Noli
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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 Noli
Noli has a small but appealing selection of established hotels, in keeping with its character as one of Liguria’s most atmospheric medieval coastal towns. Accommodation here focuses on comfort, proximity to the seafront and easy access to the narrow historic streets, walking trails and beaches that define the area. Standards are steady, and the best-reviewed hotels place emphasis on location, hospitality and relaxed surroundings.
Among the leading options, Hotel Miramare offers a seafront setting with comfortable rooms and consistently positive guest feedback for service and convenience (€€€). Hotel Monique, close to the beach and within walking distance of the centre, provides a welcoming atmosphere, well-maintained rooms and steady reviews for cleanliness and value (€€). For a peaceful stay just outside the heart of Noli, Hotel Capo Noli enjoys a panoramic coastal position, appreciated for its views, friendly service and easy access to nearby beaches and walking paths (€€€).
Among the leading options, Hotel Miramare offers a seafront setting with comfortable rooms and consistently positive guest feedback for service and convenience (€€€). Hotel Monique, close to the beach and within walking distance of the centre, provides a welcoming atmosphere, well-maintained rooms and steady reviews for cleanliness and value (€€). For a peaceful stay just outside the heart of Noli, Hotel Capo Noli enjoys a panoramic coastal position, appreciated for its views, friendly service and easy access to nearby beaches and walking paths (€€€).
Where is
Where is Noli?
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The town of Noli is situated within the Province of Savona and has a population of around 2,600 residents.
The charming seaside town on the Riviera di Ponente is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include the towns of Spotorno, Varigotti, Bergeggi, Finale Ligure and Savona. |
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Comune di Noli
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: l'Antica Repubblica Marinara (The Ancient Maritime Republic)
Listing headline: l'Antica Repubblica Marinara (The Ancient Maritime Republic)
What People Ask About Noli, Liguria
Is Noli worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Noli?
How do I get to Noli?
What is Noli known for?
When is the best time to visit Noli?
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Discover
Discover Noli
Noli is a coastal town in Liguria, located on the Riviera di Ponente between Spotorno and Varigotti. It lies along a narrow stretch of the Ligurian Sea, where the shoreline is framed by sandy beaches and a backdrop of steep hills descending towards the water. The old town retains its medieval character, with narrow streets, towers and stone houses arranged close to the waterfront, giving the settlement a compact and historic atmosphere.
During the Middle Ages, Noli was an independent maritime republic, and reminders of this past remain visible in the Torre del Comune, the Cathedral of San Pietro, and the ruins of the hilltop Castello di Monte Ursino. Fishing continues to be part of local life, alongside tourism drawn by the town’s heritage and beaches. Its position on the coastal route ensures straightforward links to Savona and other destinations along the Ligurian Riviera.
During the Middle Ages, Noli was an independent maritime republic, and reminders of this past remain visible in the Torre del Comune, the Cathedral of San Pietro, and the ruins of the hilltop Castello di Monte Ursino. Fishing continues to be part of local life, alongside tourism drawn by the town’s heritage and beaches. Its position on the coastal route ensures straightforward links to Savona and other destinations along the Ligurian Riviera.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Noli
- Noli’s historic centre retains its medieval street layout, with narrow lanes, stone archways and tall houses built close together. Once a powerful maritime republic, the town has preserved its distinctive character, including defensive towers, old gateways and coats of arms carved into buildings.
- Church of San Paragorio stands just outside the old town walls and is one of the finest Romanesque churches in Liguria. Built in the 11th century, it features a portico, crypt, and early Christian mosaics. The church has been carefully restored and is a national monument due to its architectural importance.
- Monte Ursino Castle overlooks the town from a nearby hill and offers panoramic views of the coast. The fortress dates back to the 12th century and was once part of a network of defensive structures. A short hike leads to the ruins, which include towers, outer walls and remnants of the keep.
- Snorkelling and swimming in the bay are popular due to the clear water and rocky seabed. Small coves near the town provide access to shallow inlets ideal for exploring underwater life. Local diving schools also run guided snorkelling trips to nearby marine areas, including around Bergeggi Island.
- Walking trails along the Sentiero del Pellegrino connect Noli with the nearby town of Varigotti. This clifftop path offers wide views over the Ligurian Sea and passes chapels, caves and lookout points. It’s a moderate hike and can be completed in under two hours each way.
Tours and Activities
Noli Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Noli
- Ristorante Vescovado: Renowned for its refined Ligurian cuisine, this restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience in a historic setting. Situated in the heart of Noli, it provides easy access for both locals and visitors. Price guide: €€€€ (high-end dining).
