Portofino sits on the Ligurian coast of northwest Italy, sheltered by the Portofino Promontory. Its Mediterranean climate means mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers with sea breezes that keep heat down. The Ligurian Sea moderates temperatures year-round, so it rarely freezes or exceeds 32C (90F) even in August. best time to visit Portofino
Portofino Weather by Month: Temperature and Rainfall
Each month brings a different feel to Portofino. July and August are peak beach season with long sunny days and warm sea. Spring and autumn are quieter with comfortable walking weather. Winter is mild but rainy, and many hotels and restaurants close from November to February. things to do in Portofino
Portofino Weather by Month: January
January is the coldest month. Daytime highs average 10C (50F) and nights drop to 4C (39F). Expect around 80mm of rain over 11 wet days. The sea temperature sits at 13C (55F), too cold for swimming. Sunshine averages just 4 hours per day. Most outdoor restaurants close their terraces and several hotels shut for annual maintenance. Pack a warm coat and waterproof shoes. Portofino events and festivals
Portofino Weather by Month: February
February remains cool with highs of 11C (52F) and lows of 5C (41F). Rainfall averages 75mm across 9 wet days. Sunshine increases slightly to 5 hours. The sea holds at 13C (56F). This is the quietest month for tourism, you’ll have the Piazzetta almost to yourself. Some restaurants reopen for Valentine’s Day weekend. Portofino neighborhoods guide
Portofino Weather by Month: March
March sees the start of spring. Highs reach 14C (57F) and lows 7C (45F). Rainfall drops to 70mm over 9 wet days. Sunshine increases to 6 hours. Sea temperature is still 13C (56F). The Portofino Days film festival runs in late March, bringing cultural events. Hiking trails in the Portofino Natural Park begin to dry out. where to stay in Portofino
Portofino Weather by Month: April
April brings real warmth. Daytime highs average 17C (63F) with lows of 10C (50F). Rainfall decreases to 65mm. Sunshine reaches 7 hours. The sea warms to 15C (59F). The Feast Day of Saint George on April 23 is the town’s main religious festival with processions and bonfires. Wildflowers appear on the hiking paths. Portofino travel tips
Portofino Weather by Month: May
May is one of the best months to visit. Highs reach 21C (70F) with lows of 14C (57F). Rainfall drops sharply to 55mm. Sunshine averages 8 hours. The sea warms to 18C (64F), brave swimmers start entering the water. All hotels and restaurants are open. The harbour fills with the first superyachts of the season.
Portofino Weather by Month: June
June is warm and mostly dry. Highs average 25C (77F), lows 18C (64F). Rainfall is just 40mm. Sunshine peaks at 9 hours. Sea temperature reaches 21C (70F), comfortable for swimming. The longest days of the year make evening passeggiata along the harbour delightful. The town gets busier but is not yet at peak crowds.
Portofino Weather by Month: July
July is the hottest month with highs of 28C (82F) and lows of 21C (70F). Rainfall averages just 20mm over 4 wet days, the driest month. Sunshine hits 10 hours. Sea temperature is 24C (75F), ideal for swimming. The Piazzetta buzzes from morning until late. Book restaurants at least a day ahead. The sea breeze (il libeccio) provides afternoon relief.
Portofino Weather by Month: August
August matches July for heat at 28C (82F) high and 21C (70F) low. Rainfall is 22mm. Sunshine averages 9 hours. Sea temperature peaks at 25C (77F). The week of August 15 (Ferragosto) is Italy’s national holiday, Portofino is packed and hotel prices hit their annual maximum. Book 3-4 months ahead for Ferragosto week.
Portofino Weather by Month: September
September is the second sweet spot of the year. Highs drop to 24C (75F) with lows of 17C (63F). Rainfall increases to 55mm but comes in short showers. Sunshine is 7 hours. The sea holds at 22C (72F), still swim-friendly. Crowds thin after the first week and most businesses remain open through mid-October.
Portofino Weather by Month: October
October brings autumn. Highs average 20C (68F), lows 13C (55F). Rainfall jumps to 98mm over 11 wet days, the second wettest month. Sunshine drops to 5 hours. Sea temperature is 20C (68F). Many beach clubs close after the first week. The hiking trails are quieter and the autumn light makes for excellent photography.
Portofino Weather by Month: November
November is the wettest month with 118mm of rain over 13 wet days. Highs reach 15C (59F) and lows 8C (46F). Sunshine is just 4 hours. Sea temperature falls to 17C (63F). Several hotels and restaurants close for the winter. Heavy rain can cause trail closures in the Natural Park. Avoid if you want outdoor activities.
Portofino Weather by Month: December
December is cool and wet. Highs average 11C (52F), lows 5C (41F). Rainfall is 90mm. Sunshine is only 3 hours, the lowest of the year. Sea temperature is 15C (59F). Christmas lights appear in the Piazzetta and Santa Margherita Ligure (3km away) has a Christmas market. Several restaurants open for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve dinners, book weeks ahead.
