Sanremo, Italy Travel Guide: Things to Do for an Unforgettable Trip

Dive into the Riviera: we explore Sanremo, Italy! The Mediterranean sparkles on one side, hills on the other. Sanremo mixes elegance and energy. It's nature at its best. This travel guide is your in. It shows a city where old meets new, fast. Love the Sanremo Music Festival? It's here. Want quiet gardens, clear beaches? Check. After mind-blowing Italian food? Check again. Let's craft unforgettable memories in Italy's scenic gem.

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📜 A Brief History of Sanremo, Italy

Sanremo sits on Italy's northwest coast, a standout spot on the Italian Riviera. It's not just a pretty face; it's a cultural powerhouse, home to the Sanremo Music Festival and the Milan–San Remo bike race. Forget the myth of Saint Remus; the name really comes from "Sant'Eremo di San Romolo," nodding to Romulus of Genoa.

Historical Overview Long ago, around 7000 to 6000 B.C., hunters roamed here. Then came settlers, agriculture, and the foundations of society. But the real action started with the Romans naming it Matutia. The Middle Ages saw Sanremo climb hills to dodge Saracen attacks. It built a castle and La Pigna, its still-standing ancient heart. Over time, it switched hands—Genoese bishops, Doria, De Mari—until it broke free in the 15th century.

From French Rule to Tourist Haven The 18th century flipped the script with French control, then a handoff to Sardinia in 1814. Tourism boomed, drawing in royals like "Sissi" and Emperor Nicholas II. Sanremo sprawled with grand hotels and seaside growth, becoming a top tourist spot.

Cultural and Architectural Highlights Sanremo's buildings tell its stories. The old harbor, Porto Vecchio; luxe villas; Santa Tecla Fort from the 17th century; an Art Nouveau casino; and La Pigna's medieval lanes. Not to forget the religious icons—the Sanctuary of Madonna della Costa and the Russian Orthodox church.

Sanremo Today: City of Flowers and Festivals Now, Sanremo shines as the "city of flowers," famous for its March flower parade. The Milan–San Remo race underscores its love for sports. With semi-tropical gardens and historic villas, Sanremo remains a mesmerizing mix of history, culture, and nature.

🌍 Sanremo Italy Map

👀 16 Things to do in Sanremo Italy

Looking for an unforgettable time in Sanremo, Italy? Here are some amazing activities we'd totally suggest, along with some favorites recommended by other Italian travelers:

1) Explore the Pista Ciclabile Area 24

Cyclists rave about the Pista Ciclabile Area 24 in Sanremo, Italy. It's scenic, safe, and fits all skill levels. It stretches along the Riviera, offering sea views, towns, and tunnels. An unforgettable ride.

It's flat and easy. Good for pros, families, and rookies. No cars. It runs by the sea from Ospedaletti to San Lorenzo al Mare. You can rent bikes and pedal cars.

Despite crowds in summer, it's still safe and fun. Great for leisurely rides, picnics, or beach stops. It's a top draw in Sanremo. It blends natural beauty, history, and easy access. A must for exploring the Italian Riviera by bike.

2) Join the Pasta & Basta cooking class

Diego De Santis is the brains behind Pasta & Basta, offering more than just a pasta-making class—it's a 2.5-hour plunge into Italian culture too. You get to try your hand at making three kinds of pasta, all paired with the hosts' own sauce creations. The cherry on top? A three-course meal with a view of the sea.

Attendees have been raving about it, marking it as a standout part of their trip. Monica lights up the class. She makes cooking fun, hands you the reins for your kitchen. The mix of cooking, culture, and words wins families over. It even nudges some to grab pasta machines for home.

3) Visit Old Bussana (Bussana Vecchia)

Old Bussana (Bussana Vecchia) sits in Sanremo, Italy. An earthquake wrecked it in the late 19th century. It lay forgotten for years. Then, in the 60s and 70s, artists moved in. They turned it into a bohemian hub. Now, it's a vibrant mix of old stones and new art. It offers medieval vibes and creative flair. Visitors see a ghost village turned lively. It's full of artisanal crafts and art studios. A creative rebirth defines the place.

4) Embark on the Dolceacqua & The Nervia Valley tour

The Dolceacqua & Nervia Valley tour is a quick, 4-hour dive into Liguria's best. It limits groups to six. You get transfers, a walk in a medieval village, wine tasting, and a castle entry. It's culture, history, and food, all rolled into one. Perfect for those wanting a close-up experience.

5) Take a walk through La Pigna

La Pigna sits in the hills, just off San Remo's busy center. It's a slice of history, packed with medieval streets. A 40-minute walk from the train takes you there. The place sprawls across four eras, most stuff dating back to the 15th century.

Walking La Pigna means hitting cobblestones, eyeing ancient doors, and ducking through arches. You'll find some eats and squares, peeking into centuries-old living. The real prize is the view up top—city and sea spread out. Markers along the way spill the beans on old buildings and how San Remo grew into four parts.

6) Experience Sanremo Food Tour

The Sanremo Food Tour is a quick, three-hour dive into Ligurian cuisine. It takes you through medieval alleys, introducing you to the local palate. It's not just eating. It's about embracing Sanremo's culture, discovering secret spots. You get a taste of history with every bite. This tour isn't just laid-back; it's an immersive way to grasp what Sanremo's really about.

7) See the Russian Orthodox Church (San Basilio)

San Basilio's Russian Orthodox Church echoes Moscow's St. Basil's Cathedral with five onion domes. Right by Sanremo's Casino, it's a magnet for its design and past. Built for Russian high society in the late 1800s, it got blessed in 1913. These churches catered to Russia's rich vacationing in Italy and France. The church yard features busts of King Vittorio Emanuele III and Queen Elena, plus a plaque for Elena's parents, buried there by her wish. This adds a unique historical twist.

People dig the church. It looks good inside and out. Doors open at 10 am. The interior impresses visitors with its beauty and calm. Tripadvisor gave it a Travellers' Choice award, signaling its appeal and respect. Its spot is prime, close to key roads, the station, and downtown, perfect for those into religious and architectural sights.

8) Take part in a Pizza Making Class

Sanremo's pizza class rocks. Learn to make real Italian pizza fast. It's interactive, not just theory. Everyone loves it. It's deeper than cooking. Nino and Peppe dive into Sanremo's essence. They'll zip you around food markets on mopeds. It's about experiencing Sanremo, not just pizza basics. Forget tourist traps; this is the real deal.

9) Climb to the Santuario Madonna Della Costa

Sanremo's Santuario Madonna Della Costa is a must-see. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, replaced in 1630, it boasts a rich history. The dome went up between 1770 and 1775, with a facelift in 1979-1981. It's atop the City of Flowers, revered by locals. A walk through La Pigna gets you there, among cypress and olives, on a pebbled path. It's a visual and spiritual trip. Inside, it dazzles with art and architecture. The Feast of Our Lady of the Assumption, on August 15, draws crowds. Entry's free. You can leave prayers. It's a spiritual and architectural gem, open to all​​​​.

10) Enjoy a Vespa Tour in Sanremo

Il Rosso's Vespa Tour offers an exciting way to explore Sanremo and the Italian Riviera, all while skipping the traffic. It's a genuine dive into the local scene, letting you choose your own adventure: solo exploration or following a knowledgeable guide. This experience is packed with stunning views of the Riviera dei Fiori and visits to Italy's lesser-known, charming villages. Everything you need is included: a Vespa, helmet, maps, and fuel are all part of the deal. There's no need for a guide to hold your hand. Just make sure you're at least 21, have a valid driver's license, and can provide a 350 euro security deposit for peace of mind. A heads-up: there might be a quick driving test before you start. If things don't go well, the cost of a day's rental will be deducted.

11) Stroll along Corso dell'Imperatrice

Hit Corso dell'Imperatrice, you're at Sanremo's core. It climbs, hugs the sea. Palms soar, varied in height. The path? A lively check of red and white. Vibrant and lush, with perfect weather to boot. Watch for Washingtonia robusta, Phoenix canariensis – the palm A-listers.

Next up, "Venere dei Fiori," "Primavera." A marble woman, barefoot, arms open, swamped in flowers, beaming joy. Vincenzo Pasquali's work. The city eats it up.

