Fort Sperone Genoa
Explore a vast, 800-year-old abandoned fort with unrestricted access and breathtaking panoramic views of Genoa.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Fort Sperone Genoa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a vast, 800-year-old abandoned fort with unrestricted access and breathtaking panoramic views of Genoa.
"Incredible, a rare chance to explore a place like this truly unrestricted."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Uneven terrain and abandoned paths demand good walking shoes. Don't wear sandals!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no facilities inside the fort, so stay hydrated during your exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

800-Year-Old Fortifications
Explore a maze of ancient walls and structures, a testament to Genoa's historical significance. It's massive and fully explorable.

Nature Reclaiming History
Witness the captivating blend of man-made structures and wild nature, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Panoramic City Views
Ascend to the mountaintop for breathtaking, unparalleled vistas of Genoa and its surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Adventure
Getting There is Half the Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting Genova for six days
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Uneven terrain and abandoned paths demand good walking shoes. Don't wear sandals!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no facilities inside the fort, so stay hydrated during your exploration.
Looking for a place to propose close to Genoa/a short train ride from Genoa
What to do in Genova in 5 days?
🗺️ Don't Fear Locked Gates
If you hit a locked gate, look nearby! There's often an accessible way in just a short distance away.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views are spectacular, especially during golden hour. Bring your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Uneven terrain and abandoned paths demand good walking shoes. Don't wear sandals!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no facilities inside the fort, so stay hydrated during your exploration.
🗺️ Don't Fear Locked Gates
If you hit a locked gate, look nearby! There's often an accessible way in just a short distance away.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views are spectacular, especially during golden hour. Bring your camera!
🚶♀️ Funicular to Righi
Take the free funicular to Righi and walk the footpath for a scenic approach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fort Sperone is lauded for its incredible, unrestricted exploration of ancient fortifications and breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors appreciate the unique blend of history and nature, and the sense of adventure it offers. However, some find the lack of signage, security, and amenities concerning, noting it feels unsafe at times.
"Incredible, a rare chance to explore a place like this truly unrestricted. The mixture of a maze of 800 year old fortifications, and the nature which has taken over gives the whole place a magical feel. Also being at the top of a mountain means incredible views.
Highly recommend taking the free funicular to Righi and walking the footpath from there."
Alfie Edwards
"We climbed 3 hours on foot, but it was worth it. you can enter the territory freely, it is interesting to walk in the fortress. 5 stars for amazing view. by road you can reach the downtown ."
Marina Kutsa
"Really cool abandoned historical fort, worth visiting if you are nearby."
RV
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Fort Sperone by road, but many visitors prefer taking the free funicular to Righi and then walking the footpath. This route offers stunning views and a more adventurous arrival. Public transport in Genoa is generally good, and tickets can be purchased for various zones depending on your travel needs.
Limited parking may be available by road, but it's not the most recommended approach. The funicular and footpath combination is often preferred for its scenic value and ease of access to the fort's exploration areas.
While possible, it's a significant climb. The funicular to Righi is a much more practical and enjoyable way to ascend towards the fort, saving your energy for exploring the fortifications themselves.
The most popular method for those without a car is to use Genoa's public transport to reach the funicular station for Righi, then enjoy the scenic walk from there.
Yes, the funicular to Righi is typically free, making it an excellent and cost-effective way to start your journey to Fort Sperone.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Fort Sperone is largely unrestricted and accessible to explore freely. You do not need to purchase tickets for entry, which adds to its unique, adventurous appeal.
As an abandoned historical site, Fort Sperone does not have official opening hours. It is accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
No, there is no entrance fee to explore Fort Sperone. Its accessibility is one of its major draws for visitors seeking an authentic, unrestricted historical experience.
You can explore a significant portion of the fort freely. While some areas might be inaccessible due to their condition, the majority of the massive structure is open for discovery.
While the fort is accessible, it is abandoned and lacks official security or signaling. Visitors should exercise caution, wear appropriate footwear, and be aware of their surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of Genoa from the top are incredible. Also, focus on the interplay between the ancient stone fortifications and the encroaching nature for unique shots.
Absolutely. The elevated position offers sweeping views of the city and coastline, especially stunning during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
It's ideal for historical, architectural, and landscape photography. The abandoned nature also lends itself well to atmospheric and moody shots.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography within the accessible areas of Fort Sperone. However, always be mindful of safety and avoid entering unstable structures.
Late afternoon, leading into sunset, offers the best light for capturing both the fort's textures and the expansive city views. Weekday mornings can also be good for fewer people.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Expect an adventurous exploration of a vast, abandoned historical fort with incredible city views. It's a place where nature is reclaiming ancient structures, offering a unique, unrestricted experience.
You can spend anywhere from 1 to 3 hours exploring, depending on how thoroughly you wish to wander through the fortifications and enjoy the views. Some visitors have spent up to 3 hours climbing on foot.
Currently, there are no official guided tours. The experience is self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace and discover the fort's secrets independently.
There are no amenities within Fort Sperone itself. It's an abandoned site, so be sure to bring everything you need, including water and snacks.
While children might find the exploration exciting, parents should be extra vigilant due to the abandoned nature and uneven terrain. Adult supervision is highly recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventurous Explorers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Fort Sperone
For those relying on public transport, Genoa's system is generally efficient. Understanding the ticket zones is key to navigating the city effectively. The funicular itself is a delightful experience, often described as a highlight before even reaching the fort. It’s a testament to how the journey can be as memorable as the destination itself, especially when combined with the natural beauty that surrounds the fort.
Exploring the Unrestricted Fortifications
It's crucial to be prepared for the terrain. Sturdy footwear is non-negotiable, as paths can be uneven and sometimes challenging. While the fort is vast, it's important to note that not all areas may be safely accessible. However, the core of the experience lies in traversing the main fortifications and soaking in the historical atmosphere. The lack of formal guidance or security means visitors must rely on their own judgment and awareness, adding to the adventurous nature of the visit.
Many reviews highlight the importance of not being deterred by initial locked gates. Often, a way in can be found just a short distance away, encouraging a more thorough exploration. This aspect of discovery is what makes Fort Sperone so compelling for those who enjoy historical sites with a touch of wildness and adventure.
The Breathtaking Views from Fort Sperone
The best time to capture these views is often cited as the late afternoon, when the golden hour light bathes the city in a warm glow, making for truly spectacular photography opportunities. The contrast between the ancient, weathered stone of the fort and the vibrant, modern city below creates a unique and memorable visual experience. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply appreciate a good vista, the views from Fort Sperone are a definite highlight.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit