Nestled southeast of Genoa city on the Italian Riviera coastline, there is a picturesque fishing village of Portofino. The pastel-coloured houses, designer boutiques, and lovely and chic restaurants form its Piazzetta, as they call the small square. The flawless village is home to only 400 residents and a destination for countless tourists, some of whom are jet setters, and it is undoubtedly worth a visit.
The Piazzetta is just a small square that overlooks the harbour, which is lined with exclusive and stunning yachts.
We know that different types of people require different advice on travel accommodations. This guide includes the best areas for
- the first time visitor
- Families
- Couples
- Luxury & Design
- Solo-Traveler
- on a budget
Are you more of a visual learner/travel planner?
Lucky for you, we’ve included a map with all of our favorite neighborhoods and handpicked hotels for all of your travel needs.
Check it out below to get a better idea of where you should stay for your first or next visit to Portofino.
Read more: You can also visit our comprehensive guide on 7 days in Rome.
(This guide is always up to date, the last updated April 2024.)
But, first things first:
Here is the question: Where to stay in Portofino for the first visit?
The answer is simple: Portofino Village
This charming village is nothing less than the most chic destination to explore. If you are eager to adorn your Portofino travel with an exquisite sight, simply walk on and reach the Portofino Lighthouse and La Portofinese. It is an eco-farm that produces authentic products such as organic honey, beer and wine. There is accommodation for all types of visitors, and also places you can enjoy as a tourist. Afterwards, you can visit DaV Mare – Trattoria di Pesce, located on the Piazzetta in Portofino and get a taste of Portofino’s most authentic dishes. Lastly, you can drop by Gepi, a cafe and gelateria set on one of the square corners, and get a taste of Italy’s heaven.
Here’s a full map for you to understand the different areas.
Please note: those might not be the exact names of the districts, neither its absolute borders. I just tried to simplify this information.
| 📍Best Area: | Portofino Village |
| 👨👩👧👦 Best for Families: | Olives Bay Terrace |
| 👩❤️👨 Best for Couples: | Seaview Open Space Loft |
| 💎 Best Luxury Hotel | Eight Hotel |
| 🤩 Best Design Hotel: | Royal by PortofinoHomes |
| 😎 Best for Groups: | Villa Franca Portofino by KlabHouse |
| 🦸 Best for Solo-Traveller: | Vicoletto by PortofinoHomes |
| 💃 Best Hotel for Nightlife: | La Casetta di Portofino by PortofinoVip |
| 🤑 Cheapest Place to stay: | Stella by PortofinoHomes |
| 👌 Safest Area: | Portofino Village |
- Best areas and handpicked hotels for Portofino
- Families
- Couples
- Luxury Traveler
- Design Traveler
- Groups
- Solo-Traveler
- Nightlife-seeking traveler
- Budget Traveler
- Neighborhoods and its differences
- FAQs
- Map + All Sights
- Summary
1. Best areas and handpicked hotels for Portofino
Depending on your budget and style of travel, your answer to where to stay in Portofino might vary. Therefore, let me first suggest some accommodations which will meet your expectations, no matter which type of traveller you are.
Continue scrolling or pick your group and travel type on the menu:
1.1 Families
1.2 Couples
1.3 Luxury Traveler
1.4 Design Traveler
1.5 Groups
1.6 Solo-Traveler
1.7 Nightlife-seeking traveler
1.8 Budget Traveler
1.1 Families
Planning on travelling with your family? Then you might wonder which are the best places to stay in Portofino, Italy, that will provide you both comfort and convenience. Luckily, the town is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Italy, meaning you should have no trouble finding the ideal accommodation. It’s vibrant and charming, featuring plenty of cozy cafes, bars and restaurants tucked in the cobblestoned streets. If you care for a swim, there are several narrow beaches perfect for water activities, with Paraggi Beach being the most famous of them all. The best part is that Portofino is also very close to Cinque Terre- perfect if you want to explore more places at once.
One thing you should know before deciding where to stay in Portofino is to be wise regarding the travel time. If you get there in July, do not miss the Anderssen Festival, a great event for families in Sestri Levante.
Handpicked accommodations for families
Angolo di mare by Portofino Vip, Portofino
Angolo di mare by Portofino Vip, is great for a family stay in Portofino, is in a distinct location, offering city and sea views and a very short distance to Paraggi Beach. This apartment offers one bedroom, a living room, an equipped kitchen and a bathroom.
Olives Bay Terrace, Portofino
If you choose Olives Bay Terrace, you will get a fantastic city view from the balcony. It includes 1 bedroom, a living room, a kitchen and a bathroom. You will also have access to the barbecue, which is a perfect opportunity for a family. The location is only 2 km away from Paraggi Beach.
