Castelnuovo  Magra​

Latest page update: 25 May 2025
By: Dion Protani

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Castelnuovo Magra
Accommodation options in Castelnuovo Magra are limited, as the village is better known for its hilltop historic centre and vineyard landscapes than for a large hotel offering. Travellers who prefer established hotels with fuller facilities will find stronger and more reliable choices in nearby Lerici, which provides a wider selection of well-reviewed properties within easy driving distance of the village.
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In Lerici, Hotel Shelley e delle Palme is a refined waterfront option with elegant interiors, spa facilities and consistently positive guest feedback for service and location (€€€). Hotel Florida Lerici offers comfortable sea-facing rooms, a welcoming atmosphere and steady reviews for cleanliness and convenience along the promenade (€€). For an upmarket alternative, Hotel Byron provides stylish interiors, excellent service and a privileged coastal setting, making it one of the most highly regarded choices in the area (€€€€).

Where is

Where is Castelnuovo Magra?
​The town of Castelnuovo Magra is situated in the Province of La Spezia and stands at an elevation of 190 metres above sea level. It has a population of around 8,000 inhabitants.

Places of interest nearby include the towns of Sarzana, Montemarcello, Tellaro, Fiascherino and Lerici​ while the recommended accommodation is the Hotel Florida Lerici.
Comune di Castelnuovo Magra
Province: La Spezia

Region: Liguria

Population: 8,260​ (in 2024 - source)

​​​​​Size: 15 km²

Elevation: 190 metres

​​​​​​Close by: Sarzana, Montemarcello, Tellaro, Fiascherino, Lerici​

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Florida Lerici (13 km)
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)

Since: 2002

1 of 15 in Liguria listed by Touring Club Italiano

What People Ask About Castelnuovo Magra, Liguria

Is Castelnuovo Magra worth visiting?
Yes, Castelnuovo Magra is worth visiting for its hilltop location overlooking the Magra Valley, medieval castle ruins, and historic centre. It is also recognised as part of the Borghi più Belli d’Italia.
How do I get to Castelnuovo Magra?
Castelnuovo Magra is around 7 km inland from Sarzana. The nearest train station is in Sarzana, which has connections to La Spezia, Pisa, and Genoa. From there, the village can be reached by car or bus in about 15 minutes.
What are the main attractions in Castelnuovo Magra?
Key attractions include the Malaspina Castle, the parish church of Santa Maria Maddalena, and the narrow lanes of the historic centre. The village is also known for its wine production and scenic views over the Apuan Alps.
When is the best time to visit Castelnuovo Magra?
The best time to visit is in spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant for walking and exploring. Summer is also popular, with cultural events and festivals held in the village, while winter is quieter but atmospheric.
How long should I stay in Castelnuovo Magra?
A half-day is enough to explore the historic centre and castle. Visitors who enjoy wine tasting or want to explore the Magra Valley often choose to stay longer and use the village as a base.
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Discover

Discover Castelnuovo Magra
Castelnuovo Magra lies in the province of La Spezia, on the slopes that separate the Ligurian coastline from the inland hills of Lunigiana. The historic centre is perched on a ridge, giving it wide views over the Magra Valley, the Apuan Alps, and out towards the Ligurian Sea. Narrow streets wind through a medieval layout that reflects the village’s role as a fortified settlement during centuries of regional conflict.

​The most prominent landmark is the Castello dei Vescovi di Luni, built by the Bishops of Luni as a seat of power in the Middle Ages. The town also features several historic churches, including the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, and atmospheric piazzas where community life is centred. Visitors can explore the cultural heritage of the village while enjoying its elevated position that links both the coast and the inland valleys.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Castelnuovo Magra
  • Centro Storico di Castelnuovo Magra sits on a ridge overlooking the Magra valley, with narrow lanes winding between old stone houses. Many façades are painted in soft colours typical of Ligurian villages. Small squares and arches add to the historic feel. The village offers panoramic views towards the sea and surrounding hills.
  • Castello dei Vescovi di Luni dominates the village skyline with its solid stone walls and square towers. Originally built for defence, the castle has been partly restored and sometimes hosts exhibitions. Visitors can explore the outer areas and enjoy sweeping vistas. It’s a striking reminder of the area’s medieval past.
  • Chiesa di Santa Maria Maddalena is known for housing a painting once attributed to Pieter Brueghel the Younger, depicting the Crucifixion. The church blends baroque interior details with simpler exterior lines. It remains a key part of village life. Visitors often stop in while exploring the surrounding streets.
  • Piazza Querciola serves as a social hub for Castelnuovo Magra, lined with pastel houses and small shops. Outdoor tables invite people to sit and enjoy the view. The square often hosts events and markets featuring local products. From here, there’s a broad view over the valley below.
  • Wine tasting in the Colli di Luni area can be arranged from Castelnuovo Magra, offering the chance to sample Vermentino and other local wines. Visits often include explanations about vineyard cultivation and production methods. Tastings usually take place in small, family-run wineries. It’s an excellent way to experience regional flavours.

Tours and Activities

Castelnuovo Magra Tours and Activities

Photo Gallery

 Liguria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Liguria

1. Cinque Terre
2. Portofino
3. Sestri Levante
4. Camogli
5. Rapallo 
6. Portovenere
7. ​Lerici
8. Santa Margherita Ligure
9. ​Genoa
10. Finalborgo

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Liguria

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Castelnuovo Magra
By Rail: Castelnuovo Magra does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Sarzana, about 7 kilometres away, on the Genoa–Pisa line operated by Trenitalia. From Genoa, trains to Sarzana take about 1 hour and 30 minutes, while from Pisa the journey is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Sarzana, Castelnuovo Magra can be reached in about 15 minutes by car or local bus.

By Road: Castelnuovo Magra is located in the province of La Spezia, close to the border with Tuscany. From La Spezia, the distance is about 20 kilometres, with a driving time of around 30 minutes. From Genoa, the journey is approximately 105 kilometres and takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A12 motorway. Parking is available near the historic centre and around the main village entrances.

Nearest International Airports:
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  • Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport: About 65 kilometres from Castelnuovo Magra, with a drive of around 1 hour. The closest major airport, offering extensive domestic and international flights.
  • Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport: Approximately 115 kilometres away, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Provides domestic and European services.
  • Florence Peretola Airport: Roughly 150 kilometres from Castelnuovo Magra, taking about 2 hours by car. Offers a wide range of domestic and international connections.

Private Transfers

Castelnuovo Magra Private Transfers
A private transfer to Castelnuovo Magra offers a smooth and reliable way to travel, without the need to organise connections or hire a car. Your driver will collect you from your chosen point and take you directly to your destination in comfort.

From Castelnuovo Magra, Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei) is around 65 km away, with a journey time of about 1 hour. Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport lies roughly 120 km to the northwest, taking about 1 hour 40 minutes. Florence Airport (Peretola) is approximately 150 km away, with a travel time of just over 2 hours. The nearby city of La Spezia can be reached in around 25 minutes, while Carrara is only 15 minutes by road.
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