Things to do in Portofino

Nestled on the picturesque Italian Riviera, Portofino is a charming fishing village celebrated for its pastel-coloured harbourfront, natural beauty, and timeless allure. While it retains its authentic maritime character, it has also become known as a glamorous retreat, attracting celebrities, artists, and discerning travellers from around the world. 

Portofino’s reputation as an enchanting hotspot dates back to the 1800s, when it first captured the attention of European aristocrats, particularly from Britain, before later becoming a favourite holiday destination for wealthy travellers and Hollywood stars. During Italy’s economic boom of the late 1950s and early 1960s, the La Dolce Vita era, which translates to ‘the sweet life’, was born. It embodied a lifestyle centred on indulgence and enjoyment, whether it’s savouring exquisite food and wine, spending quality time with loved ones and forming strong connections, appreciating art and culture, and basking in beautiful surroundings. For many, Portofino captured the very essence of this spirit, and it was during this time that the fishing village solidified its reputation as a glamorous and exclusive destination. 

Today, Portofino continues to exude the same magnetism, drawing countless visitors to its postcard-perfect streets each year. In this guide, we highlight some of the town’s most popular things to see and do. 

Blending dramatic coastal landscapes with lush woodland and diverse wildlife, Portofino Regional Natural Park is one of the region’s true treasures. Stretching across rolling hills and rugged shoreline, it offers a wide range of hiking trails to suit various abilities, from gentle woodland walks to more challenging treks that reward hikers with sweeping views of the Ligurian Sea. Cycling provides another way to explore, with routes tailored to both casual riders and seasoned mountain bikers. Out on the water, kayakers can glide along the craggy coastline, uncovering secluded coves, hidden beaches, and striking cliffs from a fresh perspective. Whether by foot, bike, or sea, the park invites visitors to slow down, reconnect with nature, and embrace the serene beauty that makes Portofino so enchanting. 

Perched high above the town, Castello Brown offers sweeping views over Portofino, its bustling harbour, and the sparkling Gulf of Tigullio. Originally built as a 16th-century fortress, it was later transformed into an elegant villa and today serves as a museum and events space. Inside, visitors can explore its furnished rooms, view art collections and exhibitions, and even attend cultural events hosted here. The walk up to the castle is a highlight in itself, offering ever-changing vistas along the way. Blending medieval and Renaissance architectural design features, Castello Brown is considered a popular tourist spot, complemented by its serene gardens that provide a peaceful retreat above the lively waterfront. 

Set on a dramatic headline, Portofino Lighthouse offers one of the most serene and picturesque viewpoints in town. A scenic paved trail from the main square leads you there, winding past lush greenery and coastal panoramas along the way. Though the lighthouse itself remains a working beacon and is closed to the public, its base is home to a charming outdoor bar and lounge. It’s the perfect place to pause with a cool drink in hand, soak up the salty breeze, and admire the sweeping views of the Ligurian Sea. 

San Giorgio is a modest yet peaceful church, best known for the incredible views from its courtyard overlooking Portofino. First built in 1154 in the Romanesque style, it has undergone numerous renovations and reconstructions over the centuries, including a major rebuilding after it was destroyed during World War II. The church is also said to house relics of Saint George, which were brought back by sailors returning from the crusades. For some, this adds an extra layer of spiritual charm and significance to the church. 

Museo del Parco is an open-air sculpture garden uniquely set against the backdrop of the stunning Ligurian coast, where art and nature exist in perfect harmony. Established in the 1980s, the museum showcases a diverse collection of contemporary sculptures crafted from materials such as bronze, marble, glass, and steel. As you wander through its pathways, you’ll encounter thought-provoking works by internationally renowned artists, each piece framed by lush greenery and panoramic sea views. The combination of creativity and natural beauty makes it an inspiring destination, appealing to art enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. 

Founded in 1850, Lo Stella is a family-run restaurant that has been lovingly passed down through eight generations. For over a century, the family has stayed true to tradition, preparing every dish fresh and by hand, following the same Ligurian recipes that have been enjoyed for nearly two hundred years. From homemade pasta fresca and rustic breads to traditional desserts, Lo Stella offers an authentic taste of Portofino’s culinary heritage, served with the warmth and passion of a family dedicated to preserving its legacy. 

Ristorante Puny has long been a favourite in Portofino, cherished for its welcoming atmosphere and authentic cooking. Overlooking the harbour, this family-run restaurant has been serving traditional dishes for generations, with recipes that showcase the simplicity and freshness of local ingredients. From handmade pastas to classic seafood specialities, every dish reflects the culinary traditions of the region, making a meal at Puny feel like a true taste of Portofino.  

Set within the glamorous Belmond Hotel Splendido, La Terrazza is one of Portofino’s most romantic dining experiences. Guests can enjoy traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist, where the freshest local seafood and seasonal ingredients are reimagined into chic, contemporary plates. Dining on the wisteria-draped balcony overlooking the bay, with its sweeping views of the harbour and the Ligurian coastline, feels nothing short of magical. Expect a perfect blend of authentic flavours, refined style, and unforgettable setting.

