Add dates

Portofino
Activities

Activities

Our most recommended Portofino Activities

From Milan: Genova & Portofino Full-Day Tour

1. From Milan: Genova & Portofino Full-Day Tour

Escape the hustle and bustle of Milan on a full-day sightseeing tour of 3 gems of the Ligurian Coast. Departing by bus from central Milan, drive south to the capital of Liguria and the largest seaport in Italy at Genova (Genoa). Nicknamed “La Superba” ("Superb One"), due to its impressive landmarks, part of the old town was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006. Explore streets rich in art, gastronomy and architecture. The birthplace of Christopher Columbus, its role in maritime history is beyond compare. Once one of the "Maritime Republics,” along with Venice, Pisa, and Amalfi, the ornate buildings and monuments reveal a rich story of trade and shipbuilding. Next, relax at the pearl of the Ligurian Sea at Portofino, a small village that dates back to the Roman period. Its glittering harbor and colorful waterfront houses have made it a much sought-after destination among celebrities, while its Roman name of Portus Delphini (Port of the Dolphin) reflects the large number of dolphins that inhabited the Tigullian Gulf. End your tour at Santa Margherita Ligure, where the maritime scenery and turquoise sea blends beautifully with the green of the Ligurian hills, colorful fishing boats bob in the harbor, and picturesque fishermen’s houses transport you back to a less hurried time.

From Genoa: Boat Tour to Portofino with Free Time to Explore

2. From Genoa: Boat Tour to Portofino with Free Time to Explore

Admire breathtaking views of the Ligurian coast from the sea on this tour from Genoa to Portofino. Leave from the Genoa's Porto Antico and spend free time soaking up the quaint features of Portofino and its extraordinary harbor before returning to Genoa. Check-in at the ticket office which is conveniently located next to the Genoa Aquarium in the late morning. Set off in a comfortable and spacious boat. Relax on the way to Portofino with views of the Italian Riviera's azure waters and picturesque villages. Arrive at Portofino around noon and have two hours to purchase a tasty lunch, stroll along the pastel-colored houses, or to visit the Piazzetta which is a cobbled square with spectacular views of the harbor. Capture pictures of the 16th-century Castello Brown. Bid farewell to Portofino and return take in the lush coast on the way back to your meeting point in Genoa's bustling Porto Antico.

From Levanto: E-bike Through the Cinque Terre to Vernazza

3. From Levanto: E-bike Through the Cinque Terre to Vernazza

We will meet in Levanto, at our garage (located in via Galli 62, 7-minute walk from the train station). After the explanations on the correct use of pedal-assisted ebikes (no throttle assist), we effortlessly start to go uphill in the beautiful valley of Levanto, where our journey into the beauty and the history of this region begins. Stops for taking pictures are always welcome. The first longer stop is at the sacred sanctuary of "Madonna di Soviore", right above Monterosso. This amazing place has 1300 years of history, and the panorama of the National Park and the coast towards Portofino is simply amazing. Here you can also find a cafeteria, a restroom, and a fountain for refilling your bottle of water. We then proceed further into the National Park of the Cinque Terre. The panorama slowly opens at the point that we will be able to see the coast of the Cinque Terre until Riomaggiore. If the air is dry enough, it's also possible to see Corsica on the horizon. We arrive at a panoramic spot right above Vernazza. From here we can have the most iconic and instagrammable view of the Cinque Terre: the small colorful houses, the small bay of Vernazza, the clear water of the Ligurian Sea, and the hills and vineyards surrounding the town. Paradise has to be nearby! ;-) In another 5 minutes, we arrive at the second sacred sanctuary that we visit on the tour: "Madonna di Reggio", above Vernazza. Here we have a taste of Ligurian focaccia accompanied by a great local white wine. After some minutes of rest in the shade of centuries-old holm oaks, we go down to Vernazza. Here you have to possibility to visit the town, its cute square nearby the bay, the medieval church, the narrow local streets, the castle and its tower 500 years old, and the harbor. Finally, the return to Levanto is done by train, loading the bikes into the special wagons. This tour is suitable for everyone, from 0 to 80 years. Small children can be carried in a trolley attached to mama's or papa's bike. While starting from 9 years old, if children are at least 1.30 cm (4'3'') tall and can safely manage a bike on a road where cars are present, they can ride their own bike. In the hot season, riding an e-bike permits to stay fresh, due to the wind which is like a natural fan. This tour gives you the opportunity to explore the true heart of this region: the terraced landscape, that in the past hosted hundreds of vineyards. Wine production has made history here, and the agricultural traditions are still part of the local heritage.

