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

Enjoy a day cruise to the Cinque Terre with friends, exploring the villages of Portovenere, Vernazza and Monterosso, where you can swim or enjoy lunch overlooking the sea.

The sailing departs from La Spezia at 10:00 a.m. aboard a motorboat that will reach Portovenere after a few minutes, where the first stop will be scheduled. Afterwards, the itinerary continues to Monterosso and, finally, you will visit Vernazza, before returning to the pier around 6:00 pm.

At each stop, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the villages, take a swim in the clear waters, enjoy a lunch overlooking the sea, and store in local stores.

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change.

The Blue Day è a sailing excursion to Cinque Terre and the Gulf of Poets, offering an exciting experience to explore the coastal waters and hidden coves of the area.

During the excursion, you can dive into the crystal-clear waters of the marine park and admire the cliffs of the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto, as well as enjoy the picturesque views of Portovenere, Lerici and the villages of the Cinque Terre.

You will be able to participate in sailing maneuvers and enjoy a welcome focaccia lunch and other self-prepared dishes.

Two itineraries are available:

•    Itinerary in the Gulf of Poets: Sailing to Tellaro, Lerici and the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto, with stops for swimming and admiring the breathtaking views.  
•    Five Lands Itinerary: Depart from Le Grazie/La Spezia for Portovenere, crossing the Cinque Terre to admire the villages that overlook the cliffs, with stops for lunch and possible disembarkation at Vernazza.

Depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change.

Wine tasting and winery tour in Sestri Levante è a unique experience!

During the guided tour of the wineries and Ligurian wine production facility, you will have the opportunity to understand how 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.

The Classic tasting includes 3 glasses: Il Bianco Trevigne / Bianchetta “U Pastine” Portofino DOC / Il Musaico Portofino DOC.

The Special Tasting includes five glasses: Il Bianco Trevigne / Bianchetta “U Pastine” Portofino DOC / Cimixà l’Antico / Portofino DOC / Il Musaico Portofino DOC / Granaccia Colline del Genovesato.

To pair with the wines will be offered a generous board with cheeses, cured meats, vegetable pies and garden delicacies (subject to change throughout the seasons).

After the wine tasting you can enjoy a lunch (not included) that can take place either on the premises inside the winery from the large windows – that let you admire the beautiful vineyard – or outdoors.

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

This sunset boat tour from Monterosso with aperitif è a relaxing and fun evening by boat discovering the 5 Terre.

The departure of the mini-cruise in high season, è scheduled in Monterosso at 6 pm. The return è is also scheduled in Monterosso at 21:00. The time of the tour, varies by season and depends on the actual time of sunset (between 4:30 pm and 6 pm)

During the tour you will be able to admire the five colorful seaside villages of the Cinque Terre from the sea at sunset lights, while an experienced guide will tell you all about the history and local daily life.

In the warmer months you will discover beautiful coves for diving and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the National Park.

To make the most of the boat trip you will be offered an aperitif that includes soft drinks, prosecco, wine and some delicious local products, including focaccia and pesto.

For the experience of trekking among the vineyards and picnicking at 5 Terre, you can choose from two different tours:

Wine Tasting:

An eno-sensory journey to discover the 5 TERRE and its many facets. A real Eno-Tour to discover the vineyards and the winery, illustrating both the winemaking process and the bottling, passing through the evocative barrel cellar where the aging of red wine takes place.

The tasting includes 4 glasses of wine (bubbly, 2 whites and a red). Accompanying you will enjoy bruschetta with anchovies, cherry tomatoes and homemade pesto.

Trekking among the vineyards and picnic:

Walk among vineyards and beautiful views of the Cinque terre with Pic Nic basket tasting. Departure from farmhouse in Monterosso.

The route is developed in 6 stages marked by signposts that draw a loop walk that starts and arrives at the entrance of the Estate. It winds through vineyards and the olive groves that surround the Estate.

A picnic basket and a bottle of wine will accompany your tour through the vineyards. You can choose from an array of gourmet sandwiches, including vegetarian or vegan.

During the walk, you will also have the opportunity to listen, in real time, to a story that guides you step by step to discover the territory, the grapes, the olive trees, the lemon grove, the places and the views that fill your eyes.

Recommended clothing for this tour includes comfortable clothes and hiking shoes.

The day boat tour to 5 Terre and Portovenere from Monterosso is a relaxing and fun experience. The boat tour is scheduled to depart from Monterosso at 10:00 am. Return is also scheduled to Monterosso at 3:00 pm.

Aperitif is included in the price of the tour, and there are always 1 captain and 1 host to explain and guide. Aperitif with savory, herb, rice cakes, flatbreads, fresh products made on the day, along with Prosecco and other drinks.

During the mini-cruise you will see the five colorful seaside villages of the Cinque Terre from the sea, while an experienced guide will tell you all about the local history and daily life.

You will discover the beautiful coves of the Cinque Terre for diving and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the National Park.

