Portofino is a small but highly scenic fishing village located on the Italian Riviera in
the region of Liguria, to the north-west of the country.
Known for its beautiful harbor and colorful array of buildings, Portofino is a popular
destination for both tourists and locals.
The village is set in a natural, crescent-shaped harbor surrounded by lush hills draped with
olive groves and exclusive villas.
Pastel-colored houses, high-end boutiques, and seafood restaurants line the waterfront.
The small, charming streets behind the harbor area are perfect for exploring and getting
a feel for the local culture.
But that's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the litany of thrilling and soul-nourishing
things you can do in and around this amazing locale.
If you're thinking about planning a trip to Portofino anytime soon, be sure to stick around
as we're about to be going over some of the best things to do in this cozy, historic Italian
villa.
Join us as Viewcation Presents: The Best Things To Do In Portofino, Italy
Exploring the Piazzetta and the Harbor
Found at the very middle of the village, the Piazzetta is Portofino's vibrant epicenter.
This charming square is surrounded by quaint pastel-colored houses, local boutiques, and
delightful al fresco cafés.
It overlooks the ever-busy harbor where sleek yachts gently bob next to traditional fishing
boats, creating a picturesque juxtaposition of old and new.
Whether you prefer people-watching while sipping a cappuccino or browsing through local artisanal
crafts, the Piazzetta offers an authentic Italian experience.
Visit the Church of San Giorgio
Perched high atop a hill overlooking the sea, the Church of San Giorgio offers an extraordinary
vista of Portofino and beyond.
Dating back to the 12th century, this beautiful church houses relics from the Crusades.
The steep but rewarding walk to the church weaves through olive groves and blossoming
flora, a captivating experience in itself.
With the church's warm, rustic stone walls and its panoramic views, this spot provides
both historical fascination and breathtaking beauty.
Discover the Underwater Statue of Christ of the Abyss
For adventurous types, a trip to the submerged statue of Christ of the Abyss is an absolute
must.
Located in the bay of San Fruttuoso, this bronze statue sits beneath the water's surface,
offering a unique diving experience.
The figure, which is stretching its arms toward the sky, serves as a symbol of protection
for all who sail and dive in the area.
To see this magnificent work of art, one can either snorkel, dive, or view it from a glass-bottom
boat.
Wander in the Portofino Natural Park
The Portofino Natural Park is a veritable paradise for nature lovers.
It sprawls over a wide area and boasts a variety of trails that meander through the lush Mediterranean
vegetation.
Hikers can explore paths leading to stunning cliff-top views, secluded beaches, and tranquil
picnic spots.
The park's biodiversity, including various species of birds and plants, adds to the sense
of immersion in nature.
Explore the Luxurious Castello Brown
Castello Brown, once a defensive fortress, now stands as an enduring testament to the
region's rich history and luxury.
Inside, visitors can explore the elegant rooms and historical artifacts.
The castle's elevated position offers unmatched views of Portofino and the azure sea.
The surrounding terraced gardens are filled with vibrant Mediterranean plants, providing
a tranquil and beautiful space to relax and absorb the breathtaking surroundings.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
No visit to Portofino is complete without indulging in the local cuisine.
The village's eateries serve dishes that celebrate the Ligurian region's bounty.
Fresh seafood, delicious pesto, and locally produced wines take center stage.
The dining experience, whether in a sophisticated restaurant or a charming, family-run trattoria,
is enhanced by the warm Italian hospitality and the view of the sparkling Mediterranean.
Adventure to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso
Accessible only by foot or boat, the Abbey of San Fruttuoso is a serene oasis of tranquility.
This ancient Benedictine monastery, nestled in a remote cove, is steeped in history and
offers a unique insight into Portofino's past.
It's also the original location of the Christ of the Abyss statue.
With its pristine beach and crystal-clear waters, the abbey is a perfect spot for a
peaceful picnic or an afternoon of swimming and snorkeling.
Revel in the Exclusive Paraggi Beach
Paraggi Beach is a rare sandy retreat on the rocky Ligurian coastline.
Located between Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, this crescent-shaped bay is renowned
for its calm, turquoise waters and vibrant marine life, making it an ideal location for
swimming and snorkeling.
Its location, surrounded by lush green hills, adds to the secluded and exclusive feel of
the beach.
Stroll Through the Gardens of Villa Durazzo
Situated in nearby Santa Margherita Ligure, the gardens of Villa Durazzo offer a beautifully
manicured escape.
The elaborate Italian-style gardens, filled with exotic plants and statues, offer tranquility
away from the bustling coastal villages.
The villa itself is a stunning example of Genovese architecture, filled with art and
antiques that narrate the story of Liguria's grand past.
