Portofino

Portofino is a former fishing village, and is situated in the north of Italy, on Liguria's Italian Riviera.

Walking is the best way to see everything in Portofino as no cars are allowed in the village. Highlights include the harbour area, The Brown Castle and Museo del Parco. A footpath leads from the village to the church and 15th Century fortress of San Giorgio. Beyond this is the lighthouse of Punto Portofino.

Many upscale shops line the alleyways surrounding the main plaza (Piazzetta) including Armani, Dolce and Gabbana and Missoni. Olive or walnut oil and "macrame lace" created by women in the village and surrounding towns are popular souvenirs, as the regional favourite Trofie (handmade pasta).

The closest sandy beach is at the Bay of Paraggi in Santa Margherita.

Local dishes include 'frisceu di baccala' (salt cod fritters), 'torta pasqualina' (chard pie) and 'paciugo' (fresh cherry ice cream).

Portofino is a tender port. Tenders arrive at the yacht moorage in the centre of town. Some larger ships may be required to tender off the coast of Santa Margherita, two miles south, and passengers are taken by bus into Portofino.