park. This place is pure magic, think pine forests, olive groves, and cliffside paths with jaw-dropping views of the Ligurian Sea. Whether you’re heading down to the hidden cove of San Fruttuoso or just wandering through the greenery above town, the park offers a peaceful, wild side of Portofino that’s totally worth exploring.

Tour the Portofino lighthouse

Wrap up your Portofino escape with a sunset walk to the Faro di Portofino, the iconic lighthouse perched at the edge of the headland. The path winds through whispering pine forests and past tucked-away villas until you reach the cliffs, where the sea stretches endlessly before you. As the sun dips low, waves crash below and the salty breeze carries pure Ligurian magic. Just beside the lighthouse, a tiny café serves cocktails with views you’ll never forget, a dreamy spot for aperitivo with a front-row seat to the Riviera’s golden hour.

Visit Portofino: The best things to do around

Relax at Paraggi beach

If you’re craving some beach time while in Portofino, head to Paraggi, a dreamy cove just a short stroll or quick drive away. With its emerald-green water and soft sand, it’s the perfect place to paddleboard, swim, or just stretch out and do absolutely nothing. Since Portofino itself doesn’t really have a public beach, Paraggi is the locals’ and jet-setters’ go-to for soaking up the sun in style. Bonus: the setting is so scenic, even guests from luxury spots like the Belmond Splendido make the trip down.

Visit Rapallo’s lively waterfront and historic cable car

Just 20 minutes from Portofino by car or train, Rapallo brings a lively, down-to-earth contrast to its glitzy neighbor. Stroll the palm-lined promenade, snap a few pics of the seaside castle, or hop on the scenic cable car to the Santuario di Montallegro for jaw-dropping views. The town buzzes with life, boutiques, espresso bars, and restaurants serving up seriously good pesto. Visit Rapallo Italy, It’s the perfect next stop after soaking in the calm of Castello Brown or lounging at Paraggi Beach.

Wander in the colorful seaside town of Camogli

Just 35 minutes by car from Portofino, Camogli feels like the Riviera’s best-kept secret. This colorful fishing village swaps celebrity crowds for seafront calm, where lazy beach days, seafood lunches, and pastel-hued harbor views steal the show. Wander its narrow lanes, grab a cone of fresh anchovies, and let time slow down. The surrounding hills also offer scenic hikes if you’re up for an adventure with a sea breeze.

Looking for that Riviera vibe without the flash? Check out our full guide to the top things to do in Camogli Italy!

Take a day trip in Genoa

Genoa may be Italy’s best under-the-radar city for spontaneous adventure. One moment you’re sipping espresso in a centuries-old piazza, the next you’re diving into alleyways filled with street art, focaccia joints, and baroque churches. From the bustling Porto Antico to the grand Via Garibaldi palaces, Genoa packs culture, flavor, and surprise into every corner. Book a visit to a Genoa winery for a complete tour of this unique town.

Already in Genoa and ready to roam? Don’t miss our top picks for the best day trips from Genoa.

Good to know before visiting Portofino