Enjoy a day cruise to the Cinque Terre with friends, exploring the villages of Portovenere, Vernazza and Monterosso, where you can swim or enjoy lunch overlooking the sea.

The sailing departs from La Spezia at 10:00 a.m. aboard a motorboat that will reach Portovenere after a few minutes, where the first stop will be scheduled. Afterwards, the itinerary continues to Monterosso and, finally, you will visit Vernazza, before returning to the pier around 6:00 pm.

At each stop, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the villages, take a swim in the clear waters, enjoy a lunch overlooking the sea, and store in local stores.

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change.

The Blue Day è a sailing excursion to Cinque Terre and the Gulf of Poets, offering an exciting experience to explore the coastal waters and hidden coves of the area.

During the excursion, you can dive into the crystal-clear waters of the marine park and admire the cliffs of the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto, as well as enjoy the picturesque views of Portovenere, Lerici and the villages of the Cinque Terre.

You will be able to participate in sailing maneuvers and enjoy a welcome focaccia lunch and other self-prepared dishes.

Two itineraries are available:

•    Itinerary in the Gulf of Poets: Sailing to Tellaro, Lerici and the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto, with stops for swimming and admiring the breathtaking views.  
•    Five Lands Itinerary: Depart from Le Grazie/La Spezia for Portovenere, crossing the Cinque Terre to admire the villages that overlook the cliffs, with stops for lunch and possible disembarkation at Vernazza.

Depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change.

This sunset boat tour from Monterosso with aperitif è a relaxing and fun evening by boat discovering the 5 Terre.

The departure of the mini-cruise in high season, è scheduled in Monterosso at 6 pm. The return è is also scheduled in Monterosso at 21:00. The time of the tour, varies by season and depends on the actual time of sunset (between 4:30 pm and 6 pm)

During the tour you will be able to admire the five colorful seaside villages of the Cinque Terre from the sea at sunset lights, while an experienced guide will tell you all about the history and local daily life.

In the warmer months you will discover beautiful coves for diving and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the National Park.

To make the most of the boat trip you will be offered an aperitif that includes soft drinks, prosecco, wine and some delicious local products, including focaccia and pesto.

For the experience of trekking among the vineyards and picnicking at 5 Terre, you can choose from two different tours:

Wine Tasting:

An eno-sensory journey to discover the 5 TERRE and its many facets. A real Eno-Tour to discover the vineyards and the winery, illustrating both the winemaking process and the bottling, passing through the evocative barrel cellar where the aging of red wine takes place.

The tasting includes 4 glasses of wine (bubbly, 2 whites and a red). Accompanying you will enjoy bruschetta with anchovies, cherry tomatoes and homemade pesto.

Trekking among the vineyards and picnic:

Walk among vineyards and beautiful views of the Cinque terre with Pic Nic basket tasting. Departure from farmhouse in Monterosso.

The route is developed in 6 stages marked by signposts that draw a loop walk that starts and arrives at the entrance of the Estate. It winds through vineyards and the olive groves that surround the Estate.

A picnic basket and a bottle of wine will accompany your tour through the vineyards. You can choose from an array of gourmet sandwiches, including vegetarian or vegan.

During the walk, you will also have the opportunity to listen, in real time, to a story that guides you step by step to discover the territory, the grapes, the olive trees, the lemon grove, the places and the views that fill your eyes.

Recommended clothing for this tour includes comfortable clothes and hiking shoes.

The day boat tour to 5 Terre and Portovenere from Monterosso is a relaxing and fun experience. The boat tour is scheduled to depart from Monterosso at 10:00 am. Return is also scheduled to Monterosso at 3:00 pm.

Aperitif is included in the price of the tour, and there are always 1 captain and 1 host to explain and guide. Aperitif with savory, herb, rice cakes, flatbreads, fresh products made on the day, along with Prosecco and other drinks.

During the mini-cruise you will see the five colorful seaside villages of the Cinque Terre from the sea, while an experienced guide will tell you all about the local history and daily life.

You will discover the beautiful coves of the Cinque Terre for diving and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the National Park.

The motorboat excursion a unique opportunity to visit the renowned Cinque Terre and take a swim in the Ligurian sea.

Departing from La Spezia at 10:00 a.m., you will travel along the Golfo dei Poeti and immediately begin skirting the Cinque Terre. The first scheduled stop is at Riomaggiore, known for its ancient village. Next, the motorboat will stop in Monterosso, where you can swim at Fegina beach. The sailing ends with a visit to Vernazza, the "pearl" of the Cinque Terre.

At each stop, travelers can explore villages, take a swim in the clear waters, have lunch overlooking the sea, and store in local stores. A guide on board is included during the excursion.

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

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.

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.

For the day sailing on the French Riviera, departure is set in Menton at 10 am.

The first stop on this boat tour includes a dip at the beautiful Bay of La Mala in Cap d'Ail.

Lunch is then served at the bay of Villefranche sur mer. Visits and stops at the Cap Ferrat roadstead or those of Fosses and Fossettes are planned in the afternoon during the trip. Stops in Nice and Villefranche are not included in the price.

