Castello Brown Travel Guide

Perched high above the harbor of Portofino, Castello Brown offers visitors one of the most breathtaking views in all of Italy. This historic fortress, once used for military defense since Roman times, now serves as a house museum that captures the essence of the Italian Riviera. From its strategic position in the center of Portofino bay, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of the legendary “piazzetta” below and the stunning Mediterranean coastline that stretches beyond.

The castle’s transformation from a 16th-century Genoese fortress to a private residence in 1867 by a British diplomat adds layers of history to your visit. As you explore, you’ll discover a Mediterranean garden filled with colorful flowers, rose gardens, and pergolas that frame the azure waters of the Gulf. The contrast between the medieval stone walls and the lush greenery creates a magical atmosphere unique to this corner of Italy.

Italian Riviera 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in the Italian Riviera! Look for deals here:

Italian Riviera Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs

For just 5 euros, you can wander through this architectural gem and experience the same views that have captivated visitors for centuries. The short hike up to Castello Brown not only rewards you with excellent photo opportunities of Portofino bay but also offers a pleasant morning exercise away from the crowds below. When visiting the Italian Riviera, this hidden treasure provides both historical perspective and Instagram-worthy moments that will become highlights of your journey.

History of Castello Brown

Castello Brown’s rich history dates back to ancient times. The earliest structure on this site was likely a Roman fortress built around 400 AD, strategically positioned high above Portofino’s harbor.

The first official documentation of the castle comes from 1425, when Tomaso Fregoso, a former doge of the Republic of Genoa, occupied the village of Portofino.

In 1557, the fortress was expanded significantly, enhancing its military capabilities as a defensive structure for the Republic of Genoa. For centuries, it served as a vital protection point along the Ligurian coast.

A dramatic transformation occurred in 1867 when Montague Yeats Brown, the English Consul in Genoa, purchased the fortress. He converted the military structure into an elegant private residence while preserving its historic character.

The Brown family maintained ownership for generations, giving the castle its current name. Their influence brought British sophistication to this Italian landmark, creating a unique cultural blend.

In 1961, the Municipality of Portofino purchased Castello Brown from the Baber family (descendants of the Browns). This acquisition opened the historic property to the public.

Today, you can explore this remarkable structure that witnessed centuries of Mediterranean history. As you wander through Castello Brown, you’ll experience the perfect marriage of military architecture and refined residential design, all while enjoying spectacular views of Portofino’s harbor and the Gulf.

What to See in Castello Brown

Perched high above Portofino’s iconic harbor, Castello Brown offers some of the most breathtaking views along the Italian Riviera. This 16th-century castle-turned-museum should be at the top of your must-visit list when in Portofino.

The castle’s main attraction is undoubtedly its panoramic vistas. From its strategic position, you can see the entire bay, the legendary “piazzetta” (small square), and the azure Mediterranean waters stretching to the horizon.

For just €5 entry fee, you’ll gain access to a wealth of historical and cultural treasures. The interior of the castle features lavishly furnished rooms that transport you back in time.

The Mediterranean garden surrounding the castle is a highlight in itself. You’ll find colorful flower displays, charming rose gardens, and elegant pergolas throughout the grounds.

As you wander through the castle, take time to appreciate the architectural details. The structure perfectly blends military functionality with residential comfort, showcasing its evolution over centuries.

Photography enthusiasts will be in paradise here. Every angle offers postcard-worthy shots of the harbor, village, and sea beyond.

The castle’s unique position makes it an excellent spot for understanding Portofino’s historical importance as a defensive harbor. You can easily imagine how it once protected this valuable coastal gem.

Visit in the morning for fewer crowds, or come at sunset for truly magical lighting over the harbor.

How to Get to Castello Brown

Reaching the charming Castello Brown requires first making your way to the picturesque village of Portofino. Most travelers start their journey from Genoa, the capital of Liguria, which offers excellent connections to the region.

From Genoa, you’ll need to take a train to Santa Margherita Ligure, the closest train station to Portofino. The train ride typically takes about 30-40 minutes and offers stunning coastal views along the way.

