Take a scenic boat across the gulf to the aristocratic resort town of Rapallo, then ride an antique funicular up to the golden-domed Sanctuary of Montallegro perched 612 metres above the sea — a deeply Italian, deeply moving experience.
What to expect
A short, scenic ferry crossing from Portofino harbour delivers you to the elegant promenade of Rapallo, where Liberty-style villas and a 16th-century seafront castle set a refined tone. From the upper town, step into the original 1934 funicular cabin for a nine-minute ascent through chestnut forest and vertiginous ravines. At the summit, the sanctuary's Byzantine-influenced interior glitters with ex-votos and silver offerings left by centuries of grateful seafarers. The terrace outside commands a sweeping panorama of the entire Gulf of Tigullio — Portofino, Santa Margherita, and the open Mediterranean in one breathtaking sweep.
Good to know
Ferries run regularly between Portofino and Rapallo; check Tigullio ferry schedules seasonally. The funicular runs approximately every 30 minutes. Allow 4–5 hours total including the ferry crossing and a lunch in Rapallo. Book return ferry in advance in peak season.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Portofino — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Portofino
- Private Yacht Charter: Portofino Coast & San Fruttuoso Abbey
- Castello Brown: Private After-Hours Access & Harbour Views
- Private Pesto Masterclass & Ligurian Lunch on the Marina
- Hike Portofino Natural Park to the Faro Lighthouse at Punta del Capo
- Whale Watching Expedition in the Ligurian Sea Cetacean Sanctuary