La Spezia: Private Portofino and Cinque Terre Tour

Exploring Italy’s stunning northern coast has never been easier or more personalized than with this private tour from La Spezia to Portofino and Cinque Terre. Whether you’re seeking picturesque villages, delicious local cuisine, or breathtaking coastal views, this experience packs a lot into a compact 9-hour window.

What we genuinely love about this tour is its flexibility — you get to explore at your own pace, guided by an English-speaking driver who knows the area well. The chance to visit Portofino’s colorful harbor, wander through Cinque Terre’s ancient terraces, and indulge in local wines and dishes makes it a well-rounded day.

One potential consideration is the overall duration — while 9 hours is enough to see key highlights, some guests might find the pace a bit tight, especially if they want more time in each village. Still, for those who enjoy a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxed eating, this tour is ideal.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a private, hassle-free day trip with plenty of opportunities to enjoy scenic views, local flavors, and authentic small-town charm. If you prefer structured group tours or need accessible options, this might be less ideal, given the physical aspects involved.

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Key Points

Personalized Experience: Private tour with an English-speaking driver ensures flexibility and local insights.
Stunning Coastal Views: From Portofino’s harbor to Cinque Terre’s cliffside villages, photo opportunities abound.
Local Cuisine & Wine: Tasting at a winery and sampling regional dishes adds flavor to your trip.
Efficient Itinerary: Carefully planned stops optimize your time with a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
Comfort & Convenience: Comfortable minivan transportation and a return-to-shore guarantee mean a worry-free day.
Not for All: Moderate physical activity required; not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Up-Cclose Look at the Itinerary

The experience kicks off at the La Spezia Cruise Terminal, making it super convenient for cruise passengers. From there, the private driver whisks you along scenic coastal roads, passing through the charming towns of Rapallo and Santa Margherita.

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The Drive & First Stop: Portofino

After about two hours in the van, you arrive in Portofino, famous for its colorful buildings and luxurious yachts. The village offers a picture-perfect setting, with the harbor as your first photo stop. Many guests comment on how Portofino’s vibrant architecture enhances every photo, making it a favorite stop. You’ll have around two hours here to roam the Piazzetta, browse boutique shops, and indulge in local cuisine at renowned restaurants.

A highlight for many is the optional walk up to Brown Castle, which offers sweeping views of the coastline. This short trek is well worth it — as one reviewer noted, “the views from the castle are simply breathtaking,” and the walk is manageable if you’re in moderate physical shape. Remember, for church visits, shoulders and knees must be covered, so dress accordingly.

Scenic Drive & Cinque Terre Village Hopping

Next, the drive continues along the coast, taking about two hours to reach Cinque Terre. The drive itself is scenic, with lush green hillsides and dramatic cliffs. Once in Cinque Terre, you’re given about 1.5 hours to explore two or three villages of your choice.

The villages of Cinque Terre are famous for their centuries-old terraced vineyards and olive groves that cling to steep cliffs. It’s a chance to walk narrow lanes, marvel at colorful houses, and enjoy the buzz of local life. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to stroll leisurely and snap photos of the iconic landscape.

Optional Wine Tasting & Local Flavors

One of the standout experiences is the optional wine tasting at a local winery, allowing you to sample regional varieties and learn about the area’s winemaking traditions. Guests often mention how the wines were excellent, complemented by local delicacies like olive oil, pesto, and fresh bread.

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Additional Sightseeing & Return

If time permits, you might catch a glimpse of Byron Grotto or San Peter Church in Portovenere, another small seaside village sitting on the Gulf of La Spezia. This optional stop adds a historical and scenic touch before heading back to La Spezia, completing your 9-hour adventure.

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Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable minivan, driven by an English-speaking guide. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be stuck with strangers, which is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, tailored experience. The group is private, so your itinerary can be flexible to some extent if timed permits.

The tour’s duration is carefully planned to balance sightseeing with downtime, but keep in mind it involves some moderate walking on uneven surfaces and stairs, especially in villages with historic narrow lanes.

Pricing & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the price of such private, all-inclusive experiences typically reflects the personalized guides, private transport, and flexibility offered. For travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable day trip, this experience usually offers excellent value, especially considering the included optional wine tasting and the convenience of door-to-door service.

Practical Tips

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on cobblestones and uneven terrain.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Pack water and weather-appropriate clothing, as coastal weather can change quickly.
Be mindful of time constraints, especially in the villages where exploring at a relaxed pace might be tempting.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour is ideal for cruise passengers or anyone looking for a hassle-free, private way to explore Liguria’s highlights without the stress of planning. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, picturesque towns, and local culinary experiences. Those with moderate mobility will find it manageable, but it may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility issues.

If you’re after a personalized day that combines stunning views, authentic flavors, and flexible stops, this tour will meet your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers?
Yes, the tour starts and ends at the La Spezia Cruise Terminal, making it ideal for cruise travelers looking for a convenient day trip.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from La Spezia to Portofino is around two hours, and from Portofino to Cinque Terre takes roughly two hours as well.

Can I choose which villages to visit in Cinque Terre?
The tour includes exploring two or three villages of your choice, giving you some flexibility based on your interests and timing.

Is the tour appropriate for families?
While suitable for most with moderate physical activity, it involves walking on uneven surfaces and stairs, so consider your family’s mobility level.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. Cover shoulders and knees if you plan to visit churches.

Is the wine tasting included?
No, the wine tasting at a local winery is optional and usually available at an additional cost, but many guests highly recommend it.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is structured but allows some flexibility depending on your preferences and timing, guided by your private driver.

In sum, this private tour from La Spezia is a thoughtfully designed experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights. It’s a fantastic way to see some of Italy’s most iconic seaside spots with ease and comfort—perfect for those who want a personalized adventure with a local touch.

You can check availability for your dates here: