Welcome to the picturesque coastal village of Portofino, nestled along the Italian Riviera in Liguria. Known for its vibrant colors, sparkling azure waters, and picturesque harbor, Portofino has a special charm.
It’s no wonder it attracts the rich and famous from all over the world, and thousands of tourists a year!
You can easily spot celebrities here, but that’s only part of the charm of this seaside destination. There’s a lot more to come here for!
To ensure you get your money’s worth, the best Portofino tours have been handpicked by an Italian – me 🙂 I was born and raised in Bologna, and I was lucky to explore Italy extensively. Now, I’m excited to help you pick the best possible activities in my country!
These carefully selected tours to Portofino showcase the finest attractions and hidden gems in the county. They feature everything from historic landmarks to secluded beaches, cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. Basically, the best the destination has to offer!
In this article, you’ll find both boat tours from Portofino and day tours to Portofino from other nearby destinations. Check them out and take your pick!
I usually use Viator and Get Your Guide to book activities around the world. I especially recommend them for their fantastic cancellation policy. If your travel plans change, you can cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Limited time? These are the ultimate tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Private Day Trip: Portofino & Santa Margherita |
| PRIVATE BOAT TOUR | Andrea Boat Charter in Portofino |
| PORTOFINO TOUR FROM GENOA | Boat Tour to Camogli, San Fruttuoso & Portofino |
| SNORKELING TOUR | 1-Hour Snorkeling Tour in Paraggi Bay, Portofino |
| E-BIKE TOUR | E-Bike Excursion in Portofino Promontory |
OUR PICK: The BEST Portofino Tour
Gather your friends for an Exclusive Private Day Trip: Portofino & Santa Margherita from Portofino’s Port. You can’t miss the sight of the glamorous yachts and colorful fishing boats on the sea. Add to that the pastel-colored houses of the coastline, and you’ll have a fantastic send-off!
Led by a local guide, wander through the bustling Piazzetta, check out the town’s main attractions, and learn about life in Portofino.
Then, hop on a ferry to Santa Margherita. There you’ll get to indulge in local focaccia, visit many historical gems, and admire panoramic coastal views.
Spot the stunning Villa Durazzo and its 17th-century garden before returning to Portofino. This tour offers a flexible itinerary tailored to your group, making this day trip a perfect one.
Why is this the best tour? It’s a private trip catered to your interests. You’ll have an expert guide to take you around the two stunning cities, plus the boat cruise along the coastline. On top of all that, a traditional focaccia bite is included!
Read what the reviews say:
“There is an exquisite charm to both Portofino and Santa Margherita. Even though the streets are busy, the crowds don’t disrupt the enchantment of these beautiful cities by the sea. Our guide, Rosaleen, was so helpful with information, suggestions, and recommendations on how to make our journey even more interesting and memorable. We will never forget these two amazing towns.”
Jach_P – Read more reviews
This private Portofino tour includes: A local guide, boat transfers, and snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Boat Tours in Portofino
▶️ Get ready for an exclusive trip with this Andrea Boat Charter in Portofino, sailing along the striking coastline of Liguria. Head to the village of Portofino, where celebs flock and selfies in the piazzetta are a must.
You’ll also get to dive into the colors and aromas of Camogli, a charming fishing village known for its delicious focaccia bread. Alternatively, go for a swim in Abbazia di San Fruttuoso, or wander around Santa Margherita.
You can choose between a sunset, half or full-day tour, and get to enjoy soft and alcoholic drinks onboard.
This tour includes: Boat trip, free time in Portofino and selected villages, snorkeling equipment, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Paraggina Tender Line offers a delightful trip by boat to Portofino. It takes you around the beautiful Gulf of Tigullio and Golfo Paradiso, or to the charming villages of Cinque Terre.
This private experience guarantees personalized attention for you and your group of up to 8 people. You’ll get to marvel at the charms of the Portofino Marine Protected Area and swim in its blue, refreshing waters.
The luxurious boat boasts a spacious aft cockpit with plush sofas, a teak sundeck, and a large windshield for comfort. That’s besides a cabin with beds and complimentary snacks! How much fancier can it get?
This tour includes: Boat trip, snacks, and snorkeling gear. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Gulf of Portofino Private Boat Tour is a 3-hour sea adventure for groups of up to 6. You’ll hop on a traditional Ligurian vessel and cruise around the Gulf of Portofino with a professional skipper.
The planned route will showcase the best of the region, passing villages such as Santa Margherita Ligure and San Fruttuoso. You’ll also get to see the best bits of the coastline thanks to the expertise of your skipper!
Stop for swimming and snorkeling in the azure waters, and if time allows, lounge on the beach for a bit.
This tour includes: A private boat trip and snorkeling gear. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Genoa to Portofino Day Trips
▶️ On this Boat Tour to Camogli, San Fruttuoso & Portofino, brace yourself for a full-day exploration of Liguria’s hidden gems. Explore Camogli, a lively village home to a bustling harbor, and marvel at the picturesque fishing town of San Fruttuoso.
