Things To Do
in San Remo
Sanremo sits along the Ligurian coast in northwest Italy, renowned for its palm-lined promenades, festival culture, and elegant 19th-century villas. The city blends flower-filled parks, an active waterfront, and a lively historic center known as La Pigna, all framed by the Maritime Alps. Its mild Mediterranean climate makes outdoor exploration year-round, from sun-kissed beaches to panoramic hikes above the coast.
Visitors enjoy a refined, relaxed Riviera experience with easy day trips to Monaco, Menton, and the Cinque Terre.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in San Remo and check into a charming hotel overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Take a leisurely stroll along the famous Promenade Imperatrice, soaking in the splendid coastal views. Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café, savoring a cornetto and espresso.
Explore the bustling local market, Mercato Coperto, where you can find fresh produce, regional cheeses, and aromatic herbs. Indulge in a light lunch of focaccia and fresh fruit at one of the nearby trattorias. Spend the afternoon wandering through the picturesque old town of La Pigna, admiring its narrow cobblestone streets and quaint shops.
Dine at a seaside restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and a glass of Ligurian wine as the sun sets over the horizon. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, listening to the sound of waves lapping at the shore. End the evening with gelato from a local gelateria as you stroll through the vibrant streets.
After breakfast, head to the beautiful Villa Ormond, famous for its stunning gardens and serene atmosphere. Spend your morning wandering through the lush grounds, surrounded by exotic plants and blooming flowers. Capture picturesque views of the villa's architecture and the Mediterranean beyond.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the gardens, featuring local delicacies picked up from the market the previous day. Afterwards, visit the nearby Russian Orthodox Church, known for its striking architecture and tranquil setting. Take time to relax and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the area.
For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant in the city, experiencing the region’s culinary excellence. Afterward, venture out to the cultural district for some live music or a local performance. Conclude your night with drinks at a cozy bar that offers spectacular sea views.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $45-70 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🧭Public transport day pass | $4-7 |
| 🏖️Beach sunbed or access | $0-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and promenades
- Excellent seafood and pesto cuisine
- Compact historic center close to beaches
- Year-round pleasant climate with easy day trips
- Good value compared to other Riviera destinations
- Can be crowded in peak summer
- Some areas have steep streets in the old town
- Prices can be higher around festival seasons
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Seasonal wind and rain can affect outdoor plans
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parlo poco italiano" - I speak a little Italian
- "Posso avere il conto?" - Can I have the bill?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in San Remo
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval lanes, colorful façades, and harbor views for texture and color.
Waterfront architecture and sunset reflections along the coast.
Long seafront promenade perfect for morning light photography and long exposures.
Terraced gardens and sea panoramas with tropical greenery.
Bustling square scenes with palm trees, bougainvillea, and lively street life.
Food in San Remo
San Remo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Basil pesto sauce with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, often served with trofie or trenette.
Must-Try!
Olive oil–carried flatbread, crispy edges, perfect with a glass of local white.
A creamy mashed cod and potato dish, typical estiva coastal fare.
Hand-rolled pasta with pesto sauce, a Ligurian staple.
Coastal fish dishes featuring fresh catches and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, olives, cheeses, and local snacks within the town center.
Try farinata (chickpea pancake) and pansotti with walnut sauce from seaside stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera'; use 'per favore' and 'grazie' in service interactions.
Dress neatly for church and cultural sites; speak softly in public spaces and avoid loud behavior late at night.
Safety
Tipping in San Remo
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is handy for small vendors and markets; keep some euros for taxis and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
July and August bring heat and crowds; beach life dominates, with late dinners and vibrant outdoor events. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and book seaside dining in advance.
Milder temperatures and quieter streets; ideal for wine-tasting, light hiking, and strolls along the promenade without peak heat.
Mild coastal winters with occasional rain; many shops remain open in town, with fewer crowds but cooler evenings.
Pleasant temperatures and flowering boulevards; perfect for photography, outdoor dining, and coastal hikes.
San Remo at Night
Hiking in San Remo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal path with sea views and photo opportunities along the cliffside.
Moderate hike with panoramic views over the Riviera and mountains.
Gentle trails through olive groves and villages with viewpoints toward the sea.
Airports
How to reach San Remo by plane.
Major international gateway about 50-70 miles/80-110 km from Sanremo; drive or train connections along the Riviera.
Smaller regional airport closer to Sanremo for domestic and seasonal flights.
Major hub around 170-190 km away; good for international connections and rail links to the Riviera.
Longer transfer but provides additional international options; not as close as Nice.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families in hillside neighborhoods and retirees enjoying the coast.
Seasonal visitors from Italy and Europe, drawn to the Riviera year-round.
People staying for festivals, music, and culinary events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ligurian coast offers great sailing and regattas; many clubs and charter options.
Popular among locals; local clubs and recreational leagues around town.
Public and private courts available; summer tournaments and club play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Remo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Liguria’s veg-forward dishes can be enjoyed with pesto, tomatoes, olives, and vegetables; ask for pesto without anchovies or oil-light preparations; choose seafood or vegetable-based options; inform staff of dietary needs.