GemmaPortofino. Just saying the name can make you imagine pastel-colored houses clinging to cliffs, luxury yachts swaying gently in a turquoise harbor, and cobblestone streets lined with chic boutiques. But while the harbor is undeniably the star attraction, there’s more to this gem on Italy’s Ligurian coast than just its postcard-perfect marina. From my own personal experience, exploring beyond the harbor opens a whole new world of charm, history, and adventure.
If you think Portofino is just a place to sip espresso while watching yachts go by, think again. There’s a hidden side to this seaside village that you truly need to see. Here’s a detailed guide to 10 things to do in Portofino that go beyond the harbor.
1. Wander Through the Colorful Streets of Portofino
The moment you step away from the waterfront, you’ll find streets that look like they’ve popped straight out of a storybook. Pastel-painted buildings, winding alleys, and flower boxes spilling over windows make every corner a photo opportunity. Don’t just stick to the main streets—venture into the smaller lanes. You might stumble upon a tiny café serving homemade focaccia or a local artisan selling hand-painted ceramics.
Pro tip: Take your time. Wander without a plan. Sometimes getting a little lost is the best way to see Portofino the way locals do.
2. Visit Castello Brown
Perched above the harbor, Castello Brown is more than just a castle. This historic fortress offers sweeping views of the Ligurian coast and a peek into Portofino’s past. Inside, you’ll find exhibitions of furniture, art, and photographs that tell the story of the village and its noble families.
From my own personal experience, the views from the castle terrace are worth the climb alone. It’s one of those spots where you can linger, take a deep breath of the sea air, and pretend you’re a character in an Italian novel.
3. Hike to San Giorgio Church
Portofino isn’t just a seaside escape; it’s also a hiker’s paradise. A short trail from the village leads to the Church of San Giorgio, a serene church perched on a hill overlooking the village. The hike itself is manageable, even for beginners, and the scenery along the way—Mediterranean pine, wildflowers, and panoramic views—is unbeatable.
Once you reach the church, take a moment to admire the bell tower and the simple but elegant architecture. Sit on a nearby bench, soak in the view, and don’t forget to snap some photos. Trust me, this is one hike you won’t forget.
4. Explore the Portofino Regional Park
For those who love nature, the Portofino Regional Park is a must. Spanning over 2,000 hectares, this protected area includes cliffs, forests, and trails that offer a different perspective of the village. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting birds, lizards, and occasionally wild goats.
One of the best trails is the path that follows the coastline to Punta del Capo. The views of the sea are spectacular, and the peacefulness is a welcome break from the bustling harbor. You’ll find yourself appreciating the quieter, natural side of Portofino that many tourists miss.
5. Discover Hidden Beaches
Portofino isn’t all cliffs and harbor views; it has a few secluded beaches that are perfect for a peaceful afternoon. Paraggi Beach, with its soft sand and clear water, is popular but still maintains a calm charm. If you’re willing to walk a little, you can find smaller, hidden coves where you can enjoy the sea in almost complete solitude.
Bring a picnic, a good book, and some sunscreen. There’s something magical about dipping into the turquoise water and realizing that this quiet slice of paradise exists just beyond the bustling harbor.
6. Visit the Church of St. Martin
This small church is tucked away in one of the village’s quieter streets, but it’s full of charm. The Church of St. Martin dates back centuries and contains beautiful frescoes and religious artifacts. Visiting here offers a quiet moment of reflection, and the calm atmosphere contrasts nicely with the lively harbor.
It’s also a great spot to understand the local culture. The church is still active, so if you time it right, you might catch a local service or festival that gives you a glimpse into daily life in Portofino.
7. Take a Boat Trip Along the Coast
Yes, you could stare at yachts from the harbor, or you could get on a small boat and explore the coast yourself. Renting a boat, or joining a guided tour, lets you discover hidden coves, rocky cliffs, and the famous lighthouse at Punta Chiappa.
The best part? You can stop wherever you like for a swim. From my own personal experience, the freedom to explore the coastline at your own pace makes a boat trip unforgettable. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins or sail alongside a few local fishing boats.
8. Sample Ligurian Cuisine in Local Trattorias
Beyond the fancy waterfront restaurants, Portofino has some real culinary gems. Small trattorias tucked away from the main square serve traditional Ligurian dishes like trofie al pesto, fresh seafood pasta, and focaccia with local olive oil.
Take your time to chat with the owners—they’re usually happy to recommend the best dishes. From my overall experience, the food tastes even better when it’s paired with a glass of local Vermentino wine and a view of the surrounding hills.
9. Visit the Lighthouse at Punta Chiappa
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, hiking or boating to Punta Chiappa is highly rewarding. The lighthouse stands at the tip of a rocky promontory, and the views of the Ligurian Sea are breathtaking. It’s also a great spot for photography, especially during sunset when the sky and water turn golden.
This isn’t just about the lighthouse itself—it’s about the sense of accomplishment when you reach it. Few tourists make the journey, so it feels like a hidden treasure you discovered on your own.
10. Experience Local Markets and Artisans
Finally, don’t miss Portofino’s local markets and artisan shops. Beyond luxury brands, you’ll find handmade ceramics, textiles, and locally produced olive oils and wines. Visiting these spots gives you a taste of authentic local life and supports small businesses in the village.
Take your time browsing. Even if you don’t buy anything, observing the craftspeople at work and chatting with them can be surprisingly enriching. From my own personal experience, these little encounters often leave the most lasting impressions of a trip.
Portofino is more than its famous harbor. By stepping off the main path, you uncover winding streets, quiet beaches, historic churches, and spectacular views. You get to experience a side of the village that many visitors miss, and in doing so, feel like you’ve truly discovered Portofino for yourself.
Whether you’re hiking to a hilltop church, relaxing on a hidden beach, or sampling local delicacies in a tucked-away trattoria, the village offers something for every traveler. So next time you visit, leave the harbor behind for a few hours and explore the Portofino that you truly need to see.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.