Sarzana
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Latest page update: 24 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Sarzana is located within the Province of La Spezia and has a population of 22,104 inhabitants.
Covering an area of 34 km², it's situated on the Riviera di Levante, 106 kilometres south east of Genoa, the capital city of Liguria. The main attractions of Sarzana are the medieval fortress called La Cittadella, the cathedral and Piazza Matteotti. |
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What People Ask About Sarzana
What is Sarzana known for?
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Discover
Discover Sarzana
A unique Ligurian town
Sarzana somewhat breaks the mould of the typical Ligurian town; mainly due its location around ten kilometres inland of the largely coastal region. The first written records of the town date back to the tenth century and a stroll around its colourful streets is like a walk through history with representations from the medieval, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical eras.
The centrepiece of the town is the expansive Piazza Matteotti, lined with grand palazzi which house an abundance of shops. The beautiful square is the ideal place for a bite to eat with a number of bars and restaurants around its edges. The lower half of the Piazza is separated by the Palazzo Roderio which houses local government offices.
The centrepiece of the town is the expansive Piazza Matteotti, lined with grand palazzi which house an abundance of shops. The beautiful square is the ideal place for a bite to eat with a number of bars and restaurants around its edges. The lower half of the Piazza is separated by the Palazzo Roderio which houses local government offices.
Exploring the centro storico
Sarzana's remaining highlights are all to be found to the east of Piazza Matteotti; a three minute walk down another shopping street, Via Mazzini eventually brings you to the 13th century Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta with its mixture of Romanesque and Gothic influences.
A few extra paces beyond the Duomo lies another beautiful square: Piazza Garibaldi with its striking sculpture by Carlo Fontana in homage to the Risorgimento hero. The statue lies at the southern entrance to the Piazza which is lined with buildings in a variety of pastel shades overlooking tree-lined edges concealing bars and restaurants. At the top of the square is the 19th century Teatro Impavidi.
A few minutes' walk north of Piazza Garibaldi brings you to the church museum (Museo Diocesano di Sarzana), behind which some steps lead up to the elevated walkway around La Cittadella. The 15th century fortress is one of the most intact castles in Italy and a walk around its battlements provides a fascinating insight into the town's past.
A few extra paces beyond the Duomo lies another beautiful square: Piazza Garibaldi with its striking sculpture by Carlo Fontana in homage to the Risorgimento hero. The statue lies at the southern entrance to the Piazza which is lined with buildings in a variety of pastel shades overlooking tree-lined edges concealing bars and restaurants. At the top of the square is the 19th century Teatro Impavidi.
A few minutes' walk north of Piazza Garibaldi brings you to the church museum (Museo Diocesano di Sarzana), behind which some steps lead up to the elevated walkway around La Cittadella. The 15th century fortress is one of the most intact castles in Italy and a walk around its battlements provides a fascinating insight into the town's past.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Sarzana
- Fortezza Firmafede (Citadel of Sarzana) is a 15th-century fortress built by the Florentines and later expanded by the Genoese. It features corner bastions, defensive towers, and a wide moat, all remarkably well preserved. Inside, exhibitions explore Sarzana’s military and architectural history. The ramparts provide panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside.
- Fortezza di Sarzanello stands on a hill just outside the town and offers one of the best vantage points in the area. Originally a Lombard stronghold, it was rebuilt in its current triangular form in the 15th century. The fortress includes towers, underground passages, and thick stone walls. It hosts historical reenactments and cultural events throughout the year.
- Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta is Sarzana’s main church, with a Romanesque-Gothic façade and a richly decorated Baroque interior. It houses works by local artists, a 14th-century crucifix attributed to Pisano, and several marble altars. The cathedral is located along Via Mazzini and forms a focal point of the old town. Its bell tower is visible from much of the centre.
- Via Mazzini and Centro Storico form the core of Sarzana’s old town, lined with elegant palazzi, boutiques, and shaded porticoes. Architectural details include wrought-iron balconies, stone arches, and painted façades. The main street connects the town’s two main gates and leads to lively squares. It’s ideal for walking and exploring the historical layout of the city.
- Pieve di Sant'Andrea is one of the oldest churches in Sarzana, dating back to the 10th century. It features a simple Romanesque façade and contains ancient baptismal fonts, medieval tombstones, and fragments of early Christian carvings. Despite its plain exterior, the interior holds centuries of local religious heritage. The church stands near the main entrance to the old town.
