Why you should not miss Lake Como in autumn

Blog Published: September, 09 2016 (Updated On: February, 09 2023)

Italy Nature Lake Como

If your idea of a great vacation is fewer crowds, breathtaking natural beauty and authentic Italian wining-and-dining, you should definitely visit Lake Como in Autumn. One of the most beautiful lakes in Italy, Lake Como in the month of October transforms into a picture-perfect place to take a break and treat yourself to an exclusive Italian experience.

A small lakeshore town backed by the earthy autumnal shades of Lake Como

The enchanting beauty of the lake and the towns on its shores accentuates during the autumn season when the climate is pleasant and the towns are friendlier and less touristy. Your pocket will also thank you for visiting Lake Como in October as food, accommodation and transport are often available at discounted rates.

So, here is our fully-rounded guide to your holidays in Lake Como in autumn. Enjoy!

Things to do in Lake Como in October

1.Take a ferry to enjoy the landscape and visit the lake towns

Lake Como often conjures up images of beautiful lake towns and villages which line up its shores.

Lake Como bathed in a golden sunset during autumn

On your ferry rides or boat trips, enjoy the charming sights presented by pastel-coloured villas, lakeshore boulevards along the shore, opulent gardens and lakeside towns like Varenna and Bellagio. The ferry ride also allows you to enjoy the view of the snow-capped mountains, which form the backdrop of the landscape and the expanse of the lake spread all around you. The environment is much more serene and the number of boats and ferries on the lake significantly reduces by this time.

Tip: Do not forget to check the timetable of the operating ferry services.

2. Buckle up for some sports and adventure

With the climate being the most appropriate, autumn is the best time for all kinds of outdoor adventure sports: be it water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and waterskiing, or land sports such as hiking and biking.

Kitesurfing or windsurfing to get the adrenaline pumping?

Though there are many routes to escape into adventures, the Menaggio hikes offer some of the most magnificent mountain-top panoramas while our top chapel climbs fulfil your spiritual side! For golfers, there are plenty of world-class golf courses around the area which can be enjoyed in a climate best suited for such outdoor activities. The stunning landscape of the region also adds to the overall golfing experience!

While we are talking about adventures on the lake, how about diving into the supernatural ones and finding out about Lake Como’s legends and horrors? But the question is: Can you even swim in Lake Como in October?

Since the temperature of the water after the long spell of summer becomes quite moderate–around 22 degrees on most days, there is a good possibility of swimming in the lake. But, you might want to keep an eye out for the Lariosauro, Lake Como’s very own Loch-Ness monster!

3. Go local with your diet

As the summer crowd decreases, many restaurants begin to close. But this means that you will have the smaller ones open which serve authentic local cuisine in a more friendly and warm environment. Although you usually won’t need to wait for the table and will often find the service quick and personal, we do recommend making a reservation if you are there on the weekend!

Easily available in any of Lake Como’s restaurants: the delicious Polenta with ragù

Do not forget to enjoy some local Italian wine during your vacation. Although the restaurants and bars mostly serve wines produced in the Valtellina region, there are some local cellars too. These natural wine cellars, or Crotti, of Lake Como, are one of the most well-kept treasures of the region. Autumn remains one of the best times to go on a local wine tour with the perfect ambience and climate. Wine aficionados should definitely try wines from the cellars of Tremezzo and Cernobbio.

Tip: If you are still considering options for your lake trip, then you can also count on Lake Maggiore for some good and authentic cuisine in autumn!

4. Go for that memorable walk

Since the crowd has thinned by now, you have a lot of room for a peaceful retreat by the lake.

The promenades are especially beautiful where you can enjoy a slow romantic walk soaking up the beauty of the landscape or walk the picturesque Greenway route, wandering into the characteristic villages, villas and corners of Lake Como.

5. Enjoy an exclusive experience at Lake Como attractions

Lake Como has plenty of indoor attractions too such as the magnificent Villa del Balbianello, historical churches and important museums which give an insight into the region's history. It is, however, advisable to refer to the timetable of these attractions before planning a visit.

The tree-lined paths of the magnificent Villa del Balbianello dotted with beautiful sculptures

6. Shopping at Lake Como

Though the lake is famous for its unparalleled natural beauty, Lake Como’s silk and its history also deserve a special mention as high-end brands like Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, Chanel and more use silk from the region. But if you do not want to go for the pricey tags, then the area offers local boutiques where you can shop for your next velvety silk scarf or tie!