Easy Kayak Tour to Portofino with Optional Snorkeling

4. Easy Kayak Tour to Portofino with Optional Snorkeling

This easy kayak tour is suitable for all levels to explore the beauties of the Park of Portofino and its Marine Protected Area. In the company of a kayak instructor and marine guide, you paddle along the coast from Paraggi to the picturesque port of Portofino and beyond to the Olivetta and the Lighthouse. Be captured by the charm of these areas rich in history and curiosity. The beauty of Portofino as seen from the sea, will make you feel as though you are in a postcard. At the feet of the lighthouse where nature gets more "wild", take a refreshing dip in front of the breathtaking landscape is an experience not to be missed. Alternatively, pick the sunset option and enjoy the unspoiled coastline of Portofino Park at dusk, the best hour when crowds leave and the landscapes turn quiet again. Explore Portofino’s unique territory and hidden gems from the sea and land. Savor an excellent apperitivo with local natural wine and food. Upgrade for a kayak and snorkel combo in the Bay of Paraggi to explore the rich underwater flora and fauna.

1-Hour Snorkeling Tour in Paraggi Bay, Portofino

5. 1-Hour Snorkeling Tour in Paraggi Bay, Portofino

Meet your guide in Niasca, a sandy beach nestled in the vegetation of the Mediterranean Sea, next to Paraggi Bay, famous for its  crystal clear blue water. After you're supplied with the necessary snorkeling equipment (all sizes available), you'll be introduced to your guide. Comfortably sitting on the terrace, you will be briefed with pictures on the great variety of fish species and marine plants you'll come across while snorkeling. After a quick explanation on how to use thew equipment, you'll be ready to dive. This bay, forbidden to boat traffic is completely safe for swimming.  Your guide will lead you underwater searching for hidden treasures in Portofino’s Marine Protected Area. During the first part of the excursion inside Niasca’s bay, you will swim above one of the most extended posidonia meadows in the area, which together with the near cliff, hosts many species, such as tube-worms, starfish, pinna nobilis, posidonia, sponges and mollusks. Then you will head to the second part of the journey, swimming towards Portofino, amidst a cross section of fish species, such as sea breams, gilt-head bream, sea bass, moray eel, damsel and many more. Crossing the bay, you’ll swim above different habitats, such as posidonia meadow and sandy seabed, housing many different species.

Camogli: San Fruttuoso Abbey Entry Ticket

6. Camogli: San Fruttuoso Abbey Entry Ticket

Skirting the National Park that leads from Camogli to Portofino, San Fruttuoso Abbey seems for all the world like a miracle, nestling in a little creek and protected by a 16th-century tower – a fine example of a piece of architecture successfully integrated into the natural context. And yet the very inaccessibility of the site and the presence of a source of fresh water rendered it, in the 8th century, an ideal location for the foundation of a church. It is said that it was the martyr St Fructuosus himself who chose the bay, appearing in a dream to Prospero, Bishop of Tarragon, who was fleeing Spain to escape the Moors, and was searching for a place in which to safeguard the ashes of the saint. Rebuilt in the 10th century as a Benedictine monastery, from the 13th century the abbey’s fate became intertwined with that of the Doria family, who renovated its design, adding the loggia with two tiers of three-light windows and transferring here the family burial ground. In 1983, the family decided to donate the entire complex to FAI. The re-birth of this complex has been ongoing since then. The site plays host to two very different buildings, both requiring constant care. April 2017 saw the conclusion of the final restoration works, which involved the overhaul of the water source next to which the bell tower was constructed. The monastery, with its cloister and the Doria tombs, the primitive church and the parish church, the archaeological remains and the little village...only a visit in person can allow you to discover the authentic soul of this place lapped by the crystal-clear sea, which now offers visitors the option of staying in the guest accommodation – ideal for those who want to get away from it all like never before.

From Genoa: Full-Day Tour of Genoa and Portofino

7. From Genoa: Full-Day Tour of Genoa and Portofino

Genoa, the largest medieval town in Europe, maintains the charm of the ancient maritime republic. Your day will start in the ancient harbor, renovated in 1992 by the architect Renzo Piano. Here, your friendly and professional guide will lead you through the labyrinth of narrow alleyways of the old town to discover the many attractions of this city on an inspiring walking tour. After free time for lunch, hop-on your air-conditioned coach for a scenic ride following the Tigullio Gulf, nicknamed the Dolphins Gulf due to the large school of dolphins that are often spotted there, to reach the colorful village of Santa Margherita Ligure. Here, take the boat for a mini-cruise to the charming fishing village of Portofino, a half-moon shaped seaside village whose beauty has been narrated across the millennia by writers and poets such as Guy de Maupassant. The journey will end with a return by boat to Genoa.

Portofino Stand Up Paddleboard Experience

8. Portofino Stand Up Paddleboard Experience

Together with a professional instructor, learn the basic techniques of the stand up paddle board in the bay of Paraggi which is an extremely safe area to learn in as it is closed off to nautical traffic. Enjoy a 45 minutes lesson which will teach you how to manage your board and use your paddle safely. After the course, put your new technique into practice. Explore the wonders of the promontory and protected marine area of Portofino from an unusual perspective. Thanks to the perfectly perpendicular position on the sea, you can enjoy breathtaking views, above and below the water. Paddle from Paraggi to Portofino and admire this charming little port, the Castle of Paraggi, San Giorgio's Church and Castello Brown. Get tips and local knowledge from your English-speaking guide.

From La Spezia: Cinque Terre Boat Tour and Village Visit

9. From La Spezia: Cinque Terre Boat Tour and Village Visit

The 7-hour tour departs at 10am from porto mirabello la spezia and heads to portovenere with disembarkation for a visit to the village. Continue to cala rossa, bay of monesteroli, a unesco world heritage site, with a swim and stop, then you reach the 5 terre park, with a choice of visits to riomaggiore, manarola, corniglia, vernazza, monterosso. On the way back, swim and stop at cala scura, punta pineda and arrive in Porto Mirabello at 17pm

Levanto to Framura "the-new-5-Terre" ebike tour: no crowds!

10. Levanto to Framura "the-new-5-Terre" ebike tour: no crowds!

After the explanations on the correct use of pedal assisted bikes (no throttle assist), we will start to go up in the hills dividing Levanto to Framura. We will explore the coast north-west of the Cinque Terre, near the famous five villages, but in an area not as crowded. The views are amazing, the nature marvellous, and the electric bikes make the way up so easy. During the way up we will make a stop to see the old marble quarries, then we will arrive in Framura. From the main square of a small hamlet we will admire an amazing panorama nearby a defensive tower that has 1500 years of history. We will then make a coffee stop in another typical hamlet. Then we will go down to the level of the sea. Here we will take the "Mare e Monti" cycle path. The route offers breathtaking views of the sea on this beautiful stretch of coast. After a few kilometers we will reach a panoramic point in the Bonassola bay, the Madonnina della Punta, where we will make a stop with a tasting of local specialties (focaccia and wine). From here you can see the Bonassola bay, Punta Mesco (where the Cinque Terre begin) and the promontory of Portofino. On days with the cleanest air offshore you can also see Corsica. Finally, we will go back to Levanto.

23 activities found
Sort by:
Portofino

Portofino

Frequently asked questions about Portofino Activities

What are other things to do than Activities that are worth visiting in Portofino?

The other unmissable things to do in Portofino are:

Other Sightseeing Options in Portofino

Want to discover all there is to do in Portofino? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Portofino

Aldo was an amazing guide with a genuine love for nature and the Liguria region. Always helpfull and charming he made an beautiful hike into a really interesting experience. The woods were fresh and relaxing and the viewpoints pretty and the destination, well just look at the pictures of San Fruttuoso.

It’s excellent trip. Well organized with best memories. I suggest that they have a contact number to the leader of group in the event of emergency or to creat a group on WhatsApp temporarily made to communicate if one was lost for meeting points for example. Thanks.

This was a magical experience seeing the stunning coastline from the water. We had an expert guide with us who talked us through all of the local nature and sea life. I highly recommend this experience especially with children

It was a wonderful excursion. Our guide Madame Najma and our driver Monsieur Marco are very kind and helpful. I highly recommend.

It was very well organized, and the timing in each place is great