South of the Italian metropolis of Genoa, Portofino is one among Northern Italy’s most lovely spots to go to. Although comparatively small, it’s completely picturesque and charming and there are heaps of one of the best issues to do in Portofino which might be dotted all throughout the shoreline.
We completely love travelling in Italy and Portofino is one gem you gained’t wish to miss. It’s the right place for a day journey in Italy, or somewhat longer in the event you’re travelling across the north coast and mountains. If it’s the latter, you’ll be capable of embrace spots like; Lake Como, Cinque Terre or cities like Milan, too.
Now, one factor to notice, Portofino could be fairly a bit dearer than different locations in Italy to go to. That being stated, you possibly can decrease prices (and nonetheless get nice climate) in the event you go to in late spring or early Autumn. This method, you’ll profit from much less demand for lodging and excursions and hold prices somewhat decrease.
So, that will help you get probably the most out of your journey to Portofino, I needed to share some fabulous little spots that I feel you’ll love.
Have one of the best time in Italy!
1.) Portofino Harbour (Marina di Portofino)
If you’re arriving in Portofino by boat, it’s doubtless your first port of name can be Marina di Portofino. This is the harbour space of the city and a hive of exercise, particularly in the summertime months.
After arriving at both the tender port or marina the place your boat will dock, head straight down the shoreline and discover the broader Portofino Harbour space.
Actually, speaking of crusing, in the event you’re travelling from Genoa, ebook this good Portofino boat tour that’ll take you to all of the spots in and round Portofino itself. It’s such an effective way to get to Portofino and makes the journey a lot much less hectic, particularly in the event you don’t wish to drive on winding roads.
Just make sure to ebook the Portofino boat tour upfront. Places replenish very quick at peak occasions.
For among the finest gelatos in all of Northern Italy, head over to Gelateria Gepi Portofino. Yes, it’s fairly a bit larger in value (in comparison with different areas in Italy) however, if I’m sincere, most issues are in Portofino. Still, the gelato is completely value it.
Hankering for home made pizza? Head over to Pizzeria El Portico. nonetheless family-owned and run, their anchovy pizza is every thing!
Read extra: Best locations within the North of Italy to go to
2.) Abbey of San Fruttuoso
Just down the coast from Portofino itself, the Abbey of San Fruttuoso is effectively value visiting. Best reached by boat, or climbing, visiting the Abbey of San Fruttuoso is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Portofino in the event you’re based mostly within the space of travelling to Portofino for a day journey.
If you arrive by boat, you’ll hop off at ‘Battelli Turistici’ which is the place all of the customer boats dock. From right here, it’s a couple of minutes stroll on to the abbey itself. With over 1,000 years of historical past, make sure to head contained in the abbey and take a look at the museum, too.
Though, as I discussed earlier than, this space can get very busy. So, head throughout early within the morning if you wish to keep away from among the crowds.
3.) Kayak in Portofino
If you wish to take to the water, ebook this fabulous Portofino kayak tour that’s a lot enjoyable. Suitable for many talents, it’s a comparatively simple place to kayak and effectively value exploring the shoreline and tiny little coves with the certified information.
Just keep in mind, as with most excursions, plans can change if winds choose up. Always have a again up plan simply in case.
4.) Beach of San Fruttuoso
Now, becoming in on the seashore at San Fruttuoso is completely simple whenever you’ve already visited the abbey. It’s kind of the identical space, so ensure you pack your swimsuit in your journey.
Take somewhat dip within the small cove (which is completely refreshing on a sizzling summer season day). Oh, and ensure to both pack some snorkelling gear to see all of the fish that decision this come residence.
Afterwards, head to La Cantina for a few of their yummy seafood. Their seabass was so scrumptious. It’s somewhat little bit of a stroll from the principle boat space however it’s so value it.
5.) Paraggi Beach
Just to the east of Portofino is the beautiful little bay of Paraggi. Yes, it’s small and may get ‘cosy’ when a number of individuals go to however it’s nonetheless one among our favorite seashores round Portofino.
Not solely that, there’s some parking shut by (see right here on Google Maps). This makes it an incredible spot to go to in the event you’re already driving and fighting parking round Portofino itself. The latter could be very laborious, by the way in which.
Plus, you possibly can simply ebook this snorkelling tour round Paraggi Bay. It’s among the finest issues to do in Portofino if you wish to discover the wildlife across the shoreline.
For a chunk to eat, seize a beachfront desk at Eight Restaurant. Their home made pasta is so tasty and wealthy.
Read extra: Best issues to do in Cinque Terre
6.) Castello Brown
Fancy somewhat little bit of a ramble when in Portofino. Take a wander as much as Castle Brown, simply on the hill overlooking the area. Trust me, it’s among the finest issues to do in Portofino if you wish to stretch your legs.
The citadel itself dates again virtually 500 years and is effectively value climbing the steps and heading to the perspective to see the broader area. You see, the stroll is simply as beautiful because the citadel itself.
Spend round two hours exploring and strolling round this headland and ensure to cease off on the church of Saint Giorgio. It’s lovely.
7.) Santa Margherita Ligure
Perched simply shy of Portofino itself, Santa Margherita Ligure is one city that’s effectively value visiting in the event you’re not heading again to Genoa immediately.
Once right here, make certain to cease on the, virtually, 400-year-old Villa Durazzo. The constructing is beautiful and the walks across the park are simply lovely to see. Though, don’t count on big quantities of grand furnishings inside – the rooms are somewhat extra sparse.
For a yummy lunch, head to Ristorante Antonio for his or her grilled calamari and baked catch of the day. So good.
Read extra: Best issues to do in Cinque Terre
8.) Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta
In some methods, all of the little areas of Portofino mix into one whenever you’re on the bottom. You see, it’s such a small place that it’ll solely take you a couple of minutes to go from one half to a different.
So, once I say visiting Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Portofino, you’ll shortly realise it’s proper by the harbour and also you’ll have already got walked via the piazza itself.
All across the piazza are little retailers, cafes and luxurious retailers. It’s the right little spot to walk.
Read extra: Best issues to do in Cinque Terre
9.) Divo Martino Church
If it’s historical past you’re after, make certain to cease by the striped church of Chiesa del Divo Martino (Divo Martino Church). It’s been round for hundreds of years and you’ll nonetheless head inside to this present day.
Getting peckish? Reserve a desk at Trattoria Concordia that’s away from the waterfront itself. It’s such a comfy little restaurant and the meals was one among our favourites in all of Portofino. Just make sure to attempt their home made pesto. Yum!
Read extra: Best issues to do in Cinque Terre
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