1.2 Couples
Travelling with your significant other comes with a different set of requirements when it comes to planning your Portofino travel. Regardless, you should know that the city is known for its romantic and incredibly charming allure. It is perfect for taking long walks and enjoying romantic restaurant dinners. If you want to add a hint of adventure, go to San Fruttuoso Bay for hiking or spend a day on a Coasteering tour, Genoa tour, or Cinque Terre tour.
Handpicked accommodations for couples
Seaview Open Space Loft
Just 800 m from Olivetta Beach and 1.6 km from Paraggi Beach, Seaview Open Space Loft offers one bedroom, a kitchen, a bedroom and a bathroom. It is equipped with all the needed amenities, making it one of the best answers to where to stay in Portofino.
Casa San Giorgio by PortofinoVip, Portofino
Located in Portofino and very close to Olivetti and Paraggi beaches, Casa San Giorgio offers private parking, 2 bedrooms, an equipped kitchen and a bathroom. What couples mostly like is the location, allowing them to marvel at the breathtaking sea views.
1.3 Luxury traveler
Looking for Portofino hotels that will realize your luxury travel dreams? Being one of the most romantic places in Italy, Portofino offers awe-inspiring views and enjoyable stay. It is the most immaculate getaway to the turquoise Mediterranean Sea, offering so many visual and sensory pleasures at your disposal. From the port, you’ll see the most luxurious yachts, access hidden paradisical beaches, and reside in the most unique accommodations. It’s no wonder this town is the most popular summer destination for the Jet Set community.
Handpicked accommodations for the luxury traveler
Eight Hotel, Portofino
Located only 800 metres from the Piazzeta, offering elegant rooms with contemporary furniture in warm colours, Eight Hotel is a real place to relax. Sun deck is equipped with loungers and hammocks. Sauna and Turkish baths or different types of massages are on offer. The hotel has an extra charge shuttle that can take you to the nearest Paraggi beach and other places you prefer.
Vela Portofino by KlabHouse, Portofino
Vela Portofino by KlabHouse is just a two-minute walk from the port in Portofino, you can stay in a self-catering apartment looking at Piazza Martiri dell’ Olivetta Square. This two-floor apartment with parquet floors, a fully equipped kitchen and 2 bathrooms is a cozy and meticulously settled place.
1.4 Design-lovers
Portofino is a desirable destination for many reasons, so it’s no wonder design travellers love it so much. Its lively style and unique architecture attract visitors all year round, inviting them to visit Castello Brown, Museo del Parco, as well as the amazing Portofino Marina.
Handpicked accommodations for the design lover
Royal by PortofinoHomes, Portofino
Your stay at Royal by PortofinoHomes, a spacious apartment including 1 bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen (dishwasher, oven, washing machine), a bathroom, and a seating area with sea views on 1.5 km and a few more to the Paraggi and Pedale Beach, offers time for full relaxation.
Genoa, the closest airport on 39 km driving, and all the surroundings of Cinque Terre at a lesser distance are the content of your stay.
1.5 Groups
If you’re looking for a place to stay as a group, there are two places you shouldn’t miss out:
- Portofino Regional Park – nestled only 25 km away from Genoa, in the heart of the Ligurian Riviera, the park offers incredible, awe-inspiring views over the rural and maritime landscapes.
- Castello Brown – a historic house museum used as a defence castle. It is now open as a public luxury villa, perfect for those wanting to explore Portofino’s history.
Handpicked accommodations for groups
Villa Franca Portofino by KlabHouse, Portofino
Villa Franca Portofino by KlabHouse is a spacious villa in Portofino featuring the best accommodation you can ask for. There is private parking, a garden patio, and a sea-view terrace. It has 4 bedrooms, two living rooms, an equipped kitchen and 5 bathrooms. Every amenity you can think of is obtained. There is a private pool and an outdoor dining area. The nearest beaches, Spiagga del Olivetta and Pedale, are 1 or 2 km from the accommodation.
Julia by PortofinoHomes, Portofino
Julia by PortofinoHomes is a spacious apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen and a bathroom. The inside is a non-smoking area. Every important spot in the region is very close, from Paraggi and Pedale beaches to the Aquarium of Genoa. The accommodation is great for group visits since the distance to the Genoa Colombo airport is only 48 km.
1.6 Solo-travelers
Portofino is a perfect location for a solo traveller because of its charming, welcoming vibe, which emerges from the location, architecture, and people who choose it as their destination. A place worth visiting in Portofino for you is Castello Brown- an immaculate historic museum which has now been turned into a luxurious villa.
Handpicked accommodations for a solo traveler
Vicoletto by PortofinoHomes, Portofino
Vicoletto by PortofinoHomes great location and amenities offered will make your stay very pleasant in this 1-bedroom apartment with a fully equipped kitchen. It also offers a non-smoking seating area.
