The Enchanting Charm of Portovenere
Discover the captivating coastal charm of Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colorful homes, breathtaking views, and rich history.
Nestled in the heart of the Italian Riviera, Portovenere is a picturesque coastal village that enchants visitors with its colorful houses, stunning views, and rich history. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this charming destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal spot for tourists seeking a memorable experience.
A brief summary to Portovenere
- Via Calata Doria, 88-42, Porto Venere, Province of La Spezia, 19025, IT
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture stunning photos.
- Try local seafood dishes at waterfront restaurants for an authentic taste of the region.
- Take a boat tour to nearby islands for a unique perspective and beautiful scenery.
- Wear comfortable footwear as the streets are cobbled and can be steep in places.
- Don't miss the sunset view from the Church of St. Peter for an unforgettable experience.
Getting There
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Train and Ferry
From any of the Cinque Terre villages (Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, or Riomaggiore), take a train to La Spezia Centrale station. Train schedules are frequent and the journey will take about 10-30 minutes depending on your starting point. Once at La Spezia Centrale, exit the station and follow the signs to the ferry terminal (about a 10-minute walk). Purchase a ferry ticket to Portovenere. The ferry ride offers stunning views and takes approximately 30 minutes.
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Bus
After reaching La Spezia, you can also take a bus to Portovenere. From La Spezia Centrale, exit and find the bus station nearby. Look for the bus line that goes to Portovenere (usually marked as 'Portovenere'). The bus ride will take about 30 minutes. Make sure to check the bus schedule as it may vary, especially in off-peak seasons.
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Ferry from Cinque Terre
If you are near Manarola or Riomaggiore, you can take a direct ferry to Portovenere during the tourist season. Check the local ferry schedules for specific times as they may not run frequently. The ferry ride from Manarola to Portovenere will take around 45 minutes, while from Riomaggiore it will be slightly shorter. This option also provides beautiful coastal views.
Discover more about Portovenere
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Forte Santa Maria
2.4 km
Explore the historic Forte Santa Maria in Portovenere, a captivating fortress with breathtaking views and rich military heritage.
Cinque Terre Ferries
6.2 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and vibrant charm of Cinque Terre through scenic ferry rides connecting Italy's iconic coastal villages.
Castello di San Terenzo
6.2 km
Explore the rich history and stunning views at Castello di San Terenzo, a medieval fortress in Lerici overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Poets.
Palazzo Castagnola
6.2 km
Explore the stunning architectural beauty and historical significance of Palazzo Castagnola in La Spezia, a must-visit landmark for culture enthusiasts.
De Nobili Palace
6.3 km
Explore the historical elegance of De Nobili Palace in La Spezia, a stunning landmark that embodies Italy's rich architectural heritage.
Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, 28
6.7 km
Discover the vibrant heart of La Spezia at Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, a lively square filled with culture, cuisine, and stunning coastal views.
Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi
6.7 km
Explore the vibrant Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi in La Spezia, where history and local culture come alive amidst charming cafés and stunning architecture.
Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, 4
6.8 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, the cultural heart of La Spezia, where local life thrives amid stunning architecture.
Chiesa Parrocchiale di Nostra Signora della Salute
7.0 km
Discover the architectural beauty and peaceful ambiance of Chiesa Parrocchiale di Nostra Signora della Salute in La Spezia, Italy.
Piazzale Medaglie d'Oro al Valor Militare
7.1 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Piazzale Medaglie d'Oro al Valor Militare in La Spezia, Italy, where valor and nature meet.
Marina di Tellaro, scalo
7.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Marina di Tellaro, a historical landmark showcasing Italy's maritime heritage and stunning coastal scenery.
Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero
8.8 km
Explore the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero, a serene church offering breathtaking views of the Cinque Terre and a rich spiritual experience.
Cinque Terre Point
9.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Cinque Terre with expert advice and resources from Cinque Terre Point, your essential tourist information center.
Cinque Terre Park Residence In Srl
9.3 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Cinque Terre from the comfort of Cinque Terre Park Residence, your ideal getaway in Riomaggiore.
Cinque Terre Coast to Coast (affittacamere)
9.4 km
Discover the enchanting Cinque Terre Coast to Coast, a charming bed and breakfast nestled in the picturesque landscape of Italy's coastal paradise.