The Corso's not just eye candy. It's a nod to Sanremo's deep history, a haunt for Russian royalty and art elites. It's where you go for the views, some quiet, and a mix of nature and art. All by walking.

12) Hike the mountains of Sanremo

Amici Bici Cycle Tours offers a laid-back yet thrilling hike in the mountains of Sanremo, perfect for anyone between 8 and 75 years old. The adventure lasts anywhere from 3 to 8 hours, including a packed lunch to keep you going—just a heads up, you'll need to grab your coffee or tea elsewhere. There's a two-person minimum to book, otherwise, there might be an extra charge. We kick off at Gelateria Lollipop or directly from your hotel, making it super convenient. Along the way, you'll soak in some incredible sights like the Santuario Madonna Della Costa, the lush Parco Naturale di San Romolo, and the historic Chiesa di San Nicolo. It's the perfect mix of a physical challenge and cultural exploration.

13) Discover the wild beauty of Valle Argentina

Valle Argentina hides by Italy's boot, kissing the French Riviera. It's wild, calm. You get both worlds: Mediterranean green, Alpine high. Villages dot the land, scenic, untouched. Beaches? Quiet. Not like France's packed sands. They're nature's hideouts, cooler, a break from the heat.

Olives grow here, old-world style. Trails call to hikers, bikers. They're clear, tough, no crowds. Beauty, history, fun - Valle Argentina delivers. It's the Riviera, but more. Quiet sands, adventure, rolled into one.

14) Wander Corso Matteotti

Corso Matteotti in Sanremo got pedestrianized in 2013. It's the city's main drag. Shops, bistros, and music spots line it up. It's where you feel the city's pulse. Attractions like the Ariston Theater and a "Walk of Fame" show off its Mediterranean and historic charm. It's evolved. Now, it's a mix of commerce and culture. It draws you into its lively vibe and history.

15) Learn about Alfred Nobel at Villa Nobel

Villa Nobel in Sanremo is Alfred Nobel's legacy, the peace promoter and Nobel Prize founder. This place throws a curveball, blending Nobel's life with trains and festivals. Want to tread where Nobel tinkered with explosives? This is your arena. Dive into rooms echoing 19th-century genius and dynamite feats, like the San Gottardo tunnel. There's also a nod to Italian Nobel legends. In essence, it's history, stripped down and riveting.

16) Relax in Piazza Bresca

Piazza Bresca is chill. Orange trees and seafood joints pack it. It's a cool square, old buildings all around. The orange trees smell great, make eating outside better. Seafood places are everywhere. They serve local fish. It's a pretty spot.

Looking for good food? Piazza Bresca has plenty. From Italian to Mediterranean, seafood to healthy eats. Check out Tipico Osteria, Marzio Bistrot, Mediterraneo, La Vela d'Oro. They nail the local flavors. Great food, great vibes. Perfect for hanging out, enjoying the scene.

🎶 Sanremo Festival Italy

You hit the streets of Sanremo, Liguria, salt air hits your face, music blasts. It’s the Sanremo Music Festival, Italy's big musical showdown since 1951. Picture it as Italy’s nod to a blend of tradition, innovation, and musical genius, all wrapped up like a top-notch Barolo wine, complex yet satisfying.

Started post-World War II to lift Sanremo and its people, the idea was smart but simple: a new song contest at the fancy Sanremo Casino. From radio beginnings to the must-watch TV event at Teatro Ariston, it’s a hit with Italians and global music lovers.

Names like Andrea Bocelli, Laura Pausini, and Måneskin launched here, even hitting the Eurovision stage. The festival's morphed over time, from focusing on songwriters with different artists performing the same song, to now mixing new and known talents fighting for the win.

The 2024 fest is set to be a blast from the past meets new frontiers. With 30 acts, from veterans to rookies, it’s a peek into Italy’s music scene. Songs must be in Italian or regional dialects, by Italian writers, and never before performed, promising a fresh lineup. Stars like Marco Mengoni and guests like Bob Sinclair and Russell Crowe add a global touch.

👫🏽 Best Guided Tours

Seeing Sanremo and Italy with a local, trusted guide is a top-notch choice. They'll give you the best insights and some cool extras you probably couldn't snag on your own. Take a peek at our favorite guided tours of Sanremo below – we're pretty sure you're going to love them!

