PORTOFINO & SANTA MARGHERITA-Shore trip from LA SPEZIA port

If you’re docking at La Spezia and dreaming of colorful fishing villages, rugged coastlines, and stunning seaside views, this shore excursion might just be what you’re looking for. This Portofino & Santa Margherita tour, offered by ULTIMATE TOURS, promises a quick but memorable taste of Italy’s Ligurian coast—perfect if you’re short on time but craving authentic scenery and local flavor.

We’re drawn to how this trip balances comfort and authenticity. The idea of traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver ensures a smooth ride, and the stops at two iconic seaside towns sound wonderfully picturesque. Plus, the gelato stop in Rapallo adds a sweet touch.

One consideration? The suggested free time in Portofino is about 90 minutes, which might feel a bit tight for some travelers eager to explore more. Still, for those with limited shore time, this quick itinerary offers a taste of Liguria’s best-known sights without a lot of fuss.

This tour would suit travelers who want a convenient, guided experience that hits the highlights—ideal for cruise ship passengers, couples, or small groups looking for a hassle-free day with plenty of photo ops and local flavor.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transport ensures a relaxed trip without the hassle of crowds or public transit.
• Visit iconic Ligurian towns like Portofino and Santa Margherita, famous for their colorful houses and romantic ambiance.
• Enjoy authentic local cuisine and drinks, including pasta with pesto and homemade limoncino.
• Stop for gelato in Rapallo, perfect for cooling down and savoring a local treat.
• Flexible options for pickup and timing make this tour adaptable to different schedules.
• Limited free time means you’ll get a brief but beautiful glimpse of each stop, ideal for a quick tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Shore Trip from La Spezia

Introducing the Experience

This Portofino & Santa Margherita shore trip is designed for travelers who want to enjoy the Ligurian coast without spending hours on transit or organizing complex logistics. Offered by ULTIMATE TOURS, it combines comfort, scenery, and authentic regional flavor in just about three hours—an efficient way to explore some of Italy’s most photographed seaside villages.

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on ease: a private vehicle, a friendly driver who speaks English, and a carefully curated itinerary. You won’t be stuck in traffic or overwhelmed by crowds, which is especially appealing for those arriving on cruises or short visits who want to maximize their time.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the personalized transport that guarantees comfort and the timed stops in Portofino and Santa Margherita—each offering a unique window into Liguria’s soul. The gelato stop in Rapallo adds a sweet finale, giving you a chance to cool off and enjoy local flavors.

A potential drawback could be the limited free time—about 90 minutes in Portofino—which might leave some wishing for more time to wander the charming streets. But considering the overall quick pace, it’s a fair trade-off for a brief yet immersive glimpse of this stunning coast.

This trip is perfect for travelers who love picturesque towns, easy logistics, and authentic moments without the hassle of figuring everything out on their own. It’s especially suited for cruise passengers, couples, or small groups who prioritize comfort, scenery, and local flavor.

What You’ll Do and Expect

Portofino is the star of this tour. Known worldwide for its colorful houses, luxurious yachts, and peaceful bay, it’s a postcard-perfect spot. Your driver will give you some background, and then you’ll have about 90 minutes to explore at your own pace. We loved the way the town’s charm is amplified by its rugged coast and the peaceful atmosphere, especially if you avoid the busiest times.

Santa Margherita Ligure follows as a charming, car-free fishing village teeming with cozy cafes and seaside restaurants. Here, you’ll get a taste of local life and enjoy a homemade lunch featuring pasta with pesto—a classic Ligurian dish—and a glass of white wine. It’s a genuine way to connect with the region’s culinary traditions without the fuss.

Next, a quick gelato stop in Rapallo offers a refreshing break. Rapallo itself is a lovely town with a promenade and views of the bay, making it an ideal spot to pause and take photos before heading back to La Spezia.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Portofino (about 90 minutes)
This is your chance to soak in the seaside glamour and snap plenty of photos. The town’s brightly colored houses and luxury yachts are camera-ready. The walk along the harbor offers plenty of opportunities to admire the scenery, and you might find quiet spots away from the crowds if you time it right.

Stop 2: Santa Margherita Ligure
This town is less commercialized than Portofino but equally charming. Expect a stroll through narrow streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and the chance to sample local limoncino—a lemon liquor made locally. The focus here is on genuine Ligurian life, and the laid-back vibe makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch.

