The province of Savona lies along the western Ligurian coast, between the provinces of Imperia and Genova. It is a region of striking diversity where the Alps meet the sea, offering a blend of dramatic coastlines, medieval villages, and forested hills.
From turquoise coves to snow-capped mountains, the province presents a wealth of travel experiences in a compact area. Though often overlooked in favor of its neighbors, Savona is a destination full of surprises, rich in culture, nature, and history.
Province of Savona, Liguria
The Riviera delle Palme
The coast of the province of Savona is known as the Riviera delle Palme, a name that reflects its warm climate and lush vegetation. Towns such as Albenga, Alassio, Loano, and Finale Ligure are among the most beloved seaside destinations in Liguria.
These towns boast long sandy beaches, promenades lined with palm trees, and charming old centers filled with cafés, churches, and boutique shops. The calm waters and clean shores make this stretch popular with families, sunseekers, and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Beaches and seaside activities
The province’s coastline alternates between soft, sandy beaches and dramatic rocky coves, offering options for every type of traveler. Varigotti and Bergeggi are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and more secluded settings, ideal for snorkelling and kayaking.
In contrast, towns like Pietra Ligure and Albissola Marina offer lively beach clubs and facilities. Sailing, paddleboarding, diving, and boat rentals are widely available along the coast, giving visitors the chance to explore the marine life and hidden inlets.
Medieval villages and hilltop towns
Just a short drive from the sea, the hills and mountains of Savona province are dotted with ancient villages that preserve the architecture and spirit of medieval Liguria. Finalborgo, nestled inland from Finale Ligure, is a walled town of great historical charm.
Other gems include Millesimo, Sassello, and Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena, which are part of Italy’s list of most beautiful villages. Stone houses, narrow alleys, and quiet piazzas make these places a joy to explore for lovers of history and slow travel.
A crossroads of trade and history
The province of Savona has long been a strategic passage between the coast and the Piedmont region. This position gave rise to fortified towns, trade routes, and religious centers that shaped its character over centuries of development.
Albenga, for instance, has Roman origins and still retains Roman walls and ruins, while the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora della Misericordia near Savona draws pilgrims and history lovers alike. The area reflects layers of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance influences.
Natural parks and outdoor experiences
Savona’s inland areas are home to some of Liguria’s most scenic natural landscapes. The Parco Naturale Regionale del Beigua is a UNESCO Global Geopark and offers panoramic trails, ancient forests, and rare geological formations.
Hiking, cycling, and climbing are popular here, especially in the Finale Ligure area, which is considered one of Europe’s best climbing destinations. Trails also lead to waterfalls, mountain pastures, and remote villages that feel untouched by time.
Traditional food and local products
The cuisine of the province of Savona draws on both coastal and inland ingredients. Anchovies, mussels, and seafood risottos are common near the sea, while polenta, mushrooms, and game meats are popular in the hills and mountains.
Focaccia, farinata, and trofie with pesto are Ligurian staples, but Savona has its own specialties too. Chinotto, a bitter citrus fruit, is cultivated here and used to make jams, drinks, and even liqueurs. Artisanal cheeses, wines, and olive oils are also widely produced.
Art, ceramics, and craftsmanship
The province has a strong tradition of craftsmanship, especially in ceramics and glass. Albissola Marina and Albisola Superiore have been centers of artistic ceramic production for centuries and are home to museums and working studios where visitors can see artisans at work.
Murals, pottery shops, and modern art installations blend with the traditional in these towns. The ceramic tradition is alive and well, often merging old techniques with contemporary design. Crafts also include wood carving, embroidery, and handmade soaps.
Festivals and living traditions
Throughout the year, the province of Savona celebrates a rich variety of festivals that highlight its heritage. Summer festivals along the coast feature fireworks, music, and seafood feasts, while inland towns honor saints with processions and historical reenactments.
The Infiorata of Sassello, which carpets streets in flower petals, and the Medieval Festival in Finalborgo are just two examples of events that transform quiet towns into lively, colorful celebrations of history and culture.
Architecture and sacred sites
Churches, chapels, and sanctuaries are scattered throughout the province, often in remote or scenic locations. The Cathedral of Albenga, with its ancient baptistery, and the Cappella Sistina of Savona, built by the family of Pope Sixtus IV, are significant examples.
Monasteries hidden in the hills and roadside shrines speak to the spiritual life that once dominated the region. Many buildings are simple but richly decorated inside, offering peace and a sense of continuity with centuries past.
Sustainable tourism and local initiatives
Tourism in the province of Savona is increasingly focused on sustainability and community support. Agriturismo stays allow guests to experience rural life, farm-fresh food, and environmentally friendly practices.
Many coastal towns are part of eco-tourism programs that protect the marine environment and promote responsible travel. Local guides, family-owned shops, and green transport options help keep tourism beneficial for both residents and the environment.
Getting around and accessibility
The province is well connected by train along the coast, with stations in major towns such as Savona, Albenga, and Finale Ligure. Buses and regional roads link inland villages and mountain areas to the coastal hubs.
The proximity to airports in Genoa and Nice adds convenience for international visitors. Renting a car offers flexibility, especially for those interested in exploring remote towns and natural parks at their own pace.
Conclusion: a land of contrasts and discovery
The province of Savona is a place where the mountains meet the sea, where ancient traditions thrive alongside modern creativity, and where visitors can find both serenity and adventure.
With its blend of coastal beauty, historical depth, and natural richness, Savona offers an experience that is both authentically Ligurian and uniquely its own. It is a destination for travelers who love variety, history, and discovery.
