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One Day in Portofino: The Perfect 1 Day Itinerary for Portofino, Italy

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Spending one day in Portofino is the perfect way to get a taste of the Italian Riviera and Portofino is not short on things to do or places to eat.

Portofino is a town spilling over the cliffs, and surrounding a small harbor. The epitome of what you picture a coastal town on the Italian Riviera to be. Tightly packed houses painted in bright colors, expensive yachts moored at the docks, and inviting turquoise waters.

This is Italian luxury at its finest.

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One Day in Portofino: Complete Guide to Portofino

Portofino was originally referenced as the Port of the Dolphin or Portus Delphini by the Romans because of the large number of dolphins in the area.

It famously made an appearance in the Wolf of Wall Street. Naomi walks along the harbor to the yacht in hysterics over the recent death of Aunt Emma. Jordan is more concerned about money. Throughout the conversation he has on the phone, beautiful Portofino is in the background.

Most recently Portofino has been the swoon-worthy location in the ITV show, Hotel Portofino. Although the show was actually filmed in Croatia, all the drone shots and shots shown in between scenes are of the REAL Portofino.

Where is Portofino?

I first have to clarify that I’m talking about the real Portofino, not the Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Studios in Orlando. Although Universal did a very good job of making the hotel look like the real town, nothing can compare to the real thing.

Portofino is located on a peninsula on the Gulf of Tigullio in Northern Italy. The area is better known as the Italian Riviera or the region of Liguria.

Spending the day in Portofino is one of the more popular day trips in this region, so be aware that it can and will be busy.

The small town is perfectly hidden within the surrounding cliffs. The only clue you have to any existence is the trail of breadcrumbs, or boats in this case, that lead from the gulf, around the cliffs, and open up to the gorgeous town.

I literally gasped when Portofino came into view.

It was a scene right from a movie… city girl leaves her busy life to try to find herself, buys a random plane ticket to Italy to try to find her “true self”, gets on a random boat in Italy, and views Portofino for the first time… she knows she is going to fall in love in 2 days, get a new job and end up moving to Portofino.

WOW, I watch WAYYYY too many made-for-Netflix movies, don’t I?

Back to reality…

How to Get to Portofino

The closest airport to Portofino is Genoa Airport (Cristoforo Colombo Airport in Genova).

You can also fly into Milan if you are flying internationally. If you are willing to take the trek, you can get to the area within 4-5 hours on the fast train from Rome.

I’m also going to say you do not want to drive around this area. There is also minimal parking in Portofino, so getting here by train, boat, or bus is your best option.

I book all my tickets on TRAINLINE . Seriously super simple!

If you want to take the bus (or you are traveling during the off-season – November through February) you need to take the train to Santa Margherita.

As soon as you exit the station, the bus stop is to your right. Take the 782, they are pretty frequent so don’t worry about having to wait long. You can pay the driver in cash, or grab a ticket from the train station.

If you want to walk, it’s an easy 2.5-mile hike along the gorgeous coastline.

You could always take the bus there and then walk back to Santa Margherita if you want to mix it up.

My preferred method of arriving in Portofino for one day is by boat.

I’ve already said how magical it is pulling into the harbor for the first time and don’t you want that feeling?

Ferries are VERY frequent and they leave from all the ports in the area. You can take a train to Santa Margherita and walk down to the ferry port or you can get off at the Rapallo station and walk down to the harbor and catch the ferry from there.

The best part about leaving from Rapallo is the first pick of seats… and VIEWS! The ferry starts at Rapallo and then stops at Santa Margherita and I’m not going to sugarcoat it… IT’S PACKED, even during the shoulder season.

So get the views you want (sit on the right side of the ferry heading to Portofino) and start in Rapallo. You can check the ferry website to see the arrival and departure times.

The ferry only runs from March through October, so you will need to take the bus or walk from November through February.

Related Post: How to Get to Rapallo, Italy

What to do in Portofino – One Day in Portofino

La piazzetta.

The most recognizable view of Portofino is looking at the main square or La Piazzetta from the harbor.

This is a hub for drinking and dining. You can also find upscale shopping if you want to splurge.

