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Village · Riomaggiore, Ligúria
Portovenere
Fortified village on the tip of the Gulf of La Spezia, a World Heritage site together with the Cinque Terre, featuring the church of San Pietro on the rock and the Castello Doria.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Portovenere
Portovenere sits at the tip of the peninsula that closes the western side of the Gulf of La Spezia, known as the Gulf of Poets. Since 1997 it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing together with the Cinque Terre and the islands Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto.
The entrance to the borgo is through a medieval gate inscribed Colonia Januensis 1113, the year Genoese rule began. From there the narrow main street runs between tall houses to the church of San Pietro, in Genoese Gothic style, on the rock at the end of the promontory. The poet Eugenio Montale wrote about it.
Above the village stands the Castello Doria, a Genoese fortress with views over the gulf and the island Palmaria. Down below, the 12th-century church of San Lorenzo holds items linked to the naval battles of Meloria and Lepanto.
The quay at the water’s edge, with its colorful houses, is the departure point for boats to the Cinque Terre and for island boat trips in season.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day.
Best time
In the morning, before the tour groups, or late afternoon. Boats usually operate from spring until early November.
How to get there
From La Spezia there is a city bus to Portovenere, about 30 minutes. In season, boats link Portovenere with Riomaggiore and the other villages. By road it is about 23 km from Riomaggiore, via La Spezia.
Tip
A good option is to go by boat from Riomaggiore and return by bus to La Spezia. Check both timetables before you go.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Portovenere
How to get to Portovenere from the Cinque Terre?
In season, by boat from the villages with stops. Outside the season, by train to La Spezia and then by city bus to Portovenere.
Is Portovenere part of the Cinque Terre?
It is not one of the five villages, but it is included in the same UNESCO World Heritage listing.
What to see in Portovenere?
The medieval gate, the church of San Pietro on the rock, the Castello Doria and the church of San Lorenzo.
How much time should you allow?
Half a day is enough for the village. With more time you can take the boat tour around the islands in season.