Portofino, Italy -Travel Guide
There’s a small and beautiful fishing village right by the sea in Italian Riviera! Called Portofino. It has some of the most amazing views in all of Italy.
Most of the tourists visit for just a day. Others stop here after seeing a nearby place called Cinque Terre. This small town has colorful buildings and a peacefull atmosphere that everyone loves.
Most people get here by boat and step right into the main little square, called the piazetta. There, you can find lots of fun shops, yummy cafes, and many different places to eat. Even though Portofino can cost a bit more, it’s so calm and beautiful that it’s really worth visiting.
If you get to stay here for a night or two, you’ll have a trip that you’ll always remember! I’ll share the best sights, the nicest beaches, the coolest hotels, and the tastiest food here. Let’s go.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Portofino?
You should spend one or two days in Portofino. How long you stay really depends on how much you want to relax. Portofino is a very chill place, so it’s great to start or end your Italy travel here. If you like to see lots of things quickly, then maybe just a day trip to Portofino is enough.
If you enjoy waking up slowly with a tasty drink, taking leisurely walks in the village, spending afternoons by the sea, and snacking while watching the sunset, then staying for one or two nights would be ideal.
The Best Time to Visit Portofino
The best time to visit Portofino are May, September, and October. These three months are just right! You will find the weather nice, there aren’t too many people, and the cost to stay is less.
If you ask me, I recommend September. It’s the best option. It’s still warm like summer, but the big crowds from August are gone. Consider these periods when planning your trip:
- June-August (Super Busy Months): June to August is the busyst time for Italy. Most traveller visits enjoyes the weather. The weather is usually sunny and warm, which is perfect if you love the beach. But lots of people means hotel prices go way up, and it can be hard to find a room.
- November-April (Quiet Months): The weather can be a bit of a surprise during this time. It might be cold and rainy. Lots of shops and restaurants close for these months, so it’s probably best not to visit then.
Must-See Portofino Attractions
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Cannone Bay: This peaceful and beautiful little beach is just a short walk from the middle of the village. It’s where you can see Portofino’s famous golden house! The water is super clear for swimming. Like me, you can also lie in the sun on the rocks and enjoy the moment. It’s a calm place to get away from the busy parts.
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Castello Brown: This old castle was built a long, long time ago (in the 15th century!). It’s on top of a hill looking over the harbor. You can see amazing views of the coastline and the village below. The inside feels a bit like a museum, but the super beautiful views are worth the walk up.
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Paraggi Beach: Just a short walk from town, Paraggi Beach has some private beach clubs and a small area for everyone. It’s the perfect spot to feel the warm Mediterranean sun and jump into the clear water for a swim.
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Santa Margherita Ligure: This is a town you can drive to quickly from Portofino. It’s a fun spot! There are many shops and tasty restaurants. There’s also a lovely beach called Spiaggia Regina Elena.
Where to Stay in Portofino
- Belmond Hotel Splendido: This fancy hotel looks over the whole bay. This building is where monks lived! So, This place has a rich history. Famous guests like Winston Churchill and Elizabeth Taylor have stayed here. You can expect amazing views, a pretty pool, and it’s easy to walk to the main parts of town.
- Eight Hotel Portofino: This hotel is just a short walk from the Belmond. It’s a cozy and special place for people who want a more personal experience. It looks very nice and shows the old-style charm of the region.
- Hotel Piccolo: For a more budget-friendly option with a fantastic location, consider Hotel Piccolo. It may not be as fancy as the others, but it’s just steps from Cannone Bay. Plus, it offers stunning views, making it a great deal.
Where to Dine in Portofino
- Da | Gemelli: This small restaurant is right on the harbor of portofino. They have really yummy pasta and fresh seafood. Da | Gemelli is perfect for eating while enjoying the view of the sea.
- Ristorante Puny: You can find this restaurant right in the middle of the piazetta. They are known for their tasty seafood and pasta dishes. It’s a great place to watch people go by while you eat lunch or dinner.
- Trattoria Tripoli: This is a popular place with a fun and busy feeling. They serve fresh pasta and seafood, but it costs a bit more. It’s always crowded, so it’s a good idea to ask for a table ahead of time or go early.
- Trattoria Concordia: This is a small and cozy restaurant run by a family. It’s hidden away in a quieter part of town. They make really tasty fresh pasta and seafood. I really enjoyed their food. Also, it’s best to make a reservation, especially if you want to eat dinner there.
Getting To and Around Portofino
To get to Portofino, the closest train station is in Santa Margherita Ligure. From there, you can easily take a short taxi to Portofino. Once you’re in the village, the best way to see everything is by walking. You can walk across the whole town in about 15 minutes!
Important Travel Tips for Portofino
- Money: Italy uses Euro (€) as their currency. Also, If you are out of cash don’t worry, most places in Portofino take credit cards because it’s a fancy place.
- Just a Day Trip: I suggest staying overnight, but you can also visit Portofino for just a day. The village is small enough to see everything in one day, so it’s a great choice if you don’t have much time.
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