Savona

This childhood home of Christopher Columbus has a modern port, atmospheric medieval centre, sandy beaches and access to superb hiking.

Savona is a lively seaport on the Italian Riviera. Occupied since the time of the Ligurian people, Savona became a prominent iron manufacturing city and gained fame as a former home of Columbus. Today, huge cruise ships, luxurious yachts and weathered fishing trawlers line the port and a promenade frames a sandy coastline. In the old town, Art Nouveau villas sit beside architectural gems bequeathed by the noble Della Rovere family.

Start your tour at hilltop Priamar Fortress, built as a stronghold by the Genoese in 1542 and used as a military prison throughout much of the 1800s. Inside, the Priamar Archaeological Museum has artifacts that date back to the Bronze Age, Byzantine and Roman empires. Views from the ramparts reach over the coastline, historic quarter and port. Spot major landmarks such as the medieval towers Torre del Brandale and La Torretta Torre Leon Pancaldo.

Wander down from the castle into the buzzing old town and pause at Piazza del Duomo to visit Savona Cathedral. Adjacent to here is the Rococo-style Cappella Sistina, built as a mausoleum by Pope Sixtus IV in memory of his parents. Palazzo della Rovere and Palazzo Pozzobonello are among other architectural highlights. Retrace 600 years of ceramic art at the Museo della Ceramica di Savona.

Fashion conscious visitors will enjoy browsing the clothing, footwear and jewellery shops located on Corso Italia. Purchase ceramics at Savona Antique Market, held on the first weekend of the month. On Monday, the streets around Piazza del Popolo host the Mercato del Lunedi flea market.

Feel the sea breeze while walking along the Passeggiata Walter Tobagi and Corso Vittorio Veneto promenades. Throw down a towel at the public beach in front of the Garibaldi statue or pay to the use the facilities at the bagni beach clubs. An hour’s drive from the city, Alta Via dei Monti Liguri is a hiking route around Monte Reixa.

Reach Savona by flying to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport and then take the train from there. Alternatively, arrive by cruise liner at the Port of Savona.