Castello di Monte Ursino Noli
Historic medieval castle offering breathtaking panoramic views of Noli and the Ligurian Sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour light
Castello di Monte Ursino Noli
Best Time
Golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic medieval castle offering breathtaking panoramic views of Noli and the Ligurian Sea.
"Splendid panoramic views of Noli and the sea. Entry only 2 euro pp, you can pay 4 euro pp and have a private guided tour."
💰 Modest Entry Fee
Expect a small entry fee (around €2-€2.50), often managed by volunteers. Worth it for the views!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb from Noli can be steep and rocky. Good walking shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Views
Ramparts
Soak in breathtaking vistas of Noli, the sparkling Ligurian Sea, and the surrounding coastline. A photographer's dream!
Medieval Fortifications
Castle Walls
Explore the ancient walls and towers of this historic fortress, offering a glimpse into Noli's defensive past.
The Climb from Noli
Path from Noli town
Experience a steep but scenic hike up to the castle, with rewarding views unfolding with every step.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Getting to the Castle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Modest Entry Fee
Expect a small entry fee (around €2-€2.50), often managed by volunteers. Worth it for the views!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb from Noli can be steep and rocky. Good walking shoes are a must!
💧 Bring Water
Especially crucial during summer months, stay hydrated on your ascent.
🚗 Parking Available
Free parking is available near the top if you prefer to avoid the full climb.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Modest Entry Fee
Expect a small entry fee (around €2-€2.50), often managed by volunteers. Worth it for the views!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb from Noli can be steep and rocky. Good walking shoes are a must!
💧 Bring Water
Especially crucial during summer months, stay hydrated on your ascent.
🚗 Parking Available
Free parking is available near the top if you prefer to avoid the full climb.
🌅 Sunset Views
The castle is recommended for sunset, but check timings and be prepared for potential crowds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular panoramic views of Noli and the Ligurian coast from Castello di Monte Ursino. The modest entry fee and the option for guided tours are appreciated, though some feel the castle itself could benefit from more maintenance and historical information.
"Splendid panoramic views of Noli and the sea. Entry only 2 euro pp, you can pay 4 euro pp and have a private guided tour with one of the volunteers. Nice little castle, we really enjoyed the tour and the views. The guide recommended us even a delicious restaurant where we had lunch later. Totally worth visit.
We came via car, there is free parking just up from the castle if you don't want to climb up."
Monika Solak
"The only thing you can see there is the landscape... The parh was devouring us, since we were without a car, not worth it"
herman zghoba
"Nice castle with good views over Noli. The climb up from town is steep but doesn’t take to long. Remember to bring some water with you if you plan visit in the summer. A group of volunteers look after the castle and entry is modest €2 for adults and €1 for children. There is an elevator that takes you up to the top of the ramparts where you are rewarded with some panoramic views."
Lawrence
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can hike up from Noli town, which is a steep but scenic path. Alternatively, there is free parking available closer to the castle if you're arriving by car.
Yes, free parking is available just up from the castle, making it accessible for those who prefer not to climb the entire way.
Absolutely! The walk from Noli is a popular option, offering beautiful views as you ascend. Just be prepared for a steep climb.
The main path can be steep and rocky. While there's an option to drive closer, the hike itself might be challenging for those with mobility issues.
If you have a car, driving up to the free parking area near the castle is the most convenient option, saving you the strenuous climb.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is quite modest, typically around €2 to €2.50 per person. It's often managed by friendly volunteers.
Generally, advance booking isn't required. You can usually pay the small entry fee upon arrival.
Yes, for a slightly higher fee (around €4), you can opt for a private guided tour with one of the volunteers, which is highly recommended for historical insights.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check locally or online before your visit. They are often managed by volunteers.
Yes, there is an elevator that can take you to the top of the ramparts, offering easier access to the panoramic views.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The ramparts offer the most spectacular photo opportunities with sweeping views of Noli and the sea. The medieval walls themselves also make for dramatic shots. 
Many visitors recommend visiting at sunset for stunning golden hour light over the coast.
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of the town of Noli, the coastline, and the Ligurian Sea.
Drone footage is popular, showcasing the castle's dominant position and the surrounding landscape. Always check local drone regulations before flying.
Even if you don't enter the castle, the surrounding area, including the nearby cemetery, offers excellent vantage points for photos of the castle and coastline.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main draw is the incredible panoramic view. You can explore the medieval walls and towers, and learn about the castle's history, especially if you opt for a guided tour.
While the views are spectacular, some visitors note that the castle itself could benefit from more maintenance and information boards.
A visit can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much you explore and if you take a guided tour. The climb also adds to the time.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms is limited, so it's advisable to use facilities in Noli before heading up.
The castle was built to defend the historic center of Noli, with its current form largely established around the 15th century by the Del Carretto family.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strategic Importance of Monte Ursino
The fortification evolved over centuries, reaching its current form around the 15th century under the Del Carretto family, who were feudal lords of Noli. This evolution reflects the changing military technologies and political landscapes of the Ligurian region. Today, its historical significance is evident in its well-preserved walls and towers, offering a tangible link to Noli's past.
Visitors can appreciate this history through the castle's architecture and the commanding views it offers, which were once vital for spotting approaching threats. The presence of volunteers who sometimes offer guided tours further enhances the understanding of its strategic role.
Navigating the Ascent: Trails and Transport
For those seeking an easier ascent, there's an asphalted road that leads closer to the castle. However, it's important to note that this road may not have a dedicated pedestrian path, so caution is advised. Alternatively, free parking is available just a short distance from the castle, allowing visitors to bypass the most strenuous parts of the climb.
Regardless of your chosen method, wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore the castle grounds. Bringing water is also a smart move, particularly during warmer months, to stay hydrated throughout your visit.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at the Castle
+2Drone photography has become increasingly popular, with many creators showcasing the castle's commanding position and the breathtaking coastal scenery from an aerial perspective. These shots highlight the castle's integration with the natural landscape and the beauty of the Ligurian Riviera.
+2Even if you don't venture inside, the surrounding areas, such as the nearby cemetery, offer excellent vantage points for capturing the castle itself against the backdrop of the sea. The ancient walls and towers provide compelling foreground elements for any photograph, making it a rewarding location for both amateur and professional photographers.
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