Savona, on Italy’s Ligurian coast, offers a surprising variety of tours that suit different tastes. Whether you’re a nature lover eager to spot dolphins and whales, a history enthusiast exploring ancient fortifications, or a foodie wanting authentic local flavors, Savona has something for you. Among our favorites is the exclusive nature cruise to the Pelagos Sanctuary, which combines scenic beauty with a chance to see marine wildlife in their natural habitat — a real treat for anyone who appreciates the sea and its creatures. This cruise is especially appealing because it’s led by naturalist guides and includes educational moments, making it both fun and informative.
While Savona isn’t as crowded as some other Italian destinations, its diverse tours provide authentic experiences that highlight the city’s maritime and historical significance. From cetacean-watching excursions to exploring underground fortresses and enjoying home-cooked dinners, there’s a lot to choose from. We’ve narrowed down the top six options below, so whether you’re after a half-day adventure or a cultural deep dive, you’ll find something that fits your style.
This list features a mix of marine tours, historic explorations, and culinary experiences—each bringing a different side of Savona to life. So let’s look at the best options to help you decide which tour will make your visit unforgettable.
1. Savona: Exclusive nature cruise to the Pelagos Sanctuary
At number 1, this 3.5-hour cruise offers an intimate encounter with the marine life of the Ligurian Sea. You’ll travel aboard a small, exclusive vessel with expert naturalist guides who are passionate about cetology. The onboard video lesson in both Italian and English provides a fascinating introduction to the cetaceans and other marine species you’ll encounter. This experience is perfect for travelers interested in marine biology or anyone who loves being on the water with the chance to see dolphins, sperm whales, and other cetaceans in their natural environment.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on education and conservation. As you follow the lead of your guides, you’ll learn how to recognize different cetaceans and see them in action. The tour also includes a stop at La Torretta – Torre Leon Pancaldo for a quick photo opportunity, giving you a chance to snap pics of the coast before heading back. The reviews, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 173 travelers, praise the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the wildlife sightings. The price of about $71 per person makes it accessible for a half-day adventure.
Bottom Line: If marine wildlife and learning about sea life fascinate you, this cruise offers a well-rounded, engaging experience with a high chance of sightings, all led by knowledgeable naturalists.
2. Savona: Pelagos Sanctuary Guided Cetacean Watching Tour
Number 2 on our list is a 4.5-hour guided cetacean-watching tour led by marine biologists. Starting from Via Antonio Gramsci, this tour is a deep dive into the rich biodiversity of the Pelagos Sanctuary, a protected area famed for its marine mammals. If you’re eager to go beyond just watching, this trip emphasizes learning about the fin whales, sperm whales, bottlenose dolphins, and others that call these waters home.
What makes this tour unique is the presence of expert guides who can answer your questions about the animals and their conservation efforts. During the trip, you’ll have opportunities to capture excellent photos of the various cetaceans, which are plentiful during certain seasons. The guides also share insights into the ecological importance of the sanctuary, making it educational as well as exciting. With a rating of 4.2 from 73 reviews, most travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to observe whales and dolphins in the open sea.
This tour is ideal for nature lovers and those who want a more immersive experience with marine mammals. Keep in mind, the longer duration and focus on wildlife might mean variable sightings depending on the day.
Bottom Line: For those with a keen interest in marine conservation and photography, this guided tour offers both education and opportunity for memorable wildlife encounters.
3. Savona: Guided Visit to the Underground Passages of the Priamàr
If you’re intrigued by hidden city secrets, the guided visit to the underground passages of the Priamàr is a fantastic choice. This one-hour tour takes you beneath the fortress to explore its mysterious underground chambers and dungeons. It’s a captivating way to uncover the lesser-known side of Savona’s history, with the fortress itself dating back centuries.
The tour’s appeal lies in its immersive storytelling and the chance to walk through medieval tunnels and secret rooms. The small-group format enhances the experience, making it engaging for both adults and children. With a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 15 reviews, visitors often mention how the tour is both fun and educational, offering a different perspective compared to typical sightseeing.
