Top attractions and things to do in Portofino
From the enchanting abbey of San Fruttuoso to B, here are the best things to do in Portofino.
#1 Visit the enchanting thousand-year-old abbey of San Fruttuoso
Thousand-year-old abbey of San Fruttuoso is one of the principal draws along this stretch of the Riviera, occupying a picturesque little bay at the southern foot of Monte di Portofino. The only way to get here is on foot or by boat.
On summer weekends, the tiny pebble beach and church may be uncomfortably crowded, but out of season (or at twilight, courtesy of an overnight stay or the occasional night cruise), San Fruttuoso is a peaceful, excellent place for doing very little.
#2 Hit the beach at Paraggi
With its enticing, sparkling waters, the beautiful small sweep of sand is one of the best along the northwestern coast of Italy. Backed by a series of colourful hotels, restaurants and bars, with lines of sunshades and sunlougners uniformly laid out across the shore, you’ll have to get here early to hire one for the day but those Instagram photos? Perfect.
#3 Climb up to Castello Brown
Nestled within a hilltop Mediterranean garden adorned with blossoms, rose gardens, and pergolas, the views from this fifteenth-century castle, overlooking the harbour, are captivating.
On show inside is an array of fine craftsmanship, with marble and slate bas-reliefs, elegant furnishings, and original furniture. Gothic windows grace the first room, leading to a terrace once housing artillery, transformed by Consul Brown into a luxuriant garden offering a romantic panorama.
The stairwell hosts a medieval wooden coffered roof painted with saints and rulers, while Lombard cross vaults crown the hall on the first floor. Check ahead before you visit as it sometimes closes whilst it hosts private events.