Think of the square as the center of Portofino. You can get anywhere from this square, whether it’s up, down, across, or behind you…

Weave Up and Down the Streets and Get Lost in between the Colorful Houses

I feel like this one is a given if you are spending the day in Portofino, but I’m gonna throw this in here just in case.

Portofino isn’t very big and although it’s not easy to get “lost”, you will definitely enjoy climbing up, down and in between all the colorful houses.

The elaborately painted buildings are a unique distinction that sets the Ligurian region apart from all the other regions in Italy. The tall terrace houses were built high to conserve space and decoratively painted to appeal to the eye.

If you are standing back looking at all the buildings you wouldn’t be able to tell that the ornate frame around the window is painted or the stonework look is just an optical illusion or a “trompe l’oeil”.

It’s crazy how realistic the painted flower pots, arches, and window shutters look. I found myself doing double takes on some of the buildings.

I don’t recommend taking a walking tour (and you know I LOVE a good walking tour) because they are overloaded with people. I feel like you can’t enjoy a walking tour if you are with 50 other people. It’s just easier to look up some facts about Portofino and explore the streets yourself.

Chiesa di San Martino – Church of San Martino

This old Catholic church is the symbol of Portofino. You can’t miss the tall tower soaring above the Piazzetta when you get your first glimpse of the town.

The church is dedicated to the Saint Martin of Tours and was said to be founded in the 11th century.

If you walk across the square to the right corner, you can see a gap with some stairs, just walk up a “few” steps and you’ll see the entrance at the top.

Entry into the church is free and it’s worth a look around at the intricate detail and the grand columns lining the nave.

Marina de Portofino

The marina is where all the fancy yachts park up when visiting Portofino. It’s hard not to stare at the million-dollar yachts and wonder who is sitting on that deck enjoying a cocktail in a big sun hat and dark sunglasses…

This is also where the ferry drops you off, so you can pretend you’re on your very own yacht pulling up to the harbor… just ignore the other hundred people on board!

Museo del Parco

The entrance is close to the sign for the marina and that will lead you through the Museo del Parco, or Park Museum.

It’s a VERY quirky sculpture park that lines the terraces on the cliff side. It’s stuffed full of colorful and unusual sculptures from over a hundred different artists.

It’s an almost kid-like addition to such a luxury destination, but somehow feels exactly where it needs to be.

The park was created in the 1980s and features some rare and exotic plants.

Castello Brown (Brown Castle)

Perched on the hill with a commanding view over the town, this is the perfect place to take your panoramic pics of Portofino.

Although there has always been some form of defense here since Roman times, the structure you see today was first recorded in the 15th century.

The strategic position is perfectly placed for views of the village and the Gulf of Tigullio but also made this fortress an obvious target.

The castle saw a lot of military action before it was disarmed and sold to the Brown family in the mid-19th century.

Go for a dip in Baia Cannone

Take a short walk around to the next cove, Baia Cannone, and take a dip in the clear waters.

The small cove is enclosed by trees with a few houses dotted on the cliff side. If you want to stay in Portofino, then the Piccolo Hotel is the perfect spot… super close to the main square, but far enough away to feel secluded and calm.

This beach and swimming spot is free to enjoy, but it is very rocky, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear!

Where to Eat and Drink in Portofino

The food in the Ligurian region is nothing short of spectacular and Portofino is no exception.

Just be warned, Portofino is a little pricier compared to the neighboring towns.

My favorite part about this region… well, pretty much all of Italy… is the chill vibe at restaurants. Even though there are tons of people walking around and the restaurant/cafe is full, the server will not rush you.

You are expected to relax and enjoy your time eating and drinking. Savor every bite, taste every sip, treasure every moment… I guess that’s part of la dolce vita.

I’m not going to lie, aperitivo time is all the time for me when I’m in Italy. I have no shame drinking an Aperol Spritz at 11am while nibbling on olives and ham.

On that note, if you order drinks, your beverage will be accompanied by stuzzichini, or little bites and nibbles. These are anything from tomatoes to olives to bread and meat to crisps.

Bar Morena – Right in the middle of La Piazzetta. Great spot for coffee and people-watching. The Aperol Spritz are on point too!
Trattoria Tripoli – Great pasta selection and the perfect splurge on seafood (about 16-35 euros for seafood dishes).
Ö Magazín – Around the opposite side of the harbor to where the ferry drops you off. A little quieter than the main square, with great views, and great food.
Gepi’s – Gelateria towards the top of the hill behind the main square. I literally dream about this gelato. Enough said.