Paraggi Beach is a walking distance away, only 1,5 km. Casa Carbone is 28 km away, and the city of Geno is 38 km away. There are endless possibilities depending on your mood: stay alone or find pleasant company.
La Casetta di Portofino by PortofinoVip, Portofino
La Casetta di Portofino by PortofinoVip is around 40 km away from Genoa and is a place where most of the interesting places to visit are located. Located in the Portofino village, it is 1.6 km from the Paraggi beach and 800 metres from Spiaggia dell’ Olivetta. It offers 1 bedroom, a fully equipped kitchenette and a bathroom. It is allergy-free and non-smoking. It is one of the best answers to where to stay in Portofino.
1.7 Nightlife Traveler
You can expect a lively nightlife in Portofino. The town is located on the beach and surrounded by the sea, setting the mood for a diverse nightlife. There are so many bars, restaurants and pubs, so you won’t be without a great plan for a night out. If it’s your first time there, don’t forget to visit Al Faro di Portofino Lounge Bar or Winterose Wine Bar.
Handpicked accommodations for nightlife
Stella by PortofinoHomes, Portofino
Stella by PortofinoHomes is very close to the two beaches in Portofino, this apartment with access to a terrace includes 2 bedrooms, a kitchen and a bathroom. It is air-conditioned and has a private parking space.
Hotel Piccolo, Portofino
The minimalist and modern decor and panoramic sea views make your stay at Hotel Piccolo. You will be around 400 metres away from the centre of Portofino, located on a nearby hill. It is a great spot to rest and not far away from the bars and restaurants. Beaches are also a kilometre away.
1.8 For the Budget Traveler
Portofino is a desirable destination for literally anybody- budget travellers included. Even though it will seem like a posh place you can’t afford to visit, many budget Portofino hotels will change your mind!
Handpicked accommodations for budget traveler
Portofino Dream Flexirent, Portofino
You will get a bedroom, a bathroom and a kitchen with towels included at Portofino Dream Flexirent. The nearest airport is in Genoa, and all the significant places to visit are nearby. The two closest Portofino beaches are within a kilometre distance.
Portofino’s Flavour, Portofino
This recently renovated 1 bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom apartment is very close to the beach, as well as to most of the other places you’ll want to visit. Even a mini-market is available in Portofino’s Flavour in case you get hungry late at night!
2. Best Neighborhood to Stay in Portofino
Portofino is nothing but the most charming place to stay. The fascinating villas, expensive yachts in the harbour, and many hidden treasures are waiting to be found if you are an adventurer.
The welcoming vibe of the Piazzetta and the path from the square that will lead you to Castello Brown, a 16th-century castle with beautiful gardens and a museum with constantly changing art exhibitions, are genuine and everlasting descriptions of Portofino. From the highest viewpoint, the panoramic view of the village and the Ligurian Sea is fascinating and unforgettable. No matter where you decide to stay in Portofino, you will experience the unparalleled allure of the city and the sea!
3. FAQs
What is the best neighborhood to stay in Portofino?
Portofino Village is highly recommended for a first-time visit. This charming area offers a blend of picturesque views, proximity to attractions like Portofino Lighthouse, and diverse accommodation options for different types of travelers.
Where should you not stay in Portofino?
While Portofino is generally a safe and welcoming destination, some areas might be less convenient for certain travelers. It's advisable to research and choose accommodations closer to your preferred attractions, as some areas might be more secluded or less accessible.
What should I avoid in Portofino?
Avoiding unnecessary loud behavior, especially during the evenings, is appreciated in this serene village. Additionally, be mindful of the local customs and maintain respect for the tranquil environment. Also, it's recommended to avoid peak tourist seasons if you prefer a more relaxed experience.
Where should I stay in Portofino for the first time?
For a first-time visit, staying in Portofino Village is highly recommended. It provides easy access to key attractions like the Portofino Lighthouse, La Portofinese eco-farm, and authentic dining experiences. The village offers accommodations for all types of visitors and ensures a delightful introduction to the beauty of Portofino.
4. Map + All Sights
We have made a map that shows you the best areas to stay in Portofino, depending on what you are looking for.
You can find the perfect place to stay in Portofino with our map section, whether you want a fancy hotel, a cozy apartment, or a cheap hostel. Just click on the area that interests you and check out the best hotels, apartments, and villas in Portofino.
5. Summary of where to stay in Portofino
I do hope using my “Where to stay in Portofino” guide will ease your trip planning!
If you need some more inspiration for travelling destinations, check out the rest of my blogs!
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There you have it. I hope you have no questions and found your home in my home town.
However, please remember: I am not perfect, and it is likely I missed a few things to point out.
Therefore: Do you have questions? Is anything not clear?
Please please please drop me a comment below with your email! I will reply to you ASAP via email and here in the comments.
In fact, your questions help me to make this article better. So I help you to help me.
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