Millesimo
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Latest page update: 25 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Millesimo
Accommodation options in Millesimo are limited, as the inland location is better known for its medieval centre and surrounding countryside than for a large hotel scene. Travellers who prefer established hotels with fuller facilities will find stronger and more reliable choices in nearby Savona Province towns such as Cairo Montenotte, which offer well-reviewed properties within easy driving distance.
In Cairo Montenotte, Hotel City is a dependable option, appreciated for its comfortable rooms, central location and steady guest feedback for service and convenience (€€). Hotel Monterossi, also in the area, provides a traditional stay with well-kept rooms and a welcoming atmosphere (€€). For those seeking additional facilities, Relais Villa degli Aceri offers an elegant countryside setting with refined interiors, landscaped outdoor spaces and consistently positive reviews for comfort and service (€€€).
In Cairo Montenotte, Hotel City is a dependable option, appreciated for its comfortable rooms, central location and steady guest feedback for service and convenience (€€). Hotel Monterossi, also in the area, provides a traditional stay with well-kept rooms and a welcoming atmosphere (€€). For those seeking additional facilities, Relais Villa degli Aceri offers an elegant countryside setting with refined interiors, landscaped outdoor spaces and consistently positive reviews for comfort and service (€€€).
Where is
Where is Millesimo?
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The town of Millesimo is situated within the Province of Savona and has a population of around 3,500 residents.
It stands at an elevation of 428 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include the towns of Savona, Spotorno, Albissola Marina, Noli, and Varigotti. |
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Comune di Millesimo
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Province: Savona
Region: Liguria Population: 3,259 (in 2024 - source) Size: 16 km² Elevation: 428 metres Close by: Savona, Spotorno, Albissola Marina, Noli, Varigotti |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Il Ponte sulla Bormida (The Bridge on the Bormida River)
Listing headline: Il Ponte sulla Bormida (The Bridge on the Bormida River)
What People Ask About Millesimo, Liguria
Is Millesimo worth visiting?
How do I get to Millesimo?
What are the main attractions in Millesimo?
When is the best time to visit Millesimo?
How long should I stay in Millesimo?
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Discover
Discover Millesimo
Millesimo is a historic town in inland Liguria, located in the upper Bormida Valley near the border with Piedmont. Surrounded by wooded hills and gentle countryside, it developed along the Bormida River, with its medieval core still evident in stone houses, narrow lanes and bridges. The town’s position on a traditional route through the Ligurian Apennines gave it strategic importance as a link between the coast and the Po Valley.
Key landmarks include the Castle of the Del Carretto family, which dominates the old town, and the Ponte della Gaietta, a medieval covered bridge that serves as a symbol of Millesimo. The town is also associated with the Battle of Millesimo of 1796 during the Napoleonic Wars. Today, it remains part of the inland network of Ligurian borghi, with road connections leading towards Savona on the coast and Cuneo across the Piedmontese plain.
Key landmarks include the Castle of the Del Carretto family, which dominates the old town, and the Ponte della Gaietta, a medieval covered bridge that serves as a symbol of Millesimo. The town is also associated with the Battle of Millesimo of 1796 during the Napoleonic Wars. Today, it remains part of the inland network of Ligurian borghi, with road connections leading towards Savona on the coast and Cuneo across the Piedmontese plain.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Millesimo
- Centro Storico di Millesimo is a medieval village with cobbled streets, stone arches, and elegant old buildings. The layout is compact and easy to explore on foot. Decorative details on façades reflect the village’s long history. Millesimo sits in a green valley, surrounded by wooded hills.
- Ponte della Gaietta is a striking medieval bridge crossing the Bormida river, built with graceful arches of pale stone. It has long connected the village to surrounding routes. Walking across offers views of the river and village rooftops. The bridge is a favourite subject for photographs.
- Castello del Carretto overlooks Millesimo from a low hill, partly restored and open for visits during certain events. The fortress has sturdy stone walls and a square tower. From its grounds, there are broad views over the village and countryside. It’s an important symbol of Millesimo’s medieval past.
- Piazza Italia serves as the village’s lively centre, edged with arcades and historic buildings. Locals gather here for markets, festivals, and everyday social life. Cafés spill tables into the square, inviting visitors to sit and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to watch village life unfold.
- Truffle events and tastings in Millesimo highlight the area’s reputation for fine truffles, especially in autumn. Local restaurants and producers offer tastings and themed menus. Visitors can learn about truffle hunting and regional dishes. It’s a delicious way to connect with local traditions and gastronomy.