7. Take a day trip to neighbouring destinations

Unlike summers when the traffic is a bit heavier than usual, autumns are perfect for exploring neighbouring destinations on a day trip. Milan is hardly 40 minutes away from Como by train. Visitors also love to visit other Italian lakes like Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano on a day trip from Lake Como. Booking a ticket for a bus and train at short notice, even a few minutes before the departure, is possible. However, renting a car is also an option.

What is the weather like and what to wear in Lake Como in October?

Although the weather is predictable during autumn, with a maximum of around 19 degrees, and adds to the serene atmosphere of the place, it is advisable to carry a sweater and a raincoat.

Browse through our wide range of properties designed for a comfortable stay during the autumn season at Lake Como.

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Lecce Travel Guide for First-Time Travellers

Down in the heel of Italy, Lecce is less popular than Rome, Venice or Florence...which is exactly why it offers a much nicer and more authentic Italian experience! With origins dating to the 5th Century BC, this delightful little city in the heart of Salento is full of hidden treasures, earning the title of “Florence of the South”. Lecce’s historical importance is witnessed by the impressive Roman amphitheater and other archaeological remnants located in the city center. It is also home to the perfect example of “Lecce Baroque”, a unique style of Baroque architecture that you can admire only in this Southern Italian city! Aerial view of Piazza Sant'Oronzo, Palazzo del Seggio and the Roman amphitheatre But it's not just history that draws travellers to Lecce. The city’s vibrant cultural life, cute little shops, winding streets and delicious local food and wine, are also some of the best in Italy! 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Delicious Pasticciotto leccese pastries filled with egg custard cream and sour cherry jam Editor’s tip: Recharge at Pasticceria Natale, the perfect spot to try the famous pastry from Lecce, pasticciotti Leccese, which must be accompanied by caffè leccese, iced coffee with almond milk. Then, hit the shops! Take home Puglia’s Specialities Don’t miss the Apulian olive-oil tasting Take home some of Puglia’s famous wine. The Apollonio winery is in the town of Monteroni di Lecce just 15 minutes out of Lecce. Here you can buy some of the finest local wines, and best of all, you can try them before you buy! The area is well-known for its Primitivo red wine, which is fruity and rich. A lighter option would be the Salice Salentino Bianco, a dry white wine which goes well with fish. Lovers of olive oil can enjoy a similar experience at the Agro Farm which is just 4km from Lecce. In addition to olive oil tasting, you can visit the olive groves and discover the process of milling the olives to create delicious organic olive oil. A tasty plate of Orecchiette con le cime di rapa Where to eat in Lecce, and what is the most famous dish in Puglia No trip to Italy is complete without trying the local food and the food in Lecce is some of the best in the country. Puglia cuisine is known as “Cucina Povera” meaning “Poor cuisine” which really does not do it justice! It is tasty home cooking using the best seasonal local ingredients. Vegetarians will love the wide range of choices. There are many excellent restaurants in the city. But if you are looking for authentic Salento dishes, Alle Due Corti is a must. Try Ciceri e tria (fried tagliatelle with chickpeas) or Orecchiette con cime di rapa (pasta with turnip leaves and anchovies), two of the most famous dishes in Puglia. 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If you want to spend more time in this beautiful town then Casa Gallipolina can sleep up to 7 people and is less than a 5-minute walk from the sea. When is the best time to visit Lecce? Winter (January - March) can be cold and many places are closed, so it is generally better to come in April when the weather starts warming up. Things heat up quite quickly and by late May and June it can be in the high 30’s. The heat in July and August can be intense and in the first two weeks of August, around the Italian holiday of Ferragosto, the whole country seems to be on holiday, so Lecce gets very busy. September and October are quieter, more like May and June but with the advantage of a warmer sea. November is not a good time to come as it normally rains but December is charming, with good weather and festive with Christmas lights and celebrations. Festivals and Fun Salento-style On the occasion of the feast of the patron saint, Sant'Oronzo, splendid luminous decorations are installed in the historic center Given the Pugliese people’s love of food and wine it will come as no surprise that most of the festivals focus on those, with music and dancing, obviously! Lecce’s main festival marks its saint’s day – the Feast of Sant’Oronzo (24th – 26th August). The streets of the city are crowded with people enjoying the street food, music and fireworks. The town also organises Cortili Aperti (Open courtyards) usually at the end of May. For 1 day some of the city’s most beautiful private houses, buildings, courtyards and gardens are open to the public. Jazz lovers will not want to miss the Locomotive Jazz Festival that takes place across the region for two weeks in late July and early August. La Notte della Taranta is the largest festival in Salento. Spread over several towns and several evenings in late August, culminating in one final concert in Melipignano, it celebrates the music traditions of Salento. Throughout the summer visitors will always find interesting performances at Gallipoli’s Parco Gondar, one of Italy’s largest outdoor music venues. How do I get to Lecce? Salento International Airport in Brindisi is just 30 minutes from Lecce. And Bari Airport, with more frequent flights, is also a good option. It is best to hire a car there or take a taxi. If you are arriving by train, then Lecce (Città) station is connected to other major Italian cities. Lastly, people often want to know “what is special about Lecce?” Lecce is one of the most charming cities in Italy and an absolute must-visit if you are looking for beautiful architecture; fascinating history; delicious food and wine and glorious beaches. Its mild climate makes it an attractive option for most of the year. A lot more than a city break, the whole of the Salento peninsula is on your doorstep. A little piece of heaven on earth! Is Lecce worth visiting? Book these amazing holiday homes and discover yourself!

