5 Things to Do in Savona, Italy
Savona is an overlooked gem in Liguria, offering a mix of history, charm, and coastal beauty.
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Though Savona often gets overshadowed by neighboring destinations, this city has plenty to offer for those willing to explore. Here are my top five recommendations for things to do in Savona.
When I visited the Ligurian representation at WTM in London last year I asked what to see in Savona.
‘I don’t really know’ the tourist board lady said. ‘I’ve never been there. But Noli is very nice. You really should go visit Noli.’
With 60.000 inhabitants Savona is one of the biggest cities in Liguria, while Noli is a tiny village, but as an industrial town which has been heavily based on the iron industry Savona has not got the best reputation. In spite of a fabulous location locked into a sunny bay between the sea and the Ligurian Alps and other interesting places to explore. At least I am glad, I took the time to visit, and I’d recommend others to do the same, if you find my top 5 things to do in Savona Italy at all attractive. You’ll find a list of accommodation here.
Snapshots from walks around Savona.
1. Explore the Harbour and the Beach
Stroll around Savona’s inner harbour to soak up the sunshine and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The harbour showcases a delightful contrast between luxurious yachts and rustic fishing boats. While some visitors sip champagne on deck, others repair fishing nets. Along the way, you’ll spot iconic city landmarks, a bustling fish auction, and inviting outdoor cafés.
If the weather is warm, head to the beach on Corso Vittorio Veneto. Few Italian cities offer beaches within walking distance of their historic centers. While distant railways and factories dot the horizon, the beach facilities remain clean and welcoming. It’s a perfect spot to unwind by the sea.
2. Visit the Priamar Fortress and Its Rich History
Nestled between the beach and the harbour, the Priamar Fortress, built in 1542, commands attention. During the 19th century, it housed up to 500 prisoners. Archaeological findings on-site reveal pre-Roman, Roman, and Byzantine layers of history.
Today, the fortress hosts Savona’s Archaeological Museum—though its availability depends on closures for reconstruction or midday breaks. Even from the outside, the fortress offers a glimpse into the city’s storied past and provides a fantastic backdrop for photos.
3. Marvel at Savona’s Sistine Chapel
Did you know there are two Sistine Chapels in the world? One is in Rome, and the other is in Savona. This chapel was built by Pope Sixtus IV, a Savona native, as a mausoleum for his parents. Located behind the cathedral, The Savonese Cappella Sistina features elaborate Rococo decorations, golden details, and a ceiling painted by Paolo Gerolamo Brusco. Visitors also admire the intricately carved wooden choir seats and the serene cloister garden. It’s a hidden treasure that adds a touch of grandeur to your visit.
The ghibilline towers
4. Admire the Ghibelline Towers
Savona’s skyline is punctuated by medieval towers, remnants of its historic city walls. The most iconic is La Torretta, a clocktower at the end of Via Paleocapa by the harbour. These Ghibelline Towers date back to the 16th century and once numbered around 50. Historically, bonfires lit atop these towers served as lighthouses, guiding sailors home. Today, they stand as proud symbols of the city’s architectural heritage.
5. Enjoy the Art Nouveau Architecture
While wandering through Savona, take time to appreciate its striking Art Nouveau (Ottocento) architecture. Even ordinary houses here exude charm, adorned with intricate details and decorative flourishes. Savona’s café-lined promenades, vibrant squares, and elegant shops create a delightful urban tapestry. Whether you’re window shopping or people-watching on a sunny square, the city’s unique character will captivate you.
Savona may not have the glamour of larger cities, but it offers a refreshing blend of history, culture, and coastal allure. Whether you’re strolling along the harbour, delving into its medieval past, or admiring architectural gems, Savona has plenty to keep you enchanted. Plan a visit and uncover the sparkle of this Ligurian treasure.
This blog post was last updated in November 2024
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Your Google map came in handy with this post. Looks well worth spending some time in – though I’d never heard of it before.
I find maps help too. I don’t think anyone can place every city on the globe without some sort of guidance.
