Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta Travel Guide

Nestled in the heart of Portofino, Italy, Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta captivates visitors with its vibrant charm and stunning scenery. This picturesque main square opens up to a luxurious harbor where colorful buildings house restaurants, boutiques, and cafes. The square offers you a perfect blend of natural beauty and Italian elegance, with green hills surrounding the area, sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean, and the famous multi-colored facades that have become synonymous with the Ligurian coastline.

When you visit this central gathering place in Portofino, you’ll find yourself immersed in both history and modern luxury. The 12th-century structures visible from the square stand in harmony with high-end shops and fine dining establishments that line its perimeter. As you stroll through the piazza, the atmosphere shifts beautifully between relaxed seaside charm and sophisticated Italian style.

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

Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta serves as both the social center of Portofino and a gateway to exploring the broader treasures of Liguria. From enjoying fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants to watching mega yachts dock in the harbor, the square provides endless opportunities to experience the quintessential Italian Riviera lifestyle that has attracted travelers from around the world for generations.

History of Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta

Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta, the iconic main square of Portofino, has a rich history dating back centuries. The square’s name honors local martyrs who lost their lives during World War II resistance activities.

Originally, this area served as a strategic harbor for fishermen who established the village around the 10th century. The natural protection offered by the deep bay made it an ideal spot for maritime activities.

By the Middle Ages, Portofino had become an important port on the Ligurian coast. The piazza martiri evolved from a simple fishermen’s landing to a bustling commercial center where traders exchanged goods brought in from various Mediterranean ports.

During the 19th century, Portofino transformed from a fishing village into a resort destination as European aristocrats discovered its charm. The square became the social center of this evolving community.

The colorful buildings surrounding the square date primarily from the 18th and 19th centuries. Their pastel facades created the iconic backdrop that would later make Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta world-famous.

In the 1950s, celebrities and the international jet set began frequenting Portofino, cementing the square’s reputation as a symbol of Italian elegance and dolce vita. Films and photographs showcased its beauty to global audiences.

Today, you’ll find the square largely unchanged in appearance despite its transition from fishing hub to tourism hotspot. The historic charm remains preserved, offering you a glimpse into both Portofino’s humble origins and glamorous evolution.

What to See in Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta

Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta, often simply called “the Piazzetta” by locals, is the heart of Portofino. This picturesque square sits right on the water, offering you a perfect blend of natural beauty and Italian charm.

When you arrive at the square, take a moment to admire the stunning views of the harbor. Colorful fishing boats bob alongside luxury yachts in the small but impressive yacht harbor, creating a fascinating contrast that defines Portofino.

The square is lined with vibrant, pastel-colored buildings that house charming cafes and tourist restaurants. You can enjoy an espresso or gelato while people-watching in this beautiful location.

Several luxury brand stores border the square, offering high-end shopping opportunities. The elegant boutiques reflect Portofino’s reputation as a playground for the wealthy.

From the Piazzetta, you can access the narrow streets that wind up the hillside. These paths lead to various Italian Riviera landmarks and panoramic points with breathtaking views of the sea.

Don’t miss the path leading to Castello Brown, a medieval fortress perched above the harbor. The 16th-century medieval castle offers some of the most impressive views of the entire bay and the colorful town below.

The charming environment of the square is enhanced by flower boxes, street lamps, and the gentle lapping of water against the harbor walls. This creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying the true essence of the Italian Riviera.

How to Get to Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta

Reaching the picturesque Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta in Portofino is part of the adventure when visiting this jewel of the Italian Riviera. This charming main square sits at the heart of Portofino, overlooking the luxurious yacht harbor.

The most common way to reach Portofino is by taking a bus. The 782 bus service connects nearby towns to Portofino, with the first bus arriving near the piazza at 6:09 AM. Buses run throughout the day, making this an affordable and convenient option.

Taking the train is another possibility, though you’ll need to combine it with a bus ride. Trains run to nearby towns like Rapallo, and from there, you can catch the local bus service to Portofino.

For a more scenic approach, water taxis and boats are available from coastal towns along the Riviera. The ferry docks are just steps away from the piazza, making this a dramatic and memorable entrance to Portofino.

