Genoa - Portofino: Private Round Trip Transfer & Local Guide

Summary

Private driver from Genoa to Portofino with flexible stops and comfort

Your day starts with a friendly pickup in Genoa and a smooth ride along the Ligurian coast with a private driver who knows all the local secrets. Enjoy time exploring Portofino’s harbor, hidden corners, and scenic walks before heading back without worrying about schedules or parking. You’ll feel looked after every step of the way—and maybe wish you could linger just a bit longer.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the ride from Genoa to Portofino to feel so… easy. Our driver, Luca, was waiting outside our hotel — he waved like we were old friends, which kind of set the tone. The car smelled faintly of coffee (his, not ours), and he handed us water bottles before we even settled in. I fumbled with the seat controls for a minute (I always do), but once we got moving, it was just Ligurian hills rolling past and that salty air sneaking in whenever we cracked the window. You know that feeling when you realize you don’t have to think about logistics for a whole day? That was it.

Luca pointed out little villages along the way — Camogli, Santa Margherita — and told us which ones had the best focaccia (he swears by Recco). We could’ve stopped anywhere, but honestly, I just wanted to watch the sea flash between tunnels. He let us pick music (my playlist embarrassed me; no regrets) and plugged in my phone when it died halfway there. The drive took about an hour — traffic was light, maybe because it was still early. When we pulled into Portofino, pastel houses stacked up over the harbor like they’d been painted there on purpose. It’s smaller than I thought, quieter too.

We wandered off for a few hours — up to Castello Brown (the view is ridiculous), then down to Paraggi Beach where I dipped my toes in but chickened out of swimming. Lunch was pesto trofie at some place Luca recommended; I can’t remember the name but I remember the basil smell clinging to my fingers after. When we met back at the square for our return trip, Luca was leaning against the car reading La Repubblica and grinned when he saw us.

The drive back felt slower somehow — maybe because I wasn’t ready to leave yet. Sunlight kept flickering through olive trees as we wound up into Genoa again. There’s something about letting someone else handle all the details while you just watch Italy slide by your window; I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Round trip from Genoa to Portofino

• Meet driver at Genoa pick-up point
• Store luggage and receive drinks
• Travel to Portofino enjoying coast views
• Use onboard entertainment and device chargers
• Arrive and explore Portofino town
• Have lunch at local restaurant
• Meet driver for return trip
• Return to Genoa drop-off location

Top questions

How long does private transport from Genoa to Portofino take?

The journey usually takes about one hour each way, depending on traffic.

Is pickup included for this round trip transfer?

Yes, pickup is included from your hotel or any agreed location in Genoa.

Can we stop along the way between Genoa and Portofino?

Yes, your driver is happy to make requested stops during the journey.

Is there free time in Portofino during this transfer?

Yes, you'll have several hours of free time to explore Portofino before returning.

Are guides included on this private transfer?

A local guide/driver accompanies you throughout the journey.

Is this service wheelchair accessible?

Yes, vehicles are wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Are infant seats or strollers available?

Specialized infant seats are available and small children can use strollers or prams.

What amenities are provided during transport?

The vehicle includes air conditioning, chargers for devices, complimentary drinks, and adjustable seats.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with air conditioning and adjustable seats from any pickup point in Genoa, a friendly local guide/driver who offers flexible stops along the Ligurian coast, complimentary drinks onboard plus device chargers so you can relax or play your own music—and plenty of free time in Portofino before returning comfortably back to Genoa at your chosen drop-off spot.