Finalborgo
Finalborgo
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Latest page update: 28 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The village of Finalborgo is situated within the Province of Savona of Liguria and rises to a maximum elevation of 300 metres above sea level. It's a frazione of the Finale Ligure comune and included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy).
Finalborgo is characterised by a colourful, medieval centre which is overlooked by a 17th century castle on the hill above it. |
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What People Ask About Finalborgo
What is Finalborgo known for?
Is Finalborgo worth visiting?
What can you see in Finalborgo?
How do you get to Finalborgo?
Is Finalborgo good for outdoor activities?
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Overview
Overview
Finalborgo is a frazione of the larger town of Finale Ligure which is situated just over a kilometre away. A frazione is a smaller village or hamlet of a municipality: comune in Italian. Whereas Finale Ligure is fairly large and one of the most popular seaside resorts in Liguria, the charm of its borgo is of an altogether different variety.
Your most likely entry point into Finalborgo is the Piazza Porta Testa which lies outside of the walled medieval centre. If you've driven to Finalborgo then you can make use of the car park which is just a couple of minutes' walk away.
As you reach the Piazza you start to feel as if you're entering into a kind of fantasy land as everything is quite different from what we may consider as normal from this point onwards. The square is named after the Porta Testa which is a delightful town gate that allows entrance to the borgo via a stone archway.
Your most likely entry point into Finalborgo is the Piazza Porta Testa which lies outside of the walled medieval centre. If you've driven to Finalborgo then you can make use of the car park which is just a couple of minutes' walk away.
As you reach the Piazza you start to feel as if you're entering into a kind of fantasy land as everything is quite different from what we may consider as normal from this point onwards. The square is named after the Porta Testa which is a delightful town gate that allows entrance to the borgo via a stone archway.
Things to Do
Things to Do
Entering the city walls
The Porta Testa was built in 1452 and in later years had a clock added to it: the colourful structure with the coat of arms just above the archway masks a gruesome past from which its name derives. It's said that Porta Testa ("Head Gate" in English), was where the severed heads of enemies were displayed to warn off other would-be assailants.
That rather horrific imagery is quite at odds with the joyful aspect of the outer wall from which you pass under the arch into the pedestrianised borgo. Any thoughts of those medieval horrors soon give way to a sense of fun in this village which is full of great places to eat, fascinating historic buildings and built of an extraordinary palette of colours.
Little Piazza Garibaldi is just about the prettiest of the squares: its buildings brightly painted and sometimes adorned with crests or frescoes. The Piazza San Biagio could also lay claim to that title with its own pretty environs embellished by the presence of the Chiesa di San Biagio with its harmonious Baroque facade and rather more intricate interior. The church originally dates back to the 14th century but the edifice we see today is largely from the 17th.
That rather horrific imagery is quite at odds with the joyful aspect of the outer wall from which you pass under the arch into the pedestrianised borgo. Any thoughts of those medieval horrors soon give way to a sense of fun in this village which is full of great places to eat, fascinating historic buildings and built of an extraordinary palette of colours.
Little Piazza Garibaldi is just about the prettiest of the squares: its buildings brightly painted and sometimes adorned with crests or frescoes. The Piazza San Biagio could also lay claim to that title with its own pretty environs embellished by the presence of the Chiesa di San Biagio with its harmonious Baroque facade and rather more intricate interior. The church originally dates back to the 14th century but the edifice we see today is largely from the 17th.
Exploring the centro storico
From Piazza San Biagio another town gate, the Porta Reale leads across the beautifully-named Torrente Aquila or "Eagle Stream". Cross the small bridge here and you find yourself walking away from the most interesting part of the village but it's worth taking those few steps in order to get a photo of the church from a different angle with the sometimes dry stream in the foreground.
It's strange to think that such a small village has so many sights but it's not without reason that Finalborgo has made it to the top of our list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia - beating off competition from more than 300 others.
Back within the medieval walls we find another colourful square: Piazza Aicardi which is anything but square in shape: it's more of a street with a hotchpotch of buildings finished with porticoes at the bottom, decorated with trompe l'oeil designs or exhibiting faded paintwork as in the case of the Albergo Ristorante Bar Roma. Piazza Aicardi gives way to the Piazzetta Meloria in one direction and the slightly larger Piazza del Tribunale in the other.
It's strange to think that such a small village has so many sights but it's not without reason that Finalborgo has made it to the top of our list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia - beating off competition from more than 300 others.
Back within the medieval walls we find another colourful square: Piazza Aicardi which is anything but square in shape: it's more of a street with a hotchpotch of buildings finished with porticoes at the bottom, decorated with trompe l'oeil designs or exhibiting faded paintwork as in the case of the Albergo Ristorante Bar Roma. Piazza Aicardi gives way to the Piazzetta Meloria in one direction and the slightly larger Piazza del Tribunale in the other.
A fantasy land from another time
As you make your way south of Piazza del Tribunale, exploring the narrow, snaking streets of the borgo, you come to an area with a cluster of visitor attractions. The Chiostri di Santa Caterina (Saint Catherine's Cloisters) complex houses a number of sights including an archaeological museum, a library and a food hall.
So engaging are the colourful streets and piazzas of Finalborgo that you might not have thought to raise your head skywards and pick out another magnificent building. Perched on the hill overlooking the borgo is the 17th century Forte San Giovanni which was built by the Spaniards as a defensive measure but in later years used as a women's prison and now houses a museum.
Whether or not you wish to enter the castle and the museum, a walk up to the castle is an absolute must as it provides the best photographic vantage point and some quite magnificent views of the surrounding area.
The wonderful Finalborgo merits a visit in its own right but for anyone enjoying a seaside holiday in the local area it would almost be a crime to miss out on this unique, mini fantasy land.
So engaging are the colourful streets and piazzas of Finalborgo that you might not have thought to raise your head skywards and pick out another magnificent building. Perched on the hill overlooking the borgo is the 17th century Forte San Giovanni which was built by the Spaniards as a defensive measure but in later years used as a women's prison and now houses a museum.
Whether or not you wish to enter the castle and the museum, a walk up to the castle is an absolute must as it provides the best photographic vantage point and some quite magnificent views of the surrounding area.
The wonderful Finalborgo merits a visit in its own right but for anyone enjoying a seaside holiday in the local area it would almost be a crime to miss out on this unique, mini fantasy land.
Tours & Activities
Finalborgo - frazione di Finale Ligure
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Comune: Finale Ligure
Province: Savona Region: Liguria Elevation: 0 - 300 metres Highlights: Cloisters of Santa Caterina, Porta Testa Close by: Borgio, Verezzi, Pietra Ligure, Varigotti, Loano, Spotorno |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Aria da Marchesi (Traces of the Marquesses)
Listing headline: Aria da Marchesi (Traces of the Marquesses)
Where to Stay
Where to Stay
- Hotel San Giorgio Located in the heart of Finalborgo, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding hills, a restaurant serving traditional Ligurian cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, the warm hospitality, and the proximity to the historic centre of Finalborgo, a UNESCO heritage site. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Il Girasole Situated just outside the town centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, the personal touch of the hosts, and the easy access to Finalborgo’s main attractions, including the nearby beach. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo La Rocca di Lio Set in a scenic area near Finalborgo, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests enjoy the rural setting, the authentic Ligurian experience, and the short drive to Finalborgo’s historic sites and the beach. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Florenz Located near the historic centre of Finalborgo, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant with Ligurian dishes, and a bar. Guests value the good value for money, the welcoming service, and the short walk to both Finalborgo's attractions and the surrounding nature. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Villa della Pergola Set in a peaceful location just outside Finalborgo, this charming bed and breakfast offers spacious rooms, a beautiful garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests appreciate the quiet environment, the warm hospitality from the hosts, and the easy access to the historic centre of Finalborgo and nearby hiking paths. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat
- Ristorante La Piazzetta: Situated in the heart of Finalborgo, this charming restaurant offers a selection of traditional Ligurian dishes, including pasta with pesto and focaccia. The cosy outdoor seating area in the square provides a perfect spot for dining. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria U Magu: Located near the town centre, Trattoria U Magu serves hearty Ligurian fare, including dishes like trofie with pesto and grilled meats. The welcoming atmosphere and rustic setting make it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria dei Colli: Just a short walk from Finalborgo, Osteria dei Colli offers a refined menu with a focus on local ingredients, including seafood and fresh pasta. The tranquil location provides a peaceful setting for a memorable dining experience. Price guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- La Taverna dei Pellegrini in Finale Ligure: Located about 5 km from Finalborgo, this restaurant offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes, including pizza and pasta. Its casual setting and friendly service make it a great choice for a relaxed meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Timone in Finale Ligure: Situated around 5 km from Finalborgo, Il Timone is known for its seafood-focused menu and wide selection of local wines. The restaurant offers beautiful views of the sea, providing an ideal setting for a special meal. Price guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Photo Gallery
Close to Finalborgo
- Finale Ligure (approx. 5 km south of Finalborgo): A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historic centre. Finale Ligure offers a mix of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing in the nearby hills, as well as enjoying the seaside promenade, local shops, and restaurants. The Castello di Finalborgo and the Basilica di San Giovanni Battista are key attractions.
- Noli (approx. 10 km northwest of Finalborgo): A small medieval village located along the Ligurian coast, Noli is known for its charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and scenic beaches. The Castello di Noli offers panoramic views of the town and coastline, while the Church of San Paragorio is a notable example of Romanesque architecture.
- Savona (approx. 30 km west of Finalborgo): A port city with a rich history, Savona is home to the Priamar Fortress, the Savona Cathedral, and the Museo d'Arte. The town offers a mix of history, culture, and coastal beauty, with a vibrant old town and pleasant waterfront.
- Albenga (approx. 25 km southwest of Finalborgo): Known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, Albenga offers attractions such as the Romanesque-style Cathedral of San Michele and the Museo Diocesano di Albenga. The town is also a great base for exploring the nearby beaches and enjoying the surrounding Ligurian countryside.
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
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
Finalborgo Travel
By Rail: Finalborgo does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Finale Ligure, approximately 2 km away. From Finale Ligure, you can take a local bus or taxi to Finalborgo, which takes around 5 minutes.
By Road: Finalborgo is approximately 2 km inland from Finale Ligure, and the drive takes around 5 minutes via the SP1 road. From Finale Ligure, follow signs for Finalborgo, and the town is also accessible via the SP28 road, connecting it to surrounding areas.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Finalborgo is approximately 2 km inland from Finale Ligure, and the drive takes around 5 minutes via the SP1 road. From Finale Ligure, follow signs for Finalborgo, and the town is also accessible via the SP28 road, connecting it to surrounding areas.
Nearest International Airports:
- Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (Aeroporto di Genova): Located about 80 km east of Finalborgo, the drive takes around 1 hour via the A10 motorway. From Genoa, you can rent a car or take a train to Finale Ligure, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Finalborgo.
- Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur): Situated about 200 km west of Finalborgo, the drive takes around 2 hours via the A10 motorway. From Nice, you can rent a car or take a train to Finale Ligure, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Finalborgo.
