Portofino: Glamour, Tranquility, and Coastal Charm
We arrived in Portofino in the late afternoon, the sun casting golden hues across the Ligurian Sea on our train from Genova.
The moment we set foot on the cobbled piazza, we were wrapped in a scene out of a postcard: pastel-colored buildings hugging the curve of the waterfront, luxury yachts bobbing in the bay, and bougainvillea climbing up terracotta walls.
Portofino isn’t just beautiful—it’s cinematic. A tiny fishing village turned luxe retreat, it radiates a quiet elegance that’s both intimate and indulgent.
Portofino isn’t actually on the Amalfi Coast—it’s further north, in Liguria, not far from Genoa and the Cinque Terre. But it often gets lumped into the same breath as Amalfi because of its dramatic coastal views, upscale feel, and Mediterranean magic. And while the Amalfi Coast draws crowds with Positano and Ravello, Portofino offers a more exclusive, tucked-away vibe.
Our first evening was all about strolling. We wandered through the village, peeking into boutique shops and stopping at a café for aperitivo as the sun dipped behind the cliffs. Dinner was romantic and relaxed—fresh seafood pasta at a candlelit table with waves lapping nearby.
Day two was for exploring. We hiked up to Castello Brown, the centuries-old fortress above the harbor, rewarded with panoramic views of the bay. Afterward, we took a short walk to the Church of San Giorgio, then continued to the lighthouse at Punta del Capo.
The coastal path was lush and peaceful, far from the crowds. Visitors can also choose to swim in the turquoise waters of Paraggi Bay, just a short stroll from town. We also discovered the breathtaking Chiesa del Divo Martino, a stunning Catholic church with rich history and panoramic views.
That night, we treated ourselves to a fine-dining experience with fresh Ligurian flavors—think pesto, branzino, and lemony desserts.
Portofino is known for its elegance and exclusivity, a favorite of jetsetters and celebrities since the 1950s. And yes—it’s pricey. Hotels and restaurants here lean luxury, though nearby towns like Santa Margherita Ligure offer more budget-friendly stays for those that choose to but nevertheless it has easy access to Portofino via ferry, bus, or a scenic walk.
As for getting here, it’s not difficult, but it does take a little planning. The nearest major train stop is Santa Margherita Ligure, with connections from Genoa, Milan, and Florence. From there, it’s a 15-minute taxi, bus, or even a coastal hike or boat ride to Portofino.
Two nights felt just right—enough time to soak up the charm, bask in the sun, and feel the rhythm of this quietly glamorous village. We left refreshed, a little sun-kissed, and already talking about coming back someday.