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Dishes like porceddu (roast suckling pig), pane carasau (crispy flatbread), and seadas (cheese-filled pastries) are unique to the island and a testament to its independent nature. There are some exceptional restaurants in the town where you can try these delicacies. Trattoria al Refettorio offers a touch of (admittedly pricey) elegance, while Nautilus is perfect for romance and a special occasion. If you are looking for somewhere a little more casual, Prosciutteria Sant Miquel in the historic center, is perfect for a quick bite. Take home a piece of the intricate Sardinian Craftsmanship There are plenty of artisan crafts traditional to Sardinia, from weaving and pottery to jewellery making. The island is particularly well-known for its intricate filigree jewellery and its hand-crafted tapestries. Via Carlo Alberto, Via Gilbert Ferret and Via Roma in Alghero are the best places to start if you are looking to buy locally-made jewelry, pottery, or crafts, while further down the Costa Smeralda, Porto Rotondo has a weekly street market, as well as a great selection of more fashionable boutiques. Alghero: A Catalan LegacyAlghero is one of Sardinia’s most beautiful and interesting towns. It is a charming and intriguing blend of Italian charm and Catalan culture, making it a unique destination for visitors. The blend of natural beauty, Catalan history, and picturesque Mediterranean architecture ensures it stands out as one of the best places in Sardinia to explore. Medieval picturesque street, typical Sardinian, with small traditional souvenir shopsWhy Do People in Alghero Speak Catalan?Nestled on the northwest coast of Sardinia, Alghero is an unusual town thanks to its distinct Catalonian heritage. Unlike the rest of Sardinia, the most common language here is Catalan, a legacy of its history as a colony of the Kingdom of Aragon. In 1354, the town was captured by the Aragonese monarchy, and settled by people from Catalonia. Over time, this Catalan identity became a fundamental part of the town’s heritage and traditions and is the reason for the unique dialect spoken here. What Are Some Fun Facts About Alghero?Exploring Alghero’s Catalan traditions takes you on a fascinating journey of historical and linguistic discovery. Gothic Architecture of Alghero: The town boasts impressive Catalan Gothic architecture, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria and the Church of San Francesco. Red Coral or the Red Gold of Alghero: The town is also famous for its red coral, which has been a feature of the local economy for hundreds of years. Local artisans harvest the coral and use it to make intricate, beautiful jewelry, which is showcased in the Coral Museum, located inside the stunning Villa Constantino, where you can see extraordinary examples of this craft as well as learn about the history and legends of Alghero’s ‘red gold’.Must-buy souvenir: Alghero’s red coralThe mixed culture of Alghero: Algeherese culture is also a unique blend of Sardinian, Italian, and Catalonian, with local festivals such as the Festes de Sant Miquel incorporating traditional Catalan performances and costumes. The cuisine is heavily influenced by that of northeast Spain, evidenced most obviously by paella algherese, a local version of the famous Spanish dish. Sardinia Travel Guide: Practical TipsIf you are thinking about visiting Sardinia, here are a few practical tips to keep in mind when planning your trip.Best Time to Visit SardiniaSardinia has a mild climate year-round, but the best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn. This is when the most interesting and exciting festivals and events happen and coincides with perfect summer weather. Getting AroundTrains and buses can be a bit unreliable in Sardinia and don’t always go where and when you want to. Renting a car is the best and most convenient way to explore, particularly if you want to explore smaller towns and more remote areas. LanguageItalian is the official language and you’ll be able to get by everywhere if you have a few words and phrases. However, if you really want to impress, learning a little Sardinian or Algherese Catalan can vastly improve your travel experience. With its rich blend of stunning natural beauty and fascinating cultural heritage, Sardinia is a vacation destination that delivers in spades. From the fusion of Sardinian and Catalan traditions in Alghero to the amazing festivals across the island, a trip to Sardinia promises an unforgettable journey and an experience that will stay with you forever. Whether you're planning a visit or simply curious about these captivating traditions, our blog will guide you through the vibrant festivals and rich cultural heritage of Sardinia and Alghero. Inspired to discover the magic of Sardinia's carnivals and the unique Catalan legacy in Alghero for yourself. Take a look at our incredible range of holiday rentals and reserve your stay with us today!Written by Frankie Girl

