Portovenere

The basics

Portovenere is usually visited on a day trip from La Spezia, San Gimignano, Siena, Milan, or, most commonly, Florence. Many tours combine free time in this oceanside town with stops in the coastal villages of Cinque Terre for hiking, dining, and exploring. You can admire the picturesque waterfront aboard a sailing cruise around the Gulf of Poets, too.

Things to know before you go

• If visiting in summer, be sure to pack sunscreen and insect repellent.

• Public transportation to and from Portovenere is limited, so joining a tour is the best option for those without a car.

• White some hotels, ferries, and attractions in Portovenere are wheelchair and stroller accessible, the village’s steep and narrow lanes can be challenging for anyone with limited mobility.

How to get there

Located at the southern tip of Cinque Terre National Park along the Italian Riviera, Portovenere is reachable year-round by car and from mid-April through Oct. by ferry boat from nearby villages such as La Spezia, Levanto, and Vernazza. It is 102 miles (164 kilometers) west of Florence and 9 miles (15 kilometers) from La Spezia.

When to get there

The most atmospheric, albeit crowded, time to visit Portovenere is in summer (May to Aug.). The town is a popular destination year-round, but many hotels, restaurants, and attractions close down in the winter low season.

The legend of the Gulf of Poets

La Spezia Bay is better known as the Golfo dei Poeti, or the Gulf of Poets, and its natural beauty has been inspiring poets since Roman times. Poets George Sand, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and Eugenio Montale have all mentioned the bay in their verses, while one of the coastal caves, Grotta Arpaia, was named after former resident Lord Byron (it collapsed).

Where is Portovenere located in Italy?

Portovenere is situated in northwest Italy, on the picturesque Ligurian coast, between La Spezia (also called the Bay of Poets) and the Cinque Terre. The nearest airport to Portovenere is Pisa International Airport. Getting there takes around 75 minutes or roughly a 59-mile (95-kilometer) drive.

How can I get to Portovenere from La Spezia?

To reach Portovenere from La Spezia, hiring a car or taxi is quickest, taking around 20 minutes. Alternatively, a bus ride, with tickets from a Tabaccheria for around €3, takes less than 30 minutes. For scenic views, opt for boat transfers, which are available between March and November.

What are some must-do activities in Portovenere?

Start a day in colorful Portovenere by strolling along the scenic harbor. Climb the historic Doria Castle and visit the two important churches of San Pietro and San Lorenzo. Other must-do activities include exploring the historic center and visiting Lord Byron’s Grotto.

Are there beaches in Portovenere?

Yes, several beaches are in and around Portovenere, including the free Mirella Beach and the family-friendly Arenella Beach. For a private experience, Le Terrazze offers a beach and two swimming pools. Palmaria Island, accessible by a short boat ride, boasts some of the area's best beaches.

When is the best time to visit Portovenere?

The best time to visit Portovenere is during spring (April–May) for mild weather with fewer crowds, though it may be too cold for swimming. June–July offers optimal weather for swimming and hiking, but crowds are almost at their peak. September is also ideal, allowing for swimming with reduced tourist numbers.

Is Portovenere worth visiting?

Yes, Portovenere is undoubtedly worth visiting. It's less crowded than well-known spots such as the Cinque Terre and Portofino but still offers beautiful scenery, colorful architecture, artisanal shops, and outstanding eateries. Dubbed the "6th town of the Cinque Terre," Portovenere has also been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.