San Remo (or Sanremo) is a popular resort town on the west coast of Italy, best known for its casino. However, there are many more attractions and activities to explore in this beautiful city on the Italian Riviera, making it a fantastic destination for travelers not interested in gambling.

What to See in San Remo

La Pigna, also known as the Pinecone, is the oldest section of the city, featuring winding narrow streets and covered alleyways that lead upward to beautiful gardens and a sanctuary. Many historic buildings, churches, and squares in this area have been thoughtfully restored, with informative signs detailing their significance along the tourist route.

Madonna della Costa Sanctuary sits atop the hill overlooking La Pigna and symbolizes the city. A stunning cobblestone mosaic, dating back to 1651, guides visitors to the sanctuary. The dome of the sanctuary was constructed between 1770 and 1775, housing an ornate altar, an impressive organ, and captivating paintings and statues from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

The Russian Orthodox Church was completed in 1913, during a time when San Remo was a favored winter retreat for Russians. This church bears similarities to the famous San Basilio in Moscow.

The Gardens of Queen Elena are located above La Pigna, alongside other charming gardens in the city, such as those in Villa Zirio, Villa Ormond, Villa Nobeland, and Palazzo Bellevue.

Recreational sports abound in San Remo, offering various activities like tennis, biking, and access to two harbors, a public swimming pool, and picturesque beaches perfect for swimming.

San Remo Festivals and Events

San Remo annually hosts the renowned Italian Song Festival in late February, along with a European music festival in June, a rock festival in July, and a jazz festival in August. Numerous additional concerts and shows take place throughout the summer months.

From October through May, the Opera Theater at the casino hosts performances by the Symphonic Orchestra. During New Year’s Eve, a striking fireworks display lights up the sea at Porto Vecchio, the old port, creating a festive atmosphere. Additionally, the San Remo Flowers Parade is celebrated at the end of January, alongside various sports events, including water sports, occurring throughout the year.

When to Visit San Remo

San Remo is a desirable destination year-round, thanks to the Riviera dei Fiori’s milder climate compared to many other Italian locales. Given its size, most hotels and restaurants remain accessible during winter. Nevertheless, summer crowds can lead to higher hotel rates compared to the offseason.

Casino Sanremo

The Casino Sanremo, a century-old establishment, is an architectural marvel constructed in the Liberty Deco style. Visitors can not only enjoy the gaming experience but also explore the theater and restaurants within the casino, strategically located in the city center. The casino is conveniently connected to the lively shopping and entertainment areas of Piazza Colombo and Via Matteotti.

Getting There

San Remo is situated between Genoa and the French border, within the picturesque region known as the Riviera dei Fiori or ‘Riviera of Flowers.’ Located in the province of Liguria, San Remo is easily accessible by train or bus from other coastal towns, as it’s situated on the coastal rail line connecting France with Genoa and various points along Italy’s west coast. The train station is positioned above the harbor, while the bus station is conveniently located near the city center. For those traveling by car, San Remo is only about 5 kilometers from the A10 autostrada (toll road) that runs along the coast.

The nearest airports include Nice, France, approximately 65 km away, and Genoa Airport, about 150 km away, further enhancing the accessibility to this remarkable destination.