Portofino Harbor – Skip the expensive harbor-front cafés and instead grab a gelato from the small shop on the corner to enjoy while people-watching from the public benches.

Castello Brown – Visit in the late afternoon when most tour groups have departed and ask the caretaker about accessing the hidden terrace at the very top.

Church of St. Martin – Look for the small wooden door to the right of the altar that sometimes opens to reveal an ancient fresco not mentioned in guidebooks.

Lighthouse of Portofino – Time your visit for just before sunset and bring a small picnic to enjoy at the rocky outcropping beyond the lighthouse fence.

Paraggi Beach – Arrive before 9am to secure a spot on the less crowded right side of the beach where the morning sun hits first.

San Fruttuoso Abbey – Take the first morning boat to beat the crowds and experience the abbey in serene silence before the day trippers arrive.

Portofino Regional Park – Follow trail #7 for the most spectacular coastal views and keep an eye out for wild herbs which locals collect for cooking.

Diva Martina Cove – Access this hidden swimming spot via the unmarked path behind Restaurant Puny for crystal-clear waters without the crowds.

Piazzetta di Portofino – Visit on Tuesday mornings when local fishermen sell their catch directly to residents, offering a glimpse of authentic Portofino life.

Cervara Abbey – Call ahead to arrange a private garden tour where you’ll see the best-preserved medieval terraced gardens on the Italian Riviera.