10 Most beautiful sardinia beaches with amazing water sports and marine adventures

With some of the cleanest, most mesmerising beaches in the world, Sardinia has become known as the Maldives of Italy. From secluded coves to expansive sandy shorelines, this Mediterranean paradise enjoys more than 200 beaches; many of which offer a wide range of thrilling watersports. Porto Pollo is a favourite spot for surfers whilst Tavolara Island offers wonderful opportunities to dive and snorkel. And if you love being out on the water away from the crowds, then a guided boat tour or chartered sailing trip is perfect to explore the island’s dreamy coastline. We’ve also rounded up the prettiest places to kayak or paddleboard and found the best Sardinia jet skiing locations for adrenaline junkies. Whether you are looking for relaxation on pristine white sands or an exhilarating experience in the water, these 10 beach destinations with the most exciting Sardinia water sports promise to make your trip memorable. Sardinia beach destinations to fall in love with PORTO POLLO: the Sardinia windsurfing and kitesurfing capital The stunning Porto Pollo coastline Sardinia offers some of the best conditions for wind and kitesurfing in the Mediterranean and Porto Pollo on the north coast is a favourite among surfers. This destination features two large bays and enjoys reliable Mistral winds creating excellent conditions for both beginner and advanced riders. You’ll find a vibrant windsurfing and kitesurfing community here as well as numerous schools and rental shops. There are also amazing restaurants, bars, and shops and, Porto Pollos’ laid-back, friendly atmosphere makes it a favourite among families and water sports aficionados. The bay is also suitable for other water sports, such as sailing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, with a wide selection of apartments close to Porto Pozzo’s beach, just a 10-minute drive from Porto Pollo. PORTO CERVO, COSTA SMERALDA (THE EMERALD COAST): Fairytale beaches with a wide selection of water sports The turquoise waters in the fancy Porto Cervo In northeast Sardinia, the renowned hotspot of celebs, Emerald Coast consists of miles of picture-perfect bays and white sandy shores. It stretches from the town of Olbia to the chic beaches of Porto Cervo like Canniggione. Porto Cervo is also one of the most prestigious and well-known sailing hubs in the Mediterranean, with a luxury marina, boat tours and rentals and access to Tavolara Island, Spiaggia del Principe, one of the Emerald Coast’s most popular beaches, and the beautiful La Maddalena Archipelago. You will find opportunities to take guided boat excursions all over the island. It's advisable to book tours in advance to secure a spot, especially during the peak summer season. TAVOLARA ISLAND, COSTA SMERALDA: For ultimate immersion in sea life The unique Tavolara Island coastline with its turquoise waters If you love scuba diving and snorkeling, the Costa Smeralda is one of the Mediterranean's best locations. Its waters are incredibly clear with up to 30 mts visibility (100 ft). You can look out for octopuses, sea urchins and starfish, as well as dolphins, sea turtles and underwater caves. Some of the most popular spots for Sardinia snorkeling and scuba diving are around Tavolara Island. This area caters for all skill levels with a range of local schools offering tuition and excursions with full equipment provided. Porto San Paolo is a great base from which to explore the marine-protected waters around Tavolara Island with plenty of options for accommodation within walking distance of the local beach. You’ll also find options for Sardinia kayaking, paddleboarding and jet skiing here. A boat excursion from Porto San Paolo is another idyllic way to enjoy the local marine life. These trips stop to allow exploration of Tavolara Island and Molara's natural swimming pools. LISCIA RUJA, COSTA SMERALDA: From calm water adventures like snorkelling to heart-racing jet-skiing Discover the adventures of one of the longest beaches in Costa Smeralda, Liscia Ruja The must-visit beach of Liscia Ruja is one of the longest on the Costa Smeralda and features an expansive stretch of fine, white sand that extends for several miles. This beach is equipped with beach bars and provides sunbeds/umbrellas for rent, along with the perfect opportunities for snorkelling, kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing and sailing. Editor’s tip: Spiaggia del Principe and the beautiful Capriccioli headland are other gorgeous beaches, which are also great for swimming and snorkelling. LA CINTA BEACH, SAN TEODORO: A surfer’s haven further down the northeast coast Enjoy surfing in Sardinia’s turquoise waters La Cinta Beach near San Teodoro is located just south of Costa Smeralda and provides excellent conditions for all kinds of surfing. The beach enjoys thermal winds in the summer, a long, sandy beach, crystal clear waters and multiple schools/equipment rental options. This practical villa for 6 is just a 5-minute drive from La Cinta and a 20-minute drive from Porto San Paolo. Editor’s tip: Remember that sunscreen, water and snacks are essential for a day on the water. It is worth joining a guided tour which will provide a safe and informative experience, whilst you get to know the area. CALA COTICCIO AND SPIAGGIA DEL RELITTO, LA MADDALENA ARCHIPELAGO: Sailing, paddleboarding & kayaking at UNESCO site One of the most Instagram-worthy places in Sardinia, Budelli’s Pink Beach The Maddalena Archipelago consists of over 60 islands and islets with some of the most beautiful beaches and clearest waters in the Mediterranean. If you’re keen to escape the Sardinian mainland and explore the archipelago, a paddleboard or kayak is the perfect choice; with equipment rental companies available in all the popular