Return of the tour is scheduled for 6 p.m., also in Menton. The price includes the skipper, lunch and aperitif, fuel and cleaning.

Maximum capacity: 8 people. Depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions, the stages may be subject to change.

Meet in the marina of Arma di Taggia at 1:45 pm.

Once out of the harbor we will sail in a westerly direction.

Admiring the beautiful villages of the Riviera di Ponente from a unique perspective-the sea!

In the area we find many quiet bays in which it will be possible to stop at anchor for a few hours of relaxation lulled by the waves or for a dip. It will be possible to swim and snorkel to admire the beautiful seabed and the many schools of fish typical of the area.

Return to port is scheduled for about 5:30 pm.

The sea-view horseback ride in Pietra Ligure is ideal for those who want to have an experience of medium duration and difficulty near Savona.

After a short field ride, participants will ride under the supervision of the instructor along the trails inside and outside the park.

Equipment needed: comfortable, sporty clothing, long pants, closed shoes.

The daily boat tour in the Secche della Meloria marine area with aperitif and lunch allows you to experience a day aboard a cozy sailing yacht.

You can enjoy sailing along the Pisan and Livorno coastline thanks to all the comforts on board and dive to discover the Secche della Meloria marine protected area, considered one of the most beautiful in Italy.

Departure is scheduled at 10:00 am in Pisa. Once embarked, you will be served a welcome drink of appetizers accompanied by a glass of wine.

After about 1.5 hours of navigation you will arrive in the beautiful natural setting of the Secche della Meloria, considered one of the most beautiful marine protected areas in Italy.

Right here you will anchor to spend 4 hours of free time: you can sunbathe, snorkel in search of the characteristic posidonia or take advantage of the SUP boards available on board to reach the scenic Southern Lighthouse of Meloria.

Lunch is planned afterwards, which includes a sea-scented main course accompanied by water and a glass of white wine.

Return is scheduled at approximately 5 p.m.

In case of food allergies and intolerances it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

The horseback ride behind Forte dei Marmi, in the middle of Versilia, is easy and suitable for everyone. The ride starts from Montignoso, a town a few kilometers from Forte dei Marmi, and continues to Lago di Porta, next to the Forte Golf Club.

This walk is quiet and even those who have never ridden a horse, or have little experience, can do it. Very nice to explore Porta Lake on horseback.

During the rafting exucrsion on the Serchio River in Lucca, you will have the opportunity to rent the packraft, a 'light boat practiced solo or small groups.

Packrafts can be single or double (adult+child) making the experience suitable for children as well.

From the meeting point you will be picked up by shuttle until you arrive at the experience site. The guide will give you a briefieng to gain confidence and learn how to maneuver in the water.

The route is 2.8 km, with a duration of 2 1/2 hours, during which you will have fun and relax at the same time discovering the nature around the Walls of Lucca. At the end of the activity there will be an aperitif on the raft to relax.

You will finally be escorted back from the facility to the meeting point. This is a family-friendly experience that takes place from March to May.

If you choose to go rafting in Bagni di Lucca on the LimaIl River, you can rent a packraft, a lightweight boat that is practiced solo or in small groups. Four different tours are available for this experience:

Rafting 3h

3.5Km long excursion with a duration of 3h30minutes. Children can participate from 5 years old. You will raft on the Lima where you will find rapids and can take dives.

Rafting 4h

5Km long excursion from the duration of 4h. Children can participate from 5 years old. You will start this adventure from Lake Gioviano, continuing along the Serchio River and ending under the Devil's Bridge. June through October.

Packrafting 3h

3Km hike with a duration of 3h. This is one of the most exciting hikes in Tuscany, during which you will immerse yourself in the beauty of the Middle Lucchese Valley while diving and sliding.

Packrafting 4h

5Km hike with a duration of 4h. Children from 16 years old can participate. During this hike you will pass through second grade rapids, take dips and play fun aquatics games.

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.

This horseback riding tour in Garfagnana is suitable for beginners and even the most experienced, always accompanied by experienced staff.

During these rides, nature is explored in all its magnificence and splendor, the route takes in heterogeneous and picturesque scenery between forests and open countryside, ideal for all those who love nature.

Recommended clothing for the horseback riding trip includes closed shoes and long pants. The facility will provide you with all equipment for horseback riding, including helmet.

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 half a day by boat or 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.

The boat tour in the Gulf of Portofino is a private excursion that departs from the marina in Santa Margherita Ligure with a skipper.

The boat trip will last half a day, in the morning or afternoon, or a full day. You will have the opportunity to sail to the fantastic coastlines of Portofino and Camogli.

On board you will find snorkeling equipment.

During the mini-cruise there will be an opportunity to swim offshore in the beautiful crystal clear waters, so don't forget to bring a towel and swimsuit.

Throughout the day on board, prosecco and accompanying flatbreads will also be served.