- Controcorrente: Known for its contemporary approach to traditional Ligurian dishes, this minimalist restaurant is located below the medieval San Giovanni tower in Noli's pedestrianized historic centre. The menu features both meat and fish options, prepared with local ingredients. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Malafemmina Da Ferdi: Celebrated for its high-quality seafood and Italian dishes, this eatery offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of fresh options. Located near Noli's beaches, it's a convenient spot for diners. Price guide: €€ (affordable).
- Ponte Antico: Combining traditional Italian and Mediterranean cuisines, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu. Situated in Noli's historic centre, it provides a pleasant dining experience. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- La Baracchetta Noli: Offering a variety of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, this beachfront establishment provides a relaxed atmosphere with sea views. It's a great spot to enjoy local cuisine while overlooking the water. Price guide: €€ (affordable).
Photo Gallery
Noli Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Noli
- Finale Ligure (approx. 15 km southwest of Noli): A popular seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, Finale Ligure also boasts Finalborgo, a well-preserved medieval village. The town is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as the Castello di Finale, which provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Varazze (approx. 15 km northwest of Noli): A charming coastal town with a long sandy beach, Varazze offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. The town’s Passeggiata Romana coastal promenade provides scenic views of the Ligurian coastline, and the historic centre features narrow streets with cafes, shops, and local boutiques.
- Savona (approx. 30 km northwest of Noli): A historic city with a rich maritime heritage, Savona is home to the Priamar Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the city and the sea, and the Cattedrale di Nostra Signora Assunta. The town’s lively seafront is perfect for a leisurely walk, with plenty of cafes and restaurants offering fresh seafood.
- Alassio (approx. 30 km west of Noli): Famous for its long sandy beach and vibrant atmosphere, Alassio is also home to the iconic Muretto di Alassio, a wall covered with tiles signed by celebrities. The town offers a lively promenade and a charming historic centre, making it a great destination for both relaxation and shopping.
- Celle Ligure (approx. 10 km northwest of Noli): A quieter coastal town with a laid-back atmosphere, Celle Ligure offers a lovely beach and a historic centre with narrow streets, cafes, and local shops. It is an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat by the sea, away from the busier tourist spots.
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 Noli
By Rail: The nearest train station to Noli is in Spotorno, located approximately 3 kilometres away, on the Genoa–Ventimiglia railway line. Served by Trenitalia regional trains, it offers regular connections to Savona, Genoa, and Ventimiglia. Journey times are about 15 minutes to Savona, 1 hour to Genoa, and 2 hours to Ventimiglia. From Spotorno station, Noli can be reached by local taxi or bus services.
By Road: Noli is situated along the Ligurian coast, roughly 15 kilometres south-west of Savona. It is accessible via the A10 motorway, with the closest exit at Spotorno. The drive from Genoa takes about 1 hour, while Nice can be reached in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Parking is limited in the historic centre but available in designated areas just outside the town.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Noli is situated along the Ligurian coast, roughly 15 kilometres south-west of Savona. It is accessible via the A10 motorway, with the closest exit at Spotorno. The drive from Genoa takes about 1 hour, while Nice can be reached in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Parking is limited in the historic centre but available in designated areas just outside the town.
Nearest International Airports:
- Genoa Airport (Aeroporto di Genova Cristoforo Colombo): Located about 65 kilometres north-east, with a drive time of around 1 hour. It offers a range of domestic and European flights.
- Nice Airport (Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur): Approximately 160 kilometres west, the drive takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. It is a major international airport with extensive flight connections.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano Linate): Around 190 kilometres north, reachable in approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes by car.
Private Transfers
Noli Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a reliable way to reach Noli or continue your journey along the Ligurian coast and inland areas. You’ll be collected from the location you choose and taken directly to your destination by a professional driver, without the need to organise connections or arrange alternative transport.
From Noli, transfers offer straightforward links to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, with longer-distance options also available to Milan Malpensa Airport and Turin Airport. They are equally convenient for short coastal journeys to Savona, Finale Ligure, and Varigotti, or for travelling further west towards Monaco and the French Riviera.
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 Noli, transfers offer straightforward links to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, with longer-distance options also available to Milan Malpensa Airport and Turin Airport. They are equally convenient for short coastal journeys to Savona, Finale Ligure, and Varigotti, or for travelling further west towards Monaco and the French Riviera.
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.
