Portofino is one of the best Mediterranean places to visit in Italy. Located in the heart of the Italian Riviera, it is a famous destination that gathers hundreds of tourists every year. It is impossible not to fall in love with the charming architecture, the elegant style, but above all the dreamy beaches. Portofino is also expensive and crowded, especially in peak season (June to August). That’s why many travelers choose to visit it as a day trip ! In this article, you will find everything you need to know about how to spend a full day in Portofino.
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Things to know before visiting Portofino
Portofino is located in one of the most touristic areas of Italy, on the Ligurian Riviera. It is close to Genova, Cinque Terre and even Tuscany. It is a small village that is easily accessible from any of these places by car, public transport or boat ! Although it is a tiny place, there are many things to do and see. Here are the main attractions of this Ligurian gem :
- Church of San Martino
- Marina of Portofino
- Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta
- Castello Brown (best panoramic view of Portofino)
- Portofino Beaches (Baia Cannone – Baia di Paraggi – Stella Beach)
An interesting fact about Portofino is that it is the perfect location for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, as it has a rich marine life. So, in addition to the elegant element with its many luxury and souvenir stores, it also offers stunning views with clear blue waters and greenery everywhere. For a relaxing day in Portofino, there are many cafés, gelaterias and restaurants for delicious Italian meals. Of course, you can’t leave without trying a nice aperitivo, a stuffed focaccia or an Italian gelato ! You will also find several beach clubs where you can spend the day, but be prepared for high prices. There is always the option to take advantage of the public areas of the beaches, where you can lay your towel and enjoy the turquoise waters.
One last thing to be aware of is that depending on the country you’re from, you may not get free mobile data. Or your roaming will cost you a lot if you don’t live in Europe ! Therefore, we strongly recommend buying a digital e-SIM card to save time and money (especially if you’re traveling on a budget).
How to get to Portofino ?
Despite its easy access, it can be tricky to visit, especially by car during the summer months. Portofino attracts masses of tourists, so access and finding parking is not an easy task in summer. However, there is covered parking which costs 6 euros per hour and 20 euros per day. There are alternative options to visit this special destination. Since it is very close to Genoa and famous Cinque Terre, you just need to take the train and get off at “Santa Margherita Ligure” train station. From there, you will find a minibus that will take you to Portofino.
The last option to access this unique Italian place is by boat. You can take the boat from Santa Margherita Ligure, Cinque Terre, Genoa or from smaller places like Camogli. As for other places, you should check the forecast before planning your trip. Note that access to Portofino and any other Ligurian place by boat is an amazing way, as the ocean views are breathtaking. You may also be lucky enough to watch dolphins which is a unique experience ! Ticket prices for a boat from Genoa are around 12 euros one way and from Santa Margherita are 8 euros. You can book your ticket online for better prices and faster service.
The best time to visit Portofino
Since it is a busy place to visit in the summer months, we strongly advise you to visit in the low season, from April to the end of May or from the end of August to October. Portofino is not only an overcrowded destination, but it is also a small village. So, it is more difficult to visit and explore easily in summer. If you want to spend a relaxing vacation or fully enjoy your day there, you should visit during the shoulder season ! Otherwise, you should expect a lot of tourists, overpacked cafés, restaurants and beaches and of course inflated prices.
Best beaches to visit in Portofino
As we said before, the beaches of Portofino are among the best beaches in Europe. The characteristic turqoise color of the water and the amazing surroundings make them the perfect places to visit in the summer or even in the shoulder season with milder temperatures. Keep in mind that the beaches of Portofino are considered among the most beautiful beaches in Italy !
1-Baia Cannone
You have probably come across this famous beach somewhere on Instagram. This beach is one of the most special and authentic spots in Portofino. Imagine how amazing it will be to take a dip in the deep blue waters against the backdrop of these colorful buildings. As it is one of the most crowded places, you should visit it either early in the morning or late in the evening. It is easy to find this beach. If you visit Portofino by boat, you will find it a few minutes after leaving the marina. This beach is a must visit for photography lovers ! It’s a lot of fun to capture it and play with the different angles.
2-Baia di Paraggi
Another dreamy beach to enjoy in Portofino is the beach of Paraggi. Words cannot do justice to how beautiful this beach is. Walking to the beach and swimming in these blue waters is such a retreat. It has a public and a private part to choose according to your needs and your budget. Whatever you choose, the natural beauty of this beach will leave you in awe !
3-Stella Beach
Stella beach is another beach with intense emerald color in the waters and rocks. This combination creates a very beautiful spot, which we could say it is also romantic. Walking from one beach to another while enjoying some of the best Ligurian views is amazing. We honestly can’t recommend it enough.
Best things to do in Portofino (one day)
1-Visit the Marina of Portofino
You cannot fully experience the beauty of Portofino without visiting its famous marina. Here you can stroll around and enjoy the old Ligurian houses with their colorful facades. There are many luxury yachts in the marina that blend perfectly with the whole atmosphere. Thus, it is one of the few places where luxury and authenticity combine perfectly. It is obvious that if you want to experience and fully enjoy the marina, you must visit as early as possible, especially in July and August, as it is overpacked. It is also where most tourists arrive from !
2-Stroll around Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta
Just a few steps from the marina, you will reach piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta. Since it is the main piazza, you you will find some of the most finest cafés and restaurants to enjoy your meal with the best views ! It it also the main place where tourists and their guides congregate. So, you have to expect masses of tourists during the day. For shopaholics, you will find boutiques with prestigious brands in this square. Of course you will also find souvenir or other shops. Walking through its narrow alleys and admiring the charming buildings and the amazing view of the marina make this piazza the hotspot of Portofino. As you can guess, it is one of the most photographed spots because of its amazing vivid colors.
3-Visit San Martino Church
As you look up from the marina, you will find yourself in front of the charming yellow colored church called “San Martino Church”. It is gorgeous both inside and out and is a great stop while in downtown Portofino. Its construction dates back to the 12th century, but the church changed in the 19th century. Inside you can admire the paintings, ceiling and sculptures. So if you like nice churches, you need to visit this one !
4-Walk along the coastline of Portofino
The must-do not only in Portofino, but anywhere on the Italian Riviera is to walk along the Ligurian coastline. The ocean views will blow your mind. Nothing can beat this view of the endless blue. So, Portofino is definitely one of those places that give you gorgeous ocean views. It is walkable even in a day. But, the heavy traffic and steep little streets can make your walk a bit challenging. Watch out for passing vehicles and you’ll have a great time walking along this famous coastline.
Is Portofino worth the hype ?
Our answer is a big YES. Although we visited in mid-August and it was very crowded, it did not lose its beauty and charm. Everything in Portofino seems so well maintained with attention to detail that makes it a unique destination. This elegance is the best combination with the Italian vibes and hospitality. However, for us, nothing can compare to its natural beauty. The beaches of Portofino are some of the most dreamy beaches we have ever visited in Europe with amazing Mediterannean vibes !
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