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Town and resort in Italy
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It is a 16th-century castle/fort, once used for the area's defense, but now primarily a museum with a fantastic view of the harbour and the Mediterranean Sea.
(Divo Martino)
It is around the corner from the harbour and is a quaint, stylish little chiesa from the 11th century. It's definitely worth taking a casual stroll around it.
This local Italian restaurant has been around since the mid-19th century and 8 generations. Some people consider the food to be the best in the area. The price is reasonable, and service is telepathic. The Lasagna Pesto (pesto is indigenous to the area) is divine, and all other dishes are excellent. The restaurant sits right by the harbour and offers a beautiful view. It is open during the hours between lunch and dinner as well but closed on Wednesdays.
One eatery of note just around the corner from the central harbour, within range of its sights and sounds, this energetic family-run spot provides great food and gracious service.
It is the most luxurious hotel in Portofino. Located uphill from the harbour and providing spectacular views of the scenery below. However it is open from April to September. In low-season the cost is around €400 and in high season starting from €730.
In the sister of hotel Splendido close to the harbour. Open from April to September.
There is no easier place to stay if spending time in the harbour is your main objective.
It is 300 m from the harbour on a hillside, directly across the road from a beautiful cove and a nice beach, with exclusive access to lounge chairs and food/drink service. Parking is charged at €18 a day: the staff park your car in the general Portofino car park so you have to wait 15 minutes to get your vehicle, but you do benefit from a €4 discount on the parking cost.
By car
8 km) ride. Overall the drive takes a little over an hour, due partly to some light traffic leaving Genoa and mostly to the roads once you leave the major highway (the A12).
By public transport
The nearest railway station, Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino, is about 5 km away in Santa Margherita Ligure.
By hiking
Walking along the shore road from Santa Margherita Ligure is a beautiful introduction to the area and takes just over an hour.
By boat
Also available is a pleasant ferry ride along the coast. In summer, there are two direct daily departures in each direction from Genoa, which allow for a pleasant day trip.
Once in Portofino walking might be your best option. The town is not large and most hotels and beaches are a short walk from the harbour.
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Genova (GE) · International · GOA
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