locations. Caprera Island has the archipelago’s dreamiest destinations: Cala Coticcio, (Tahiti Beach), and Spiaggia del Relitto, named after a shipwreck visible off the shore. Both are only accessible by hiking trails or on the water and provide ideal spots for snorkeling and diving. While you are there, explore the stunning Budelli Island’s Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach), too. The town of Palau is the perfect gateway to Maddalena Archipelago with various boat tours leaving from its harbour and provides an ideal base with various options for accommodation. LA PELOSA BEACH, STINTINO: Pristine white sands, swimming and snorkelling The relaxing La Pelosa beach, with its soft sand and clear waters Located near the small town of Stintino, in the northwest of Sardinia, La Pelosa Beach is renowned for its variety of marine life, incredibly fine white sand and shallow turquoise waters. This gorgeous spot is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. If you are dreaming of a storybook beach paradise, this enchanting destination is a must with lovely stays near the beach. Due to its pristine condition, strict environmental protection measures have been put in place to safeguard La Pelosa Beach including mandatory beach mats. Another place of interest in this area is Nereo Cave near Alghero (a 1-hour drive). Ideal for advanced divers, this is considered the largest underwater cave in the Mediterranean. Book your place: La Pelosa Beach only welcomes a maximum of 1,500 visitors per day. You can reserve your spot by paying an entrance ticket of €3.50/person, with a limit of 4 people/reservation. CALA GOLORITZÉ, GULF OF OROSEI: Hike or boat to this glorious world heritage beach with swimming & snorkelling The stunning Cala Goloritzé white beach, don’t forget to reserve your place Cala Goloritzé is a must-visit within the Gulf of Orosei on the east coast. The beach is part of a protected UNESCO world heritage natural reserve and is only accessible by boat, jet ski or a 3.5 km long hiking trail that starts from Supramonte di Baunei. If you arrive by boat, you must anchor offshore. A popular spot for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling, the beach offers breathtaking scenery, white sand, pebbles and beautifully clear, turquoise waters. Book your place: Cala Goloritzé has a limited capacity of 250 people/day, you can reserve a place for €7.00 per person (children are free). Entry is permitted from 7:30am to 3pm. CALA GANONE, OROSEI: Boat excursions, jet-skiing and diving Cliffs and turquoise waters near Grotta del Bue Marino The town of Orosei, an 80-minute drive from Baunei (the start of the hiking trail) and a 30-minute drive from Cala Gonone is a flexible base to explore the rest of the Gulf with various options for accommodation. In Cala Gonone you will find boat excursions to Cala Goloritize and the Grotta del Bue Marino, an underwater cave that offers guided tours for divers. Jet skiers will also be able to access other hidden beaches and secluded coves including Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu, accessible only by water. CHIA BEACH, CAGLIARI: Clear shallow waters, pink flamingos, snorkelling, windsurfing & kayak adventures Admire the lovely pink flamingos on the lagoon Chia is one of Sardinia’s prettiest beaches on the south coast and is known for its long stretch of white sand, high dunes and lagoons with pink flamingoes. Also known as Su Giudeu, Chia Beach is ideal for families keen to avoid the crowds. The beach is popular with surfers and windsurfing enthusiasts and its rocky areas are great for snorkelling and diving. Chia’s clear waters and wide-open spaces also provide the ideal location for jet skiing. There are various rental services and water sports centers in the area that also provide tutoring and guidance. Chia Beach is fully equipped with amenities such as sunbed, umbrella, windsurfing and kayak rentals, kiosks and bars offering refreshments and light meals and this villa for 5 in Pula is just a 20-minute drive away! Whether it is paddling across azure waters, sunbathing on soft sands or escaping into the clear depths of the Mediterranean, Sardinia is an incredible Italian destination! FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SARDINIA Which part of Sardinia has the best beaches? While every part of Sardinia offers beautiful beaches, the northeast (Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena Archipelago), the east coast (Gulf of Orosei), and the south coast are particularly renowned for their exceptional beach experiences. Is Sardinia very expensive? Sardinia can be expensive, particularly in certain areas and during the high season, but there are cost effective accommodation where you can explore the surrounding area on foot. Does Sardinia have the best beaches in Europe? Sardinia undoubtably has some of the best beaches in Europe, if not the world! What is the cleanest beach in Sardinia? La Pelosa Beach with its strict environmental protection measures is often highlighted as one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches on the island. Which part of Sardinia is most beautiful? There are so many incredible parts of Sardinia it is impossible to say which is the most beautiful, but the renowned Emerald Coast in Northeastern Sardinia never fails to deliver. You can find out more about the beaches and coastal towns in this part of Sardinia in our dedicated travel guide and properties to suit every budget and group size. Which beach is best for water sports in Sardinia? Sardinia offers an incredible range of beaches that are suitable for water sports, from windsurfing and kitesurfing to snorkeling and diving. Porto Pollo is particularly renowned for its wind and kite surfing, while Cala Gonone and Porto Giunco are excellent for underwater activities.

