The 10 best experiences to do in Portofino and Rapallo on vacation

The wine tasting and winery tour in Sestri Levante is a unique experience.

During the guided tour of the cellars and the Ligurian wine production facility, you will have the opportunity to understand how the wines are made and feel the love and passion with which they are produced. The guided tour will continue with a tour of the underground Caveau which will be followed by a tasting of the most representative wines.

You will be able to choose from five options.

The Simple tasting that includes tasting 2 glasses of wine, Bianco Trevigne, Ciliegiolo Rosè or Rubino, accompanied by taralli and olives.

The Classic tasting without cutting board which includes 3 glasses, Il Bianco Trevigne / Bianchetta "U Pastine" Portofino DOC / Il Musaico Portofino DOC, accompanied by taralli and olives.

The Classic tasting with cutting board, which includes 3 glasses and an accompanying cutting board.

The Special tasting without cutting board, which includes 5 glasses, Il Bianco Trevigne / Bianchetta "U Pastine" Portofino DOC / Cimixà l'Antico / Portofino DOC / Il Musaico Portofino DOC / Granaccia Colline del Genovesato, accompanied by taralli and olives.

The Special tasting with cutting board, which includes 5 glasses and an accompanying cutting board.

The cutting board consists of a generous platter of cheeses, cured meats, vegetable pies and garden delicacies (subject to change throughout the seasons).

The duration of the experience is approximate.

After the wine tasting is over, you can enjoy a lunch (not included) that can take place either on the premises inside the winery with its large windows-which let you admire the beautiful vineyard-or outdoors.

Appropriate clothing for the low temperatures of the wineries is recommended for this experience.

This private boat excursion takes you to discover the Cinque Terre from the sea. You can admire of breathtaking views and swim in places only reachable by boat.

This experience is perfect for spending a fun and relaxing day with friends or family, for groups of up to 12 people.

You can sail the Gulf of La Spezia, Lerici, Portovenere and Palmaria Island on an exclusive gozzo.

Swimming stops are scheduled: the skipper will take you to coves and beaches away from the crowds.

You can choose from several tours with different durations: from 2 to 8 hours, departing in the morning and afternoon. There is also the possibility to choose the sunset tour, lasting 2 hours.

In case of bad weather, the facility may cancel or change the itinerary and its duration.

This group boat excursion takes you to discover the Cinque Terre from the sea.

This experience allows you to admire of breathtaking views and swim in places that can only be reached by boat.

You can choose from several options

Morning and afternoon tour

This experience starts from Montenero, then continues to Riomaggiore. Afterwards, you can see the picturesque Manarola with its typical terraces and vineyards, and then see Corniglia from the sea and the enchanting Vernazza.

The last planned stop is Monterosso, but before returning to Riomaggiore a swimming stop at the wild Guvano beach is planned. 

Sunset Tour

This experience allows you to admire the Cinque Terre at sunset while sipping local wine and savoring Ligurian focaccia.

You will have the opportunity to observe Riomaggiore from the sea while sipping your first glass of white wine. You will then proceed north and admire the "Via dell'Via dell'amore", Manarola, Corniglia and the Guvano beach.

You will then continue to Vernazza, where you will stop in the small harbor to take some photos of the village from the sea. Before returning, you can admire Monterosso in the distance.

Portovenere and Islands

Leaving Riomaggiore, you will proceed southeast where you can admire a wild coastline where cliffs, Mediterranean scrub and several beaches alternate.

Passing Ferrale you will pass by Campiglia beach and then continue to Portovenere which will welcome you with the view of the mighty castle facing the sea and the renowned bay known as Grotta Byron.

After a swimming stop you can visit the medieval town of Portovenere with the church of San Pietro and the castle.

Back on board, you will skirt Palmaria Island and Tino Island, then head for La Spezia.

The exclusive Cinque Terre boat excursion departing from Riomaggiore or Mirabello allows you to enjoy a unique experience discovering this stretch of the Ligurian coast.

