Portofino, Italy Port Reviews
Potofino, Italy On Your Own Shore Excursion
By Tom Ogg

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Overview:

Portofino, Italy

Portofino, Italy is a legendary small ocean front village with one of the highest per-capita incomes of anywhere in Italy. Its small harbor has been home to some of the most famous yachts in the world and one look at the harbor and town explains why. Portofino is simply out of this world. Portofino enjoys excellent Mediterranean weather and the currency is the euro.

Cruise Port Location and Information:

At Anchor Off Portofino

Ships anchor off Portofino and tender into the Portofino harbor.

Approaching Portofino

On the tender ride into the harbor there are few hints of the wonders that are about to unfold themselves to visitors.

The Portofino Tender Wharf

Once inside the harbor a sense of grandeur prevails. The tender docks at the tender wharf and beauty surrounds every passenger.

Exploring on Your Own:

Beautiful Portofino

Portofino was built to explore on your own. In fact, I am not sure that there would be any other acceptable way to do it. Portofino is so inviting that one cannot refuse its request.

Shopping Tips:

Shopping in Portofino May be Expensive

Because Portofino has such a high per-capita income in Italy, you will find many designer shops within the ports three block downtown area. Here is an example of some of the shops that you will see.

I am sure that you get the idea by now. Shopping in Portofino can get expensive.

Port Highlights:

Portofino Harbor

Portofino's harbor is as picturesque as they come. The pastel buildings, sidewalk cafes, fishing boats, super luxurious yachts and overall ambiance gives Portofino a special flavor and invites one to explore and enjoy it for the day.

Portofino's Main Street

The main square leads to Portofino's main street, which is lined with designer boutiques and shops. While there are some stores that cater to tourists, the shops are generally expensive and are selling designer labeled clothing and accessories.

Portofino's Narrow Walkways

There are several narrow and winding walkways lading off of the main street that just beg to be explored. Portofino is probably the closet thing to a "storybook" village on Earth.

Castello Brown

Castello Brown is a fabulous 17th century castle that overlooks all of Portofino. Today it is a museum featuring art exhibitions and terraced gardens.

The Pathway to Castello Brown

The hike up to Castello Brown is quite interesting and affords some excellent views of the harbor. The narrow pathway reminds you that the village is centuries old.

Portofino Sculptures

Portofino also houses some interesting art throughout the village. While it seems a little odd to have sculptures like those that appear above placed throughout the village, it really adds a touch of elegance.

The Portofino Rhino

I never did understand the significance of this Rhino, but everyone was taking pictures of it as if it were the focal point of Portofino. So, here is the obligatory picture of the Portofino Rhino.

The Tunnel to the Trail to Santa Margherita

The topography surrounding Portofino is steep hillsides and rough mountainous terrain. The neighboring village of Santa Margherita is one of the most favorite destinations on the Italian Riviera and while not far from Portofino, does require a walk through the forest.

The Pathway to Santa Margherita

While there is a public bus from Portofino to Santa Margherta, it was extremely crowded and left people standing at the bus stop when it came through town. We decided to walk the pathway instead. The road is far below and parallels the coastline most of the way, but the pathway is sever hundred feet above the road in many places.

Portofino Harbor From the Trail

It affords several views of the Portofino harbor and general area before striking out along the coast.

A Small Village Along the Trail

Every turn of the trail offers new vistas and beautiful scenery.

A Small Hotel Along the Trail

There is a small hotel along the way that would be an excellent place to stop for a drink before continuing on. It is exceptionally beautiful.

Off the Beaten Path:

Santa Margherita

While there are several major attractions near Portofino such as Cinque Terre, Genoa and smaller villages close by, I would not suggest leaving Portofino unless you have already been there. Also, a visit to Santa Margherita is easy to make and rewarding with its busy harbor, oceanfront promenade bustling with open air restaurants and bars, excellent shopping and some of the best beaches on the Riviera.

Dining and Drinking Suggestions:

A Harbor Sidewalk Cafe

There are dozens of sidewalk cafes alongside the harbor and in the main square. However, like everything in Portofino, you will pay top dollar to enjoy your meal. We enjoyed a glass of wine at one of the cafes right on the harbor and the cost for two glasses of chardonnay was 28 euro (about $40.00 US)

Must Do List:

A visit to Portofino is certainly a "must do".