Location & Transportation
The fully renovated Palacrociere Savona cruise terminal, revamped in November 2019, offers modern facilities spread over three levels. With a 1,200 m² terrace, an 8,300 m² overall covered area (including a 3,500 m² departure hall and mezzanine spaces) along with a spacious 3,500 m² baggage claim section, everything has been designed with the passenger in mind. A covered parking area for buses, taxis, and cars adds to the convenience.
Savona’s port is just about a 300-meter stroll from the center, accessible by a small, wheelchair-friendly bridge. It’s also the home port for Costa Cruises, which means you might see familiar Costa vessels mooring here.
Traveling to Savona is easy:
- From Milano Malpensa: There are direct shuttle services from the airport to Milano Centrale train station. From there, trains depart for Savona—with connections available via Genova Principe if needed.
- By train: Services run from major Italian cities like Milan, Turin, Venice, Rome, and Genoa directly to Ventimiglia, Imperia, and Savona. If you're coming from Nice or Ventimiglia, you can easily catch a train heading toward Savona. Remember to validate your ticket before boarding.
- By car: Savona offers a large parking area at special rates for Costa Cruises guests, along with useful information and services at the maritime station. For those arriving by train at Genova Porta Principe, a private bus transfer is available for Costa Cruises guests if booked in advance.
• Tip: If you plan on spending the night in the area, consider staying in the pretty village of Spotorno, just a short bus or taxi ride west of Savona.
Nearest Airport
While Savona does not have its own airport, you can reach the city easily by train via Milan Malpensa or from nearby Genoa. Genoa’s airport is also an option and is about a 30-40 minute drive from Savona.
Sightseeing
Savona’s medieval historic center is a delightful maze of narrow streets (carruggi) and ancient towers that speak volumes about its Ligurian heritage. Whether you’re wandering the charming alleys or pausing at picturesque squares, there’s plenty to see:
- Priamàr Fortress: Overlooking the old town, this massive fortress was built in 1528 by the Genoese. Today, it houses several major museum exhibits and offers stunning views of the harbor.
- La Torretta: This 14th-century tower marks the entrance to the harbor and is widely recognized as a symbol of Savona.
- Piazza Mameli: Home to the monument “Rintocchi e Memorie,” dedicated to the fallen of World War I, where a unique daily tradition takes place at 6 pm when the bell chimes 21 times.
- Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption: Built between 1589 and 1605 to replace the old church of St. Francis, this historic cathedral is a must-see.
- Piazza del Brandale: The historical heart of Savona, where you will find the old palazzo of the Aldermen adorned with sculptures, paintings, and frescoes.
Museums
• Within the Priamàr Fortress, you’ll find museum exhibits that cover military history and local art—a curious mix that truly brings Savona’s past to life.
Tours & Excursions
Savona is a great starting point for exploring the Ligurian coast:
- Coastal Boat Tours: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the rugged Ligurian shoreline and discover hidden coves.
- Cinque Terre Day Trips: A guided excursion to the legendary Cinque Terre villages is a popular choice and offers breathtaking coastal views.
- Walking Tours: Stroll through the medieval alleys of the old town on a guided tour that explains the city’s rich history and traditions.
Shopping
In Savona, shopping is a relaxed pleasure. Wander through local markets and boutique shops where you can find:
- Locally crafted souvenirs.
- Artisanal food products.
- Unique pieces of Ligurian craftsmanship.
The historic center is perfect for casually browsing and picking up one-of-a-kind gifts to remind you of your visit.
Dining
The local cuisine in Savona is a true mix of sea and mountain flavors:
- While seafood is a staple, don’t miss the traditional “tripe in broth” once favored by local fishermen and port workers.
- Expect delicious regional specialties featuring mushrooms, chestnuts, truffles, asparagus, and artichokes.
- Several trattorias and osterias in the city serve hearty meals that reflect the diverse culinary traditions of Liguria.
I recommend trying a meal at one of the local restaurants and finishing it off with a glass of regional wine.
Culture & Local Events
Savona has a rich cultural tapestry that you can experience through its daily traditions and festive events:
- Daily Remembrance: In Piazza Mameli, the bell chimes 21 times every day at 6 pm to honor those who died in World War I—a poignant local custom.
- Local Festivals: The town hosts various local events celebrating Ligurian traditions, food festivals, and art exhibitions throughout the year.
- Practical Tips:
- Italy uses the euro (EUR), and while most places accept credit cards, some local markets might be cash-only.
- While Italian is the main language, many in tourist areas understand basic English.
- Shops typically follow standard Italian business hours, but check locally for any holiday changes.
- Safety: Always keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded tourist areas. In case of emergency, dial 112.
Nearby Lodging
Savona offers a range of accommodation options:
- There are several charming hotels in and around the historic center, perfect for a short stay.
- For a quieter experience, consider small guesthouses or bed & breakfasts in nearby Spotorno, easily accessible by bus or taxi.