Sentiero dei Baci
A scenic, shaded path connecting Paraggi to Portofino, offering stunning coastal views and a welcome escape from crowded roads.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Sentiero dei Baci
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic, shaded path connecting Paraggi to Portofino, offering stunning coastal views and a welcome escape from crowded roads.
"Best way to reach Portofino! Gorgeous views on your way!"
🚗 Park Smartly
Park in Paraggi or Santa Margherita Ligure; Portofino parking is scarce and costly.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path has some stairs at the beginning, but it's manageable and worth it! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Views
Along the entire path
Breathtaking vistas of the Ligurian Sea, Portofino's iconic harbor, and the charming bay.
Shaded Forest Walk
Mid-section of the path
A tranquil, tree-lined trail offering respite from the sun and the soothing sounds of nature.
Arrival in Portofino
End of the path
The rewarding culmination of your walk, stepping into the picturesque and glamorous village.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Sentiero dei Baci
Getting to Portofino's Path
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smartly
Park in Paraggi or Santa Margherita Ligure; Portofino parking is scarce and costly.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path has some stairs at the beginning, but it's manageable and worth it! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of photo opportunities of the sea and Portofino. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smartly
Park in Paraggi or Santa Margherita Ligure; Portofino parking is scarce and costly.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path has some stairs at the beginning, but it's manageable and worth it! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of photo opportunities of the sea and Portofino. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Sentiero dei Baci as a beautiful and convenient way to reach Portofino, praising its shaded path and stunning sea views. Many highlight it as a smart alternative to dealing with Portofino's notorious parking issues. While generally easy, some mention the initial stairs.
"Great short walk, you have to take it inglese you want to walk on the free way to get to Portofino"
Zoe
"Amazing walk! Gorgeous views on your way! Best way to reach Portofino!"
Anna Berdysh
"beautiful path among the trees leading from/to Portofino. many people gave up seeing the stairs at the beginning and walked along the road where there is no pavement - this is a mistake. the stairs end very quickly, the approach is simple and the path itself is very picturesque. you walk in the shade, listen to birds singing and the views are wonderful. You can see a beautiful panorama of Portofino and the bay"
AniaZ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sentiero dei Baci connects Paraggi to Portofino. Many visitors park in Paraggi or Santa Margherita Ligure due to limited parking in Portofino. From these towns, you can access the trailhead.
Parking is very limited and expensive in Portofino itself. It's recommended to park in Paraggi, which has a larger parking area, or in Santa Margherita Ligure and walk to the trailhead.
Driving to Portofino is generally not recommended due to severe parking limitations. The Sentiero dei Baci offers a scenic alternative to driving directly into the village.
The path leads directly to Portofino, offering a beautiful and active way to arrive. Be prepared for some stairs at the beginning, but the walk is well worth it.
You can reach the general area via bus or train to Santa Margherita Ligure, and then potentially a local bus or walk to the trailhead in Paraggi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Sentiero dei Baci is a public walking path and does not require an entrance fee. It's free to access and enjoy.
The path is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times, but it's best to hike during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
There is no admission fee to walk the Sentiero dei Baci. It's a free public trail.
While technically possible, hiking the Sentiero dei Baci at night is not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety hazards. Stick to daylight hours.
As a public path, there are generally no specific entry restrictions, but always be mindful of local regulations and respect the natural environment.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The walk from Paraggi to Portofino typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.
The path is considered easy to moderate. There are some stairs at the beginning, but the majority of the walk is relatively flat and shaded.
Yes, the path is generally suitable for children, especially if they are used to walking. The shaded sections and beautiful views make it enjoyable for families.
You'll experience stunning panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea, the coastline, and the picturesque harbor of Portofino.
There are no facilities directly on the path itself. It's advisable to use restrooms and purchase any snacks or water before you start your walk.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for clearings in the trees that offer unobstructed views of Portofino and the bay. The beginning and end sections also provide great vantage points.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful soft light and long shadows, enhancing the scenic beauty. Early mornings can also be lovely with fewer people.
Drone regulations can be strict in protected areas like Portofino. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on Portofino's details.
The iconic harbor of Portofino, the colorful buildings, and the sparkling Ligurian Sea are the main photographic draws.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The beautiful views of the sea and the eventual arrival in the glamorous Portofino provide a sense of adventure and reward. Key tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for everyone. Consider parking in Paraggi to make the access to the trailhead easier. The initial stairs are short and manageable, and the rest of the walk is quite pleasant.
🚶 Budget Travelers
This walk provides stunning scenic views that rival those from more expensive boat tours or viewpoints. It's a perfect way to experience the beauty of the Ligurian coast and arrive in Portofino feeling like you've discovered a local secret. Pack your own snacks and water to further keep costs down.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the Sentiero dei Baci
The trail is known for its shaded sections, winding through lush Mediterranean vegetation. This provides a welcome respite from the sun, making it a comfortable walk even on warmer days. As you stroll, you'll be serenaded by the sounds of nature and catch glimpses of the sparkling Ligurian Sea through the trees. The path is well-maintained, though it does feature some stairs, particularly at the beginning, which can be a minor challenge for some but are quickly overcome.
Many visitors choose to walk this path as a way to avoid the parking nightmares and traffic associated with driving directly into Portofino. Parking in Paraggi is more accessible and affordable, making the Sentiero dei Baci a practical and enjoyable first step into the Portofino experience. The reward at the end is stepping out into the iconic Piazzetta, feeling a sense of accomplishment and having already taken in some of the area's most stunning natural beauty.
Navigating Parking and Access
To circumvent this, the Sentiero dei Baci becomes an excellent strategy. Visitors are strongly advised to park in the nearby town of Paraggi, which offers a more substantial parking area. Alternatively, parking in Santa Margherita Ligure and taking a short bus ride or a longer walk to the trailhead in Paraggi is also a viable option. This approach not only saves money but also allows you to experience the beautiful coastal scenery on foot before reaching the main attraction.
Once you've parked, the path is clearly marked and easy to follow. The initial ascent might involve some stairs, but don't let that deter you. The majority of the walk is relatively gentle, and the stunning views that unfold as you progress make any effort worthwhile. The path's accessibility and its role in bypassing Portofino's parking woes are key reasons why it's so popular among savvy travelers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit