Top Things to do in Portofino
What to do and see in Portofino, Liguria: The Best Free Things to do
One of the most popular resort towns on the Italian Riviera, little Portofino has just over 500 permanent residents. But that all changes on summer days when the sun is shining and the yachting set drops anchor in the harbor to wander about. Boutiques, art galleries, cafes and restaurants line the tiny streets. Diving, hiking and beach-going are popular local pastimes, and there are even some historic sights like the Church of St. Martin (Divo Martino) and the Castello Brown hilltop fortress.
Restaurants in Portofino
1. Area Marina Protetta Portofino
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 480 reviews
Reviewed By O3392HIrobertk
Everything you’ve read or seen is true. This is an incredibly picturesque little cove. We spent about 4 hours here, which was plenty. The castle is worth going to for the views alone. Though not for those too out of shape as we saw some tourists seriously struggling to get to the top. Don’t attempt to drive here. Parking is scarce and you risk damaging your car on the extremely narrow streets. Don’t expect the buses to arrive on time either.
2. Faro di Portofino
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 426 reviews
Reviewed By GailL295 - Malvern, Australia
We visited this lovely spot on a number of occasions during our stay in Portofino. Great setting, lovely coffee and good staff.
3. Piazza Martiri Dell'Olivetta
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 298 reviews
Reviewed By 896JanK896 - Warwick, United Kingdom
Arrived by ferry from Santa Margherita. Saw the Skyfall yacht in the harbour worth 31.5 million. Walked around the marina, had cocktails and gelato, saw the Ferraris in the square, did some expensive shopping, walked up to Castello Brown and admired the views. Left by ferry again but would have loved to have experienced an evening there. Bucket list tick.
4. Marina di Portofino
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 100 reviews
Reviewed By Mihaela11 - Amman, Jordan
We booked a boat trip to Portofino from Genoa. The Italian riviera is a dream place and the trip along the coast is incredible. The first encounter with the beautiful village is provided by the splendid Marina with its luxurious boats, colorful buildings, rich forests and turquoise waters. A place to sit and enjoy the view.
5. Parco di Portofino
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By lovetohike1111 - Prescott, United States
There are many trails in this area and most are well marked. The walk I enjoyed was a strong climb out of Portofino, straight up out of the city on the Main Street then 100’s of steps to reach the actual trail. The trail system appears to be well marked with a handful of other hikers (depending upon the time of day) which is nice for me as I hiked alone. Incredible views and definitely inspiration type hiking. The trails are quite rocky so good “sticky” hiking shoes or boots are necessary. I usually hike with poles, but I did not bring them along on this hike and I was fine, but if you have poles or your hotel has them to borrow it might help. A memorable experience!
6. Church of San Giorgio
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 381 reviews
Reviewed By ZahidMalti - London, United Kingdom
If you are in Portofino you can’t miss Church of San Giorgio. It is visible from almost everywhere and definite worth the uphill walk or climbing the steps near the boat dock (see picture) as in addition to enjoying the church especially from the outside, you will also have panoramic visual delights etched on your mind that will transport you to Portofino whenever whenever you remember the views. Definitely worth seeing.
7. Chiesa di San Martino
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 140 reviews
Reviewed By MarkN533 - Lake Zurich, United States
As you look up from the waterfront in the tiny seaside village of Portofino, you spot what looks like a small church on the hillside. There you find a steep slope with red colored bricks in the center that leads up to the church. After navigating about 20 steps, you are in front of the church that is close to 500 years old. From the outside, it is a modest looking building with horizontal markings that are found on many Italian churches of that era. I was mesmerized by the beautiful frescoes and chandeliers, as well as the massive columns connected by arch openings.
