Portofino, Italy

Brown Castle

The first fortress (made of wood!) on this spot was built by the ancient Romans even back then-so good and important was the view from here. In the 15th century, the “morally outdated” wooden structure was finally replaced with a stone one. In 1870, the fortress was acquired by the British consul in Genoa, Montague Yates Brown, who gradually converted it into a villa. In 1961, the castle was handed over to the Municipality of Portofino, which showcased works by local artists and sculptors here. In addition to getting to know the art, visitors can spend a long time admiring the castle’s bas-reliefs, floor tiles, and carved commodes. Around the castle there is a garden with beautiful tree-lined avenues that attract lovers of panoramic views over the bay. This is the perfect place to admire the sunset of extraordinary beauty.

San Fruttuoso Abbey of Capodimonte

Scientists still argue to this day about the exact date the abbey was built. Apparently, the first settlement here existed back in the Roman era. The monastery itself, however, was built, presumably, in the X-XI centuries. The complex includes the Benedictine abbey itself with a courtyard, a church, and even a watchtower to protect against pirates. The abbey’s name is not accidental: it comes from the name of Saint Fruttuoso, who lived in the 3rd century. There is a legend that claims that his followers were shipwrecked in this very bay. Today, Saint Fruttuoso is the patron of sailors, and his relics are kept in the abbey. In 1915, due to flooding, the abbey collapsed, and afterward restoration work was carried out. But there’s no bad without some good: after that, a picturesque beach formed at its foot.

St. George’s Church

This church traces its history back to the 12th century and is revered by Catholics around the world as the place where the relics of Saint George are kept, which were brought by the Crusaders from a campaign in the Holy Land. It was they who made George the patron saint of Portofino. In 1154, a temple was built in his honor. For the church of San Giorgio, an outstanding location was chosen at the top of a hill-so it rises so picturesquely above the town. Local clergy strongly recommend taking a walk to the church on foot-there has never been a time when someone, seeing for the first time the enchanting views revealed from the road, could hold back an exclamation of admiration. The temple was reconstructed twice-in 1691, when the road to the church was expanded, and in the 1760s. During World War II, alas, the church was completely destroyed. In 1950, it was restored.

Portofino National Park

Portofino National Park is breathtakingly beautiful-mountains covered with southern trees, walking paths offering views that forever change the way you see the natural world. The Portofino Park has been protected since Mussolini’s time-since 1935. Here you can find old trees dating back to then, as well as lush, fragrant flowers and shrubs. Birds have also made the park their home, with plenty of space to thrive. On weekends, the park hosts many educational courses and events: from birdwatching and environmental protection basics to Nordic walking and landscape photography.

Beaches

It can be safely said that the nearby beaches in Portofino are considered among the best in Italy. Despite the rocky terrain, the beaches here are exceptionally enjoyable for a relaxing getaway. Soft sand and crystal-clear water will make your vacation unforgettable. The Portofino beach holds a “Blue Flag,” which means it is clean and natural. The city beaches feature a well-developed infrastructure: you’ll find sun loungers, umbrellas, and other items for a pleasant stay, as well as a variety of bars located right on the beach.

Piazzetta

Those who have been here call the square a “sanctuary of silence.” It sits in a recess in the mountain-like a kind of alcove-resembling a harbor with a country road running past it. And it’s nothing like any of the noisy “central” Italian squares you’ve seen before. From the Piazzetta you can clearly make out the main architectural “sights” of Portofino. It’s on this tiny Piazzetta that parties and “cocktails” take place featuring Italian and world-famous stars. At other times, too, you can easily spot some celebrity settling in at a table in one of the restaurants or cafés.

Via Roma

Along this lovely narrow street, which nonetheless is the main one in the city, you can climb up to three important places for any tourist- the post office, the tourist center, and, of course, the shops. Here you’ll find boutiques of the most famous brands-Armani, Emilio Pucci, Louis Vuitton, Hermes. Those who didn’t find the right spot here have taken places on the neighboring streets. What do tourists do on Via Roma? They stroll, look around, and buy souvenirs-the most ordinary scene. Those who can afford it sit in expensive cafés, which doesn’t really broaden the range of everyday pleasures for vacationers. In short, they do what ordinary tourists do in any other place. It’s also just a stone’s throw from here to the epicenter of the town’s social life-Piazzetta. The town is tiny!

Portofino Overview Tour

Portofino can be considered the oldest city in Italy, founded as far back as by the Roman emperor. During the excursion, you will see the Church of St. Martin, built in the 12th century, which houses a wonderful collection of valuable works of art, the St. George’s Castle and the Brown Castle, and the chapel of Saint Mary in the Gothic style. You will visit the Portofino National Park, be able to see charming celebrity villas, and, of course, stroll through the shops for souvenirs.

For a more detailed list of excursions and their prices, you can find out after booking your cruise in your “Client Personal Account”.