Portofino is one of the most famous and picturesque villages on the Italian Riviera, known for its colorful harbor, luxury yachts, and stunning coastal scenery. It’s a small but very popular destination that feels like a postcard in real life.

One important thing to know is that parking in the area is extremely limited. We chose to leave our rental car in Santa Margherita Ligure and take the bus to Portofino, which is a common and convenient option.

However, when we left, we experienced long queues and several full buses that didn’t stop, so we ended up walking back to Santa Margherita. It’s a few kilometers, but the walk along the coast was honestly beautiful, with amazing sea views the whole way—so even the “problem” turned into a highlight.

Portofino itself is absolutely worth visiting, but it’s good to plan ahead and consider timing, especially during peak hours. Despite the crowds and transport challenges, it’s a place you shouldn’t miss when in Liguria.

Another thing to keep in mind is that prices are quite high compared to nearby towns — we paid around €40 for four coffees, and they weren’t specialty drinks, just regular coffees.

A must-do while you’re here is Castello Brown, which offers incredible panoramic views over the harbor and coastline—definitely worth the short climb.

Tip: Try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest bus times and crowds.