Sanremo is an old Riviera-style city on the coast of western Liguria. It is known as the “City of Flowers” for its esteemed floral and nursery production. Relax in the grand hotels, explore the stunning Mediterranean landscape on foot or by bicycle and experience the region’s premier music and cycling events.
Visit the Bussana Vecchia (Old Bussana), a former ghost town abandoned in the late 19th century following an earthquake. A community of international artists has since repopulated the peaceful old town. Explore the maze of steep, half-ruined streets with restaurants and art shops. Drive or walk to the Bussana Vecchia, located only 6 miles (9 kilometres) from the centre of Sanremo.
The Milan-San Remo is one of the longest professional one-day cycling events, at a distance of 185 miles (298 kilometres). Typically held on the third Sunday of March, the spring classic reaches a dramatic finish from the top of the Poggio di Sanremo hill into the heart of the city. Be at the finish line for the season’s first major race or cycle the Pista Ciclabile Area 24, a 15-mile (24-kilometre) bicycle path along the Riviera, open year-round.
Enjoy traditional Ligurian cuisine in the old town and try your luck at the famous Municipal Casino or simply admire its classic art nouveau architecture. Watch a show at the Ariston Theatre. If you are visiting in mid-February be sure to experience the annual Sanremo Music Festival a popular event that inspired the Eurovision Song Contest.
The Sanremo railway station accommodates frequent visitors from Ventimiglia, Nice, Imperia, Savona and Genoa. Alternatively, appreciate the panoramic seaside views via the highway. With its seemingly endless greenhouses, this tollway is known as the “Freeway of Flowers” and connects Sanremo with Genoa and Ventimiglia.
Rent a bicycle from one of the many stands on the Pista Ciclabile. Cycle between Imperia and Sanremo or walk along and photograph the striking Mediterranean coastline.