Tours and Activities
Millesimo Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Millesimo
- Ristorante Il Casale: Known for its rustic charm and traditional Italian dishes, this restaurant offers a menu rich in local specialties, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Located in a scenic area just outside the centre of Millesimo, it provides a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Trattoria La Torre: Famous for its home-style cooking, Trattoria La Torre offers a wide selection of Ligurian dishes with a particular emphasis on pasta and fresh produce. Situated in the heart of Millesimo, it’s a favourite for its cosy, family-friendly environment, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Ristorante La Posta: Specialising in both meat and seafood dishes, this restaurant serves authentic Ligurian cuisine in a charming setting. Located near the main square in Millesimo, it’s an excellent spot for a relaxed meal with easy access to the town centre. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Il Grottino: A beloved local spot, Il Grottino serves a variety of classic Italian dishes, including delicious pizzas and traditional Ligurian recipes. Its laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for a casual meal, and it’s conveniently located in the town centre, easily accessible for visitors. Price guide: €€ (affordable).
- Caffè Ristorante Moderno: Offering a modern take on traditional Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, Caffè Ristorante Moderno is known for its creative menu and stylish setting. Located in a central position in Millesimo, it’s a great spot for a relaxed yet contemporary dining experience. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
Photo Gallery
Millesimo Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Millesimo
- Savona (approx. 30 km south of Millesimo): A historic port city with a rich maritime heritage, Savona is home to the impressive Priamar Fortress and the Cattedrale di Nostra Signora Assunta. Visitors can explore the charming historic centre, stroll along the lively seafront, and enjoy the cafes and shops offering local delicacies.
- Carcare (approx. 15 km southeast of Millesimo): A small town nestled in the hills, Carcare is known for its medieval charm and scenic surroundings. The town’s historic centre features narrow streets, traditional Ligurian architecture, and the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a lovely church worth visiting. Carcare is also a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.
- Cengio (approx. 10 km south of Millesimo): A quiet town with beautiful natural landscapes, Cengio is ideal for those looking to enjoy the tranquility of the Ligurian hinterland. Visitors can explore the town’s historic buildings, including the Chiesa di San Michele, and enjoy the surrounding hills, which offer great opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Finale Ligure (approx. 40 km south of Millesimo): A popular destination for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts, Finale Ligure is known for its long sandy beaches and the medieval village of Finalborgo. The town offers a combination of history, nature, and seaside relaxation, with plenty of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the Castello di Finale.
- Noli (approx. 45 km southeast of Millesimo): A peaceful medieval town by the sea, Noli is famous for its beautiful beach and historic charm. The Castello di Noli offers spectacular views of the surrounding coastline, and the town’s narrow streets, lined with colourful houses, create a serene atmosphere. Noli is perfect for a quiet day of exploration and relaxation by the sea.
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
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Millesimo
By Rail: Millesimo does not have its own railway station. The nearest stations are in Cairo Montenotte (about 15 kilometres away) and Savona (around 30 kilometres away). From Savona, regional and Intercity trains connect to Genoa in about 45 minutes and to Milan in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Travel from either station to Millesimo is possible by car or local bus services.
By Road: The town is situated along the A6 motorway that links Savona with Turin. From Savona, the distance is about 30 kilometres, with a driving time of roughly 30 minutes. From Turin, the journey is around 110 kilometres and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Public parking is available near the centre.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: The town is situated along the A6 motorway that links Savona with Turin. From Savona, the distance is about 30 kilometres, with a driving time of roughly 30 minutes. From Turin, the journey is around 110 kilometres and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Public parking is available near the centre.
Nearest International Airports:
- Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport: Located about 80 kilometres from Millesimo, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes. It provides domestic routes and several European destinations.
- Turin Caselle Airport: Approximately 120 kilometres away, taking around 1 hour and 40 minutes by car. It offers a wide range of international connections.
- Milan Malpensa Airport: Roughly 200 kilometres from Millesimo, with a drive of about 2 hours and 30 minutes, serving extensive European and long-haul destinations.
Private Transfers
Millesimo Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a convenient way to reach Millesimo, a historic inland town in the Ligurian hills, or to continue your journey to other parts of northern Italy. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven directly to your destination by a professional driver, without the need to organise connections or navigate mountain roads yourself.
From Millesimo, transfers provide access to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport as well as longer-distance routes to Milan Malpensa Airport and Turin Airport. They are also well suited for travelling to nearby towns such as Savona, Cairo Montenotte, and Finale Ligure, making it easy to combine a visit to Millesimo with coastal or inland destinations.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Millesimo, transfers provide access to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport as well as longer-distance routes to Milan Malpensa Airport and Turin Airport. They are also well suited for travelling to nearby towns such as Savona, Cairo Montenotte, and Finale Ligure, making it easy to combine a visit to Millesimo with coastal or inland destinations.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
