Sanremo Travel Guide

Sanremo is a charming city located in Liguria, Northwest Italy. Read our comprehensive travel guide to discover the best things to do and see in Sanremo, as well as local culture, customs, and culinary delights.


Introduction to Sanremo

Sanremo is a charming city located in Liguria, Northwest Italy. Known as “The City of Flowers,” Sanremo is famous for its colorful gardens, picturesque villas, and stunning sea views. With a population of around 50,000, Sanremo attracts visitors from all over the world who come to enjoy its Mediterranean climate, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene.

List of Places to Visit in Sanremo

Sanremo is home to numerous cultural attractions, natural wonders, and outdoor adventures. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Sanremo.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ariston Theatre: One of the most famous theatres in Italy, known for hosting the Sanremo Music Festival every year.
  • La Pigna: A picturesque medieval village built on a hill, characterized by narrow alleys and small squares.
  • Sanremo Casino: A luxurious Art Nouveau building that has been a symbol of the city since it was built in 1905.
  • Villa Nobel: The former home of Alfred Nobel, now turned into a museum dedicated to the Nobel family and the inventor of dynamite.

Natural Attractions of Sanremo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parco Naturale Regionale di Sanremo: A beautiful natural park that includes hiking trails, a maze, and playgrounds for children.
  • Bussana Vecchia: An abandoned village that was devastated by an earthquake in 1887 and now revamped with artists’ workshops and galleries.
  • Passeggiata Imperatrice: A scenic promenade in the heart of Sanremo that offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Capo Nero: A stunning coastal area that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities like kayaking and snorkeling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sanremo

Sanremo boasts several picturesque hiking and biking trails.

  • Lungomare Sanremo: A 24 km walking and cycling trail along the coast of Sanremo, featuring stunning views of the sea.
  • Sanremo to San Lorenzo al Mare: A scenic mountain bike trail with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • The Olive Trail: A 2-hour hiking trail that takes you through the olive groves in the hills surrounding Sanremo.

Best Things to Do in Sanremo: Activities and Tours

  • Enjoy the Sanremo Music Festival
  • Visit the market at Piazza Eroi Sanremesi
  • Take a guided bicycle tour along the coast
  • Take a cooking class and learn to prepare Ligurian dishes
  • Attend a wine tasting session in one of the many vineyards in the region

Week-Long Itinerary for Sanremo

Day 1: Visit the Ariston Theatre and enjoy a stroll through the La Pigna district. Day 2: Explore Villa Nobel and its beautiful gardens. Day 3: Take a hike along the scenic Olive Trail. Day 4: Visit the Sanremo Casino and try your luck at the slot machines. Day 5: Take a bike ride along Lungomare Sanremo and enjoy the sea views. Day 6: Take a day trip to the nearby medieval village of Bussana Vecchia. Day 7: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Capo Nero.

Food and Drink Scene of Sanremo

Sanremo is renowned for its delicious cuisine and wine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pesto alla Genovese: A famous Ligurian dish consisting of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
  • Focaccia: A flatbread made of olive oil, salt, and flour, covered in herbs or tomato sauce.
  • Trofie al Pesto: A traditional Ligurian pasta dish, made with handmade pasta and the famous pesto sauce.
  • Salame di Sant’Omobono: A typical salami made from a special breed of pig found only in the Sanremo area.

Local Beverages

  • Vermentino: A white wine produced in the Ligurian region and known for its floral aromas and fruity flavors.
  • Rossese di Dolceacqua: A red wine produced in the nearby Dolceacqua area, known for its bold, fruity flavors.
  • Limoncello: A traditional Italian lemon liqueur made from lemon zest, sugar, and alcohol.

Where to Stay in Sanremo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sanremo offers a wide range of accommodation options, suitable for every budget. Here are a few top recommendations:

  • Royal Hotel Sanremo: A 5-star hotel with stunning sea views and luxurious amenities.
  • Hotel Marinella: A budget-friendly hotel located right on the beach with complimentary breakfast.
  • Affittacamere Dai Toni: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Sanremo close to all major attractions.

What to Buy in Sanremo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring back from Sanremo:

  • Ceramics by local artisans
  • Olive oil produced locally
  • Mediterranean herbs and spices
  • Handmade lace from the town of Chiavari

Local Culture and Customs of Sanremo

Sanremo is known for its relaxed and laid-back vibe. The local culture puts a strong emphasis on community and family. It is customary to greet people with a friendly “buongiorno” or “buonasera.”

Best Time to Visit Sanremo

Sanremo can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is pleasant, and the city is bustling with activity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sanremo

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and wine
  • Visit the famous Sanremo Music Festival
  • Enjoy a bike ride or hike along the scenic routes
  • Experience the local culture by greeting people with a friendly “buongiorno” or “buonasera.”

Don’t:

  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting churches or religious sites
  • Leave your valuables unattended in crowded areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Sanremo

Sanremo is a relatively safe city, but like any other tourist destination, it is essential to be vigilant and take precautions when traveling.

Health in Sanremo

Sanremo has a top-of-the-line healthcare system, and there are several hospitals and clinics in the area. It is advisable to have a basic travel insurance policy while traveling.

Getting to Sanremo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sanremo

The nearest airport to Sanremo is Nice International Airport, located approximately 60 km away. Alternatively, you can fly to Genoa International Airport, which is approximately 140 km from Sanremo.

Bus Stations Near Sanremo

Sanremo is accessible by bus from many major cities in Italy, including Milan, Florence, and Genoa. The bus station is located in the center of the city.

Other Options

Sanremo is also accessible by train, with the Sanremo railway station located in the city center.

How to Get Around in Sanremo

Sanremo is a walkable city, and most of the major attractions are located within a short distance of each other. Bicycles are also available for rent, and there are numerous bike paths along the coast. Taxis and buses are also readily available.

Where to Go Next from Sanremo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several charming destinations nearby Sanremo.

  • Portofino: A picturesque fishing village known for its pastel-colored houses and luxury yachts.
  • Cinque Terre: A group of five villages on the Ligurian coast, known for their colorful houses, seafood, and hiking trails.
  • Monaco: A famous luxury destination known for its luxury yachts, casinos, and Formula One Grand Prix race.

Conclusion

Sanremo is a charming city with stunning natural scenery, rich cultural history, and vibrant culinary scene. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the local cuisine, or hike along the scenic trails, Sanremo has something for everyone. Plan your next trip to Sanremo and experience the beauty of this charming city in Liguria.

Old town (Pigna) Old town (Pigna) Old train station near the coast - now station of a cycle path Old train station near the coast - now station of a cycle path