Portofino - Do & See

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Portofino

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Overview

Do & See The guide was updated: 2024-09-17

Nestled in the Regional Park of Portofino, scenic walking trails along the coastline or high uphill are just a few steps away.
Numerous boat trips also start from Portofino's bustling port: the city's surrounding area is a marine sanctuary, perfect for enjoying the underwater world or just swimming in emerald crystal water.

But in the end it's the city itself that makes Portofino such an alluring travel destination: the charm of the old fishing village coexists with boutiques, restaurants and art galleries, in a mix of maritime traditions and modern fashion.

La Piazzetta di Portofino

La Piazzetta di Portofino

La Piazzetta is Portofino's iconic main square which, overlooking the harbour and the myriad of boats anchored at the port, is a peaceful spot where you can enjoy traditional specialties or just sit and experience firsthand the vastness of the Ligurian Sea. Plentiful boutiques, art galleries and restaurants are located in the surrounding area, making the bustling centre an ideal gathering point.

Castle Brown

Castle Brown

Located on a promontory high above the sea level, Castle Brown overlooks the bay and offers a sweeping view of the harbour. Dating back to the 1400s, it served as a fortress for years, guarding Portofino with its majestic figure. Nowadays, Castle Brown houses exhibitions and special events, boasting a Mediterranean garden that flourishes with roses and local flora.

Portofino´s Lighthouse

Portofino´s Lighthouse

The suggestive walk that twists and turns through Portofino´s most southern tip leads to a scenic view of the Ligurian Sea, so no wonder that Portofino´s Lighthouse is a town landmark. The immaculate white colour of the building creates a contrast with the surrounding natural landscape, shaping a vivid scene.

Abbazia San Fruttuoso

Abbazia San Fruttuoso

The two scenic trails, that unroll down Mount Portofino and from the bay along the coastline, lead to the ancient San Fruttuoso Abbey, alternatively reachable only by boat. The elegant architecture blends perfectly with the surrounding regional park, a protected gem that houses Mediterranean flora and fauna.

Chiesa di San Giorgio

Chiesa di San Giorgio

St. Giorgio´s Church´s evocative location has fascinated travellers throughout the years, offering a beautiful terrace that dominates the bay. Dating back to 1154, it is perched on top of Portofino´s promontory, bravely standing on the peak of a cliff.

Paraggi Beach

Paraggi Beach

Only a few hundred meters away from Portofino, Paraggi Beach is a natural inlet of emerald water and natural wonders. Loved by both tourists and locals alike it is renowned for its sea bottom, rich in red corals that belong to Portofino´s marine sanctuary. The myriad of restaurants and bars make Paraggi beach and village a favourite among party-lovers.

Chiesa Divo Martino

Chiesa Divo Martino

The old saying "you can´t judge a book by its cover" applies neatly to Divo Martino´s Church. The flat facade conceals the interiors built on the XII century. Once the massive bronze doors are opened, the decorated ceiling and the pillars enchant both tourists and locals alike.

Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

Tortuous paths run through Mount Portofino and its park in an intricate knot of hiking trails. From Portofino, make your way through the local nature and a steep climb to get to the otherwise inaccessible San Fruttosio: the Abbey and the Bay are both worth visiting. Alternatively you can also enjoy walking up to the top of Mount Portofino or to St. Margherita Ligure.

Portofino's Art Gallery

Portofino's Art Gallery

Overlooking the iconic Martiri Olivetta Square, Portofino's Art Gallery offers ever changing exhibitions in a quest to find emerging talents. The gallery also displays artworks of popular Italian sculptors and painters while also featuring contemporary art masterpieces.

Spring Regattas

Spring Regattas

An event that attracts a huge and diverse crowd every year, the spring regattas are organised by the luxurious Italian Yacht Club. Over 100 boats depart from Portofino´s port in May, competing for the coveted trophy in 3 days of good sportsmanship, accompanied by concerts and shows.

Festa Patronale San Giorgio

Festa Patronale San Giorgio

On the 23rd of April, Portofino embraces a party atmosphere in the biggest celebration in town. This religious feast day culminates with a bonfire on the main square, a peculiar event that attracts both the young and older crowds.

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