This experience is perfect for history buffs, families, or anyone curious about medieval military architecture. The limited duration makes it easy to combine with other city explorations.
Bottom Line: A short but rich peek into Savona’s hidden past, this underground tour is ideal for those who love stories of the past and underground mysteries.
4. Savona: Dining Experience at a Local’s Home
For a truly authentic taste of Italy, the dining experience at a local home is a highlight. This three-hour event offers an intimate, four-course meal prepared by a Savona family, providing an unparalleled glimpse into everyday Italian life. You’ll enjoy tasting recipes handed down through generations, paired with local wines and warm hospitality.
The highlight here is the opportunity to participate in a cooking demonstration and connect with your hosts. Guests often praise the genuine warmth of the family and the chance to learn authentic recipes firsthand. The experience is perfect for foodies, cultural travelers, or anyone wanting to break away from standard guided tours and really get a sense of local life.
While the cost isn’t listed, reviews indicate the experience offers excellent value by combining a delicious meal with cultural exchange. Limited availability means booking early is recommended.
Bottom Line: If you love food and culture, sharing a home-cooked meal in Savona will be a memorable, heartfelt experience.
5. Savona: Guided visit to the Priamàr Fortress
The guided visit to the Priamàr Fortress offers a broader exploration of this historic site across an hour. This tour takes you through the entire fortress complex, revealing its impressive defenses and strategic importance in Savona’s history.
Led by guides with a knack for storytelling, visitors learn about the fortress’s role in military history and its transformation over centuries. Reviewers commend guides like Giorgio and Elena for their engaging, personalized approach, making the history come alive. With an emphasis on both history and views of the city and sea, this tour provides a well-rounded perspective on Savona’s past.
This experience suits those interested in military architecture, history, or simply wanting an overview of the city’s most iconic monument. Its short duration makes it a convenient addition to a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: For history enthusiasts and those seeking an engaging storytelling experience, this fortress tour offers a comprehensive look at Savona’s defenses.
6. Savona: Guided visit to the Civic Archaeological Museum and the City of Savona
Finally, the guided visit to the Civic Archaeological Museum is perfect for history lovers who want to explore the city’s ancient roots. During this hour-long tour, archaeologists bring to life Savona’s origins through exhibitions and on-site archaeological areas.
Visitors appreciate the seamless combination of museum collections and real excavations, providing context to the city’s development from Roman times onward. The reviews highlight the engaging explanations and the opportunity to see artifacts up close. This tour is best suited for those with a keen interest in archaeology or a desire to understand Savona’s layered history.
While brief, the tour offers a rundown and can be combined with other activities, making it a flexible option.
Bottom Line: For those keen to uncover Savona’s archaeological past, this guided museum tour delivers an informative and visually engaging experience.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Savona
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. If marine wildlife is your main passion, the nature cruise or the cetacean watching will satisfy your curiosity. For history buffs, the Priamàr Fortress and the underground passages provide fascinating insights into Savona’s past. Food lovers should not miss the dining at a local’s home, which offers a genuine taste of local life.
Budget-wise, marine tours tend to be affordable and offer great value for the opportunity to see whales and dolphins. If you prefer a mix of history and scenery, the fortress visits are concise but enriching. Booking early is always wise, especially for popular experiences in peak season.
Final Thoughts
Savona offers a rich variety of tours, whether you’re after wildlife encounters, cultural insights, or culinary adventures. For nature lovers, the Pelagos Sanctuary cruises stand out for their educational value, while history fans will enjoy exploring the Priamàr Fortress and underground passages. Foodies seeking authentic experiences will find the home dinner an especially rewarding choice.
No matter which you pick, each tour provides a different window into Savona’s character, making your visit much more meaningful. To ensure a smooth experience, consider your interests, the time you have available, and book in advance when possible. Savona’s diverse tours promise an enriching experience, and this list will help you find the perfect fit for your trip.
