San Remo (or Sanremo) is a popular resort town on the west coast of Italy, best known for its casino. But there is much more to do and see in this beautiful city on the Italian Riviera if you are not interested in gambling.
What to see in San Remo
La Pigna , the pineapple, is the oldest part of the city. The small covered streets and alleys of La Pigna climb the hill to the gardens and the sanctuary at the top. Some of the historic buildings, churches, and squares have been restored, and there are signs describing them throughout the tourist itinerary.
The Santuario Madonna della Costa , on top of the hill above La Pigna, can be seen from most places in San Remo and is a symbol of the city. A beautiful cobblestone mosaic dating from 1651 leads to the sanctuary. The dome over the sanctuary was erected between 1770 and 1775. Inside there is an ornate altar and organ and beautiful paintings and statues dating from the 17th to 19th centuries.
The Russian Orthodox Church was completed in 1913 when San Remo was a popular winter destination for Russians. It is similar to the St. Basil’s Church in Moscow.
The Queen Elena Gardens are at the top of the hill above La Pigna, and there are other beautiful gardens around the city, at Villa Zirio, Villa Ormond, and Villa Nobeland Palazzo Bellevue.
Recreational sports are abundant in San Remo. There are several tennis and cycling clubs, two harbors, a public swimming pool, and beaches for swimming.
San Remo Festivities and Events
San Remo is famous for its Italian Song Festival, which takes place at the end of February. There is also a European music festival in June, a rock festival in July, and a jazz festival in August. Many other shows and concerts take place during the summer months.
From October to May, the Opera House in the casino offers performances by the Symphony Orchestra. New Year’s Eve is celebrated with music and a huge fireworks display by the sea in Porto Vecchio , the old port. The San Remo flower parade takes place at the end of January. Many sporting events, including water sports, are also held throughout the year.
When to visit San Remo
San Remo is a good destination all year round. The Riviera dei Fiori has milder temperatures than many places in Italy and since it is a fairly large city, most hotels and restaurants remain open even in winter. Summer can be very crowded with hotel prices higher than what you will find during the low season.
Sanremo Casino
Of course, the centennial casino of San Remo is itself a magnificent work of architecture, built in the Liberty Deco style. Visitors can enjoy the theater and restaurants located inside the casino, which is right in the center of the city. The casino is connected to the shopping and entertainment area Piazza Colombo and Via Matteotti.
Get there
San Remo is located between Genoa and the French border in the part of Italy known as the Riviera dei Fiori , or riviera de flores. It is in the province of Liguria.
San Remo can be reached by train or bus from other cities along the coast, and is on the coastal railway line that connects France with Genoa and other points along the west coast of Italy. The train station is above the harbor, and the bus station is close to the city center. By car, it is about 5 kilometers from the A10 motorway (toll road) that runs along the coast.
The nearest airports are Nice, France, about 65 km away and Genoa airport, about 150 km away.