Portofino Travel Guide: the Perfect Italian Summer Experience

Hidden by mountains and surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, Portofino presents a natural Italian beauty like no other. The little Italian village has become so popular and loved worldwide that it is not uncommon to see celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Micheal Douglas walking down its charming, cobbled streets and just enjoying the perfect Italian summer. Though small in size, there is plenty to do and experience in a day or even a weekend in Portofino. From its stunning harbour lined with million-euro yachts to hilltop castles with panoramic views and medieval seafront abbeys, this is the only Portofino itinerary you will ever need to create the most memorable holiday in Italy! The stunning Portofino port surrounded by colourful buildings Start the day by strolling around La Piazzetta The heart of the village, the place where everything happens, La Piazzetta is the main square of Portofino. You can find some of the best dining experiences here for a taste of true Ligurian cuisine: From elegant waterfront dining at the famous La Terrazza to family-run trattorias like Trattoria Tripoli with in-house wines. The village also has exclusive Michelin-star restaurants like the seafront DaV Mare if you are willing to pay a bit more than usual for top-class gourmet meals. However, for a more budget-friendly and immersive experience, try one of the cooking classes in Portofino where they will teach how to make an authentic Focaccia alla Genovese or Trofie al Pesto, a typical pasta from the area. La Piazzetta is also a convenient spot for browsing the high-end local boutiques and international brands like Louis Vuitton and Ferragamo! Editor’s tip: Take a quick tour of the 11-C Chiesa di San Martino in La Piazzetta before exploring other parts of Portofino. The entry is free, and the nave of the church is absolutely gorgeous. The frescoed nave of the 11th Century Church of Saint Martin (Divo Martino) in Portofino, ItalyClose to La Piazzetta are also the best things to see in Portofino! Just a 5-minute walk away is Museo del Parco with Italian-style gardens and some fine examples of the Genovese architecture. If you move a bit further in the direction of the Portofino Marina, it's the imposing Castello Brown you’ll be greeted with. A short hike up the hill and you will reach this well-preserved fortification that has stood in Portofino since the Roman times. Castello Brown also has one of the most expansive views of Portofino that spans the hilltop, the village and azure bay! A lovely aerial view in a sunny summer day in Portofino from Castello Brown Another place to soak up unreal views is the Lighthouse of Portofino. Perched at the cliff end of the promontory, the views here are truly breathtaking. And since you need to hike to get to the lighthouse, the small bar there serving drinks completes an overall rewarding experience! The lighthouse of Portofino at the cliff end of the promontory Cool down at the Baia Cannone There are actually two places where the clear waters of the sea tempt you to take a dip and enjoy the Mediterranean. The first is Baia Cannone, which is less than a 10-minute walk from La Piazzetta. It is the perfect spot to get away from the main square buzz for a bit and just enjoy nature. The turquoise waters of Baia Cannone in Portofino Editor’s tip: This is the perfect place to decide: Where to stay in Portofino? If you wish to stay close to Baia Cannone, then this sea-view apartment might be ideal but if you want to stay smack dab in the middle of the village, then this Piazzetta Martiri stay is better. The charming San