Explore the Cinque Terre with this private tour in the company of your friends, family or partner.

You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will share with you the history of this area, making the trip not only scenic but also cultural.

You will sail along the coast admiring the famous villages from the sea, with the freedom to enjoy every moment without the presence of other guests.

During the excursion, swimming stops are planned in quiet coves, away from the crowds, to swim in crystal clear waters.

On board you will enjoy a local Ligurian focaccia mix, accompanied by prosecco, Coca-Cola and water.

The tour is available in morning or afternoon hours and it is ideal for couples, families and small groups who want a personalized, comfortable and authentic experience discovering the Cinque Terre.

Explore the Cinque Terre, Portovenere and the 3 islands with these group boat tours departing from the picturesque marina of Riomaggiore or Mirabello.

When booking, you can choose from three options.

Five Lands – Day Boat Tour

Discover the Cinque Terre from the sea with a boat tour departing from Riomaggiore. You'll sail along the coast admiring colorful villages and stop for a swim away from the crowds.

A relaxing and authentic experience, perfect for couples, families and friends.

Finque Terre – Sunset tour with pesto pasta

Experience the magic of Cinque Terre at sunset departing from Riomaggiore. Enjoy the colors of the sun setting over the sea as you savor fresh pesto pasta, handcrafted by a local workshop.

The’time may vary to ensure the best view of the sunset.

Boat tour to the 3 Islands – Portovenere

Group tour departing from Porto Mirabello (La Spezia) to discover Portovenere Natural Park and its islands. During the navigation a refreshing swimming stop is planned and you will be served an aperitif with Ligurian focaccia.

Perfect for those who want to explore one of the most fascinating areas of Liguria from the sea.

The Cinque Terre e-bike tour from Monterosso gives you a fun experience while admiring picturesque views.

You can choose from two options.

Monterosso 

This tour takes about 2.5 hours. After an initial briefing, you will start the ride in Monterosso and already after a few minutes an enchanting view of the gulf to Punta Mesco will open up before you, with terraces, vineyards and the small village from above.

You will make a stop at the Sanctuary of Soviore, a mystical and very important place for the locals, rich in history, knowledge and curiosities. Thanks to the guide you will discover up close the symbolic places of the Cinque Terre, as well as being an enviable vantage point.

Along the coastal road you will pedal alongside flowers, fragrant bushes, enjoying a view of all the cinque terre, its vineyards, olive groves, terraces overlooking the sea.

You will also stop at the sanctuary of Vernazza, an important junction during the Middle Ages, where the guide's wise words will transport you to distant eras.

Everyone will enjoy a ride in the National Park, without too much effort, guided by the words of the local guide.

With happy hour

Thanks to this 3-hour tour, you will have the opportunity to visit many picturesque places on the heights of the Cinque Terre National Park, guided by the local guide who will know how to lead you through unique views and tell you many curiosities and anecdotes dear to the locals.

The comfortable e-bikes that you will have at your disposal will allow you to pedal peacefully on slopes and views along the sea, skirting terraces, olive groves, sanctuaries and you will be able to admire the coast of the Cinque Terre, with its characteristic villages from above.

To make sure you don't miss anything, you can then relax on the Agriturismo's terrace overlooking the sea and enjoy a platter full of cheeses, cured meats and bruschetta with products from the agriturismo and a glass of Cinque Terre wine.

In case of food allergies and intolerances, you can contact the facility after booking.

Explore the Golfo dei Poeti with this 3.30-hour guided kayak tour from Lerici. Your local guide will lead you through sea caves, hidden coves, and stretches of coastline reachable only by kayak. 

Leaving from Lerici, your guide will lead you along the eastern coast of the bay, allowing you to admire the picturesque villages of San Terenzo and Lerici from the sea. Paddling in total relaxation, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the cliffs and surrounding islands, exploring unspoiled stretches of coastline and picturesque caves.

Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop and swim in crystal clear waters, take photos from unique vantage points, and relax on quiet beaches away from the crowds.

