If you’re planning your holiday to the Italian Riviera and have your sights set on charming coastal towns, beautiful architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine, Savona is ready to surprise you. Just a short ride from Genoa, this often-overlooked Ligurian gem mixes history, art, and seaside beauty with an authentic local vibe. In between exploring the city’s medieval lanes and lively waterfront, take a break for one of the nearby Liguria wine tours and taste crisp local whites or robust reds that pair perfectly with the region’s famous seafood and pesto. On a cruise stopover or here for a full day, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Savona. Explore its papal connection as the birthplace of Pope Sixtus IV (yes, the very one linked to the Sistine Chapel), wander the historic center, or relax on sandy beaches as the Ligurian sun sets over the sea.
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Visit Savona and the best things to do
Stroll along the Priamar Fortress
Standing guard over the sea, the Priamar Fortress is impossible to miss. This massive 16th-century stronghold feels like stepping into a time machine, with ancient walls, sweeping sea views, and plenty of hidden corners to wander. Climb up for the kind of panorama that makes you reach for your camera every two minutes, then take your time exploring the old stone passages. It’s the perfect mix of history and fresh sea air, a spot you’ll remember long after you’ve left Savona.
Walk to La Torretta and the Leon Pancaldo Tower
Right by the port, you’ll spot La Torretta, also known as the Leon Pancaldo Tower, Savona’s most famous landmark. Standing here since the 14th century, it’s a nod to the local navigator who once sailed with Magellan. Today, it’s the perfect place to pause, snap a few photos, and watch the mix of fishing boats and sleek yachts come and go.
Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption
Right in the heart of the city, the Duomo of Savona is impossible to miss, all baroque beauty and quiet charm. Step inside and you’re greeted by cool marble, ornate chapels, and a calm that feels miles away from the busy streets outside. When you’re done, linger in the piazza just outside, it’s the perfect spot to sit back, people-watch, and let Savona’s rhythm sink in.
Wander to Torre del Brandale
Part of Savona’s famous trio of medieval towers, the Torre del Brandale is a piece of living history. Locals will tell you it’s the city’s very first fortified tower, and it still rings out over the streets, marking time like it has for centuries. If you’re up for the climb, the reward is worth it, panoramic views that stretch over rooftops, the port, and the shimmering Ligurian Sea.
Loose yourself in the old streets
Wandering Savona’s old streets is like flipping through a living storybook, except you get the scents of fresh focaccia and espresso with every turn. Narrow alleys open onto sunny piazzas, laundry sways overhead, and centuries-old facades wear their history proudly. Take your time, peek into little artisan shops, and follow the sound of chatter spilling from cafés.
Visit Savona and the best things to do around
Wander in Noli
Just 15 minutes from Savona, Noli feels like stepping straight into a postcard. Think sandy beaches lapped by turquoise waves, medieval towers peeking over rooftops, and little cobbled streets that make you slow down and wander. Grab a seafood lunch by the water, take a lazy stroll along the shore, or hike up to the old castle for sea views that will make you linger longer than planned. Noli is the kind of place that turns a quick visit into an all-day escape.
Don’t miss our latest guide, dive into the best things to do in and visit Noli Italy.
Stroll Along the Waterfront in Finale Ligure
Finale Ligure is the kind of place where you can’t decide what’s better, the soft sandy beaches, the golden sunsets, or the gelato breaks in between. Just a short trip from Savona, it’s perfect for a slow afternoon after exploring the city’s sights. Wander the lively promenade, peek into little shops, sip coffee at a beachside café, and let the sea breeze set the pace. With its mix of history, charm, and pure seaside bliss, Finale Ligure will have you wishing you stayed a little longer.
Take a break and visit Finale Ligure to complete your Italian trip.
Drive to Genoa for a day trip
In less than an hour’s drive from Savona, Genoa greets you with a burst of energy, history, and flavor. Spend the morning wandering its UNESCO-listed old town, where narrow caruggi (alleys) twist past centuries-old palaces and tiny bakeries serving warm focaccia. Pause at the lively Porto Antico for a coffee with a sea view, then dive into the city’s markets or museums, and finally book a visit to a Genoa winery. By evening, you’ll be heading back to Savona with a camera full of photos and maybe a bag of Ligurian treats for the road.
Complete your list and uncover the best things to do in Genoa.
Good to know before visiting Savona
Is Savona worth visiting?
Yes, Savona is absolutely worth visiting, especially for travelers looking to experience a quieter, more authentic side of the Italian Riviera. Unlike the tourist-heavy cities like Genoa or Cinque Terre, Savona offers charming medieval architecture, beautiful coastal views, and a unique combination of maritime history and vibrant local culture. It’s a great stop for both history lovers and beachgoers.
Why is Savona famous?
Savona is known for being a historical seaport and an important center of the Italian Riviera’s naval industry. The city gained prominence during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and was once the residence of Pope Sixtus IV. Today, it’s renowned for its well-preserved landmarks such as the Priamar Fortress, its thriving port, and its traditional Ligurian cuisine. Savona is also a stop for many Mediterranean cruises.
What should I visit in Savona?
Top attractions in Savona include:
- Priamar Fortress – a grand 16th-century fortress with scenic views and several museums inside.
- Sistine Chapel of Savona – not to be confused with Rome’s chapel, this one was commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV and is a hidden Baroque gem.
- Cattedrale di Nostra Signora Assunta – a striking cathedral with centuries of history.
- All About Apple Museum – a unique museum dedicated to the history of Apple computers and products.
- La Torretta and Via Paleocapa – historic landmarks surrounded by charming streets and local shops.
What are the best hotels in Savona?
Whether you’re looking for luxurious accommodations or budget-friendly options, Savona has something for everyone:
- NH Savona Darsena – A modern 4-star hotel near the harbor and cruise terminal, perfect for business and leisure travelers.
- B&B Hotel Savona – Great value lodging with clean rooms and a convenient location near the beach.
- Casa B&B Paganini – Located a few steps from Fornaci Beach, the property is 24 mi from Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport.
What are the best restaurants in Savona?
To taste true Ligurian cuisine, these restaurants in Savona won’t disappoint:
- A Spurcacciun-a – A Michelin-listed fine dining restaurant offering innovative takes on regional seafood dishes, located right on the beach.
- Ristorante Cinquecento – Popular with locals, serving traditional Ligurian dishes like trofie al pesto and stuffed mussels.
- Antica Osteria dei Camalli – Cozy atmosphere and hearty seafood right near the historic center.
- Solo Qui – A more contemporary spot with excellent pasta, wine selection, and desserts.
How many days should I spend in Savona?
A 2-3 day stay is ideal to explore Savona’s main sights, enjoy the beaches, sample local food, and perhaps take a day trip to nearby destinations like Genoa or the Ligurian hills. It’s also a great port to begin or end a cruise, making it a convenient stopover.
When is the best time to visit Savona?
The best time to visit Savona is from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the beaches and coastal walks. However, if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather, the shoulder months of April and October are also lovely for sightseeing.
Is Savona a good cruise port stop?
Yes, Savona is a popular cruise port, particularly for MSC Cruises. The port is within easy walking distance to the city center, making it ideal for passengers to explore major attractions in just a few hours. There are also convenient train connections if passengers want to visit other nearby Italian Riviera towns.
How do I get to Savona?
Savona is easily reachable by train from major Italian cities such as Genoa (about 30 minutes), Milan (2 hours), and Turin. The nearest major airport is Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, located about 28 miles away. By car, the A10 motorway connects Savona with the rest of Liguria and northern Italy.
