Italian Riviera: Portovenere
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Portovenere (aka Porto Venere) is a charming fishing village on the Italian Riviera. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its picturesque harbor. Lined with an ancient wall of brightly colored houses, the connected buildings were designed to ward off attacks from raiding pirates. Our Portovenere travel guide includes information on the town’s medieval ruins, Mediterranean landscapes, and how to plan the perfect trip.
Portovenere is a town made for romance. After passing through an imposing town gate, narrow ‘carruggi’ (alleys) transport visitors to a web of Old Town shops and restaurants. Outside of the village center Doria Castle, Chiesa di San Pietro, and the poet Lord Byron’s Grotto are waiting to be explored.
Situated one town over from Riomaggiore, Portovenere is sometimes called the "secret," or sixth, of the Cinque Terre towns. Of all the places Randy and I visited on our trip to the Cinque Terre region, Portovenere was our favorite. With a unique combination of gorgeous views, great cultural attractions, and a slower pace than the villages of the Cinque Terre, Portovenere is a gem you do not want to miss.
ITALIAN RIVIERA: TOURS OF THE CINQUE TERRE TOWNS