Meeting your local guide at the pier, you will board a boat for the short cruise to Portovenere. In 1997, UNESCO deemed Portovenere a World Heritage site for its outstanding beauty and traditional way of life, which hasn't changed enormously in centuries. Portovenere is also one of the Italian Riviera's most scenic fishing villages, as you will discover on your boat ride there.
Upon arrival, a local guide will take you to the Carugio, a narrow road within the city that's lined with fashionable shops and pleasant, earth-toned architecture. It leads to a breathtaking square and Gothic church named for St. Peter. The new portion of the church was built in the 13th century and is marked with black and white marble stripes. Continuing on to the Calata Doria, or quay, you will be struck by the tall houses looming over it, originally built as defense towers. At this point, you will be afforded more than two hours to explore Portovenere on your own. Besides shopping, or sampling the distinctive local cuisine, you might enjoy the Romanesque church of Saint Lawrence, erected in 1098.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 45-minutes of a guided walking tour, at times over uneven ground plus any additional walking at the guests' discretion during free time. Pariciants must be able to enter and exit the local boats with limited assistance. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests. Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned only to participate to the extent of their personal stamina and ability and may make arrangements with the guide to not participate in some of the walking portions of the tour. It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes with non-slip soles. When entering religious sites, it is requested that you wear conservative clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.