1920s drama ‘Hotel Portofino’ confirms ITV air date – watch the trailer!

Hotel Portofino is set to premiere on ITV soon.

Based on JP O’Connell’s book, the show originally launched in the UK on BritBox in January 2022, then aired in the US on PBS last summer.

The lavish British period drama series follows a British family who open a hotel for upper class travellers on the magical Italian Riviera during the ‘Roaring 20s.’

Watch the trailer here:

Described as “an exhilarating cocktail of romance, glamour and mystery,” Hotel Portofino became a massive hit last year and the first season has been sold to over 55 territories around the world.

It was no huge surprise then when the producers officially confirmed that the show had been renewed for another six episodes.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves…

When does Season 1 start on ITV? 

Ahead of the show’s second season, UK fans will get their first chance to watch Hotel Portofino on regular broadcast television soon.

Season 1 will be airing at 9pm on Friday nights from 3rd February on ITV1.

(Up until now, it’s only been available in the UK for BritBox subscribers via streaming.)

The official synopsis reads: “Hotel Portofino tells the story of the Ainsworth family that has relocated from Britain to open an upscale hotel on the Italian coastline.

“Set in the breathtakingly beautiful resort town of Portofino, this new period drama is about personal awakening at a time of global upheaval in the traumatic aftermath of World War I and the liberating influence of Italy’s enchanting culture, climate and cuisine on elite British travelers.

“As distinguished guests like the imperious Lady Latchmere check into the hotel, matriarch Bella Ainsworth tries to keep up with their constant demands.”

Watch a clip here:

Leading the cast are Natascha McElhone (Ladies in Lavender) and Mark Umbers (Home Fires) as British expat hoteliers Bella and Cecil Ainsworth.

They’re joined by Anna Chancellor (Downton Abbey), Adam James (Vigil), Imogen King (The Bay), Lorenzo Richelmy (Marco Polo), Lily Frazer (Cuckoo), Oliver Dench (Domina), and Elizabeth Carling (Goodnight Sweetheart).

Most of the main cast are expected to return in Season 2, which began filming last year in Italy and on the coast of Croatia.

Executive producer Jo McGrath has hinted that the new season “will feature another heady mix of romance, intrigue, and dangerous ambitions.”

We’ll let you know when Season 2’s premiere date is as soon as we find out!

JP O’Connell’s Hotel Portofino novel is available on Amazon.