Guide: Winter in Portofino

Words by Belmond Editors

Portofino marina on a Christmas night, lined with glittering waterside restaurants casting reflections on the dark water.

The Ligurian coast doesn’t lose its picture-perfect charm during the offseason. Nautical glamour combines with festive cheer, where quiet streets are charmingly decorated with trees and lights. Read on to discover why Portofino is perfect for an authentic winter getaway.

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All Is Calm, All Is Bright

Winter in Portofino doesn’t mean frost and snow. With mountains sheltering the harbour from northern winds, the region is a mild oasis where temperatures are never too chilly. Just picture it: sipping a good Italian coffee on a quaint outdoor terrace in the pleasant December sunshine. Life’s simple pleasures.

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The Great Outdoors

December is the perfect time to hike or bike in Portofino Natural Park. Cherish the beauty and stillness of your surroundings, uncovering unique biodiversity at every turn. Or set sail on a private boat and explore the Ligurian coastline. Why not visit hidden San Fruttuoso Abbey, a stunning building reachable only by hiking or boat? With no summer crowds, these experiences are pure magic.

black and white image of four people walking down the Portofino harbar

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The Italian Way

Celebrate the festive season in true Italian style, where Christmas is all about food, warm family feeling and time-honoured traditions. Experience a classic ‘Cena della Vigilia’ – Christmas Eve dinner – and learn about what goes into the perfect traditional Christmas lunch.

Dine at Splendido Mare

A group of friend enjoying the evening at DaV Mare restaurant terrace

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End-of-Year Party

There’s no place more glamourous than the Portofino piazzetta to feast and cheer to the New Year. Dress to impress and prepare for the most sparkling night of the year – celebrations at Splendido Mare are always the crème de la crème.

Four elegantly dressed guests laughing and celebrating

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Explore Genoa

Take advantage of the quiet, authentic atmosphere to explore nearby Genoa and its UNESCO World Heritage sites. Enjoy a visit to the rolli, which are opulent palaces that date back in 1576. Get lost in the charming caruggi – the little alleys on the city centre – or immerse in Italian opera at Teatro Carlo Felice.

A man walks along a narrow cobbled back street in the shade of tall buildings in an old Italian city.

Curved row of sherbert coloured town houses lining a tranquil harbour at sunset

SPEND CHRISTMAS IN PORTOFINO

At Splendido Mare, experience the authentic Italian festive atmosphere. Feast on unique Christmas and New Year dining options, while magical memories are guaranteed.

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Guide: Winter in Portofino