Portofino has a small harbor lined with tall pastel houses, a hilltop castle (Castello Brown) and a promontory park with walking trails. Because hotel space is limited, stay in the village for a special occasion and nearby for flexibility.
Our top pick: From Genoa: Boat Tour to Portofino with Free Time to Explore
Where to stay
| Base | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Portofino village | Harbor setting, quiet at night | Few rooms, high prices |
| Santa Margherita Ligure | Train station, more choice, promenade | Short ride into Portofino |
| Camogli | Colorful fishing village, local feel | Farther from Portofino |
Things to do
- Harbor and piazzetta: the picture-postcard center of the village.
- Castello Brown: a short walk up for a panorama.
- San Fruttuoso: an abbey in a cove reachable on foot or by boat.
- Boat trips along the Portofino promontory from Genoa and nearby ports.
From Genoa: Boat Tour to Portofino with Free Time to Explore
Cruise there and wander the harbor. 4.5/5 from over 900 reviews.
Genoa: Full-Day Tour to Camogli, San Fruttuoso and Portofino
Three coastal stops. 4.4/5 from over 4,500 reviews.
Cruise Tour of the Portofino and San Fruttuoso Promontory
Hidden bays by boat. 4.5/5 from 85 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Book early for summer weekends: rooms in Portofino are scarce. Compare nearby Santa Margherita Ligure too.
Check hotel prices in Portofino
Frequently asked questions
Where should I stay for Portofino?
In Portofino itself for the harbor atmosphere, or in nearby Santa Margherita Ligure or Camogli for more choice and better value, with a short bus or boat ride.
How do you get to Portofino?
By bus or boat from Santa Margherita Ligure, which has a train station, or on a boat tour from Genoa. Driving is possible but parking is limited.
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