Once in Santa Margherita Ligure, you have several options to reach Portofino:

Bus: Regular buses run between Santa Margherita and Portofino
Ferry: A scenic boat ride along the coast (seasonal)
Taxi: Available but more expensive
Walking: A beautiful 5 km coastal path (about 1 hour)

After arriving in Portofino, Castello Brown sits on a hill overlooking the harbor. To reach it, look for signs pointing to the castle from the main square or the Church of San Giorgio.

The walk to the castle takes about 10 minutes uphill from the churchyard of San Giorgio. The path is well-maintained but steep in places, so wear comfortable shoes.

For the adventurous, you can continue past the castle on the same path for about a mile to reach Al Faro, a lighthouse with spectacular views of the coastline.

Castello Brown Visitor Information

Castello Brown sits majestically above Portofino’s picturesque harbor, offering some of the most stunning panoramic views of the bay, the legendary piazzetta, and surrounding landscapes.

Admission Fee: €5 per person, which is quite reasonable for the exceptional views and historical experience you’ll enjoy.

Opening Hours:

April to October: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily
November to March: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (closed on Mondays)

Getting There: From Portofino’s main square, follow the clearly marked pathway up the hill. The walk takes approximately 15 minutes and includes some stairs, so wear comfortable shoes.

What to Expect: The castle functions as a house museum where you can explore maritime exhibitions that highlight the region’s rich history. You’ll find displays about local naval traditions and Portofino’s development as a fishing village.

Photography Opportunities: Bring your camera! The terrace viewpoints provide the perfect backdrop for memorable photos of the colorful harbor below.

Time Needed: Plan to spend about 1-2 hours exploring the castle and grounds, including time to enjoy the views.

Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photographs.

Accessibility Note: The uphill walk may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

Where to Stay Near Castello Brown

Finding accommodation near Castello Brown puts you in the perfect position to explore this iconic fortress and the charming town of Portofino. With over 473 hotels in the vicinity, you have plenty of options to suit your taste and budget.

The Excelsior Palace stands out as a luxurious 5-star option. Located about 2.6 miles north of Castello Brown, it’s only a 5-minute drive away and offers exceptional amenities for those seeking premium accommodation.

For travelers who prefer staying in the heart of Portofino, several hotels provide easy walking access to Castello Brown. Prices start from around $64 per night, making it possible to find options for various budgets.

Santa Margherita Ligure is another excellent base for your visit. This nearby town offers additional hotel choices and is well-connected to Portofino by regular buses and boats.

When booking your stay, consider these factors:

Proximity to Castello Brown
Price range and value
Guest reviews and ratings
Seasonal availability

Many hotels in the area offer flexible booking options, allowing you to adjust your plans if needed. To secure the best rates, book well in advance, especially during the peak summer season when Portofino becomes extremely popular.

Things to Do Near Castello Brown in Portofino, Italy

After visiting the stunning Castello Brown, you’ll find plenty more to explore in charming Portofino. This beautiful village offers several attractions within walking distance of the castle.

The Church of San Giorgio sits just below Castello Brown on the hill overlooking the harbor. This yellow church with its striking bell tower offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Take a stroll down to Piazza Martiri Dell’Olivetta, the famous waterfront square of Portofino. The colorful buildings surrounding the piazza create a postcard-perfect setting for a coffee or gelato break.

Marina di Portofino is the heart of this fishing village turned luxury destination. The small harbor is lined with upscale shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can watch luxury yachts come and go.

Don’t miss the Free Beach of Portofino if you’re visiting in warmer months. Though small, it’s a refreshing spot to cool off after climbing the hill to the castle.

For nature lovers, several walking trails start near Castello Brown. One popular path leads to neighboring Santa Margherita Liguria, offering spectacular coastal views along the way.

Portofino’s tiny size means you can see most attractions in about 45 minutes, making it perfect to combine with a visit to Cinque Terre for a complete Italian Riviera experience.

For the best experience, consider taking a boat tour from the harbor to see Portofino’s stunning coastline from the water. The views of the colorful village with Castello Brown perched above are simply unforgettable.