Lunch Experience
The included meal—pasta with pesto paired with Margherita white wine—is a simple yet flavorful expression of Ligurian cuisine. It’s a great way to enjoy authentic local flavors in a friendly setting, without the tourist trap feel.

Gelato Stop in Rapallo
Rapallo adds a sweet finish to your trip. Its seaside promenade makes for a lovely walk, and the gelato is a delightful treat after a busy morning of sightseeing.

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The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

Traveling in a private vehicle means you avoid the chaos of public transportation or rental cars. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable on warm days. The driver is fluent in English, providing helpful commentary and local insights.

Timing is carefully managed: with about 1.5 hours from La Spezia to Portofino, and roughly 90 minutes in Portofino, the schedule feels balanced. You’ll get a taste of each place without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The tour is designed for private groups, which enhances the experience by allowing for personalized attention and flexibility. You can enjoy the scenery, chat with your driver, and explore at your own pace, making it a more intimate experience.

Price and Value

While the cost includes private transportation and guided stops, it does not cover ferry tickets, train tickets, or meals outside the provided lunch. For travelers who value comfort, convenience, and authentic local experiences over all-out sightseeing marathons, this tour offers solid value. It’s an efficient way to see a lot in a short window, especially if you’re keen on capturing the essence of Liguria’s coast without a busload of strangers.

Authenticity and Visitor Feedback

Many travelers appreciate the personalized service and the chance to see Portofino’s beauty up close. One review notes: “The views in Portofino are stunning, and it was nice to have a local guide (driver) who made the experience smooth.” Others mention how the lunch was authentic and a highlight, emphasizing the flavor of homemade Ligurian cuisine.

Some comments hint at the limited time, but most agree it’s enough to get the feel of each town and snap memorable photos. The gelato stop is often highlighted as a refreshing, delightful addition that adds a sweet note to the trip.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Portofino & Santa Margherita shore trip is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a stress-free way to experience Liguria’s most iconic towns. If you want to avoid complicated logistics, enjoy comfortable transport, and get a taste of local life, this tour delivers.

It’s best suited for those with limited time in La Spezia or on a cruise, who prefer a guided day that covers the essentials without rushing. If you’re a photographer, it’s a chance to capture the vibrant colors of Portofino and the relaxed charm of Santa Margherita. For families or small groups, the private setting enhances the experience.

However, if you’re craving more time to explore or want to include additional activities like hiking or boat rides, this might feel a bit brief. Still, for a snapshot of Liguria’s scenic coast, it offers good value and memorable views.

FAQs

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with specific start times depending on availability. It’s a quick but comprehensive glimpse of Liguria’s coastal gems.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour begins at La Spezia port, with your driver meeting you outside at a designated pickup point (welcome sign “ULTIMATE TOURS”).

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is private, air-conditioned, and designed for comfort, ensuring a relaxed ride along the scenic coast.

What is included in the tour?
The package covers private transportation from La Spezia, stops in Portofino and Santa Margherita, and a gelato break in Rapallo. The lunch featuring pasta with pesto and wine is also included.

Are meals provided?
The lunch is included, but other meals or additional drinks are not. You might want to bring extra snacks or water, especially on warmer days.

Can I customize the stops or timing?
Since it’s a private group, there might be some flexibility, but the itinerary is designed for efficiency. Confirm any specific requests with your driver beforehand.

What about tickets for ferries or trains?
These are not included; if you wish to explore further or take a ferry, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

Is there enough time in Portofino?
Most travelers find 90 minutes sufficient for photos, a quick walk, and soaking in the atmosphere, but it’s a brief visit. If you prefer more time, consider other options.

What language does the driver speak?
The driver speaks English and Italian, making communication easy and informative.

Would this tour suit families or couples?
Absolutely, the private setting and flexible schedule make it ideal for both couples and families seeking a comfortable, scenic, and authentic outing.

This tour offers a smart, scenic, and comfortable way to experience Liguria’s coast—perfect if you’re after a memorable taste of Italy’s colorful seaside villages without the hassle. Whether you’re a first-timer or looking to tick off a must-see spot quickly, it balances beauty, convenience, and genuine regional charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: