Portofino is one of the most iconic towns in Liguria. Its waterfront is lined with sleek yachts and high-end boutiques.
It’s a popular wedding destination, and celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian have tied the knot here. However, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy the town and its beauty.
1. Church of San Martino
The Church of San Martino is a medieval church that boasts a Romanesque decor and beautiful paintings, sculptures and chandeliers hanging from the high ceilings. Its interiors are also richly decorated with marble decorations and gold textures.
This is one of the best places to visit in Portofino Italy. The church is also notable for its crypt, which is full of relics of sainted popes and martyrs.
The church is located at an altitude of about 1,200 feet and offers stunning views over the village below. It has a spectacular frescoed cupola that was completed in the 1700s.
2. Piazzetta
Portofino is an Italian Riviera seaside village embraced by pastel-colored houses, high-end boutiques and seafood restaurants. The main square, the Piazzetta, is a focal point of the town’s life.
This is where people come to meet and be seen, whether to sip coffee or grab a bite at one of the many pavement cafes. Whether you choose to sit back and watch the world go by or get out there and be part of it, the piazzetta is a perfect place to experience life in the Italian Riviera.
Also not to be missed is the church of San Giorgio, which dates back to the 12th Century and is home to relics brought back by sailors after the Crusades. Alternatively, visit Castello Brown, a 16th-century fortress and museum with art exhibitions and panoramic views of Portofino and the Ligurian Sea.
3. Church of San Giorgio
The Church of San Giorgio is a must-see during your vacation in Portofino. This medieval church has a Romanesque architecture style and decorated interiors. Sculptures, paintings and chandeliers adorn the walls.
The relics of Saint George (the patron saint of Portofino) are kept inside this church. You can also enjoy spectacular views of Portofino and the bay of San Fruttuoso from this church.
You can go to the top of the bell tower by paying EUR5 and taking a modern glass-walled elevator. This will give you breathtaking 360 deg views of the city.
4. San Fruttuoso Abbey
In the heart of Portofino Park, the San Fruttuoso Abbey is a place of exceptional beauty. This one-time Benedictine monastery was built on a natural spring, and it’s a truly unforgettable spot.
If you’re in Portofino for a day trip, take the time to visit this enchanting abbey. Its ruins and relics are well worth the effort.
A walk to the Abbey takes about an hour, and it’s a great way to get out and enjoy nature. The path begins in the town center, and you’ll be able to appreciate the stunning landscape along the way.
5. Art Museum of Portofino
The Art Museum of Portofino is a great place to visit. Its collection is constantly evolving and showcases works by renowned international artists.
- The museum also exhibits sculptures in different materials, from marble, ceramics, bronze and experimental ones like plastics. Moreover, there are works by popular Italian artists as well as contemporary pieces.
- Another place to visit in Portofino is the San Fruttuoso Abbey. This 10th century abbey is located on the coast and boasts beautiful views of the harbor.
- Formerly a sleepy fishing village, Portofino is now a posh resort town lined with pastel-colored houses and high-end boutiques. The Piazzetta is the main square and a great spot to grab lunch or a drink.