Portofino is one of Italy’s most photogenic and charming seaside villages, and it’s perfect for exploring through various tours. The little fishing harbor with its colorful houses, luxurious yachts, and breathtaking views makes it a top destination for visitors who love to see Italy from the water or from within. We’re particularly fond of the combination tours, like the Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch, because they blend sightseeing with authentic local experiences—plus, who doesn’t want to learn how to make perfect pesto in Italy? These tours offer a richer, more personal way to enjoy the region than just strolling around.
Portofino’s natural beauty, historical sights, and luxury ambiance make it ideal for boat excursions, guided walks, and even active adventures like coasteering or paddleboarding. Whether you’re after a relaxed day on the water or an intimate culinary experience, the list below covers a wide range of options to suit different interests and travel styles.
Types of tours featured here include boat trips, kayaking adventures, private guided walks, and combo experiences that give you the full flavor of Portofino and its surroundings. To help you decide, we’ve looked at reviews, pricing, and uniqueness for each tour. Ready to see what’s on offer? Let’s dive in.
1. Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch
At number 1, this combined boat and walking tour offers a full morning of exploration, capped with an authentic Ligurian meal. It starts with a ferry ride from Santa Margherita Ligure, giving you a scenic preview of the coastline. Once in Portofino, you’ll climb to the Church of Saint Giorgio for panoramic views and enjoy a focaccia tasting at a local bakery. The highlight is the pesto making class, where you learn to prepare this regional specialty, followed by a lakeside Ligurian lunch. The tour ends with free time to hike in the Portofino Natural Park or sample gelato. With 108 reviews averaging 5 stars, this tour combines sightseeing, hands-on cooking, and leisure, making it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy local culture.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for those wanting a balanced mix of walking, boat rides, food, and free time, all in an accessible 3-hour format.
2. Easy Kayak Tour to Portofino with Optional Snorkeling
For around $55, this kayak experience delivers a surprisingly relaxed way to see Portofino’s coastline. Paddle inside the marine reserve, passing by the village’s famous lighthouse and exploring the pristine waters from a unique, sustainable perspective. It’s perfect for anyone, regardless of experience, since the guide provides all necessary equipment and instructions. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the intimate connection with nature, with some calling it “magical” and “a must-try.” The trip lasts between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, making it a manageable option for a half-day adventure that’s more active than sightseeing but less strenuous than full-day excursions.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers, families, or those who want a hassle-free way to enjoy the sea and coastline.
3. Portofino Kayak Tour
Slightly more intensive, the Portofino Kayak Tour is a 1.5-hour guided paddle around Portofino’s marine protected area. Small groups ensure personalized attention as you paddle through caves and secret creeks. It’s an adventure that offers close-up views of the coast, with options for snorkeling and sunset trips depending on the season. The reviews highlight how accessible and enjoyable it is, even for beginners: “very easy activity for beginners,” says one reviewer. The added bonus is the organic lunch and wine at a scenic viewpoint, making this a well-rounded outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: A superb choice if you want a more adventurous, hands-on day with the opportunity to explore hidden coastal spots.
4. Andrea Boat Charter Portofino
If privacy and flexibility are your priority, the Andrea Boat Charter offers a customizable day on the water. For around $872, up to five people can enjoy a 3 to 7-hour cruise, visiting Santa Margherita, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli. The boat is your floating base, with snorkeling gear, drinks, and the freedom to set your own pace. Reviewers love the attentive captain and the ability to stop for swimming or sightseeing whenever you wish. It’s perfect for small groups seeking intimacy and a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting exclusivity, private time on the coast, and the flexibility to customize their day.
5. Private Boat Tour Portofino, Golfo Paradiso and Tigullio
For a full day on the water, this private tour is a luxurious way to see the coast’s top sights. At about $2,750, your group can explore Portofino, San Fruttuoso, Camogli, and the surrounding bays, stopping for swimming, snorkeling, and local tastings. Reviewers mention Luca, the captain, as “very personable,” and the experience as “wonderful.” It’s ideal for groups seeking an exclusive, all-out adventure with plenty of time for photo ops and relaxation.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, all-day option suited for those with a bigger budget who value privacy and customization.
6. Boat Tour to Portofino and San Fruttuoso for Small Groups
This 4-hour boat tour combines highlights like Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and Paraggi. It’s a great balance of scenery and activity at about $119 per person. The reviews praise the knowledgeable skipper and the convenience of snorkeling equipment. You get an hour to explore Portofino and San Fruttuoso, making it suitable for travelers who want a taste of the coast’s most famous spots without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive yet manageable half-day tour with cultural and natural highlights.
7. Private Charter from Genoa to Portofino
For travelers arriving from Genoa, the private full-day boat offers an exclusive way to reach Portofino without the hassle of crowded ferries. It includes stops at San Fruttuoso, Camogli, and swimming in the Marine Park. Starting at around $528 per person, this is best suited for groups who want a seamless, personalized experience with options for snorkeling and relaxing on board. Reviewers emphasize the professionalism of Captain Rocco and the flexibility of the itinerary.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting to combine transit with sightseeing and leisure in style.
