Portofino Private Guided Tour – Optional Santa-Margherita/Genoa
Active
2h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Portofino with ease and comfort on this expertly guided private tour. Stroll along the picturesque harbor lined with colorful antique buildings, admire luxury yachts, baroque churches and enjoy the atmosphere that has made Portofino a favorite destination for artists, celebrities, and travelers from around the world.
SELECT TOUR OPTION
– ONLY PORTOFINO 2 HOUR TOUR
Guided walking tour with authorized local guide in Portofino. Choose Portofino Port or your add hotel pick up address in “Special Requirements” field.
– PORTOFINO AND SANTA MARGHERITA 4 HOUR TOUR. Start your tour in Santa Margherita Ligure or Portofino – either way, you'll see both gems of Italian Riviera, connected by a scenic 20-minute public ferry ride along the stunning coastline.
– TOUR FROM GENOA WITH CAR SERVICE – 5,5 hrs
We offer convenient roundtrip private transfers from Genoa. Travel time to Portofino is approximately 1 hour.
Itineraries can be modified to fit your travel plans or ship’s schedule.
Available options
PORTOFINO+SANTA MARGHERITA 4H
Duration: 4 hours: Total tour duration is 4 hours filled with Ligurian beauty, local flavor, and unforgettable coastal vibes.<br/>Don't miss Santa Margherita: Meet your guide in Santa Margherita or Portofino – either way, you'll experience both Riviera towns and stunning coastline.<br/>Public ferry boat: Soak in breathtaking views of iconic villas perched above the cliffs of the between Portofino and Santa Margherita. <br/>Weather Notice: In case of bad weather or sea conditions, the ferry will be replaced by local public bus service at no extra cost.<br/>Starting points:<br/>16034 Portofino, Metropolitan City of Genoa, Italy<br/>16038 Santa Margherita Ligure, Metropolitan City of Genoa, Italy
ONLY PORTOFINO 2 HOUR TOUR
Duration: 2 hours: Perfect amount of time to soak in the sights, snap amazing photos, and hear the stories of Portofino.<br/>Free pick-up in Portofino: Meet your guide at the port of Portofino or request complimentary pick-up from your hotel in Portofino. <br/>Starting point:<br/>16034 Portofino, Metropolitan City of Genoa, Italy
TOUR FROM GENOA 5,5 HOUR
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes: Travel time between Genoa and Portofino is approximately 1h one way. Total tour duration maximum 5h 30min.<br/>Comfort and Flexibility: Customizable experience with tour lasting between 4 and 5,5 hours visiting only Portofino or Portofino and Santa Margherita. <br/>Private car or minivan<br/>Starting points:<br/>Genoa, Metropolitan City of Genoa, Italy<br/>Stazioni Marittime SpA, Ponte dei Mille, 16126 Genova GE, Italy
What's included
Bottled water
If TOUR FROM GENOA option selected
Public transportation
Options: Portofino (2h), Portofino and Santa Margherita (4h), Tour from Genoa (5,5h)
Savory or Sweet local threats
Licensed Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Marina of Portofino is a small, picturesque harbor that has been the center of local life for centuries. Once a fishing port, it now welcomes a mix of traditional boats and luxury yachts. The calm waters reflect the pastel-colored buildings that line the waterfront, creating timeless atmosphere. Despite its popularity, the port has maintained its charm, making it the perfect spot to start your Portofino Day.
2
Portofino bustling life around Piazzetta, the heart of Portofino, a small yet iconic square overlooking the harbor. Surrounded by pastel-colored buildings, cafés, and boutiques, it is the perfect place to soak in the village’s atmosphere. Fishermen’s boats and luxury yachts share the waterfront, creating a unique mix of tradition and elegance.
It can be a perfect place to start looking for a place for lunch or indugle in shopping all'italiana.
3
Optional stop in Santa Margherita Ligure, charming town 5km away from Portofino - it is part of 4 hour and 5,5hour tours, but not included in 2h only Portofino tour. Select the tour option that suits you the best at check-out.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
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0
2★
0
1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
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1★
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Kindly keep in mind that Ligurian landscape is not flat and old cobble stone roads get slippery with rain
Air temperature can be uncomfortably high during summer months
Meeting point
For cruise passengers docking in Santa Margherita. Our guide will meet you at the cruise ship tender in Santa Margherita Ligure with the sign "MKT Viaggi"
About Genoa
Genoa, the capital of the Liguria region, is a historic port city known for its rich maritime heritage, medieval architecture, and delicious cuisine. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Genoa offers a unique blend of authenticity, culture, and coastal beauty.
Top Attractions
Aquarium of Genoa
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.
Museum
2-3 hours
€27 for adults, €18 for children
Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo)
A stunning example of Romanesque architecture, the cathedral is a must-visit for its historical and artistic significance.
Religious
1 hour
Free (Treasure Museum: €6)
Palazzi dei Rolli
A UNESCO World Heritage site, these Renaissance and Baroque palaces were once the homes of Genoa's noble families.
Historical
2-3 hours
€10 for a combined ticket to multiple palaces
Galata Museo del Mare
A maritime museum that explores Genoa's rich seafaring history through interactive exhibits and historic ships.
Museum
2 hours
€10 for adults, €8 for children
Boccadasse
A charming fishing village within Genoa, known for its colorful houses, pebble beach, and delicious seafood restaurants.
Beach
Half-day
Free (restaurants and activities vary)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pesto Genovese
A traditional basil sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and Pecorino cheese.
Sauce
Contains dairy and nuts.
Focaccia
A flat, oven-baked bread topped with olive oil and sea salt, often flavored with rosemary or onions.
Bread
Vegetarian.
Trofie al Pesto
A traditional Ligurian pasta dish made with trofie pasta and pesto sauce.
Pasta
Contains dairy and nuts.
Farinata
A savory chickpea flour pancake, similar to a thin, crispy crepe.
Snack
Vegetarian and gluten-free.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Ligurian Alps
Scuba diving in the Mediterranean
Sunbathing at Boccadasse Beach
Spa treatments at luxury hotels
Visiting museums and historic sites
Attending local festivals and events
Boat tours along the coast
Kayaking in the Mediterranean
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, vibrant festivals, and lively beaches. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night
Genoa is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas and on public transport. Be cautious at night, especially in the city center.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Cristoforo Colombo Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Genoa Piazza Principe, Genoa Brignole
By bus
Genoa Piazza della Vittoria, Genoa Brignole Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is clean and efficient, with only one line currently in operation.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Storico (Old Town)
Albaro
Foce
Sestri Ponente
Day trips
Portofino
30 km from Genoa • Half-day to full-day
A picturesque fishing village known for its colorful houses, luxury yachts, and stunning coastal views.
Camogli
25 km from Genoa • Half-day to full-day
A charming fishing village with a beautiful pebble beach, colorful houses, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Cinque Terre
100 km from Genoa • Full-day or overnight
A UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of five colorful coastal villages with stunning views and hiking trails.
Festivals
Genoa International Boat Show • October
Euroflora • Spring (every 5 years)
Genoa International Film Festival • September
Pro tips
- Explore the historic center on foot to discover hidden gems and narrow alleys
- Try the local specialties, such as pesto, focaccia, and seafood
- Visit the Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe
- Take a day trip to the nearby coastal villages of Portofino and Camogli
- Experience the vibrant nightlife in the Foce and Centro Storico neighborhoods
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
