Walking along Sanremo’s palm-lined promenades last weekend, I felt like I’d stepped back into a more elegant era. While the city’s famous casino draws many visitors to this Italian Riviera gem, I found myself captivated by the Belle Époque architecture scattered throughout the “City of Flowers.”
Beyond the glittering casino, Sanremo reveals its true charm through magnificent villas along Corso degli Inglesi and hilltop mansions that showcase the lavish design features of the Belle Époque period.
The Riviera dei Fiori (Coast of Flowers) offered me much more than gambling opportunities. My weekend wandering through Sanremo’s streets revealed Art Nouveau treasures at every turn. The casino itself is a stunning example of this style, but exploring further led me to discover churches, historic hotels, and private villas that tell the story of Sanremo’s glamorous past.
What surprised me most was how these architectural wonders blend seamlessly with Sanremo’s relaxed coastal atmosphere.
In just two days, I photographed dozens of impressive buildings while enjoying the Mediterranean sunshine. Even in March, the mild climate makes this corner of Italy perfect for architectural sightseeing mixed with seaside strolls and coffee breaks at charming cafés.
Discovering Sanremo’s Historical Heart
Wandering away from the glitz of Sanremo’s famous casino, I was captivated by the city’s rich historical core. The centuries-old architecture and winding streets tell stories of Sanremo’s past that are just as fascinating as its modern reputation.
Strolling Through the Medieval Quarter
The medieval quarter of Sanremo, known locally as “La Pigna” (The Pine Cone), captured my heart with its labyrinth of narrow alleyways and steep stairways. This ancient neighborhood gets its name from its distinctive spiral shape that resembles a pine cone.
As I climbed the cobblestone paths, I discovered charming small squares and old stone houses leaning against each other. The higher I ventured, the more breathtaking the views of the Mediterranean coastline below became.
The Cathedral of San Siro stands as the crowning jewel of this area. Dating back to around 800 AD, it’s Sanremo’s oldest religious building. Its simple exterior belies the beautiful Gothic interior that left me in awe.
Uncovering the Charms of the Historic Center
Beyond La Pigna, Sanremo’s historic center unfolds with elegant Belle Époque architecture and splendid public spaces. The impressive Casino building dominates with its ornate façade – truly a photogenic masterpiece representing the artistic sensibilities of a bygone era.
I spent hours exploring the center’s beautiful villas surrounded by lush gardens. These once-private residences showcase the wealth that flowed through Sanremo during its golden age.
My favorite discovery was the Ariston Theatre, home to the famous Sanremo Music Festival. While not medieval, this cultural landmark has been central to Italian entertainment since the mid-20th century.
The historic center also offers wonderful shopping along the palm-lined streets and charming cafés where I watched the world go by. The blend of old-world charm and Mediterranean lifestyle made this area truly unforgettable.
The Luxurious Side of Sanremo
Sanremo embraces luxury with its elegant accommodations and breathtaking views that capture the essence of Riviera living. The city’s Belle Époque heritage shines through in its upscale offerings that cater to travelers seeking refined experiences.
Elegant Stays at Boutique Hotels
During my weekend getaway, I discovered several charming boutique hotels tucked away in Sanremo’s historic streets. These intimate establishments perfectly blend old-world charm with modern comforts.
Many of these boutique gems are housed in restored Art Nouveau villas, offering a glimpse into the city’s glamorous past. The attention to detail impressed me most – from custom furnishings to personalized service that made me feel like a valued guest rather than just another tourist.
I particularly enjoyed the garden terraces where breakfast is served among fragrant Mediterranean plants. Most boutique hotels in Sanremo are centrally located, making it easy to explore the city on foot.
Experiencing a Luxury Hotel with Panoramic Views
Treating myself to a night at one of Sanremo’s luxury hotels with sea views was worth the splurge. From my balcony, I watched sailboats glide across the azure waters of the Ligurian Sea.
These upscale properties feature amenities that elevate the stay experience – infinity pools that seem to merge with the horizon, spa facilities offering rejuvenating treatments, and restaurants serving exquisite local cuisine.
My room featured floor-to-ceiling windows that framed the coastline perfectly. The staff anticipated my needs before I even expressed them, from arranging private transportation to securing reservations at exclusive restaurants.
The rooftop bar became my favorite spot for sunset cocktails, where I mingled with fellow travelers while admiring the panoramic views of Sanremo’s colorful buildings cascading down to the sea.
Leisure and Wellness in Sanremo
Sanremo offers incredible options for relaxation and wellness that go far beyond its famous casino. I discovered that the city’s luxury accommodations provide perfect sanctuaries for rejuvenation after exploring the charming streets.
Relaxation at a Hotel with an Outdoor Pool
I spent blissful afternoons lounging by the stunning outdoor pool at the Royal Hotel Sanremo. The pool area was framed by swaying palm trees and offered breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The azure waters of the heated pool provided a perfect contrast to the lush garden surroundings. I particularly enjoyed ordering a refreshing Aperol Spritz from the poolside service while alternating between cooling dips and sunbathing on the comfortable loungers.