Sail Around the Portofino Promontory
With its rich seafaring history, a sailing excursion around the Portofino promontory
is a delightful way to experience the Italian Riviera.
Be it a luxury yacht or a traditional fishing boat, sailing offers an unmatched view of
the rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and charming coastal villages.
Sunset cruises are particularly popular, as they offer the chance to see the landscape
bathed in a warm, golden light.
Visit the Lighthouse of Portofino
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, take a scenic walk to the Lighthouse of Portofino.
Located on the extreme tip of the Portofino promontory, this active lighthouse is surrounded
by pristine natural beauty.
The panoramic view of the Ligurian Sea from the cliffs around the lighthouse is simply
breathtaking, and there's a small bar where you can enjoy a refreshing drink while soaking
up the vista.
Shop at the Local Boutiques
Portofino's winding lanes are lined with unique boutiques and high-end shops that showcase
the finest Italian craftsmanship.
From luxury fashion brands to local artisans selling handmade ceramics, olive oils, and
wines, shopping in Portofino is a delightful experience.
Exploring these shops offers a great opportunity to pick up souvenirs that capture the spirit
and tradition of the Italian Riviera.
Visit the Museum of Portofino
Located inside the ancient St. George's Church, the Museum of Portofino offers an intriguing
journey through the history of the village.
It showcases fascinating artifacts and exhibits that cover everything from the region's nautical
past to the evolution of its unique architecture.
The museum is a treasure trove for history buffs and those curious about the local culture.
Take a Cooking Class
Embrace the Italian love for food by participating in a cooking class.
Learn to make authentic Ligurian dishes, like trofie al pesto or focaccia alla genovese,
under the guidance of local chefs.
Not only will you gain insight into the region's culinary traditions, but you'll also get the
chance to savor your own homemade Italian meal.
Experience the Glamour at Hotel Splendido
If you're looking for another taste of the luxurious Italian Riviera lifestyle, there's
no better place to start than Hotel Splendido.
Overlooking the Portofino harbor, this legendary hotel has been a favorite of celebrities and
jet-setters for decades.
Even if you're not staying overnight, you can enjoy a cocktail or a meal on the terrace,
which offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
The hotel's beautiful gardens are also worth a visit.
Enjoy a Day Trip to Genoa
Only a short train ride away from Portofino, Genoa is a city teeming with history and culture.
As the capital of Liguria, it boasts a rich maritime history and a vibrant old town full
of narrow, winding streets and grand palazzos.
Visit the Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe, explore the stunning Cathedral
of San Lorenzo, or lose yourself in the bustling Mercato Orientale, a market full of fresh
produce and local specialties.
This day trip adds a contrasting urban element to your serene Portofino getaway.
Exploring the Sculpture Park of Portofino
For art and nature lovers alike, a visit to the Sculpture Park of Portofino is a satisfying
experience.
The park showcases a variety of beautiful sculptures by Italian and international artists,
each piece harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape.
It offers a unique blend of art and nature that is sure to captivate and inspire.
Discover Hidden Coves by Kayak
For an active and adventurous day, rent a kayak and explore the coastline around Portofino.
Paddle along the rugged coast, finding secluded beaches and secret coves inaccessible by land.
You can also admire the verdant hills and pastel-colored houses of Portofino from a
new perspective.
Don't forget to bring your snorkeling gear for a refreshing dip!
Visit the Punta Chiappa
Accessible by a panoramic footpath or by boat, Punta Chiappa is a rocky strip of land stretching
out into the sea from the Portofino promontory.
It's a quiet and idyllic place, perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling.
The view of the open sea is simply breathtaking, and the sunsets from Punta Chiappa are not
to be missed.
Enjoy a Wine Tasting Tour
Liguria may be more famous for its pesto and seafood, but the region also produces some
excellent wines.
Join a wine tasting tour to learn about and sample local wines such as Vermentino and
Sciacchetrà.
Many tours also offer the opportunity to visit local vineyards, providing a deeper understanding
of the winemaking process.
Outro
Exploring Portofino and the surrounding Ligurian region is an immersive experience, filled
with dramatic landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history.
From sun-drenched piazzas to secluded coves, mouthwatering cuisine to fascinating local
history, there's a myriad of things to discover.
But the real magic of any travel adventure lies in sharing and hearing from others.
Whether you've been to Portofino and have some insider tips or if you're planning a
trip and have some questions, we'd love to hear from you.
Have you experienced the enchanting sunrise from Castello Brown, or perhaps savored the
fresh seafood dishes while gazing at the azure Ligurian Sea?
Do you have any off-the-beaten-path suggestions or favorite memories of Portofino that you'd
like to share?
Join the conversation in the comments below and share your thoughts, questions, and experiences.
Let's explore the captivating charm of Portofino together!