The little town of Portofino, a gem set on the Ligurian coast, where the beauty of nature and the elegance of luxury merge into a unique experience. This picturesque seaside village stands proudly on the cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Tigullio, offering a breathtaking view of the crystalline sea that extends to the horizon. Here, among the narrow and colorful streets of the historic centre, you can breathe a romantic and sophisticated atmosphere, typical of the most exclusive locations.
Despite its small size, Portofino is a place of great charm, with its small square, the famous lighthouse and the Brown castle, which dominates the entire bay with its imposing presence. But it is above all the pastel-colored houses and the boats that gently rock in the marina that attract visitors from all over the world.
Here, among the high fashion shops and gourmet restaurants, it is possible to experience moments of pure beauty and romance, immersed in an atmosphere that has inspired writers, artists and poets of every era. Portofino is an unmissable destination for those who want to enjoy an unforgettable holiday, dedicated to timeless beauty and elegance.
Having said that, here are six things you absolutely cannot miss if you visit Portofino for the first time:
1. La Piazzetta di Portofino
The first place we recommend you visit is the Piazzetta, the beating heart of Portofino. Here you can admire the pastel-colored buildings, boats moored at the harbor, and cafes that offer breathtaking views of the sea. Take your time to enjoy a coffee or an aperitif and be enchanted by the magical atmosphere of this place.
2. Brown Castle
The second must-see place is the Castello Brown, a medieval fortress located on the hill overlooking the town. From its terraces, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Gulf of Tigullio and the surrounding mountains. A perfect romantic place to admire the sunset or for a candlelit dinner.
3. Church of San Giorgio
Third on the list is the Church of San Giorgio, an ancient 12th-century church located in the historic center of Portofino. Here you can admire its frescoes and enjoy a moment of tranquility in this sacred and fascinating place.
4. Portofino Regional Natural Park
The fourth place to visit is the Portofino Regional Natural Reserve, a protected area of great beauty where you can go hiking, diving, and admire the local flora and fauna. This reserve is a true paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Paraggi Bay
Fifth on the list is the Bay of Paraggi, one of the most beautiful beaches in Liguria. This bay is located a few kilometers from Portofino and is characterized by crystal-clear waters and white sand. A perfect romantic place for a day of relaxation and to enjoy the sun and the sea.
6. The Bay of San Fruttuoso
Finally, I cannot fail to mention the Bay of San Fruttuoso, an enchanted place accessible only by sea or on foot. Here you can visit the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, an ancient 10th-century monastery located on the beach. A romantic and suggestive place that will leave you speechless.
Need an extra? Dive in San Fruttuoso to see the Christ of the Abysses
Despite its small size, Portofino is a place of great charm, with its small square, the famous lighthouse and the Brown castle, which dominates the entire bay with its imposing presence. But it is above all the pastel-colored houses and the boats that gently rock in the marina that attract visitors from all over the world.
Here, among the high fashion shops and gourmet restaurants, it is possible to experience moments of pure beauty and romance, immersed in an atmosphere that has inspired writers, artists and poets of every era. Portofino is an unmissable destination for those who want to enjoy an unforgettable holiday, dedicated to timeless beauty and elegance.
Having said that, here are six things you absolutely cannot miss if you visit Portofino for the first time:
1. La Piazzetta di Portofino
The first place we recommend you visit is the Piazzetta, the beating heart of Portofino. Here you can admire the pastel-colored buildings, boats moored at the harbor, and cafes that offer breathtaking views of the sea. Take your time to enjoy a coffee or an aperitif and be enchanted by the magical atmosphere of this place.
2. Brown Castle
The second must-see place is the Castello Brown, a medieval fortress located on the hill overlooking the town. From its terraces, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Gulf of Tigullio and the surrounding mountains. A perfect romantic place to admire the sunset or for a candlelit dinner.
3. Church of San Giorgio
Third on the list is the Church of San Giorgio, an ancient 12th-century church located in the historic center of Portofino. Here you can admire its frescoes and enjoy a moment of tranquility in this sacred and fascinating place.
4. Portofino Regional Natural Park
The fourth place to visit is the Portofino Regional Natural Reserve, a protected area of great beauty where you can go hiking, diving, and admire the local flora and fauna. This reserve is a true paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Paraggi Bay
Fifth on the list is the Bay of Paraggi, one of the most beautiful beaches in Liguria. This bay is located a few kilometers from Portofino and is characterized by crystal-clear waters and white sand. A perfect romantic place for a day of relaxation and to enjoy the sun and the sea.
6. The Bay of San Fruttuoso
Finally, I cannot fail to mention the Bay of San Fruttuoso, an enchanted place accessible only by sea or on foot. Here you can visit the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, an ancient 10th-century monastery located on the beach. A romantic and suggestive place that will leave you speechless.
Need an extra? Dive in San Fruttuoso to see the Christ of the Abysses
In front of San Fruttuoso beach, there is a famous diving spot where you can see a huge bronze statue of Christ with open arms. This statue was commissioned by one of the most important Italian scuba divers to honor a friend that lost his life during the testing of some diving equipment. The realization of the statue, was carried out through the fusion of medals, bells and naval elements, making it a real tribute to the sea, navigation and diving.
Diving to observe the statue, in fact, remains one of the most popular attractions of the entire Ligurian coast and attracts thousands of visitors every year diving enthusiasts. It is a relatively simple dive and the water is not too deep, being a maximum of 15 meters.