Unmissable attractions to see
Grotta di Lord Byron
0.1 km
Discover the beauty and literary charm of Grotta di Lord Byron, a stunning coastal cave in Portovenere, Italy, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Torre di Venere
0.1 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Torre di Venere, where exquisite cuisine meets breathtaking coastal views in Porto Venere.
I Mulini Di Portovenere
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting I Mulini Di Portovenere, a historic mill enveloped by stunning coastal views and rich Italian heritage.
Portovenere 5 Terre
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Portovenere, a jewel of the Italian Riviera, where colorful houses and stunning coastal views await.
Chiesa di San Pietro
0.2 km
Explore Chiesa di San Pietro, a stunning Catholic church in Porto Venere with breathtaking views and rich historical significance.
Doria Castle
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Doria Castle in Porto Venere, a medieval fortress offering breathtaking views and rich history along the Ligurian coast.
Porta del Borgo
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting Porta del Borgo in Porto Venere, a historical landmark that immerses you in rich culture and stunning seaside views.
Porto Venere
0.6 km
Explore Porto Venere - a stunning coastal gem in Italy's Province of La Spezia, renowned for its colorful houses, historic sites, and breathtaking views.
Grotta Azzurra
0.6 km
Explore the magical Grotta Azzurra, a stunning sea cave in Porto Venere with mesmerizing blue waters and breathtaking natural beauty.
Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Palmaria
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Palmaria Island, a serene getaway in the Ligurian Sea, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Palmaria Island
1.0 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Palmaria Island, a serene paradise in the Gulf of Poets, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
MonteMuzzerone
1.1 km
Explore Monte Muzzerone, a historical gem in Porto Venere, offering rich archaeological insights and stunning coastal views.
Arcipelago Spezzino
1.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Arcipelago Spezzino, an idyllic island retreat near Porto Venere, Italy.
Le Terrazze • Beach & Pool
1.3 km
Discover the beauty of Le Terrazze, a serene beach and pool destination in Portovenere, where the Ligurian Sea meets relaxation.
Essential places to dine
Da Dulìn
9.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Da Dulìn in Riomaggiore – where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking coastal views.
Veciu Muin
9.4 km
Experience authentic Italian pizza and fresh seafood at Veciu Muin in scenic Riomaggiore – where every meal is a taste of coastal paradise.
La Cantina del Macellaio
9.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at La Cantina del Macellaio in Riomaggiore - a culinary treasure nestled in Cinque Terre.
Osteria La Torpedine
9.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Osteria La Torpedine in Riomaggiore – a culinary journey through Liguria's finest dishes.
Il Grottino
9.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Il Grottino in Riomaggiore - where authentic Italian flavors meet breathtaking coastal views.
Il Pescato Cucinato
9.4 km
Experience authentic Italian coastal dining at Il Pescato Cucinato—home of delicious fish and chips in beautiful Riomaggiore.
Dau Cila
9.4 km
Experience authentic Italian seafood cuisine with breathtaking sea views at Dau Cila in Riomaggiore.
Rio Bistrot
9.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with stunning views at Rio Bistrot in picturesque Riomaggiore.
Trattoria La Lampara
9.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and fresh seafood at Trattoria La Lampara in picturesque Riomaggiore.
Fuori Rotta
9.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Fuori Rotta in Riomaggiore's stunning coastal landscape.
Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma
9.7 km
Discover Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma: A hidden gem in Riomaggiore offering exquisite wines and authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking sea views.
Trattoria Via dell'Amore
9.7 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean dining with stunning sea views at Trattoria Via dell'Amore in Riomaggiore.
Focacceria A piè de Campu
10.4 km
Discover authentic Ligurian cuisine at Focacceria A piè de Campu in Manarola, where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Trattoria dal Billy
10.5 km
Discover authentic Italian seafood at Trattoria dal Billy in Manarola, where stunning views meet exquisite flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
Cappun Magru
10.5 km
Discover authentic Ligurian cuisine at Cappun Magru, where exquisite seafood meets fine wines in the heart of Manarola.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Le Cinque Perle La Spezia
9.4 km
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Cose't Riomaggiore
9.4 km
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I Trogi Wine Shop Riomaggiore
9.4 km
Explore the exquisite local wines and unique souvenirs at I Trogi Wine Shop, a must-visit destination in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre.
Ezio System
9.8 km
Discover exquisite custom tailoring and fashion accessories at Ezio System, the premier dress store in Romito Magra, Italy.
