A general approach to find out exact cosmological solutions in f(R)-gravity is discussed. Instead of taking into account phenomenological models, we assume, as a physical criterium, the existence of Noether symmetries in the cosmological f(R) Lagrang
ian. As a result, the presence of such symmetries selects viable models and allow to solve the equations of motion. We discuss also the case in which no Noether charge is present but general criteria can be used to achieve solutions.
