- Must visit
Museo dell'Abbazia di San Fruttuoso
Abbey museum in a secluded bay with historic interiors, cloisters, and monastic collections. It is one of the region’s most atmospheric cultural sites.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Bologna to Portofino
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Portofino among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 50m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a flight costs an average of $55.
Distance: 91 nautical miles (170 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$30 Average price | $20 Average price Cheapest | $218 Average price | $87 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 20m Average total duration Fastest 3h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration 4h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 33m Average total duration 9h 33m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Bologna to Portofino is a bus with an average price of $20.
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Portofino:
A bus is $10 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Portofino costing on average $30.
A bus is $198 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Portofino costing on average $218.
The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Portofino is by train with an average journey time of 3h 50m.
Other travel options to Portofino take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 10m.
Flight takes on average 9h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Portofino including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Portofino among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Portofino by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Bologna to Portofino
ItalyItaly
Take a ferry from Bologna to Portofino and enjoy the approximately 91 nautical miles (170 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $11
Distance 91 nautical miles (170 km) |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $11
Complete guide to Portofino
Things to do in Portofino
Discover the best of Portofino — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portofino trip today.
- Recommended
Museo del Parco Castello Brown
Museum inside Portofino’s hilltop castle with exhibitions on local history and culture, plus one of the best panoramic terraces in the village.
- Recommended
Museo Giannettino Luxoro
Museum area at the nearby Giannettino Luxoro villa with decorative arts and historic interiors. It is a refined lesser-known cultural stop on the coast.
- Must visit
Piazzetta di Portofino
Portofino’s famous harbor square lined with colorful buildings. It is the essential place to stroll, sit, and absorb the village atmosphere.
- Must visit
Calata Marconi
Scenic waterfront promenade around the harbor with postcard views of boats and facades. It is ideal for a short classic Portofino walk.
- Must visit
Sentiero Portofino - San Fruttuoso
Popular path linking Portofino to San Fruttuoso through Portofino Natural Park. It rewards walkers with forest, cliffs, and sea views.
- Vegetarian
Trofie Al Pesto
Traditional Genoese basil sauce with pine nuts, garlic, Parmigiano and olive oil, usually served with trofie. A Ligurian icon eaten throughout the Portofino area.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Farinata
Thin savory chickpea pancake baked in a hot oven. Popular across Liguria as a simple street food and naturally free of gluten ingredients.
- Vegetarian
Pansoti
Fresh ravioli filled with wild herbs, greens and ricotta, often served with butter, sage or light sauce. A classic festive pasta from the Ligurian coast.
La Terrazza
Elegant Michelin-starred dining at Splendido with refined Ligurian tasting menus and panoramic Riviera views in a historic luxury hotel setting.
Ristorante Puny
Waterfront fine dining in the harbor, known for fresh seafood, classic Ligurian dishes and polished service with iconic Portofino scenery.
Taverna del Marinaio
Stylish restaurant and wine bar near the marina, serving seafood, pasta and Ligurian plates in a relaxed but polished setting.
Euro (€)
Portofino is pricier than many Italian coastal towns, with high hotel rates, upscale dining, and premium waterfront cafés; transit costs are moderate.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €12-18 for focaccia, panini, or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2-4 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included via coperto or servizio. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; round up taxi fares; small change is fine at cafés.
FAQs: Ferry from Bologna to Portofino
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Portofino by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Portofino, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
No, there are no cabins on ferries from Bologna to Portofino.
No, there are no vehicle options on ferries from Bologna to Portofino.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Bologna to Portofino is possible with with . We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot but please check specific times for each route. If you need book your travel to the departure port check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Portofino including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Portofino are:
- Castello Brown, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding hills
- Portofino Marina, a picturesque harbor filled with luxury yachts and vibrant waterfront cafes
- Church of San Giorgio, a charming church with stunning views and a collection of religious artifacts
- Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino, a protected area with hiking trails and diverse wildlife
- Lighthouse of Portofino, a scenic spot providing breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea.
The best things to do in Portofino include:
- Hike to the Lighthouse of Portofino, a scenic trail leading to a stunning viewpoint over the Ligurian Sea
- Relax at Paraggi Beach, a small sandy beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing
- Visit the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, a secluded monastery accessible by boat or hiking
- Enjoy a boat tour along the Ligurian coast, offering unique perspectives of the picturesque landscape
- Indulge in local cuisine at a traditional Italian trattoria, savoring fresh seafood and regional specialties.
Since both Bologna and Portofino are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Portofino among Omio's users.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Portofino, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and near popular attractions. Overpriced taxis and unlicensed tour operators may also pose risks. It's advisable to use official services and stay alert in busy spots to avoid scams.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Bologna to Portofino
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Portofino and Bologna
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