Nestled along the Italian Riviera, the impossibly picturesque village of Portofino is a jewel of the Ligurian coast, a place where pastel-coloured houses meet sparkling turquoise waters, luxury boutiques line cobbled streets, and rugged hills deliver unbeatable coastal views. For many visitors, especially those arriving by cruise ship, Portofino offers an unforgettable blend of glamour, culture, nature, and Mediterranean charm. If you’re planning a visit and searching for the best things to do in Portofino, this guide covers everything from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
Things to do in Portofino
Explore the Piazzetta
No visit to Portofino is complete without spending time in the iconic Piazzetta, the elegant harbourfront square at the centre of village life. Lined with chic cafés, boutique shops and pastel-coloured townhouses, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or Aperol Spritz while admiring shimmering views over the bay. As one of the most photographed attractions in Portofino, the Piazzetta perfectly encapsulates the romance and charm of the Italian Riviera.
Visit Castello Brown
Climb the hillside above the harbour to discover Castello Brown, a historic fortress surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens. Inside, visitors can explore centuries-old rooms, art collections and terraces offering panoramic views over Portofino’s stunning seawater harbour. The short scenic walk to the fortress is one of the most popular things to do in Portofino, rewarding you with some of the region’s most impressive coastal scenery.
Church of San Giorgio
Continue your exploration with a short stroll to the Church of San Giorgio, a peaceful Romanesque church perched on a cliffside overlooking the ocean. Believed to house relics of Saint George, the church is both spiritually significant and visually striking. The terrace surrounding the building is a favourite spot for photographers thanks to its sweeping views across the Ligurian Sea.
Portofino Lighthouse (Faro di Portofino)
Adventure seekers will love the hike to the Portofino Lighthouse, set at the tip of the peninsula. This beautiful coastal trail winds through the Portofino Natural Park, offering dramatic views and numerous photo opportunities. At the end of the path, a charming terrace café sits beside the lighthouse, an inviting place to enjoy a drink while overlooking the open sea.
Paraggi Beach
A short walk or bus ride from Portofino’s centre, Paraggi Beach is an emerald-green bay renowned for its crystal-clear water and excellent snorkelling conditions. One of the few sandy beaches in the area, it’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming and soaking up the laid-back Riviera atmosphere.
Indulge in Ligurian Cuisine
Food lovers will find Portofino irresistible. Local restaurants serve a variety of dishes, from fresh seafood and grilled fish to regional favourites like focaccia and trofie al pesto, made with fragrant Ligurian basil. Whether you opt for a waterfront restaurant or a traditional osteria, sampling local cuisine is an essential part of the Portofino experience.
Shop the Streets of Portofino
The boutique-filled streets behind the harbour are perfect for travellers hoping to indulge in a bit of luxury shopping. Designer stores, artisan jewellers and elegant fashion boutiques make this one of the most stylish places to visit in Portofino, even if you’re simply browsing.
Boat Trip along the Italian Riviera
A boat tour is one of the most memorable ways to experience the coastline. Many excursions depart from Portofino’s harbour, taking visitors to nearby gems like Santa Margherita Ligure, the secluded San Fruttuoso Abbey, or remote coves within the marine reserve. From the water, the pastel houses and lush hills of Portofino look even more magical.
Portofino FAQs
Large cruise ships anchor offshore and use tender boats to bring passengers directly into Portofino’s marina. The tender point is only a minute’s walk from the Piazzetta, making independent exploration easy.
Yes. The village is compact and walkable, with pedestrian-friendly paths leading to Castello Brown, San Giorgio Church and the lighthouse trail.
Popular options include boat trips to San Fruttuoso, guided walks through Portofino Natural Park, visits to Santa Margherita Ligure and hands-on pesto-making experiences.
A half-day visit offers time for harbour views and short walks. A full day allows you to enjoy beaches, hiking trails, and boat tours at a relaxed pace.
Portofino is celebrated for its glamorous harbour, upscale boutiques, pastel architecture, coastal trails and refined Italian Riviera atmosphere.
Dining and shopping can be pricier than neighbouring areas, but affordable alternatives exist, such as enjoying scenic walks, beaches, and inexpensive snacks from local cafés or nearby towns.
Late spring and early autumn offer ideal weather and fewer crowds. Summer is perfect for beach days, but it attracts more visitors.
Book a Portofino Cruise with Bolsover Cruise Club
Experience the beauty of Portofino as part of one of our hand-picked Mediterranean cruise itineraries and discover a destination where glamour, history and natural beauty combine effortlessly. Wander the colourful harbour, hike dramatic coastal paths, dine on world-famous Ligurian cuisine and explore the Italian Riviera in true style, all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of ocean travel.
Many cruises to Portofino also include nearby highlights such as Cinque Terre, Florence and the French Riviera, or you can extend your trip with one of our Cruise & Stay packages for even more time to immerse yourself in Italy’s iconic coastal towns. If you have any questions about booking a cruise to Portofino, contact us and our Cruise Experts to help plan your perfect holiday. For more inspiration, destination guides and travel tips, visit our Cruise News section and start imagining where your next adventure will take you.
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