To end the experience, on the way back you can enjoy a delicious sunset aperitif with snacks and drinks right on the beach.

This private boat excursion takes you to discover the Cinque Terre from the sea. You can admire of breathtaking views and swim in places only reachable by boat.

This experience is perfect for spending a fun and relaxing day with friends or family, for groups of up to 12 people.

You can sail the Gulf of La Spezia, Lerici, Portovenere and Palmaria Island on an exclusive gozzo.

Swimming stops are scheduled: the skipper will take you to coves and beaches away from the crowds.

You can choose from several tours with different durations: from 2 to 8 hours, departing in the morning and afternoon. There is also the possibility to choose the sunset tour, lasting 2 hours.

In case of bad weather, the facility may cancel or change the itinerary and its duration.

This group boat excursion takes you to discover the Cinque Terre from the sea.

This experience allows you to admire of breathtaking views and swim in places that can only be reached by boat.

You can choose from several options

Morning and afternoon tour

This experience starts from Montenero, then continues to Riomaggiore. Afterwards, you can see the picturesque Manarola with its typical terraces and vineyards, and then see Corniglia from the sea and the enchanting Vernazza.

The last planned stop is Monterosso, but before returning to Riomaggiore a swimming stop at the wild Guvano beach is planned. 

Sunset Tour

This experience allows you to admire the Cinque Terre at sunset while sipping local wine and savoring Ligurian focaccia.

You will have the opportunity to observe Riomaggiore from the sea while sipping your first glass of white wine. You will then proceed north and admire the "Via dell'Via dell'amore", Manarola, Corniglia and the Guvano beach.

You will then continue to Vernazza, where you will stop in the small harbor to take some photos of the village from the sea. Before returning, you can admire Monterosso in the distance.

Portovenere and Islands

Leaving Riomaggiore, you will proceed southeast where you can admire a wild coastline where cliffs, Mediterranean scrub and several beaches alternate.

Passing Ferrale you will pass by Campiglia beach and then continue to Portovenere which will welcome you with the view of the mighty castle facing the sea and the renowned bay known as Grotta Byron.

After a swimming stop you can visit the medieval town of Portovenere with the church of San Pietro and the castle.

Back on board, you will skirt Palmaria Island and Tino Island, then head for La Spezia.

The exclusive Cinque Terre boat excursion departing from Riomaggiore or Mirabello allows you to enjoy a unique experience discovering this stretch of the Ligurian coast.

Explore the Cinque Terre with this private tour in the company of your friends, family or partner.

You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will share with you the history of this area, making the trip not only scenic but also cultural.

You will sail along the coast admiring the famous villages from the sea, with the freedom to enjoy every moment without the presence of other guests.

During the excursion, swimming stops are planned in quiet coves, away from the crowds, to swim in crystal clear waters.

On board you will enjoy a local Ligurian focaccia mix, accompanied by prosecco, Coca-Cola and water.

The tour is available in morning or afternoon hours and it is ideal for couples, families and small groups who want a personalized, comfortable and authentic experience discovering the Cinque Terre.

Explore the Cinque Terre, Portovenere and the 3 islands with these group boat tours departing from the picturesque marina of Riomaggiore or Mirabello.

When booking, you can choose from three options.

Five Lands – Day Boat Tour

Discover the Cinque Terre from the sea with a boat tour departing from Riomaggiore. You'll sail along the coast admiring colorful villages and stop for a swim away from the crowds.

A relaxing and authentic experience, perfect for couples, families and friends.

Finque Terre – Sunset tour with pesto pasta

Experience the magic of Cinque Terre at sunset departing from Riomaggiore. Enjoy the colors of the sun setting over the sea as you savor fresh pesto pasta, handcrafted by a local workshop.

The’time may vary to ensure the best view of the sunset.

Boat tour to the 3 Islands – Portovenere

Group tour departing from Porto Mirabello (La Spezia) to discover Portovenere Natural Park and its islands. During the navigation a refreshing swimming stop is planned and you will be served an aperitif with Ligurian focaccia.