Beach, harbour, Sistine chapel, medieval towers? Definitely sounds like it’s worth a visit. Shame on the Tourism board for not knowing this.
Indeed.
Savona certainly sounds beautiful and inviting. It’s too bad the tourism board didn’t work hard enough to promote what you highlighted here. A fortress and a Sistine chapel are enough to get me to visit.
It is strange they don’t promote it better. Especially, as some of the cruise ships embark or stop in Savona.
Harbour cities often have a rough, gritty feel, and are appealing in their own way. Savona looks interesting, I’ll stop and have a look around next time I’m in the area.
Yes, it makes it more exciting to explore.
It’s always good to read about a destination that is no so popular. I’d definitely enjoy a walk around the harbor and enjoy the sunshine. Great tips, Mette!
Thanks. And you you can spend hours around the harbour.
Thanks, my Mum’s family is from Savona, my great grandfather was Angelo Noli and they emigrated from Savona to South Africa in the early 1900s. I’m planning a trip to Liguria to do some family tree research.
How interesting to have roots like that waiting to be discovered.
Hi Carmella,
Angelo Noli was my great-great grandfather.Have only recently found this out.I am also busy undertaking family research.
Would love to hear from you.
What a coincidence. If you are interested, I can send your email address to Carmella.
Thank you for the information.visited briefly 2 years ago.returning in a few weeks.to be continued.
Have a nice trip – Hope you will follow up with some additional tips:)
You forgot to mention that the best chinotto comes from Savona. I hope to visit one day as I am a Savona and my family came from there some time ago, but it’s a long way from Australia.
Hate to admit it, nut I needed google’s help to learn that chinotto is a carbonated soft drink. Shame on me. Now I have to go and try it:)
How fascinating about the clock towers, that with lighting a bonfire it also served as a lighthouse. A great read! :)
Yes, some of the old inventions are quite ingenious.
I am going on a cruise and it docks in Savona so looking forward to exploring. Love harbours and sitting in cafes watching the locals. Thanks for the info.
Then I’m sure you’ll enjoy Savona. Have a great trip:)
I am going to be in Savona next week on a cruise , thank you for your helpful information .
Thanks for the feedback. I really hope you’ll enjoy it.
Hello Mette,
We are due to visit the area around Savona in May with a television crew. Do you know of any activities that are available that are maybe not advertised and have either a cultural relevance or would be fun for a group of 8, 20+ year olds?
Hi Will,
That’s a tough one, as it depends very much on your interests and the days your are visiting. The Italian web-pages I’ve checked haven’t got announcements for more that the coming month, so what I can find is a Drinkeat festival (May 5-7) and some flea markets. The university of Genua has a campus in Savona, so there are activities for 20-somethings around town including music bars, cafes and nightclubs. There are churches, museums (eg. an apple museum) and caves to be visited. Great areas for hiking in the nearby mountains, and on Saturdays from 10-12 you can climb the Torre del Brandale. I’m sure you’ll find plenty of things to do in Savona. Both Giro del Italia bicycvle race and Mille Miglia for vintage cars take place in May, but neither of these events stop by Savona this year. Unfortunately.
Hello friends
I need you help regarding my coming 4 day cruise trip to Savona. I am travelling into april month and could you please suggest me better and enjoying ways to my destinations. I have to came from Zurich to Savona and after 4 days back to Paris from Savona. Anyone can help me to manage these transfers and make memorable stay at Savona because i dont know local language….i want to make arrrangments before trip with help of you friends!!!
Hi Ajit, Unfortunately I can’t help you with these specific details, as information about transfers and transportation change constantly. But I’m sure you will meet some people along the way, who speak English and will be able to help you, and I hope you will have a marvelous time exploring the attractions of Savona.
I want to visit here because my grandmother was from Savona.
Understandably:) But the town is quite gorgeous in its own right, as well.
We travelled to Savona today based on these recommendations – another added bonus – prices in restaurants and bars very reasonable (shockingly) compared to other port side towns!
Glad to hear you agreed, and that the prices are still affordable.