Many luxury villas in Sanremo feature similar pool areas, creating private oases for guests. The mild climate makes outdoor swimming pleasant nearly year-round, though spring and summer offer the most idyllic pool experiences.
Staying Fit and Healthy at a Hotel Gym
Maintaining my exercise routine was surprisingly easy during my Sanremo stay. The hotel gym featured state-of-the-art equipment including treadmills, ellipticals, and weight machines with panoramic windows overlooking the gardens.
I scheduled a session with a personal trainer who recommended workout routines specifically designed to combat travel fatigue. The gym also offered morning yoga classes on an outdoor terrace—a truly rejuvenating experience.
What impressed me most was how the fitness facilities balanced modern technology with the building’s historic charm. Even the water stations featured elegant crystal carafes rather than plastic bottles, maintaining the Belle Époque atmosphere throughout the wellness areas.
The Tranquility of a Private Beach Access
The private beach access provided by my hotel was perhaps the most luxurious wellness amenity I experienced in Sanremo. A short walk through manicured gardens led directly to a secluded stretch of coastline.
The beach club featured:
- Dedicated cabanas with comfortable loungers
- Attentive service for food and drinks
- Crystal-clear water perfect for swimming
I spent one entire morning simply listening to the gentle waves while reading under the shade of my cabana. The beach staff arranged everything from towels to lunch reservations at the beachfront restaurant.
Unlike the public beaches that can become crowded during peak season, this private access ensures a peaceful environment for true relaxation. The tranquil setting allowed me to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the Riviera dei Fiori.
Exploring Beyond Sanremo
While Sanremo captivated me with its Belle Époque charm, I found the surrounding region equally enticing. Just a short drive from this Ligurian gem opens up a world of glamorous destinations along one of Europe’s most celebrated coastlines.
The Allure of the French Riviera
The French Riviera beckons with its azure waters and sun-drenched landscape just 30 minutes from Sanremo. Crossing the border feels like entering a different world, though the Mediterranean beauty remains constant.
The coastal road offers breathtaking views at every turn. I recommend stopping at viewpoints to capture photos of the dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea.
What surprised me most was how the architecture gradually shifted from Italian to French styles. The palm-lined promenades and pastel-colored buildings create a distinctive atmosphere that’s both relaxed and sophisticated.
The French Riviera’s microclimate ensures pleasant weather year-round, making it perfect for off-season visits when crowds thin out but the charm remains intact.
Visiting the Glamorous Neighbors: Menton and Monaco
Menton, just across the border, charmed me with its lemon groves and colorful old town. Its microclimate is among Europe’s mildest, supporting exotic gardens worth exploring like the Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh.
Monaco, only 40 minutes from Sanremo, dazzles with unabashed luxury. The Monte Carlo Casino rivals Sanremo’s, but with added opulence. I spent hours wandering through the immaculate streets of this tiny principality.
Don’t miss these Monaco highlights:
- Prince’s Palace: Time your visit for the changing of the guard at 11:55 AM
- Oceanographic Museum: Perched dramatically on a cliff
- Formula 1 Circuit: Walk the same streets as the famous race
The contrast between Menton’s quiet charm and Monaco’s glitz offers a perfect balance for day trips from Sanremo.
A Side Trip to Picturesque Cannes
Though slightly further away at about 90 minutes away, Cannes proved well worth the journey. This glamorous resort town balances celebrity allure with authentic French Riviera charm.
La Croisette promenade stretches alongside golden beaches lined with exclusive shops and cafés. I enjoyed people-watching here almost as much as the Mediterranean views.
The hillside neighborhood of Le Suquet offers a different perspective with its cobbled streets and historic buildings. From the top, I captured stunning panoramic photos of the bay.
Film buffs will appreciate the Palais des Festivals, home to the famous film festival. The handprints of movie stars embedded in the pavement outside create a Hollywood-style walk of fame with European sophistication.
For lunch, I skipped the touristy spots and found a local market with amazing fresh seafood and regional specialties.
Practical Tips for the Savvy Traveler
Sanremo rewards those who plan. I found booking accommodations at least three months in advance saved me nearly 30% on hotel rates. This was especially true during summer and festival seasons.
The city is wonderfully walkable, but comfortable shoes are essential. I logged over 15,000 steps daily exploring the narrow medieval streets of La Pigna and the elegant promenades.
Transportation Options:
- Local buses: €1.50 per ride
- Taxi from airport: €80-100
- Train from Nice: €9-15 one-way
- Bike rentals: €15/day
Dealing with the relaxed Italian approach to time requires patience and understanding. Restaurant reservations might start 15-30 minutes late – embrace this as part of the charm!
I strongly recommend comprehensive health insurance that covers Italy. My insurance plan with international coverage gave me peace of mind when I needed unexpected medical attention for a minor injury.
Learning a few basic Italian phrases opened doors to authentic experiences and warmer interactions with locals. Even my terrible pronunciation earned appreciative smiles from shopkeepers.
The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer the perfect balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. I enjoyed having popular spots like Villa Ormond Gardens almost to myself on weekday mornings.
Carry cash! While most establishments accept cards, smaller cafés and markets in the historic center often prefer cash payments.