Faggioni abbigliamento
10.5 km
Explore the charm of Manarola with unique souvenirs from Faggioni Abbigliamento, capturing the spirit of the Cinque Terre.
Gp store 1971
10.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and stylish clothing at Gp Store 1971 in La Spezia, a perfect blend of local culture and fashion.
Emporio Burasca
10.6 km
Discover the best of Manarola at Emporio Burasca - a wine store offering local wines, homemade pasta, and unique souvenirs in the heart of Cinque Terre.
Salsedine Manarola
10.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Salsedine Manarola, where every item tells a story of Italy's rich heritage.
Explora Trekking Store
10.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Cinque Terre with premium outdoor gear from Explora Trekking Store in Manarola.
Acquamarina SOUVENIR
10.6 km
Explore Acquamarina Souvenir in Manarola for authentic gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of Italy's stunning Cinque Terre.
Numero Due Di Paula Marea
10.6 km
Explore the essence of Cinque Terre at Numero Due Di Paula Marea, where every gift tells a story of Italian craftsmanship and coastal charm.
Manarola Boutique
10.6 km
Explore Manarola Boutique for unique ceramics, jewelry, and local treasures in the picturesque Cinque Terre.
MG Hand Made Shop
12.7 km
Explore MG Hand Made Shop in Corniglia for custom t-shirts, unique jewelry, and handcrafted pottery, celebrating the art of Italian craftsmanship.
Lanapo Cinque Terre - Corniglia
12.7 km
Explore the best of Corniglia with stylish shoes and unique artisanal finds at Lanapo, the perfect stop for every traveler in Cinque Terre.
Fanny Bazar
12.8 km
Explore Fanny Bazar, a charming souvenir store in Corniglia, offering unique local crafts and gifts that capture the essence of Italy.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Il Sole a 180 Gradi
9.0 km
Discover Il Sole a 180 Gradi, a coastal bar in Cinque Terre offering stunning views, refreshing drinks, and a perfect spot to unwind.
La Conchiglia
9.4 km
Discover La Conchiglia, a cozy bar in Riomaggiore offering local wines and stunning coastal views, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventures.
Vertical Lounge Bar
9.4 km
Experience the beauty and vibrancy of Riomaggiore at the Vertical Lounge Bar, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking views.
Bar O'netto
9.4 km
Discover Bar O'netto: A cozy bar in Riomaggiore offering local wines, breathtaking views, and a taste of authentic Italian hospitality.
Lo Scalo Lounge Bar
9.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Italy at Lo Scalo Lounge Bar in Riomaggiore - a perfect blend of cocktails, fast food, and breathtaking views.
Old School Cocktails & Food
9.5 km
Discover the heart of Italian cuisine and mixology at Old School Cocktails & Food in Riomaggiore, where tradition meets taste.
Bar Stazione eredi Soldani Eliseo
9.7 km
Discover the charm of Bar Stazione Eredi Soldani Eliseo in Riomaggiore, where stunning views and delightful beverages meet Italian hospitality.
La Cantina Zio Bramante
10.6 km
Discover La Cantina Zio Bramante, a charming bar in Manarola offering exquisite local wines and stunning views of the Cinque Terre.
Chiosco del Sole Volastra Cinque Terre
11.0 km
Discover Chiosco del Sole in Cinque Terre, a perfect bar for coffee, light bites, and breathtaking views of the stunning coastal scenery.
Terra Rossa wine&food winebar
12.7 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of local wines and authentic Italian cuisine at Terra Rossa Wine & Food Winebar in Corniglia.
Terza Terra
12.8 km
Discover the charm of Terza Terra, a cozy bar in Corniglia offering exquisite local wines and breathtaking coastal views, perfect for every traveler.
Marina di Corniglia
12.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Marina di Corniglia, where delicious cocktails and coastal charm await you.
Castelnuovo's Crazy Beer
14.5 km
Discover Castelnuovo's Crazy Beer: A brewpub experience filled with artisanal beers, local culture, and a vibrant atmosphere in Colombiera-Molicciara.
Blue Marlin Bar
15.3 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Vernazza at Blue Marlin Bar, your go-to destination for cocktails, pizza, and unforgettable coastal views.
Monkey artpub
15.4 km
Experience the vibrant local culture and artistic flair at Monkey Artpub in Vernazza, a must-visit destination for a cozy night out.
