Portofino

Portofino is one of the most picturesque towns of the Italian Riviera and extremely popular. Especially popular among the stars. It started in the 60's, when they began to come here for parties and recreation. Photos and stories filled newspapers and magazines, and the resort became a symbol of luxury life.

Just open this website http://www.portofino.it and see the photos taken in recent years. It seems that it's harder to name the stars that were not here yet. Although, we have not seen anyone, or may be did not recognize.

Portofino is a very small town, only 500 people live here. There is only one promenade, about 300 meters long.


No one is in a hurry, tourists just walk slowly, sit in restaurants, visit boutiques.


The best view of the bay opens from the walls of the castle Brown, built in the 16th century. You can reach it along the path indicated on the next map.


Inside the castle there is a small historical exposition. The most interesting room exibit photos of the stars who visited Portofino in the 60-70's.


And, of course, the most famous view of the bay.


From above you can also see the numerous villas scattered over the hills. If anyone is interested, the villa of the scandalous Silvio Berlusconi located here N 44 18.635 E 9 12.777.




Getting there: The nearest airport is in Genoa, just 40 kilometers away. The nearest railway station S.Margherita Ligure is 5 km away, travel time from Genoa is 45 minutes (3 euros). Find the schedule at http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en. At the exit from the station catch a bus 82 in the direction of Portofino, buy tickets in a cafe at the station (3 euros one way, 5 euros return). Another option is a ferry from Genoa, its schedule is perfect for a one-day visit to Portofino.

You can come by car, but it's very expensive. There is only one parking in the city (N 44 18.256 E 9 12.432) which cost 5 euros per hour, consider this. In addition, the only road to Portofino is narrow and often full of cars.