Where to Stay in Portofino

If you want to extend your one day in Portofino to a couple of days or even a week, then you have plenty of options for accommodation.

Remember, it’s expensive, but sometimes ya gotta treat yourself!

Splendido Portofino : This is the crème de la crème of Italian hotels and the definition of Italian luxury. Tons of celebrities have stayed here… from Elizabeth Taylor and Humphrey Bogart to Steven Spielberg and Madonna to Beyoncé and Jay-Z. (This hotel is in Baia Cannone)

Splendido Mare : Same company, but this hotel is smack dab in the middle of the main square. Grab a balcony room with a view of the harbor. Perfect location.

Eight Hotel Portofino : At the top of the hill you’ll find this chic and stylish hotel.

Hotel Piccolo : Just below the Splendido in Baia Cannone, this hotel combines luxury with a medium price range for Portofino.

Tips for your Day Trip to Portofino

Portofino is NOT cheap or budget-friendly. Just being honest. That being said, you can take a day trip to Portofino and just avoid buying anything. Grab something to eat in Santa Margherita or Rapallo instead.
But if you want to spend your hard-earned pennies, you can do some upscale shopping around Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferragamo, or Galleria d’Arte.
Portofino is VERY busy. Overcrowded at times. By noon, all the restaurants are packed and the streets are crowded. Get there early if you want a more quiet stroll through town.
Travel during shoulder season to lighten the amount of tourists visiting.
Wear appropriate footwear, especially if you’re walking from Santa Margherita.
Don’t forget Portofino is a celebrity hot spot! Everyone from Samuel L Jackson to Chris Hemsworth to Madonna have enjoyed the spoils of Portofino, so keep an eye out!

Are you planning a day trip to Portofino? When are you heading there? Have any questions? Let me know in the comments below!

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Reader Interactions

Hello, how is Portofino like in May? Does it look like the pictures posted on here, or is it also slightly an off-season?

Portofino will be gorgeous in May! It’s the shoulder season, so you will still get quite a few people, but definitely not as much as July or August. Have a wonderful time!

Hello, I am planning to visit Portofino in late September. Are there ferry services from Cinque Terre/ La Speiza. If not, is train the best option?

And can you swim in Portofino in late September?

All the ferries run through October, so that won’t be an issue (I think the best way to get around the Ligurian region is by ferry, just because all the villages and towns look gorgeous from the sea)… my advice is to plan on the ferry, but know where the train stations are just in case you miss one or it doesn’t line up with your schedule. Just take note, you will have to take a train to Corniglia as there is no boat access.

And yes, you can swim at Portofino in late September, the water might be a little chilly, but still refreshing!

I hope you have a wonderful time!

Going this July, 2023 for only 1-day in Portofino and 2-days in Cinque Terre. You have recommendations on where to go up high and enjoy the views of the bay/colorful bldgs/ water/ sky all at once? Both Portofino and if you are familiar with Cinque Terre. *And if you are familiar with Cinque Terre, you recommend where to stay for 2-nights (low budget, just need clean bed, shower, toilet for few hours each night), otherwise I will be walking to as many places and or train to as many places as possible.

Any assistance/ guidance is Greatly Appreciated!!

Hey Wallace,

You can get the best views over Portofino if you climb to the top of the hill that overlooks it. Just head up the hill around the Portofino Yacht Club and head towards Castello Brown. It’s a steep climb, but worth it!

Same goes with Cinque Terre, as long as you head up, you’ll get great views. There is a path that connects all the villages together and if you’re up for the long hike, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views… just make sure you get a Cinque Terre Trekking Card. I think Riomaggiore is the cheapest and you can find some great deals on booking.com or AirBnB.

Hi! I’m planning to visit Portofino at the end of June for just one day. We will be staying in Forte de Marmi and plan to take the ferry from Sestri Levante into Portofino, which runs on Sundays and Wednesdays (also on Friday but that won’t work with our itinerary). Between a Sunday and a Wednesday do you strongly recommend avoiding Sunday bc it’s the weekend? This is the last week of June.