Fruttuoso Bay with the Abbey and the beach Anyway, the other spot to enjoy swimming waters is at the Abbey de San Fruttuoso, one of the main highlights of Portofino. The abbey presents a picture-postcard kind of beauty, but it can be reached only on foot or by boat. Two routes lead to the Abbey. Find the best hiking route for you here. There is also a little surprise here that many don’t skip while visiting Portofino... The underwater statue of Christ of the Abyss in the Bay of San Fruttuoso. Originally placed in the medieval abbey itself, the bronze statue is now immersed in the clear waters and can be admired through snorkelling, diving, kayaking or a glass-floor boat tour. Gift yourself an amazing experience to admire the underwater statue of Christ of the Abyss Is it possible to have a budget-friendly holiday in Portofino? Since the holiday destination caters to a jet-setting crowd, it has become one of the most expensive holiday hot spots. Staying in budget-friendly accommodations in close by destinations is ideal if you do not want to shell out a lot of money. Plus, considering its small size, driving around in high season with limited parking space could be very tricky. Portofino’s has easy access from alternative destinations like Santa Margherita di Ligure, Cinque Terre and Genoa, making it worth it for all travellers. Here is how you can get to Portofino from each of these destinations Santa Margherita to Portofino Home of the beautiful Villa Durazzo and the only sandy beach on the Italian Riviera, Baia Paraggi, Santa Margherita di Ligure is the closest option to stay in for visiting Portofino. From the village, it is just a 20-minute bus ride or an hour-long hike (if you love hiking, then do not miss out on the opportunity to savour one of the most beautiful routes around). Take bus 782, which runs every 20 minutes, and it will drop you off right in the centre of Portofino. A ferry service, which runs from March to October (starting from 6€), also goes from here; it is the perfect way to treat your eyes with one of the most gasp-worthy views of the Portofino harbour. Stay in Santa Magherita Ligure. Genova to Portofino The capital of the Ligurian region, Genova, is a great alternative to enjoy the city vibes and easy access to Portofino. From Genova, it is approximately a 45-minute drive to Portofino, or you can take public transport. The regular FS 12337 train goes to Santa Margherita and from there the usual 782 will take you to your destination. The old harbour (Porto Antico) is the ancient part of the port of Genoa. In 1982 was redeveloped as area for public access restoring the historical buildings Editor’s tip: Do not miss out on one of the largest aquariums in Europe in Genova, with manta rays, whale sharks, seals and more. Stay in Genova centre. FAQs How much time do you need in Portofino? Ideally a day. But it also depends on how much you want to explore. If you plan on taking cooking classes or hiking in the Portofino Nature Park, then 2-3 days or a weekend is perfect. Is Cinque Terre or Portofino better? There is no choice when it comes to either. Rather, Portofino is a good addition to your Cinque Terre itinerary, especially if you are hiking the five beautiful villages. Is Portofino worth visiting? Portofino is one of those destinations that you should visit at least once in a lifetime. It blends everything Italian in the most scrumptious manner. From iconic Italian luxury to ancient charm, clear waters and lush nature. So, what will you choose: A day trip or a weekend in Portofino? You will find accommodation for all price ranges in Liguria, from low-budget to high-end retreats!

Why you should not miss Lake C...