Once a secluded fishing village, Portofino is today synonymous with quintessential Italian dolce vita. It owes this reputation to the jet-set celebrities who, starting in the 1950s, made the harbour and Piazzetta famous across the world. Alongside its glamorous appeal, the village offers easy access to the natural beauties of the promontory, a celebration of Ligurian Coast nestled between two gulfs.
The accommodation options in Portofino reflect the village’s status as one of the most exclusive destinations anywhere on the Italian Rivera. Read on to discover three of the very best luxury and boutique hotels to be found here.
Eight Hotel Portofino
From €627/ night
Located only steps away from the marina, Eight is one of the main reference points for luxury in Portofino. Its stylish rooms include amenities and features such as Jacuzzis, private terraces and smart slate finishings, as well as views over the Piazzetta and Castle Brown. An intimate SPA and a leafy garden can also be found here, while the kitchen and bar serve everything from light lunches to aperitivo. Eight also has a sister hotel on the adjoining bay of Paraggi, the restored historic Hotel San Giorgio.
Hotel Piccolo
From €146/ night
Hotel Piccolo is housed in an elegant period villa overlooking the harbour of Portofino. While the spacious terraces offer many opportunities to enjoy the surrounding views, the interiors feature elegant contrasts and a distinctive contemporary design. The rooms are intimate and minimalist, with pale colours and see-through curtains connecting with the Mediterranean seascape. Two on-site restaurants provide different takes on Ligurian cuisine, and a beach restaurant is also available for small lunches. The amenities include direct access to a private beach.
Hotel Nazionale
From €225/ night
Hotel Nazionale is a family-run establishment where the exclusive feel of a stay in Portofino meets the simple pleasures of local hospitality. It sits right at the back of the famous Piazzetta, signalled by the outdoor tables of the on-site ‘Da Nicola’ restaurant. The standard guest rooms offer classic furnishing and modern comforts, while the junior suite boasts a prime view over the harbour and the end of the promontory jetting into the Ligurian sea.