Hey Sherry!

Forte dei Marmi is in a great area… have you been before?

It’s going to be busy no matter what day you choose, however, it’s always better to travel on a weekday than on a weekend, so I would recommend the Wednesday ferry

Have a wonderful time!

Hi! thank you for such a well written beautiful blog!

We are headed to cinq terre from Milan, but wanted to stop and visit portofino. However, we don’t have a car, are there luggage lockers at the train station? I think you mentioned santa margarita…

How do you recommend we manage transportation from Milan – Portofino stop- Cinq terre? ….with luggages…

Thank you so much!

Unfortunately there are no luggage storage facilities in Santa Margherita or Portofino, but I did see one in Rapallo, next to the train station… so if it’s still there that might be your best option. If all else fails, you could always ask one of the harbor front hotels if they could hold your luggage for a small fee.

The train system is very good in Italy and you should be fine transporting luggage throughout your trip… although, depending on where you are staying in Cinque Terre, you could be faced with lots of stairs to get to your accommodation.

What to see in Portofino

Portofino is a village of very ancient origins, documented in the imperial age with the name of Portus Delphini; the central part of the town still retains the Roman road system, with orthogonal meshes.

In the 12th century, after a long period under the abbey of S. Fruttuoso, Portofino came under the jurisdiction of Genoa , which would keep it in its possession ever since.

The Piazzetta of Portofino

Via Rome guides visitors to the sea.

On the right, the fourteenth-century oratory of Nostra Signora Assunta, with a beautiful portal carved in slate (1555), serves as a container for art exhibitions.

The street ends in Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta, better known as the small square: under its arcades there are shops and boutiques, restaurants and ice cream parlors, which also surround the marina.

Chiesa di San Martino

Behind the square, on the left, stands the church of S. Martino, built in the 11th century in Lombard Romanesque style; owes its present appearance to an intervention from the 1800s.

Church of San Giorgio

The church of St. George is a very small temple built on the cliff of the picturesque promontory.

During its history this church has been destroyed several times since it was built in 1154.

Today inside you can admire several valuable paintings, although so many works historically housed inside the church have been destroyed.

Inside this church are kept the relics of St. George in a shrine excavated under the high altar of the church.

Brown Castle

The fortress of Manarola was built in the twelfth century to defend the village from the raids of Saracen pirates. Later it represented the real nucleus of the ancient country. Today some parts are still well preserved and visible, others have been incorporated by the houses perched on the sea. There are no visible parts, however, of the ancient castle, which was built together with the bastion.

Punta del Capo lighthouse

The last stop of the walk is faro di punta del capo: a view that leaves you breathless.

Where to sleep in Portofino

Portofino hotels are very luxurious, exclusive and offer exceptional service. These wonderful structures inside elegant period buildings are ideal for an elite clientele or to celebrate special moments.

If your budget is over € 200 per night you can find some solution to spend the night in this wonderful pearl of the Mediterranean.

Otherwise, the nearby towns of Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure offer much more choice with accommodations of all types and for all budgets: hotels in all price ranges, apartments, and B&Bs.

How to get to Portofino

You can leave your car in the covered pay parking in Piazza Martiri della Libertà, open 24 hours a day, or in the free parking area along the road to Santa Margherita Ligure; from here it is possible to reach the town center on foot with a beautiful panoramic walk.

Since there is still a risk of turning empty in the vain search for a parking space, it is better to choose the train, going down to the station of Santa Margherita Ligure from which, in the summer months, a bus departs every 20 minutes (until 8 p.m.), whose tickets are available for purchase at the vending machine; Portofino can also be reached by sea, taking advantage of the ferry ferries that provide a constant connection from Genoa, the Paradise Gulf and the Gulf of Tigullio.

The nearest airport is Genoa ( http://www.aeroportodigenova.it/ )

Portofino beaches

Sea lovers have two options to lie down at the beach and take a swim from Portofino.

The first is to reach San Fruttuoso Abbey by boat or through the paths of the Portofino mountain.

If you want to spend more time on the beach in a less remote area you have to go back to Santa Margherita Ligure and stop at Paraggi. Here is the only real beach close to the village that is much loved by VIPs and is known as “Portofino beach”.

Photographs of Portofino

piazzetta-portofino

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