Explore the Beautiful Coastline with a Private Full-Day Tour

This full-day private tour from Florence offers a chance to experience the charm of the Italian Riviera in just one day. For 12 hours, the guide takes you through Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, and San Fruttuoso, blending scenic boat rides, cultural stops, and relaxing moments by the sea. The experience is ideal for those seeking a seamless, personalized adventure with private transportation and flexible free time in Portofino.

This tour is rated 4.6 out of 5, reflecting its popularity among travelers who appreciate stunning views, intimate visits, and comfort. It is especially suitable for visitors looking for a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring coastal villages, with options for swimming and shopping. A key strength is the ferry rides, providing picturesque views of the coastline, while the private group format ensures a more exclusive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Private, fully guided day trip from Florence to the Italian Riviera
Includes ferry rides between Santa Margherita, Portofino, and San Fruttuoso
Ample free time in Portofino for exploration, shopping, and seaside lunch
Swim and snorkel in San Fruttuoso, with a chance to see the famous submerged Cristo degli Abissi
Duration: 12 hours, with comfortable transport and English, Italian, or Russian-speaking guides
Suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and culturally enriching day

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Florence

Scenic Drive to Santa Margherita Ligure Sets the Tone

The tour begins with a van transfer from Florence, lasting approximately 2.5 hours. As the vehicle makes its way through Tuscany, travelers can relax and anticipate the day ahead. Upon arrival in Santa Margherita Ligure, a photo stop and a short walk allow for some initial sightseeing and shopping in this charming coastal town.

This initial stop offers a glimpse of the vibrant harbor, colorful buildings, and lively streets. The tour then continues with a 15-minute boat cruise along the coastline, providing stunning scenic views of the Ligurian Sea. The boat ride is a highlight, offering fresh air and picturesque panoramas before reaching Portofino.

Discovering Portofino’s Iconic Harbour and Streets

Once in Portofino, travelers enjoy about 2 hours of free time for exploring at their own pace. The small piazza is a focal point, framed by pastel-colored buildings, luxury boutiques, and cafes. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, take photos at the iconic Church of St. Martin, or browse through local shops.

A self-guided walk allows for relaxed discovery, with scenic viewpoints offering sweeping views of the bay. The tour includes a break to enjoy a seaside lunch at a local restaurant, where Italian dishes can be savored amidst the lively harbor atmosphere. This free time balances sightseeing with leisure, perfect for soaking up the luxurious ambiance.

Scenic Boat Passes and the Charm of Portofino

After exploring Portofino, the tour continues with a boat cruise passing by the coastline for 30 minutes, offering a different perspective of this renowned harbor. The boat ride showcases the rugged cliffs, colorful buildings, and sparkling waters that make Portofino so photogenic.

This segment provides a chance to appreciate the coastal beauty from the water, setting the stage for the next stop: San Fruttuoso. The boat cruise is smooth and offers excellent photo opportunities, making it a favorite part of the day for many travelers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Relaxing in San Fruttuoso and the Cristo degli Abissi

Arriving in San Fruttuoso, the tour offers about 2 hours for relaxation and exploration. The small bay is famous for its peaceful waters and the Cristo degli Abissi, an underwater statue that has become a symbol of protection and peace. Swimmers can enjoy a dip in the crystal-clear waters, with optional diving to see the submerged statue up close for diving enthusiasts.

Visitors can also simply relax on the beach or walk along the scenic paths. The boat cruise continues for an additional 45 minutes, passing by breathtaking coastal scenery before returning to Santa Margherita Ligure. This segment emphasizes both leisure and unique photo opportunities.

While you're exploring Florence, here are other experiences we've looked into

Return Journey and Seamless Transfer to Florence

Following the San Fruttuoso visit, the group returns by boat to Santa Margherita Ligure. From there, a private van takes about 2.75 hours back to Florence, completing the full-day experience. Travelers arrive relaxed, with plenty of memories and photos from a day filled with stunning views, cultural sights, and seaside leisure.

The journey back is comfortable and smooth, allowing for reflection on the highlights of the day or casual conversations about favorite moments.

Logistics and Group Experience

This tour is designed as a private group, ensuring a personalized experience. The driver and guides speak English, Italian, and Russian, accommodating a diverse range of travelers. The entire itinerary is flexible, with options for self-guided exploration and free time in key locations.

The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs. The pickup point is in Florence, with the entire schedule carefully coordinated to maximize sightseeing and leisure, without feeling rushed.

What to Bring and Practical Tips

Travelers should remember to bring swimwear and a towel to enjoy swimming and relaxing in San Fruttuoso. The ferry rides and boat cruises are weather-dependent, so bringing appropriate clothing and sun protection is advisable. The tour offers a balanced pace, making it suitable for most fitness levels, but some walking is involved during free exploration time.

The Value of a Private, Fully Guided Day

This tour offers a comprehensive experience of the Ligurian coast with the convenience of private transportation and seamless logistics. The combination of scenic drives, ferry rides, and free time in Portofino makes it ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day.

The 4.6 rating reflects the quality of experience, especially the stunning views and the personalized service. Although the schedule is packed, the flexible free time allows guests to tailor their visit. It’s a particularly good fit for travelers who want an all-in-one coastal adventure from Florence.

✨ Book This Experience

Florence: Portofino & San Fruttoso Full Day Private Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops make it suitable for families, especially those interested in boat rides and beach time.

Are meals included in the tour?
A seaside lunch in Portofino is included as part of the free time, allowing guests to enjoy local Italian cuisine.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Italian, and Russian, making the experience accessible to a diverse group of travelers.

How long are the ferry rides?
The boat cruise from Santa Margherita to Portofino lasts about 15 minutes, with additional boat rides passing by the coast and to San Fruttuoso.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is designed as wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This private trip from Florence to Portofino and San Fruttuoso offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and leisure, perfect for those wanting to experience the Ligurian coast comfortably and intimately.