Lastly, prepare to be awestruck by Portofino’s exquisite scenery. Its emerald-green cliffs, sparkling blue sea, and lavish villas are a sight to behold. You might even spot some bottle-nose dolphins on your return journey to Genova!
This Genoa to Portofino by boat tour includes: Roundtrip boat tour from Genova with all the stops mentioned above. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Private Daily and Nightly Tour Charter Boat Genova Portofino is an 8-hour trip. You’ll hop on a private boat and cruise the Mediterranean, leaving the city of Genoa behind.
You’ll sail to the enchanting villages of Portofino and Camogli, and have fun on the water with the provided inflatable tow board.
Enjoy swimming and snorkeling stops, relax on local beaches, and make the most of your free time to explore the historic towns. You’re in charge of the itinerary, so you won’t feel rushed!
This tour includes: Private transfers, an inflatable tow board, and snorkeling gear. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Portofino Tour from Milan
Escape the city frenzy on a captivating Genova & Portofino Full-Day Tour From Milan along the Ligurian Coast. You’ll start in the maritime city of Genova, where historic streets reveal tales of seafaring adventures. Did you know the legendary Christopher Columbus was born here?
Marvel at the architectural wonders of San Lorenzo Cathedral and the Palace of the Doges, and explore the grandeur of the Royal Palace. Then, it’s time to set sail to Portofino!
You’ll have the opportunity to check out the dazzling harbor and enchanting waterfront houses that have made it so popular. Finally, find tranquility in Santa Margherita Ligure, an equally idyllic and colorful village.
This tour includes: Transportation, a boat ride, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Portofino Tour from Santa Margherita Ligure
An incredibly fun adventure awaits with this Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch. Get ready to soak up the stunning views of the Italian Riviera coast!
Sail to Portofino from Santa Margherita Ligure, and embark on a walking tour around town. Climb to the Church of Saint Giorgio for panoramic views, and indulge in focaccia before joining a pesto-making class.
Learn the secrets behind this Italian sauce, enjoy a Ligurian lunch overlooking the sea, and make the most of your free time before it’s time to head back.
This tour includes: Roundtrip boat transfers, a tour leader, a cooking class, and tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Snorkeling Tour in Portofino
▶️ Dive into emerald waters on a fun-filled 1-Hour Snorkeling Tour in Paraggi Bay, Portofino. Join your guide in Niasca, a sandy beach near Portofino, and receive a comprehensive briefing on the adventure. This way, you’ll get to recognize all the marine creatures when you see them!
Get suited with the provided equipment, which comes in all sizes, and then it’s time to dive! Boat traffic is not allowed in Paraggi Bay, which means it’s perfectly safe for swimming and snorkeling.
A guide will be leading the group to the best stops, where you’ll spot the rich, vibrant marine life that includes starfish, tube worms, and mollusks.
Then, swim to Portofino as you take in the different habitats and fish that live in the area.
This tour includes: A guide, a briefing, and snorkeling gear. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Kayaking & Paddleboarding Tours in Portofino
▶️ Discover the hidden treasures of the Marine Protected Area on this Easy Kayak Tour to Portofino with Optional Snorkeling. The tour is suitable for all levels, and takes you paddling through secret creeks and picturesque caves.
You’ll uncover nature’s well-kept secrets from the water, led by a local marine guide. Kayak from Paraggi Bay to the picturesque port of Portofino, and all the way to the Olivetta and the Lighthouse.
Swim in the refreshing waters, and upgrade your tour to include a snorkeling session in Paraggi Bay! Alternatively, you can opt for the sunset kayaking adventure, which includes an aperitivo with local wine and bites.
This tour includes: A kayak rental, and a guide. Upgrade tours include snorkeling gear and food as well. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Paddle Boarding Experience in Portofino is another epic water adventure. You’ll taste your balance as you stand on the paddle board and paddle your way across the sea.
Take in the sights of the colorful coastline and the tranquil Bay of Paraggi, where boats are not allowed. Your expert local guide will lead the way to the most picturesque, beautiful spots in the area, ensuring you get stunning views and even a dip in the water!
This tour includes: A guide, paddle board rental, lifejackets, and wetsuit. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
E-Bike Tour in Portofino
Fancy a land-based adventure? Hop on this E-Bike Excursion in Portofino Promontory Around the Traditional Fishing Villages. You’ll get to glide past the Ligurian Riviera’s major sights without getting tired!
Immerse in the timeless beauty of Camogli, exploring its narrow alleys and taking in the sweeping vistas of the Paradise Gulf.
Traverse through Santa Margherita Ligure, enjoy stops at clifftop churches and castles, and visit a countryside restaurant for lunch (own expense).
Your tour concludes in the glamorous Portofino, where you’ll zip past its main attractions and striking coast. A coastal escapade brimming with history, nature, and mesmerizing landscapes that you can’t miss!
This tour includes: E-bike and helmet rental, bottled water, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