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✈️ How to Get to Sanremo, Italy

Here's a quick rundown on getting to and around Sanremo:

🚙 Airport Transfer & Car Service in Sanremo

Need a ride in Sanremo? Go for GetTransfer.com. It's cheaper than taxis. Just need a car briefly? They've got killer hourly rates. Compare and see. They're everywhere, any city or country. Even do helicopter and airplane transfers. The cool thing? No fixed prices. Drivers bid. You pick the best deal. They guarantee the lowest rates. Give it a shot.

🍴 Best Restaurants in Sanremo Italy

Here are some awesome restaurants in Sanremo we absolutely loved visiting or came highly recommended by our Italian friends. Definitely give them a try!

Vinotika - A wine bar sanctuary where the vino flows as freely as the conversation. Think French-European elegance meets Italian hospitality.

Il Lupo Smoke and Grill Restaurant - Carnivorous dreams come alive with high-quality aged meats, perfectly paired with a fine wine selection.

Ristorante Casa Buono - A dive into the chef's Michelin heritage, offering a symphony of seasonal delights with standout seafood dishes.

Bistrò 96 - Where Italian cuisine gets a creative twist, featuring homemade breads, pasta masterpieces, and a relaxed dining vibe.

Mille806 - A contemporary haunt offering a meld of Mediterranean flavors, complemented by innovative cocktails in a 1930s-inspired setting.

🏨 Best Places to Stay in Sanremo, Italy

Looking for a cozy spot to crash in Sanremo? We've got you covered with Booking.com! It's the perfect place to score some sweet deals, compare prices, find the perfect location, peek at some real photos, and skim through genuine reviews.

Dive into your Sanremo hotel hunt now by hitting up the search bar below:

Plus, here's a roundup of awesome hotels we've personally stayed at, or our family and friends have raved about. Make sure to give them a look for authentic photos, genuine reviews, and maybe even some fantastic deals:

Grand Hotel de Londres Sanremo Italy

Tucked away on Sanremo's scenic seafront, just a hop away from the famous casino, the Grand Hotel de Londres is your go-to for that classic Italian Riviera vibe. With its awesome outdoor sea-water pool, the place has a cool, old-school charm to it. Plus, you've got free WiFi to keep you plugged in, and the on-site Ligurian restaurant dishes out some seriously tasty local flavors. The rooms? They're cozy with satellite TV, a minibar, and air conditioning for those hot summer days. And if you snag one with a balcony, you'll get to wake up to stunning views of the Ligurian Sea every morning. It's all about kicking back in style while still having all the modern perks at your fingertips. Perfect for anyone looking to chill and soak in some culture.

Hotel Sanremo Lido di Jesolo Italy

Right on the beachfront of Lido di Jesolo, Hotel Sanremo is the perfect spot for some R&R with a side of adventure. This place has got you covered with free private parking (grab it while you can), your own slice of the beach, and complimentary bikes to cruise along the scenic promenade. The rooms? They're all about comfort with a simple, welcoming vibe, equipped with a TV and your own bathroom. Feel free to chill out on the hotel's sun terrace and soak up the peaceful vibes. Plus, with Wi-Fi available at the 24-hour reception, you're always connected.

Grand Hotel des Anglais Sanremo Italy

The Grand Hotel des Anglais Spa in Sanremo is a real gem with its stunning views of the Ligurian Sea. It's perfectly located just a two-minute stroll from the beach and only about 1.3 km away from the Ariston Theatre. This historic spot nails the combo of convenience and class, offering up free parking and Wi-Fi for everyone. The rooms mix old-school elegance with comfort, equipped with satellite TV, a minibar, and air conditioning. And if you're lucky, you can snag one with a balcony that gives you those amazing sea views, letting you dive right into the Italian Riviera vibe.

Best Western Hotel Nazionale Sanremo Italy

The Best Western Hotel Nazionale in Sanremo nails it with its prime spot right by the casino, on the city's go-to shopping street. This place wins you over with its rooftop terrace and hot tub, where you can soak up panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. The rooms? They're big, breezy thanks to the air-con, and come with a minibar and Sky TV, striking the perfect balance between chill vibes and keeping entertained. With just a 5-minute walk to Sanremo's medieval center and the beach, and the Teatro Ariston only 300 meters away, it's the perfect launchpad for both kicking back and going on adventures.

