Splendido, A Belmond Hotel

Above Portofino’s harbour, Splendido offers a distinctly elevated perspective on the Italian Riviera. The panoramic terrace looks towards the harbour and Ligurian Sea, while gardens and a heated outdoor pool encourage an unhurried rhythm. This is a hotel to enjoy as a destination in its own right, rather than simply a base for exploring: leave time between outings for the view, a swim and an evening drink at Baratta Sedici Bar.

Its glamour has deep roots. Originally a Benedictine monastery, the building became Baron Baratta’s family summer home in the nineteenth century, before finding its place in Portofino’s celebrated social life. Elizabeth Taylor, Humphrey Bogart and Ava Gardner are among the famous names associated with its history. A restoration by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio marks a new chapter, with 53 rooms and suites framing a stay that combines historic character with contemporary comforts, including the Dior Spa.

Dining deserves a deliberate place in your plans. La Terrazza draws on Ligurian traditions, with ingredients highlighted on its lunch menu including Santa Margherita Ligure prawns, Chiavari hazelnuts and Portofino saffron. Its dinner offering includes classic Ligurian seafood, while Splendido Grill provides another Italian dining setting overlooking the sea. Rather than treating dinner as an afterthought, make it part of the reason to return to the hotel after time by the harbour.

For exploring Portofino, use the complimentary shuttle to Splendido Mare in the Piazzetta: the distinction matters, as Splendido itself sits above the village rather than on the waterfront. Balance those visits with time in the gardens or Dior Spa; a tennis court and gym offer more active alternatives. Couples drawn to Riviera history and sea views will find particular appeal here, especially when the itinerary leaves room to linger.