The 10 best experiences to have in Portofino and Rapallo on vacation in 2024

Embark on a 2-hour Cinque Terre sunset boat tour with aperitif, departing from Riomaggiore.

Sunset is the somewhat more romantic time to go on a boat tour to the 5 Terre and enjoy a delicious aperitif. When the sea is calm, at this time of day you can see and, if lucky, touch the dolphins that are in the Cinque Terre nature reserve.

During the tour, which takes about two hours, local appetizers will be served and some local wines, which are produced in the nearby areas.

During this private ride to Cinque Terre from Monterosso, it is possible to explore parts of the trails, traverse the woods, and experience a different way of experiencing Cinque Terre for those who love horses and nature.

Because of the Ranch's location on the high ground in Monterosso al Mare, it is possible to ride along sections of the coastline and parts of the trails while admiring the sea, the colors, and traversing the forests of maritime pine and chestnut trees from Cinque Terre during the horseback ride.

Horseback rides are reserved for a maximum of 2 participants, and the minimum age to participate is 18.

This sunset aperitif boat tour in Levanto with local and organic products in the bay of Cinque Terre is a unique experience.

The departure of the boat tour is set in Levanto, at a time between 15:00 and 18:00 (depending on the season).

You will then be able to admire during the mini-cruise the Marine Park, and the passage in front of all the villages of the Cinque Terre.

During the tour there will be the possibility to stop for snorkeling, and on board you will be offered an aperitif with wine, beer, various drinks and typical and organic products from the Val di Vara.

Return is always scheduled to Levanto between 6:30 pm and 9 pm (summer).

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

Classic boat mini-cruise to the Cinque Terre departing from Riomaggiore. You sail by boat to reach and discover all the 5 most iconic and famous villages in Liguria.

You will stop in front of each of the Cinque Terre: Manarola, then Corniglia, Vernazza and finally Monterosso.

During the boat ride there will also be time to stop in front of a cove for a dip, in a beautiful lair with a small waterfall over the sea. At the end of the tour, you will return by boat to Riomaggiore or Manarola.

On the 3-hour boat tour, you can make a one-hour stop in Vernazza to take a walk around the town and learn about the local reality.

This sunset boat tour in Monterosso with aperitif is a relaxing and fun evening boat tour exploring the 5 Terre.

The mini-cruise is scheduled to depart from Monterosso at 18:00. The return is also scheduled to Monterosso at 21:00.

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 expert guide will tell you all about the local history and 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 treated to a small aperitif in Monterosso, which includes a prosecco and some delicious local products, including focaccia and pesto.

Discover the Cinque Terre by boat with friends, family, or couples. Savor local specialties such as salami, cheese, focaccia, and savory pies from Val di Vara, and products from Levanto during the trip. You will be able to make stops to snorkel and swim in the crystal clear waters.

On the morning tour, a breakfast of tea, coffee, milk, and pastries from the Antica Pasticceria Bianchi, one of Levanto's historic landmarks, will be provided. On the afternoon tour, enjoy an aperitif with typical and local products. The boat, an Apreamare 750, is equipped with sundeck, cushions, awning, shower, refrigerators and ladder.

On board, you will admire the beautiful villages of the Cinque Terre and have the opportunity for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy breathtaking views and cool off with a dip in the crystal clear sea.

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

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

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.

Half-day quad bike excursion in the Val di Lima, in the mountains above Florence in Tuscany. An activity that brings the nature of the Tuscan Apennines to life in a fun way, along with Yamaha Kodiak 700 performance quads.

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

• Departure: Livizzano Base Camp, 600mt altitude
• Trail Duration: 33km - average 3 hours
• Altitude: 600mt - 1200mt Elevation gain: 600mt

You will start the hike from the mule tracks, dirt roads, fords and small streams of 'Livizzano', 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 1200mt altitude.

There is a briefing and an initial test to explain how to use the quad bike, so that you can ride it with ease and in complete safety.

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.

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.

Riverplay in Garfagnana at Strette di Cocciglia is a guided tour of a wild and natural canyon.

You will be completely immersed in nature, the route is characterized by three scenarios; the upper part of the "Golette" basins with clear water carved by the force of the stream into the rock, the middle part where the narrows open up and we meet the small rapids and finally the final large canyon the "Blue Lagoon" with crystal clear water and underwater caves up to 12m deep.

Along the way you will have the opportunity to go diving, natural slides, the "washing machine" slide, small rapids, swimming, playing in the waterfall bubbles, adventure and lots of fun.

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.

Embark on a 2-hour Cinque Terre sunset boat tour with aperitif, departing from Riomaggiore.

Sunset is the somewhat more romantic time to go on a boat tour to the 5 Terre and enjoy a delicious aperitif. When the sea is calm, at this time of day you can see and, if lucky, touch the dolphins that are in the Cinque Terre nature reserve.

During the tour, which takes about two hours, local appetizers will be served and some local wines, which are produced in the nearby areas.

During this private ride to Cinque Terre from Monterosso, it is possible to explore parts of the trails, traverse the woods, and experience a different way of experiencing Cinque Terre for those who love horses and nature.

Because of the Ranch's location on the high ground in Monterosso al Mare, it is possible to ride along sections of the coastline and parts of the trails while admiring the sea, the colors, and traversing the forests of maritime pine and chestnut trees from Cinque Terre during the horseback ride.

Horseback rides are reserved for a maximum of 2 participants, and the minimum age to participate is 18.

This sunset aperitif boat tour in Levanto with local and organic products in the bay of Cinque Terre is a unique experience.

The departure of the boat tour is set in Levanto, at a time between 15:00 and 18:00 (depending on the season).

You will then be able to admire during the mini-cruise the Marine Park, and the passage in front of all the villages of the Cinque Terre.

During the tour there will be the possibility to stop for snorkeling, and on board you will be offered an aperitif with wine, beer, various drinks and typical and organic products from the Val di Vara.

Return is always scheduled to Levanto between 6:30 pm and 9 pm (summer).

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

Classic boat mini-cruise to the Cinque Terre departing from Riomaggiore. You sail by boat to reach and discover all the 5 most iconic and famous villages in Liguria.

You will stop in front of each of the Cinque Terre: Manarola, then Corniglia, Vernazza and finally Monterosso.

During the boat ride there will also be time to stop in front of a cove for a dip, in a beautiful lair with a small waterfall over the sea. At the end of the tour, you will return by boat to Riomaggiore or Manarola.

On the 3-hour boat tour, you can make a one-hour stop in Vernazza to take a walk around the town and learn about the local reality.

This sunset boat tour in Monterosso with aperitif is a relaxing and fun evening boat tour exploring the 5 Terre.

The mini-cruise is scheduled to depart from Monterosso at 18:00. The return is also scheduled to Monterosso at 21:00.

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 expert guide will tell you all about the local history and 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 treated to a small aperitif in Monterosso, which includes a prosecco and some delicious local products, including focaccia and pesto.

Discover the Cinque Terre by boat with friends, family, or couples. Savor local specialties such as salami, cheese, focaccia, and savory pies from Val di Vara, and products from Levanto during the trip. You will be able to make stops to snorkel and swim in the crystal clear waters.

On the morning tour, a breakfast of tea, coffee, milk, and pastries from the Antica Pasticceria Bianchi, one of Levanto's historic landmarks, will be provided. On the afternoon tour, enjoy an aperitif with typical and local products. The boat, an Apreamare 750, is equipped with sundeck, cushions, awning, shower, refrigerators and ladder.

On board, you will admire the beautiful villages of the Cinque Terre and have the opportunity for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy breathtaking views and cool off with a dip in the crystal clear sea.

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

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

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 horseback 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.

Also in the two-hour horseback riding tour, you can choose, after the excursion is over, to enjoy a fantastic aperitif in the open air!

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.

An itinerary of varying length (depending on the level of the participants and the duration chosen) will be covered 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 trail 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.

If you choose the water excursion by kayak along the coast of Arenzano, Liguria, you will go on an adventure, discover breathtaking landscapes and remote bays. All on comfortable Sit on Top Kayaks, single or double, to ensure even beginners have an unforgettable experience.

