Indulge your celebrity fantasies in the classic fishing village of Portofino, known world-wide as an A-list holiday spot. It’s popular with VIPs, but feels secluded because of its position on the tip of the coastline in front of rising hills. Walk along the promenade around the harbour. View the brightly colored buildings on the waterfront. Browse chic boutiques, sip local wine and dine on the region’s finest seafood and olives in a terrace bar as you watch activity around the little bay.
Portofino remains a small fishing village, but has had a celebrity sheen ever since it became a high-profile holiday spot in the 19th century. It was a fixture on the jet set itineraries of the ‘50s and ‘60s and hasn’t lost its appeal in its transition to a modern resort town. Here, small terrace restaurants serve the crowds of travellers who have come to admire this Ligurian gem. A tiny square on the waterfront called the “Piazzetta” lies in front of the boats that bob around while moored in the bay.
As well as being a glamorous holiday location, the town has the typical attractions of a regional village. Visit atmospheric old churches including San Martino and San Giorgio. One of Portofino’s iconic sights is Castello Brown, which allows breathtaking views of the little town from up on the hill. If you’d like to get out of town, explore the thick vegetation of the Portofino Regional Nature Park which starts behind the town’s pastel buildings. See the classic little white lighthouse, Il Faro, which is accessible on foot.
A short boat ride away is the more isolated San Fruttuoso Bay. Rent gear to go diving and see the original of the famous submerged statue of Jesus, the Christ of the Abyss.
Drive your sports car to Portofino via the road from San Margherita or travel like a real superstar and arrive by yacht.
