Italy, one of the most popular and beautiful places in the world, is much more than just Rome, Milan and Venice. Forget these popular places in one of Europe’s most charming countries: the tip today is about a place that isn’t as well-known but is an incredible vacation destination. It’s Portofino, a lovely resort on the Italian Riviera, considered one of the most luxurious, exclusive and tranquil places in the world. And that’s not an overstatement. Portofino has only about 530 inhabitants in an area of 2 square kilometers in the small Italian commune in Liguria, a province of Genoa.
Similar to a neighborhood in size and population, this Italian village has traditional, small, colorful houses set between a mountain and the beautiful, crystal-clear, blue waters of the sea. Side by side with these simple homes, we find representatives of the most famous designer labels in the world, such as Cartier, Dior and Louis Vuitton, spread along the seafront, which also boasts excellent bars and trendy restaurants.
Because it’s so exclusive, Portofino is the favorite destination of wealthy and famous people from all over the world, as shown in The Wolf of Wall Street and several other Hollywood productions. Among many other celebrities, stylist Giorgio Armani, actors George Clooney, Tom Cruise, and Jennifer Lopez, as well as singers Madonna and Rihanna, have been clicked by paparazzi while vacationing there.
The best time to visit Portofino is between April and September, to enjoy the sunshine, the beautiful landscape and the boat trips without running the risk of finding shops and restaurants closed. The tips for outings are simple: besides roaming the charming streets of the village, take a boat trip to Piazzeta, after a good breakfast and before a delicious swim in Pariggi Beach. Don’t miss a visit to Castello Brown, an ancient fortress that is now a lovely museum.