The half-day tour will take you exploring the picturesque Riviera di Ponente as far as Genoa Voltri, while the full day will take you to the scenic Piani d'Invrea in the Levante.

The Arenzano kayak tour will be an adventurous and exciting experience!

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.

For the inexperienced or basic level, the walk will take place ad along the paths of the park, with the supervision of the instructor.

For those who are already experienced or otherwise have good knowledge of the horse, the walk can also be done outside the park, again with instructor in tow.

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

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.

A day sailing between Finale Ligure and Gallinara Island is a relaxing boat trip from to visit the Ligurian coast with friends or family. This mini-cruise is offered in three different modes from which you can choose:

Aperitif (2 hours and 30 minutes)

With this tour you will enjoy a sunset aperitif on a boat to celebrate an event or for a pleasant outing with friends. After the sunset sail you will anchor in the bay of Noli to take a swim and celebrate.

Half-day (3 hours)

Choosing this boat tour, you will sail while admiring the beauty of this stretch of the Ligurian Riviera: the old Saracen village of Varigotti, Capo Noli (200 meters above the sea) and the ancient maritime republic of Noli.

You will make a stop to bathe in the turquoise water at the Bay of Saracens. After bathing, an aperitif will be offered before returning to port.

Full day (7 hours and 30 minutes)

The sail will take you to Gallinara Island, which is 11 miles to the southwest. Upon reaching your destination, you will drop anchor downwind of the island. It is possible to swim and snorkel to admire the beautiful seabed and numerous schools of fish typical of the area.

On the daily tour you will be offered a lunch is on board, prepared by the skipper. After lunch, you will also have a chance to do some more swimming and relaxing before setting off on the return sail.

SUP ride along the cliffs of Portofino, also suitable for those who have never tried SUP.

The experience includes a 45-minute course on how to paddle SUP and a 45-minute excursion in the Portofino Marine Protected Area.

The initial short course takes place in total safety in Paraggi Bay, where the sea is not very rough. The Bay is a wonderful natural setting in close contact with nature and is extremely safe as it is interdicted to boat traffic.

After the course it will be possible to explore the wonders of the Portofino headland and marine protected area from an unusual perspective.

In fact, thanks to the perfectly perpendicular position to the water, it is possible to enjoy breathtaking views, above and below the sea.

The protected area allows the activity to take place in all conditions.

Explore a beauty of Portofino and the surrounding landscape with this kayak tour followed by a delicious Ligurian aperitif.

Kayak tour (1 1/2 hours)

This tour departs at 10:30 a.m. from Paraggi, a quiet little beach near Portofino, where you will be provided with a kayak, paddle and life jacket. During the kayak tour you will visit Niasca Beach in Paraggi Bay.

From there, the excursion continues to the Portofino Lighthouse, surrounded by unspoiled nature. Stops are provided to allow you to dive into the crystal clear waters of the area and relax.

It is recommended that you bring sunscreen and a bathing suit for this excursion.

Sunset tour (2 hours)

Departure for this tour is at 5:30 p.m. from Paraggi, a quiet little beach near Portofino, where you will be provided with a kayak, paddle and life jacket. During the kayak tour you will visit Niasca Beach in Paraggi Bay.

From there the excursion continues to the Portofino Lighthouse, surrounded by unspoiled nature. Stops are planned to allow you to dive into the crystal clear waters of the area and relax.

The tour ends with an aperitif of Ligurian products and local natural wine. The tour is available only in summer, from June 1 to September 30.

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.

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.

Explore Portofino on this tour that combines kayaking and snorkeling with a typical Ligurian aperitif.

This tour is divided into three parts:

During the first half of the tour you will paddle admiring hidden caves and coves, and dive into the waters of the Portofino Marine Park. This excursion will allow you to admire the most striking places in the area from the sea and spot a wide variety of species.

From the sea you can also admire the most striking places in the area such as the Piazzetta, the Portofino Lighthouse and the Church of San Giorgio.

On the return to Paraggi it's time for snorkeling, where you can swim along with numerous different species. In fact, the bay is famous for its Posidonia meadow, rich in flora and fauna.

Finally, you will be able to relax with a typical Ligurian aperitif and "Triple A" natural wine.