Sarzana Tours and Activities
Comune di Sarzana
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Province: La Spezia
Region: Liguria Population: 21,774 (in 2024 - source) Size: 34 km² Elevation: 21 metres Highlights: La Cittadella, Sarzana Cathedral, Piazza Matteotti Close by: Vezzano Ligure, Lerici, Tellaro, Montemarcello |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Sarzana
- Hotel Al Santuario Located near the historic centre of Sarzana, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving traditional Ligurian cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, the welcoming service, and the proximity to Sarzana's main attractions, including the Sarzana Cathedral and the Fort of Sarzanello. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Casa di Elsa Situated just outside the town centre, this cosy bed and breakfast features modern rooms with rustic touches, a lovely garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, the personal touch of the hosts, and the easy access to Sarzana’s medieval sites and local shops. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Napoléon Set in a tranquil location near Sarzana, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with scenic views of the surrounding countryside, a restaurant with regional dishes, and a bar. Guests enjoy the good value for money, the clean facilities, and the short drive to Sarzana’s historical centre and nearby nature reserves. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo I Monti Located just outside Sarzana, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with panoramic views, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests enjoy the rural setting, the authentic Ligurian experience, and the short drive to Sarzana’s cultural sites and the beaches of the nearby Ligurian coast. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Rosa dei Venti Set in a peaceful location near Sarzana, this bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms with scenic views, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality from the hosts, the quiet environment, and the easy access to Sarzana’s attractions and surrounding hiking trails. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Sarzana
- Il Principe Food & Drink: Situated in the heart of Sarzana, Il Principe offers a modern dining experience with a menu that blends traditional Italian flavours with contemporary twists. Known for its innovative cocktails and diverse wine selection, the restaurant provides a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria Panzallegra: Located in the historic centre, Osteria Panzallegra is renowned for its authentic Ligurian cuisine. The menu features dishes such as ravioloni di mare (seafood-stuffed pasta) and lasagna with pecorino and artichoke. The warm, rustic setting and attentive service enhance the dining experience. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- La Scaletta: A short walk from the main square, La Scaletta offers traditional Italian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The menu includes options like spaghetti ai frutti di mare (seafood spaghetti) and pappardelle with rabbit sauce. The simple yet charming decor and friendly staff make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Osteria Simon Boccanegra: Situated near the Sarzana Church, this osteria serves a variety of Italian and Mediterranean dishes. The menu features a selection of pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and grilled meats, all prepared with a modern flair. The contemporary setting and attentive service provide a pleasant dining experience. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Antica Osteria Tre Archi: Located in a historic building, Antica Osteria Tre Archi offers a menu that combines traditional Ligurian cuisine with modern influences. Dishes like risotto with seafood and grilled meats are prepared with seasonal ingredients. The elegant decor and professional service add to the overall appeal. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Sarzana Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Sarzana
The Magra River flows in a northerly direction just to the west of Sarzana, emptying into the Ligurian Sea at the town of Bocca di Magra and just a short distance beyond the river lies the regional border with Tuscany to the east. Sarzana does have a beach resort called Marinella di Sarzana but there are numerous seaside resorts that offer more on the western banks of the river.
From Bocca di Magra, the terrain rises sharply to a picturesque peninsula with the attractive village of Montemarcello the first you encounter. From here, the main road winds its way around country lanes before arriving at the major seaside town of Lerici. From Lerici, a coastal road splinters back in the direction of Sarzana to the beach at Fiascherino, followed by the gorgeous fishing village of Tellaro.
The main provincial city in the local area is La Spezia which can be reached from Sarzana by train in 13 minutes without stopping. La Spezia's train service is popular with tourists as it marks the eastern end of the rail line connecting each of the five villages that make up the Cinque Terre. Accommodation options in the famous coastal area are limited and/or expensive. As a consequence, many travellers decide to base themselves in either La Spezia or Levanto at the western end of the train line. The convenience of train travel between Sarzana and La Spezia combined with the welcoming climes of the town itself, makes this another viable option for any Cinque Terre exploration.
From Bocca di Magra, the terrain rises sharply to a picturesque peninsula with the attractive village of Montemarcello the first you encounter. From here, the main road winds its way around country lanes before arriving at the major seaside town of Lerici. From Lerici, a coastal road splinters back in the direction of Sarzana to the beach at Fiascherino, followed by the gorgeous fishing village of Tellaro.
The main provincial city in the local area is La Spezia which can be reached from Sarzana by train in 13 minutes without stopping. La Spezia's train service is popular with tourists as it marks the eastern end of the rail line connecting each of the five villages that make up the Cinque Terre. Accommodation options in the famous coastal area are limited and/or expensive. As a consequence, many travellers decide to base themselves in either La Spezia or Levanto at the western end of the train line. The convenience of train travel between Sarzana and La Spezia combined with the welcoming climes of the town itself, makes this another viable option for any Cinque Terre exploration.
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 Sarzana
By Rail: Sarzana is well-connected by train, with its own station located in the town centre. The station offers regular services to major cities such as La Spezia (approximately 20 minutes by train) and Genoa (about 1 hour by train). From the train station, many of Sarzana's attractions are within walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to explore the town on foot.
By Road: Sarzana is approximately 100 km from Genoa, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A12 motorway. From Pisa, it's about 80 km, with a driving time of around 1 hour via the A12 motorway. There are several car parks available near the town centre, though spaces can be limited during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports:
Additional Transport Options: Sarzana is well-served by local buses connecting it to nearby towns such as La Spezia, Lerici, and Portovenere, offering a convenient and affordable way to explore the region. Additionally, the town's historic centre is pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for walking and cycling.
By Road: Sarzana is approximately 100 km from Genoa, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A12 motorway. From Pisa, it's about 80 km, with a driving time of around 1 hour via the A12 motorway. There are several car parks available near the town centre, though spaces can be limited during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports:
- Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (Aeroporto di Genova): Located about 90 km from Sarzana, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle directly to Sarzana, or alternatively, take a train to Genoa's main station and then transfer to a train to Sarzana.
- Pisa International Airport (Aeroporto di Pisa): Situated about 80 km from Sarzana, the drive takes around 1 hour. From the airport, you can take a train to Pisa Centrale, then transfer to a train to Sarzana.
Additional Transport Options: Sarzana is well-served by local buses connecting it to nearby towns such as La Spezia, Lerici, and Portovenere, offering a convenient and affordable way to explore the region. Additionally, the town's historic centre is pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for walking and cycling.