8. Portofino Riviera and Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour
This full-day private boat is designed for those who want to see Portofino, Cinque Terre, and the surrounding coast from the water. It offers a flexible, tailor-made experience with opportunities for sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying local snacks. The 7.5-hour trip is perfect for travelers who don’t want to be limited by schedules—just tell the crew what you want, and they’ll make it happen.
Bottom Line: Best for connoisseurs who want a bespoke, comprehensive boat day exploring Liguria’s most iconic coastlines.
9. Portofino and Santa Margherita Private Tour of Ligurian Gems
This half-day private tour combines two of Liguria’s most scenic towns. Starting with Portofino’s elegant Piazzetta, then moving to Santa Margherita for a leisurely exploration, it’s a perfect option for those who want a personalized experience with a local guide. The review highlights how guides like Alessandra and Boris bring history alive, making the tour both informative and engaging.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a private, culturally rich experience with flexible timing.
10. Paddle Boarding Experience in Portofino
If you’re interested in a fun, low-impact activity, this paddleboarding experience offers a great way to see Portofino from the water. All equipment is provided, and no prior experience is needed. The tour is only about 1.5 hours but offers spectacular views of the Bay of Paraggi. Reviewers mention how easy and enjoyable it is, often calling it a highlight of their trip. It’s perfect for active travelers or families wanting to combine sightseeing with a physical activity.
Bottom Line: A light, scenic activity that offers a fresh perspective on Portofino’s coastline.
11. Portofino Stand Up Paddleboard Experience
For those wanting a quick, engaging splash of adventure, the Stand Up Paddleboard lasts about 1.5 hours and introduces you to the basics of paddleboarding in the calm waters of Paraggi. Its reviews highlight how easy it is to learn and how stunning the views are, especially when paddling along the coast. This activity is excellent for travelers who want a brief but memorable outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers and anyone looking for a short, fun activity on the water.
12. Portofino Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
This private walking tour lasts just 1.5 hours but packs in plenty of highlights: the colorful shoreline, San Martino Church, Castello Brown, and the lighthouse. It’s ideal for travelers who want a thorough yet relaxed introduction to Portofino, with the option to customize. Reviewers like Giulia, who brings 25 years of experience, make the experience memorable by sharing rich details about the town’s architecture and history.
Bottom Line: A great way to get an intimate, personalized overview of Portofino’s key sights.
13. Portofino: Coasteering Tour
If adrenaline is your thing, the Coasteering Tour offers two hours of rock climbing, swimming, and diving along the rugged coast. Rated 4.8/5, this activity is suitable for ages 14-65 and requires a modest level of fitness. It’s perfect for adventure-seekers who want more than just sightseeing and are comfortable with water activities. Reviewers emphasize the fun and the natural wonders they discover, like underwater caves and scenic cliffs.
Bottom Line: Not for everyone, but a thrilling option for active travelers seeking a physical challenge amid stunning scenery.
14. Exclusive Private Day Trip: Portofino & Santa Margherita from Portofino’s Port
This private day trip is designed for those wanting flexibility. For about $434, your guide takes you from Portofino to Santa Margherita, with stops for local focaccia and scenic views. The tour is fully customizable, perfect for travelers who prefer a gentle pace and personalized attention. Reviewers mention how guides like Fulvia and Luca make the day special with their knowledge and thoughtfulness.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those seeking a relaxed, private experience with tailored sightseeing.
15. Private Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif in Portofino Gulf
Ending our list is a romantic sunset boat tour. Lasting around two hours, it offers a private cruise through the Gulf of Portofino with time for swimming and enjoying authentic Italian aperitivo. Passengers love how the colors change as the sun dips behind the coast, and the reviews mention the friendly captain and peaceful atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples or anyone wanting a memorable, relaxing evening on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for romantic travelers or those wanting a peaceful end to their day in Portofino.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting the right tour in Portofino, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you want a comprehensive experience with food and sightseeing, the Boat and Pesto Cooking Tour offers excellent value. For those who prefer active outdoor fun, the kayak and paddleboarding options or coasteering are ideal. If privacy and flexibility are priorities, a private charter or private guided walk provide a personalized touch.
Timing also matters—some tours are best suited for early mornings or sunset, so check availability and book early during peak season to lock in your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Portofino offers a rich mix of water-based adventures, guided walks, and private charters that cater to various tastes and budgets. For a classic experience, the Boat and Pesto Tour remains a favorite for its blend of sightseeing, local food, and scenic views. For those craving outdoor activity, kayaking or coasteering deliver both adventure and intimacy with nature. And if exclusivity appeals, private options like the full-day boat or private sightseeing are hard to beat.
Remember, these tours often fill quickly in high season, so plan ahead and book early to secure your spot. No matter your style, Portofino’s charm, combined with these memorable ways to explore, will make your trip truly special.
