What it is

A waterfront Portofino icon since 1904, with 80 revamped guest rooms, a manicured terraced garden, al fresco pool, sprawling spa, and five exquisite bars and restaurants.

What it isn't

Poorly serviced. Generations of guests have received V.V.I.P. treatment here with doting concierges, luggage service, 24-hour room service, electric vehicle charging, and more.

What we think

The Italian Riviera is the dream: a place where megawatt glamor collides with sheer natural beauty (and, bonus, great weather). And among the jewels in its particularly sparkly crown is Grand Hotel Bristol—beloved for more than a hundred years for its sumptuous architecture and peerless guest experience. Even the “starter” room here—the 269-square-foot Classic Park View—is a vacation in itself, with its serene color palette of calming neutrals, wood floors, Illy coffee maker, spa-like bath and gratis soft drinks in the minibar. Our favorite room option though, however, is unequivocally the Deluxe Terrace Sea Front, where your oceanfront balcony is the perfect spot to sip a Campari spritz in style.

You're here because

The spa here has everything you could ask for, including a Kneipp therapy shower, sauna, Turkish bath, and a couples treatment suite.

The Moment

You’ve been salivating over the menus at Le Cupole, a rooftop restaurant helmed by Alain Ducasse’s former wunderkind Chef Graziano Duca, ever since you arrived in Portofino. But tonight at sunset, peering out on the pink water beyond your table, it’s the view that is dropping your jaw.

Restaurants & Bars

Le Cupole - A fusion menu of Ligurian and Piedmont cuisine that’s mentioned in the Michelin Guide

La Veranda - Ideal for a convivial lunch and dinner serving authentic Italian dishes as well as a great selection of wines and cocktails.

Flamingo Pool Bar & Pizza - The perfect pizza and iconic focaccia as well as international choices such as poké, burgers and club sandwich.

Location

Fronting the water in Rapallo, just 38 minutes drive from Genoa’s international airport and 45 from Parma. Portofino is a mere 18 minutes away.