Portofino

Portofino, though technically a separate comune, is often visited as a day trip from Rapallo and epitomizes the Ligurian Riviera's charm. Its tiny harbor is lined with pastel-colored houses, high-end boutiques, and seafood restaurants. The Piazzetta, the heart of the village, is a lively square where people sip coffee and watch yachts bob in the water. Beyond the harbor, narrow lanes lead to the Church of San Giorgio and the Castello Brown, a historic fortress with panoramic views. The surrounding promontory is part of the Portofino Regional Park, offering hiking trails through Mediterranean scrub. Despite its glamorous reputation, Portofino retains a timeless beauty that has attracted artists and travelers for centuries. A visit here is about soaking in the atmosphere, strolling the waterfront, and perhaps enjoying a gelato while admiring the scenery.

Don't miss

• The Piazzetta and colorful harborfront, perfect for photos
• Castello Brown, a 16th-century fortress with gardens and views
• Church of San Giorgio, with a mosaic by Gino Severini
• Hiking trails in the Portofino Regional Park, including to the lighthouse
• Luxury shopping at boutiques like Gucci and Louis Vuitton

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Portofino

Cheapest way inPortofino Kayak Tour4.8★ · 84 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$63 per personSee dates →Best full dayGenoa and Portofino Day Trip from Milan4.3★ · 233 travelers~12 hoursFree cancellationFrom$150 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePortofino and Santa Margherita Private Tour of Ligurian Gems5★ · 25 travelers4–6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$346 per personSee dates →