Perfect for those who want to explore one of the most fascinating areas of Liguria from the sea.

The Cinque Terre e-bike tour from Monterosso gives you a fun experience while admiring picturesque views.

You can choose from two options.

Monterosso 

This tour takes about 2.5 hours. After an initial briefing, you will start the ride in Monterosso and already after a few minutes an enchanting view of the gulf to Punta Mesco will open up before you, with terraces, vineyards and the small village from above.

You will make a stop at the Sanctuary of Soviore, a mystical and very important place for the locals, rich in history, knowledge and curiosities. Thanks to the guide you will discover up close the symbolic places of the Cinque Terre, as well as being an enviable vantage point.

Along the coastal road you will pedal alongside flowers, fragrant bushes, enjoying a view of all the cinque terre, its vineyards, olive groves, terraces overlooking the sea.

You will also stop at the sanctuary of Vernazza, an important junction during the Middle Ages, where the guide's wise words will transport you to distant eras.

Everyone will enjoy a ride in the National Park, without too much effort, guided by the words of the local guide.

With happy hour

Thanks to this 3-hour tour, you will have the opportunity to visit many picturesque places on the heights of the Cinque Terre National Park, guided by the local guide who will know how to lead you through unique views and tell you many curiosities and anecdotes dear to the locals.

The comfortable e-bikes that you will have at your disposal will allow you to pedal peacefully on slopes and views along the sea, skirting terraces, olive groves, sanctuaries and you will be able to admire the coast of the Cinque Terre, with its characteristic villages from above.

To make sure you don't miss anything, you can then relax on the Agriturismo's terrace overlooking the sea and enjoy a platter full of cheeses, cured meats and bruschetta with products from the agriturismo and a glass of Cinque Terre wine.

In case of food allergies and intolerances, you can contact the facility after booking.

Discover with a horseback ride the fantastic hills in the countryside around Lucca.

1h route:

during the horseback ride you will pass through an olive grove, go through a forest and arrive at a vantage point with spectacular views of the hills.

1h30 route:

during The second route you will instead cross the forest arriving at a point from where you can admire the plain of Lucca.

The horseback ride is suitable for everyone, no experience is needed.

The’quad bike excursion in the Val di Lima, in the mountains above Florence in Tuscany é an’activity’that makes you experience the nature of the’Tuscan-Emilian Apennines in a fun way, together with the performance Quad Yamaha Kodiak 700.

1-hour excursion - Livizzano:

.

•    Departure: Livizzano Base Camp
•    Trail Duration: 11km - average 1 hour
•    Altitude: 600m

You will start the hike from the mule tracks, dirt roads, fords and small streams of ‘Livizzano’, continuing then along wooded trails that will allow you to return to the starting site.

3-hour hike (half day) - Monte Prato Fiorito:

•    Departure: Livizzano Base Camp
•    .
•    Trail Duration: 33km - average 3 hours
•    Altitude: 600m to 1200m (elevation gain: 600m)

You will again start the hike from the mule tracks, dirt roads, fords and small streams of ‘Livizzano’.

The hike will then continue along wooded trails that will allow you to reach the spectacular views that await you on the slopes of Mount ‘Prato Fiorito’ at 1200m altitude.

5-hour hike (day) - Botri Gorge:

.

•    Departure: Livizzano Base Camp
•    .
•    Trail Duration: 40km - average 5 hours
•    Altitude: 600m - 1200m - 900m (total elevation gain: 1200m)

Also in this option you will start the hike from the mule tracks, dirt roads, fords and small streams of ‘Livizzano’.

The hike will then continue along wooded trails that will allow you to reach the spectacular views that await you on the slopes of Mt. ‘Prato Fiorito’ at 1200m altitude.

The tour will then continue to the Orrido di Botri nature reserve where you will stop for lunch. Lunch consists of a set menu and must be paid for on site (15€ per person):

•    Tuscan appetizer
•    Bis of pasta
•    Water
•    Caffè 

For each selected tour, a briefing and initial test are provided before departure to explain how to use the ATV, so that you can ride it with ease and in complete safety.