From Hotel Delle Rose in Rapallo, the journey takes approximately 66 minutes by public transportation. Similarly, visitors can reach the piazza from Spiaggia di Sori in about 85 minutes.

If you’re staying in neighboring towns like Santa Margherita Ligure, walking to Portofino is also an option. The coastal path offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and takes about an hour.

Remember that Portofino has limited parking, so public transportation is highly recommended if you want to avoid traffic and parking challenges.

Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta Visitor Information

Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta, often called “La Piazzetta” by locals, serves as the heart of Portofino. This charming harbor square offers stunning views of colorful buildings against the backdrop of sparkling blue sea.

You’ll find the square bustling with activity throughout the day. Morning hours tend to be quieter, making it ideal for photography and peaceful exploration.

The piazza is surrounded by high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafés. You can enjoy authentic coastal cuisine while watching boats come and go in the harbor.

Best Time to Visit:

April to June
September to October

During peak summer months (July-August), expect a crowded village atmosphere as tourists flock to this picturesque destination.

Things to Do:

Shop at luxury boutiques
Dine at waterfront restaurants
Take photos of the colorful façades
Access the marina
People-watch from café terraces

No entrance fee is required to enjoy the piazza, making it accessible to all visitors. Most restaurants and shops around the square open around 10 AM and close late in the evening.

The piazza can be reached by boat, bus, or car, though parking is limited in Portofino. Many visitors arrive via water taxi from nearby Santa Margherita Ligure.

Where to Stay Near Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta

Finding the perfect accommodation near Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta can enhance your Portofino experience. This central square serves as the heart of this glamorous Italian village, making nearby hotels highly desirable.

For luxury seekers, the Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel offers an elegant stay just steps from the piazza. This five-star property exemplifies why Portofino has long been an expensive vacation destination for celebrities and discerning travelers.

The Hotel Piccolo Portofino provides a charming alternative with stunning sea views. Located a short walk from the main square, this boutique hotel balances comfort with the authentic feel of the Italian Riviera.

Hotel Blu Di Te ranks among the top choices for travelers wanting proximity to Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta while enjoying modern amenities and personalized service.

For those seeking value without sacrificing location, Hotel Sant’Andrea offers comfortable rooms within walking distance of the square. Its convenient position makes exploring Portofino’s colorful harbor and exclusive boutiques effortless.

Just a short distance away in neighboring towns, the Grand Hotel Miramare and Hotel Cenobio Dei Dogi provide excellent alternatives with easier access and sometimes more favorable rates.

The Albergo Nazionale stands out for its central location and traditional Italian hospitality. Its proximity to the piazza makes it ideal for first-time visitors wanting to be in the middle of Portofino’s charm.

Things to Do Near Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta

Surrounding the charming main square of Portofino, you’ll find plenty of exciting activities to fill your day. The square itself serves as the perfect starting point for exploring this gem of the Italian Riviera.

Begin with a visit to Castello Brown, perched on the hill overlooking the harbor. This historic fortress offers stunning panoramic views of the colorful port below and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea beyond.

The Church of San Giorgio is another must-see attraction near the piazza. This yellow church sits on a cliff and provides a peaceful spot to take in the beauty of Portofino’s coastline.

For those who enjoy exploring on foot, walking tours of Portofino depart regularly from the square. These guides will lead you through narrow streets lined with boutiques and restaurants while sharing fascinating local history.

Boat tours also leave from the harbor adjacent to the piazza. These excursions allow you to see Portofino’s stunning coastline from a different perspective and often include stops at hidden coves.

Paraggi Beach lies just a short distance from the main square. This small but beautiful beach features crystal-clear turquoise waters and is perfect for swimming or simply relaxing in the sun.

Food lovers should try a pesto cooking class near the piazza. Liguria is the birthplace of pesto, and learning to make this famous sauce from local experts is a memorable experience.

Don’t miss exploring the luxury boutiques surrounding the square. Even if shopping isn’t on your agenda, window shopping here offers a glimpse into the glamorous side of Cinque Terre living.