Hotel Marinella Sanremo Italy

Hotel Marinella sits beautifully on Sanremo's marina, a real find just a short, less than 5-minute walk from the well-known Teatro Ariston and super close, only 200 meters, from the city's new railway station. Perfect spot, right? The hotel offers a cozy stay with rooms that have all the essentials: air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, minibar, and Wi-Fi. It's all about mixing ease with comfort here. Hotel Marinella nails it. Prime spot. Has everything. Perfect for soaking up Sanremo and chilling by the marina.

Hotel Royal Sanremo Italy

The Royal Hotel Sanremo sits close to the Sanremo Casino. It screams class and comfort. It has a spa and a big pool. Sun lovers rejoice in summer. They partner with a beach. Rooms mix the old and the new. Think marble bathrooms and killer views. Food's a big deal here. Want Italian? Hit Fiori di Murano. Pool snacks? Corallina's your spot. Romantic vibes? Try Il Giardino. It nails the Italian Riviera chill.

🏖️ Sanremo Italy Beaches

Sanremo sits on the Italian Riviera. It's known for its beaches. You like sand? They have it. Rocks? Those too. You can hit a public beach or drop big money at a resort. Here are Sanremo's best beaches:

Spiaggia dei Porti is right in the heart of Sanremo, sandwiched between Porto Vecchio and Portosole. Super easy to get to, it's got everything you need like umbrella rentals and boats for a chill day by the water.

Tre Ponti Beach is the go-to for a massive stretch of sand where everyone's welcome. It's decked out with showers, boats for rent, and a café to keep you cool and fed. Plus, it's right next to the bike path, so cyclists can easily pop over.

Bagni Paradiso and Bagni Serenella are on the list too, each bringing its own vibe to the beach day experience. Though we're light on the details, travelers on Tripadvisor rave about them, so they're definitely worth checking out.

Cala degli Orsi in Bussana Mare, just a hop from Sanremo, is a stunner. It's a breeze to reach by bike, sitting pretty along the scenic Riviera cycle path, and it's all public beach beauty.

Arma di Taggia is a hit for families, packed with umbrellas, sunbeds, and pedal boats. There are also games to keep the kids busy while adults soak up some sun.

Capo Verde is the spot for those who love a dramatic coastline, with cliffs and rocks framing the most gorgeous turquoise and crystal-clear waters for a dip that feels a bit more adventurous.

🚙 Day Trip Ideas from Sanremo

Sanremo, tucked away on the Italian Riviera, is a fantastic spot for setting out to explore the neighborhood. Check out these nearby cities for a day trip – each has its own cool vibe:

🌡️ Sanremo Italy Weather

Sanremo's got that coastal vibe, with mild skies above. Expect cozy, damp winters and bright, sunny summers.

When to Visit: Spring to early summer (think mid-April to mid-June) or the first half of September are prime times.

🌱 Spring:

It’s laid-back. Starts off cool, warms up nicely. You'll get some sun and a bit of rain. March is around 49°F, and by June, we're at 66°F. It's great weather for exploring outdoors.

🌞 Summer:

Things heat up. From June to August, it hovers around 71°F. The sea gets just right for swimming at 76°F in August. Heads up, though: July and August can get pretty crowded.

🍂 Autumn:

It's a mix of sunny days and some cloud cover. Kicks off warm at 67°F in September, cooling down to 53°F by November. October's the wettest month.

⛅ Winter:

It's generally mild and you might catch some sunny days. Snow's a rare sight. The coldest months, January and February, dip to around 47°F to 46°F.

Precipitation Patterns: The rainier season runs from September 10 to May 25, with a peak in October. The drier stretch goes from May 25 to September 10, with July being notably dry.

❓FAQs

Here are some of the top questions we often get about Sanremo, Italy, along with the answers you're looking for:

🇮🇹 Explore More of Italy!

Sanremo is only the beginning of Italy's awesome spots. Check out more cool places in the articles below. 'Buon Viaggio'!