Participate in a horseback ride through the hills of Pisa, accompanied by an experienced equestrian guide. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a lunch or dinner or picnic depending on the tour selected.

After an initial briefing and assignment of your horse and equipment, you will ride through Tuscan woods and countryside with views of Monte Serra, Lower Valdarno, and a characteristic natural lake.

The walk takes place at the pace and è also suitable for those who è first experience in the saddle.

To make the experience even more special, you can choose from several options that include lunch or dinner in a restaurant with appetizer, main course, dessert, water and coffee, or a picnic in nature with sandwich or flatbread stuffed with local products and alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.

After the break you will resume your horseback riding excursion before returning to the starting point.

Comfortable clothing with long pants and closed shoes is recommended.

If you choose to participate in the Garfagnana rafting experience on the Lima, you will have the opportunity to decide between 2 different experiences, classic rafting and packrafting.

Classic rafting This experience consists of a 4 km long descent on the Lima stream. During the adventure there will be a rafting guide who will allow you to learn more about the river environment and the magical world of rafting. The activity includes a stop at the footbridge waterfall for photo ops, 5m plunge at the old hydrometer and aquatics test in rapid. Technical equipment is provided and helmets have attachments for your action-cams. You can have the experience from November to May.

Packrafting

The activity consists of an easy perscorso of about 3.8 km duration with the "Packraft," a portable, lightweight and surprisingly sturdy one-person inflatable boat designed to navigate in any type of aquatic environment.

Experience the thrill of riding a Packraft through rapids and nature in the beautiful Mediavalle of the picturesque Serchio River just a few steps from the renowned Devil's Bridge. Clear water, thrills, breathtaking views and rapids await you.

All technical and safety equipment for activities is provided on site.

Open from March to July and September to November.

Horseback experience for beginners, designed to introduce you to horseback riding in a safe and engaging way, with a final appetizer and photo shoot.

The activity begins with a short briefing and a lesson in the field to learn or brush up on basic commands and build an initial relationship with the horse, followed by a trial ride to gain more confidence. Afterwards, you will set off directly for a walk of about an hour through forests, fords and historic trails, passing under the Upezzinghi tower, to the abandoned convent of Nicosia and the Certosa di Calci, along a loop trail.

At the end of the hike, an aperitif awaits you in the stables with typical products, bread and wine, with options also available for special dietary needs. The experience is about 2 hours long, easy level and suitable for ages 8 and up, with ground accompaniment for younger riders. Also included is a photo shoot to remember the day.

The visit, followed by a tasting, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the historic local winery of the Luzi Donadei winery in the heart of the Langhe.

The duration of the experience is about 2 hours and, with favorable weather conditions, the visit will conclude with a walk through the streets of the village to discover the estate's vineyards. It is also possible to conduct the visit in English and French.

The visit is suitable for all ages and animals are also allowed.

Piedmont Classics.

Tasting of 3 local wines:

•    Langhe Doc Chardonnay
•    Dogliani Docg
•    Langhe red

The tasting is accompanied by a mixed platter of cured meats and cheeses.

Piedmont's top wines

Tasting of 4 local wines:

•    Donna Cecilia Dogliani Doc Sup.
•    Claves Januae Barbera d'Alba doc Sup.
•    Barolo docg
•    Ester Ferrero Brut Metodo Classico

The tasting is accompanied by a mixed platter of cured meats and cheeses.

Choose horseback riding in Lurisia Terme and aperitif, and spend a pleasant and peaceful ride through the woods and beautiful landscapes of the area in the province of Cuneo.

A horseback ride is a panacea for body and mind. In the company of equestrian hiking guides, you will have an unforgettable experience, discovering the treasures of the area and experiencing the authentic emotions of a ride in nature.

This horseback ride has a duration of 2 hours and at the end you will be offered an aperitif.

