Portofino is a picturesque coastal village along the Italian Riviera, known for its vibrant colors, bustling harbor, and beautiful beaches. It’s no wonder it attracts visitors from all over the world every year, especially during the summer!
This charming seaside destination, where it’s relatively easy to spot celebrities, has plenty to offer, from historic landmarks to secluded coves, cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. I fell in love with it when I visited, and I think you will too.
To help you make the most of your time there, I curated this detailed list of the best Portofino tours available. They should help you see the best of the region in a fun, professional way and introduce you to all its hidden gems and secrets. Read on!
Why should you trust my selections? First of all, I’m Italian, born and raised in Bologna, and I’m super familiar with the area! On top of that, I have been in the travel industry for over a decade, and I’m a pro at identifying extraordinary activities in Italy and the world, setting them apart from the rest.
You can trust that all my selections are handpicked, ensuring the tours are high-quality, offer incredible value, and are worth your time (and buck!)
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 | Portofino & San Fruttuoso Boat Experience |
| 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
Set sail on a Portofino & San Fruttuoso Boat Experience from Rapallo to spend your day out on the Ligurian Riviera. You’ll climb aboard a spacious boat equipped with a shaded sundeck, where you can chill as you cruise along dramatic cliffs, elegant villas, and the lovely seaside villages of Santa Margherita Ligure and Paraggi Bay.
An expert skipper will be in charge of navigation, so all you have to do is sit back and soak up the views. They really are breathtaking!
Dock in Portofino for an hour, during which you’ll get to explore the town and its major landmarks at your leisure. Shop in the cute boutiques, grab a coffee or drink by the sea, or get lost in its charming alleys before returning to the boat and sailing to the hidden bay of San Fruttuoso.
Here, you’ll get into the water for a refreshing swim or snorkeling session, getting to see the famous Christ of the Abyss statue that’s underwater.
Why is this the best tour? It offers the perfect blend of sightseeing and adventure, allowing you to sail past the striking coastline, enjoy free time in Portofino, and snorkel over the Christ of the Abyss statue, all in one day. Besides, groups are capped at 12 people, ensuring an intimate experience.
Read what the reviews say:
“Our guide made us feel so safe, and we had a blast. Portofino was absolutely stunning and the snorkelling was so fun. Even though most of the others were ready to go our guide let my group enjoy the full hour of swimming and did not rush our experience! Thanks David it was a blast!!”
Megan – Read more reviews
This tour includes: A boat tour, snorkel gear, free time in Portofino, and drinking water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
The Most Comprehensive Tour of Portofino
The Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch is one of the top excursions you can join, as it combines most of the best activities in town in a single tour.
You’ll join a local, professional guide in Santa Margherita Ligure, where you’ll hop on a ferry and enjoy a very scenic ride along the coastline, taking in the views of the colorful towns and rugged cliffs, as you make your way to Portofino.
Once you reach the town, you’ll enjoy a very insightful walking tour around it, visiting its major attractions as you learn about its history and culture. Climb to the Church of Saint Giorgio for panoramic views, wander the historical and shopping districts, and pop into a local bakery for a taste of focaccia.
Finally, don an apron and take part in a pesto-making class, where you’ll learn the secrets behind Liguria’s most famous culinary creation. The class will be followed by a typical Ligurian lunch.
Before taking the ferry back to Santa Margherita Ligure, enjoy free time to continue exploring, hike in Portofino Natural Park, or sit down for a drink or gelato.
This tour includes: Round-trip ferry tickets, a guide, a pesto-making class, focaccia, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
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 private Portofino tour includes: Boat trip, free time in Portofino and selected villages, snorkeling equipment, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif in Portofino is a 1.5-hour experience that allows you to witness the sunset in the best way – from the sea!
You’ll hop on a boat and sail along the coast, catching views of the beautiful Santa Margherita Ligure, Paraggi, and Portofino villages as you sip a glass of wine paired with appetizers.
You’ll stop at hidden coves and bays for a refreshing dip in the water, and cap off the experience by watching the sun set below the horizon from the comfort of the boat.
This tour includes: A sunset cruise, music onboard, a sunbathing solarium, wine, and appetizers. ➥ 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
