If there is one place that deserves the mantle of Italy’s most exclusive resort, it has to be Portofino. Not because of the stellar crowd who have graced its pretty promenades since the days of the Grand Tour, but because of its ability to be at the forefront of the social scene and yet retain an air of casual, mellow dolce far niente, making a Portofino yacht charter a beautiful experience.
THE FINEST PORTOFINO RESTAURANTS
Portofino is a foodie’s dream, with its abundance of top-notch eateries providing authentic Italian dishes, fresh seafood and homemade pasta. On your yacht charter in Portofino, make sure to stop at any of these top eateries:
RESTAURANT PUNY
If you’re a seafood fan, you can’t miss Restaurant Puny, right in the middle of Portofino. Spaghetti with mussels, grilled octopus, and sea bass fillet are just a few of the excellent seafood dishes available. The restaurant’s beautiful setting and extensive wine and beverage list make it ideal for a special date.
LA TERRAZZA
La Terrazza is a trendy and sophisticated restaurant with a wide selection of Italian and international specialties, perched on a hill overlooking the harbor. Risotto, tagliatelle with truffles, and veal Milanese are just a few of the traditional Italian meals available, along with seafood and vegetarian alternatives. The wine list is also top-notch, with several selections hailing from Piedmont.
DA I GEMELLI
Da I Gemelli is a lovely family-run trattoria with a nice indoor dining area and a lovely outdoor patio, perfect for a more relaxed meal. Homemade ravioli, grilled meats, and authentic Ligurian pesto are just a few examples of the menu’s modest yet wonderful offerings. The local wines at this restaurant are excellent, and the service is warm and pleasant.
CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS
Portofino is known for its excellent dining options, but that’s not all it has to offer. On your yacht charter in Portofino, don’t miss out on these top attractions:
FORCASTLE BROWN
Castello Brown, a historic castle, sits atop a hill with breathtaking views of Portofino and the bay below. The castle, which dates back to the 16th century but has recently undergone restoration, is now a museum. The castle’s rooms house a variety of displays for guests to peruse and enjoy.
THE MONASTERY OF SAN FRUTTUOSO
San Fruttuoso Abbey is a stunning monastery from the 10th century that sits in a hidden bay between Portofino and Camogli and can only be reached by boat or on foot. There is a beautiful nature reserve all around the abbey, and guests can also explore the monastery’s cathedral and crypt. In addition, the area is home to a number of scenic hiking paths that provide stunning panoramas of the ocean.
ST. MARGARET OF LIGURIA
Santa Margherita Ligure is a picturesque coastal town located just a short drive from Portofino. The town is known for its lovely promenade, colorful buildings, and active marina. The town’s famous focaccia bread can be sampled while taking a stroll along the waterfront. There are also several great seafood eateries serving up the day’s catch and other regional delicacies.
AN ADVENTURE AWAITS
If you have any energy remaining after visiting the cultural attractions and indulging in the endless options for food and drink, there are plenty of options to get active and explore some more of Portofino.
SCUBA DIVING AND SNORKELING
Snorkeling and scuba diving are excellent in the pristine waters around Portofino. Punta del Capo and San Fruttuoso Marine Park are just two of the many fantastic diving locations in the region; while there, you might spot dolphins, octopuses, and a rainbow of tropical species. You can snorkel or dive at your own pace thanks to the snorkeling and diving gear provided by many boat charters.
CRUISING AND WATERSPORTS
Sailing and boating enthusiasts flock to Portofino for the numerous opportunities to explore the shore. Portofino is a great place to rent a sailboat or motorboat and cruise around the many bays and inlets in the area, or to go on a guided trip with a local. Kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis are just some of the water sports equipment that accompany most yacht charters in Portofino.
ADVENTURING ON FOOT
There are several trails and hills in the Portofino area that are perfect for hikers and trekkers who want to see the area’s stunning scenery up close. The Way of the Gods and Monte di Portofino Natural Park are just two of the many hiking routes that lead to breathtaking vistas and private beaches. You can go on a guided hiking tour with a yacht charter, or you can go off and discover on your own with a good map and sturdy hiking boots.
Why Visit?
- History and culture
- Stunning views
- World class restaurants
