Curator’s statement
Visiting Portofino on a cruise stop was special to me because it was a chance to slow down and share one of Italy’s most picturesque villages with my kids. Instead of rushing through, we could wander cobblestone streets, watch the boats in the harbor, and enjoy gelato together in the piazza. Traveling with little ones made me see Portofino through fresh eyes—every brightly painted house and every hidden path felt like a discovery. It’s these small family moments that turn a short cruise day into lasting memories.
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If you’re visiting Portofino with young kids, the colorful marina is the perfect place to start. Little ones will love watching the fishing boats and yachts bobbing in the turquoise water, while older kids can spot the tiny details of the pastel-painted houses stacked along the harbor. Grab a coffee for yourself and let the kids run off some energy along the waterfront before the day’s exploring begins.
Marina di Portofino
From the marina, head up the scenic path to Castello Brown. The climb is manageable even with children, and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Portofino’s bay. Inside the castle, kids can explore the old rooms and imagine what life was like when it was a fortress, while parents enjoy the gardens and panoramic terraces. For my three-year-old, the shady spots along the way offered a nice break, and the older two felt like adventurers reaching the top.
View from Castello Brown
Next, make your way to Chiesa di San Giorgio, a charming church perched on the hilltop near the castle. The short walk between the two sites is easy to manage, and the views from here are just as magical. The church itself is small and peaceful, giving kids a chance to peek inside without being overwhelmed. Outside, the lookout offers some of the best family photo spots in Portofino—a reward for the climb.
Chiesa di San Giorgio
Back in town, wrap up your day with the ultimate treat: gelato by the harbor. Choose from classic flavors like pistachio or stracciatella, and let the kids enjoy theirs while watching the boats glide in and out. It’s the perfect way to slow down and savor your short time in Portofino. With a mix of gentle exploring, history, and sweet rewards, even a single cruise port day here can feel full and memorable for the whole family.
Piazza Martiri Dell'Olivetta
Need to know
If you’d like to make your Portofino stop extra special, consider having lunch at La Terrazza, the restaurant at the Belmond Hotel Splendido. Perched on the hillside above the harbor, it offers panoramic views of the bay along with refined Italian cuisine. Getting there can be part of the adventure—you can walk up the scenic hill in about 10 to 15 minutes, take the hotel’s complimentary shuttle from the main square, or hop in a taxi if little legs are too tired. While the setting is elegant, the daytime atmosphere is relaxed enough that families with children are welcome, and the experience of dining with that incredible backdrop can make your short cruise day feel like a true Portofino highlight.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Italy page.
Travel Advisor
Vanessa Skawski
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