DaV Mare, the signature restaurant of Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, combines the charm of Portofino with an exceptional dining experience. Created in partnership with the Cerea family, the acclaimed team behind the three Michelin star restaurant Da Vittorio, it offers a fresh and contemporary approach to classic Italian cuisine. The focus is on seasonal ingredients, prepared with care and creativity, allowing authentic flavours to shine. With its enviable position overlooking the lively Piazzetta and the sparkling harbour, dining here is as much about the atmosphere as the food itself. Guests can look forward to attentive service, a relaxed sense of elegance and dishes that capture the very best of the Italian Riviera.

Tucked away near Portofino’s lighthouse, Al Faro di Portofino Lounge Bar is a hidden gem with some of the most spectacular views on the peninsula. This chic little spot is perfect for unwinding with a refreshing drink or light bite after the scenic walk up. Guests can choose from classic cocktails, a chilled beer, or something softer like homemade lemonade, iced tea, or a mocktail, all best enjoyed while gazing out over the Ligurian Sea. Arrive at sunset, when the sky is painted with colour, and the atmosphere becomes nothing short of magical. 

Walking distance from the marina, Trattoria Concordia is a family-run restaurant known for its cosy setting and inviting ambience. Its reputation is built on authentic flavours, from fresh seafood dishes to its famed pesto lasagne, made with the region’s signature basil. Live piano music adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a charming place to linger over dinner and soak up the local spirit. With its warm hospitality and traditional recipes, Trattoria Concordia offers a true taste of Portofino away from the bustle of the harbour.

Around a twenty-minute coastal walk or a short drive from Portofino brings you to Paraggi Beach, a beautiful bay nestled between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. One of the area’s few sandy beaches, it is celebrated for its emerald green waters and golden shoreline. Paraggi holds Blue Flag status, a mark of its excellent water quality safety, and commitment to environmental care. Nearby you will find inviting restaurants, elegant beach clubs, and scenic walking trails, offering plenty of ways to spend the day. Whether you prefer basking in the sun, enjoying fresh local cuisine, or setting off on a coastal hike, Paraggi Beach is a charming escape with something for everyone. 

Portofino Harbour is often described as the ‘jewel of the Italian Riviera’ and is without doubt a must-visit during your time in the village. This enchanting waterfront, framed by pastel-coloured buildings and lively piazzas, has long attracted artists, writers, and film stars, adding to its sense of glamour. Today, the harbour is a place where luxury yachts sit side by side with traditional fishing boasts, creating a scene that feels both timeless and exclusive. Along the water’s edge you will find elegant restaurants, stylish cafés and designer boutiques, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an afternoon of people-watching. Beyond the glamour, the harbour also holds historical significance, with roots dating back to Roman times. Be sure to bring your camera, as the sweeping views of the sparkling bay and colourful façades are among the most photographed in all of Italy. 

At the heart of Portofino lies La Piazzetta, the village’s iconic main square and a favourite spot to pause and take in the atmosphere. Overlooking the harbour, it has long been the hub of social life, where locals and visitors alike gather at pavement cafés and elegant bars to watch the world go by. The square is lined with charming restaurants, boutiques, and small art galleries, making it a delightful place to wander as well as to sit and soak up the surroundings. With many of Portofino’s most popular attractions just a short walk away, La Piazzetta is the perfect place to begin, or end, a day of exploring, offering a blend of relaxation, style, and Italian dolce vita. 

Tucked away between Camogli and Portofino, San Fruttuoso is a hidden gem that combines history, nature, and coastal charm. This small cove, with its pebbly shore, turquoise waters, and lush green backdrop, is perfect for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters. Rising directly from the beach is the remarkable Romanesque abbey, dating back to the 10th century, which gives the bay an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the Riviera. Nestled within Portofino Regional Park, the area is also a delight for walkers, with scenic trails that wind through fragrant woodland and offer spectacular views of the coastline. San Fruttuoso can be reached by ferry from Portofino, making it an easy and memorable excursion where natural beauty and cultural heritage meet. 

Le Carillon Portofino is a place where guests are invited to slow down and savour the best of Italian seaside living. With its elegant décor and signature touches from Dolce & Gabbana, this waterfront retreat has a relaxed glamour that feels both stylish and welcoming. By day, you can stretch out on a sunbed along the sand or reserve a spot on one of the decks, with the turquoise water only steps away. The bay teems with marine life, making it a wonderful choice for those who enjoy snorkelling or diving. Dining is a highlight at Vesta Portofino, where the menu follows the seasons and fresh ingredients arrive daily. Each dish celebrates the flavours of Italy and the Mediterranean with an approach that is simple, elegant and true to tradition. On Friday and Saturday nights, Le Carillon transforms into one of Portofino’s most exclusive party venues, where music, laughter, and the Riviera’s unmistakable sense of style fill the air.