During our recent cruise, we spent just one day in Savona, and I absolutely loved it! Savona is a perfect blend of history and beauty, with its cobblestone medieval streets, stunning Art Nouveau palaces, and a fascinating historical fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the Museo della Ceramica, a captivating museum that showcases the region’s rich ceramic tradition.

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How to spend one day in Savona

Is Savona worth visiting?

Savona is an Italian port city located in the northwest of the country, in the region of Liguria. It is about 45 kilometers (28 miles) west of Genoa and is a popular stop on Mediterranean cruises. After my day in Savona, I felt it was truly worth visiting, despite my initial negative expectations following our last trip to the Italian Riviera. However, Savona turned out to be a wonderful place to explore in one day, as it is relatively small, very walkable, not too overcrowded, and full of absolute gems, such as its Ceramic Museum.

A Cruise Stop in Savona

If you’re visiting Savona on a cruise, you’re most likely to be offered a day trip to Genoa or one of the nearby smaller villages, like Noli. Genoa is a fantastic city to visit, especially if you’ve never been, but it’s all about big-city life and intense sightseeing (you can’t see it all in one day). Noli is a charming village, though there are other similar gems in the area, like Cervo, that are also worth seeing. The Italian Riviera is definitely worth exploring by car if you want to discover small towns, much like we did in Tuscany. While I’ve visited Genoa on another cruise and enjoyed it, I’m actually glad we didn’t take any of the excursions and instead spent our time exploring Savona at our own pace.

Best Tours in Savona

To maximize your time in Savona and explore all the best places, as well as some hidden gems, in the company of a local guide, consider booking one of these top-rated tours:

What to see in Savona in one day

The Towers of Savona

One of the first things you notice when heading to the city center from the port area is Savona’s symbol – La Torretta (also called Torre Leon Pancaldo or Torre della Quarda). This medieval tower features a small statue of Savona’s patron saint, Nostra Signora della Misericordia. Another nearby tower, Torre del Brandale, is officially considered one of the most important buildings in the city. Also known as Campanassa (due to the large bell, which rings to signal the most important events in the city), it was built around the mid-1100s.

One day in Savona Italy
Views from Priamar Fortress in Savona

Priamar Fortress

Priamar Fortress is the perfect place to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Built in 1542, it also houses the Archaeological Museum of Savona, as well as the Sandro Pertini and Renata Cuneo Museums.

Ceramic pottery of Museo della Ceramica in Savona, Italy
Museo della Ceramica – the highlight of our one day in Savona

Museums in Savona

However, if we’re talking about museums, there’s one place you can’t miss in Savona: the Museo della Ceramica (Ceramics Museum). It is located near the Pinacoteca Civica inside Palazzo Gavotti. As a fan of Spanish ceramics, this was the highlight of my one day in Savona. If you’re interested in art and enjoy visiting museums, the Museo della Ceramica and the Pinacoteca Civica, both housed in the historic Palazzo, are probably the most unique museums in the city. The Museo della Ceramica is one of the most exceptional ceramic art museums in Europe. Its collection and exhibitions are impressive, showcasing the evolution of regional ceramic arts and crafts. I couldn’t resist buying a book about Ligurian ceramics (called Ceramiche Della Tradizione Ligure in Italian), despite my extensive collection of Spanish coffee table books.

Another museum we didn’t visit, but that many travelers might enjoy, is the All About Apple Museum. Since 2002, it has housed almost all the computers and accessories made by Apple since the brand’s creation. While I use Apple products, I can’t say I’m such a big fan that I’d visit its museum, especially since we only had one day in Savona.

Beautiful artwork at Museo della Ceramica in Savona, Italy
The art pieces at Museo della Ceramica in Savona

Architecture and Palaces

While wandering around the city center, you’ll come across countless fascinating buildings and palaces. To name a few: Palazzo delle Piane, Palazzo delle Palle, Palazzo degli Anziani… It’s hard to remember every place, though, as you stroll along, occasionally lifting your gaze to notice unique painted arched ceilings, which are a common sight throughout Italy.

One day in Savona
One day in Savona – exploring the street of the town

Churches and Cathedrals

If you enjoy visiting cathedrals, Savona has some notable sites to offer: the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta and the Cappella Sistina. Like the Valencian city of Xativa, Savona is the birthplace of two popes, Sixtus IV and Julius II. In fact, the Cappella Sistina was built by Sixtus IV as a mausoleum for his parents in their hometown.

However, to be honest, the Cappella Sistina didn’t live up to my expectations. For one, female visitors are required to cover their shoulders (it was over 37°C outside), and you’re not allowed to take pictures inside, even without flash. Needless to say, my expectations were sky-high. So, they sold us tickets without any warning, and then, right by the entrance, they wouldn’t let me in because of my off-shoulder outfit. Fortunately, my mother-in-law had a scarf, but honestly, they shouldn’t sell tickets to people who don’t meet the dress code. After the outfit drama, I was hesitant to visit any more cathedrals for the rest of the Mediterranean Cruise. Luckily, we had the opposite experience in Mallorca. Once inside the Cappella Sistina, there is a mausoleum and some Rococo-style frescoes, but I didn’t find anything that justified all the hype. Especially considering how many impressive churches and cathedrals there are in Europe. Some, like the Cathedral of Burgos, and the Cologne Cathedral in Germany, are true architectural gems.

What to eat in Savona

Savona is renowned for its two signature local dishes: farinata bianca and panissaFarinata bianca is a traditional Italian delicacy made primarily from chickpea flour, typically served warm with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt, offering a savory, comforting taste. Panissa, on the other hand, is a popular cold snack made from chickpeas, cut into cubes, and simply dressed with olive oil and a dash of lemon – light, refreshing, and perfect for a quick bite. Both are must-try dishes that showcase the city’s culinary roots. Beyond these iconic plates, Savona also offers a wide range of classic Italian cuisine. As I made my way back to the port, one spot that truly stood out to me was a street food stand called Alalunga Pescatori Savona. They were serving freshly fried calamari straight off the boat, giving visitors a direct taste of the sea. Being a true foodie, I couldn’t resist picking up some local spices and pasta from one of the charming souvenir shops near the port. I still use those ingredients at home, and every time I do, they bring back wonderful memories of Savona’s flavors and the vibrant atmosphere of the city!

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