Plan a CruiseSavona's Palacrociere terminal, fully renovated in November 2019, serves as a prominent cruise gateway, particularly for Costa Cruises. The three-level facility boasts an 8,300 m² total covered area, including 4,800 m² dedicated to passengers, with a large departure hall and two mezzanines. A convenient 1,200 m² terrace and covered parking for buses, taxis, and cars are also available. A unique advantage here is that port authorities, not cruise ship scanners, check carry-ons, making it easy to bring items like soft drinks aboard.
The city itself offers a charming medieval historic center, characterized by its Ligurian "carruggi" (narrow alleyways) and historic tower houses. Dominating the old town is the impressive Priamàr fortress, built in 1528 by the Genoese. Other notable landmarks include La Torretta, a 14th-century tower at the harbor entrance, and the Piazza Mameli, home to the Rintocchi e Memorie monument, where a unique tradition sees a bell chime 21 times daily at 6 pm in remembrance of war dead.
Getting Around from the Port
The center of Savona is very accessible, located just a short 300-meter walk from the cruise terminal over a wheelchair-friendly bridge. This makes many of the city's attractions easily reachable on foot.
For those arriving by train, direct services connect Savona from major Italian cities like Milan, Turin, Venice, Rome, and Genoa (trains heading towards Ventimiglia or Imperia). Similarly, trains from Nice (Nizza) and Ventimiglia run to Savona, connecting to these larger cities. It is crucial to validate your train ticket using the machines at the station before boarding to avoid fines.
If you're a Costa Cruises guest traveling from Genova Porta Principe train station, a private bus transfer service is available from 1:30 pm. This service must be booked in advance through your travel agent; without a reservation, the transfer will not be provided. Cruisers arriving by car also have access to a wide parking area at the terminal, with a special rate available for Costa guests.
Should you consider an overnight stay nearby, the picturesque village of Spotorno, located west of Savona, is easily reached by bus or taxi.
Attractions and Activities
Savona offers a rich array of historical and cultural sights within easy walking distance of the port:
- Savona's Medieval Historic Center: Explore the narrow "carruggi" and historic buildings. The State Archives here hold the "Dichiarazione di Paxia" (1178-1182), the first document written in the Ligurian vernacular.
- Priamàr Fortress: Built in 1528 by the Genoese, this massive fortress sits above the old town and now houses four significant museums.
- La Torretta: This 14th-century tower, strategically positioned at the harbor entrance, is considered the true symbol of Savona.
- Piazza Mameli & Rintocchi e Memorie: Visit the monument to World War I fallen soldiers. Experience the unique daily tradition at 6 pm when the bell chimes 21 times, and everyone pauses to remember.
- Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption: Constructed between 1589 and 1605, this impressive cathedral replaced an older church from 1259.
- Piazza del Brandale: The heart of the old town, this square features the palace from which the Aldermen once ruled, adorned with sculptures, paintings, and frescoes.
- Tourist Office: Located at Corso Italia, 157 r, for local information and maps.
For those looking to venture further afield, popular nearby destinations include:
- Genoa: A major port city with a rich maritime history, just a short train ride away.
- SanRemo: Known for its casino, mild climate, and flower festival, also accessible by train.
- Spotorno: A pretty village to the west, reachable by bus or taxi, offering a pleasant change of scenery.
Dining & Shopping
Savona's cuisine reflects both its coastal location and proximity to the mountains. While seafood is abundant, you'll also find hearty "mountain cooking" influences. A traditional lunch for fishermen and port workers was "tripe in broth," made with meat from local Piemontese cows. Local specialties also feature forest fruits like mushrooms, chestnuts, and truffles, alongside asparagus and artichokes cultivated along the coast in Albenga.
Near the terminal, you'll find internet access with an internet point featuring 37 monitors within the cruise terminal itself. Additionally, a small internet/WiFi cafe is located approximately 100 meters from the terminal, easy to spot when walking towards the town center.
Most shops and businesses in Italy operate Monday to Saturday, typically from 8 am to 1 pm and then from 4 pm to 7 pm. Be aware that many shops close on Saturday afternoons and Monday mornings. While Sundays traditionally see most establishments (except bars and restaurants) closed, Savona has many bookstores open on Sunday mornings, and large cities and tourist areas are increasingly adopting Sunday opening hours. You can usually find a "pasticceria" (pastry shop) open on Sunday mornings.
Safety
For any emergencies, the number to call is 112.
Currency and Language
The local language is Italian.