The horseback ride begins at the riding school in Lurisia Terme, a hamlet of Roccaforte Mondovì, in the province of Cuneo. For beginners, there will be an approach and familiarization time with the horses.

We will ride a route of variable length (depending on the level of the participants and the duration chosen) on wooded trails around Lurisia. This is a very interesting area from a naturalistic point of view, which offers spring waters valuable for wellness and spa treatments.

The horseback riding excursion will take place on a route totally surrounded by greenery, of great relaxation and coolness, particularly suitable for those at the first experience of horseback riding, but very pleasant also for the more experienced.

Horseback riding in Lurisia Terme, outside Cuneo, allows you to spend a relaxing time immersed in the woods and picturesque landscapes of this area.

A horseback ride is a panacea for body and mind. In the company of equestrian hiking guides, you will live a unique experience, discovering the treasures of the area and experiencing the authentic emotions of a ride in nature.

You can choose from 2 options:

•    1-hour walk
•    2-hour walk

The horseback ride begins at the riding school in Lurisia Terme, a hamlet of Roccaforte Mondovì, in the province of Cuneo. For beginners, there will be a time to approach and become familiar with the horses.

You will ride an itinerary of varying length (depending on the level of the participants and the duration chosen) on wooded trails around Lurisia. This is a very interesting area from a naturalistic point of view, offering valuable spring waters for wellness and spa treatments.

The horseback riding excursion will take place on a route totally surrounded by greenery, of great relaxation and coolness, particularly suitable for those who are new to horseback riding, but very enjoyable for the more experienced as well.

Live a unique 4x4 experience in the spectacular Alps on the border between Italy and France, choosing between two itineraries rich in history, nature and breathtaking views.

Valley of Wonders: You'll explore the picturesque Valley of Wonders, famous for ancient rock carvings thousands of years old and the pristine scenery of the Mercantour National Park, accompanied by a licensed professional guide, with a picnic lunch break surrounded by nature.

Via del Sale: you can walk the historic Via del Sale, the ancient trade route between Liguria, Piedmont and France, crossing alpine passes and scenic refuges to the Don Barbera Refuge, where a typical mountain lunch awaits you included in the price.

Both tours depart from either Colle di Tenda or Limone Piemonte, depending on where you are most comfortable (contact the facility for exact address).

A wonderful panoramic snowshoe hike that will take you through the picturesque snowy landscapes of Prato Nevoso in the province of Cuneo.

You will walk on soft white snow with views of pristine winter scenery, the colors of winter and the tranquility of the mountains. A unique experience that will repay the effort (not too much) of snowshoeing! There are several ways to perform the snowshoe outing:

Panoramic snowshoeing
You will meet the guide and once you have your snowshoes on, you will set off on the approximately two-hour hike that will run along fresh snow in the Trucca Sape' forest. Thursday through Monday, start in the morning or afternoon.
The total elevation gain of the walk is approximately 300 mt.

Snowshoeing with Aperitif
If you prefer instead a shorter hike and end with an aperitif in the fresh air among the snow, you can choose the pre-summer outing "apericiaspola" starting at 5 p.m. and lasting 1 h 30 min (snowshoeing about 1 h).

Snowshoeing with lunch at the Refuge
A fantastic snowshoeing experience to Chalet il Rosso in Prato Nevoso with lunch included. Once lunch is finished you will then descend from the lodge back to the starting point.

If there is a lack of snow, the snowshoeing can be moved to higher elevation by adding the cost of the gondola.

Snowshoe in Prato Nevoso, one of the most beautiful winter resorts in Piedmont.

The boat tour to Portofino, San Fruttuoso and Camogli is a classic and comprehensive boat tour of the Portofino Natural Park area.

The starting point of the boat excursion is in Rapallo, but a pickup in Portofino or Santa Margherita Ligure can also be arranged, agreeing this after booking.

Spending a full day in the Portofino area, you can enjoy all the best that the area has to offer: sea, sun, beautiful views, local food, wine, and a pristine natural environment like few others in Italy.