Sanremo is the perfect first stop in Italy. Just across the border from Spain, this charming seaside town has a laid back vibe and has been a popular holiday destination for over a century. Not only that but it has an eclectic mix of free things to do. With such a wide variety of activities available, you’re sure to find a few things that will peak your interest! In this Sanremo travel guide, we’ll show you the 12 best free things to do in Sanremo Italy.
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Top free things to do in Sanremo Italy
We love a good bargain, and there’s no better bargain than getting something for free! For ease of reference, here is our list of the top free things to do in Sanremo Italy.
- Pista Ciclabile Area 24
- Bussana Vecchia
- La Pigna neighbourhood
- Santuario della Madonna della Costa
- Corso Giocomo Matteotti
- Tre Ponti beach
- Giardini di Villa Ormond
- Corso Imperatrice
- Forte Santa Tecla
- Piazza Bresca
- Giardini Nobel
- Mercato Bisettimanale di Sanremo
Keep reading to find out more about each destination.
Best free thing to do in Sanremo Italy: Pista Ciclabile Area 24
About the Pista Ciclabile Area 24
Pista Ciclabile Area 24 is a 24km (15 mile) long bike path which runs between San Lorenzo and Ospedaletti and also passes through Sanremo. The bike path is on the location of a disused former rail line. The trail is mainly flat and runs along the waterfront. It’s a beautiful ride with amazing views. For those without a bike, you can also walk along this path.
Why visit Pista Ciclabile Area 24
Sanremo is host to one of the most prestigious one-day cycling events in the world – the Milan-San Remo Spring Classic. Therefore, it’s no wonder Sanremo is also home to a world class cycling path. Pista Ciclabile Area 24 is a beautiful waterfront bike path with unbeatable views. It is perfect for anyone that enjoys cycling. Furthermore the flat path means its suitable for most levels of fitness. There are plenty of bike hire stores around, hiring all types of bikes including recreational bikes as well as more serious road bikes.
How long to spend at Pista Ciclabile Area 24
We recommend spending a couple of hours taking a leisurely walk or cycle along this bike path.
Opening hours for Pista Ciclabile Area 24
This free thing to do in Sanremo Italy is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend in Pista Ciclabile Area 24
Hire a bike to cycle along this bike path.
Pista Ciclabile Area 24 address
18038 Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
International artist hub in medieval village near Sanremo Italy: Bussana Vecchia
About Bussana Vecchia
Bussana Vecchia is a former ghost town that has subsequently become an International Artists Village. It is located just 8km away from Sanremo. This medieval village was abandoned after an earthquake in 1887 made the buildings uninhabitable. The villagers moved down the hill to what became Bussana Nuova (“New Bussana”) and the ghost town was renamed Bussana Vecchia (“Old Bussana”). For decades the town lay vacant, with stones from the buildings used as a source of building materials.
In 1947, immigrants from southern Italy tried to settle in the village, but they were evicted by the police. In order to deter settlement, the authorities destroyed the first floor stairways and rooftops in the village. However in the 1960s a Sicilian painter Vanni Giuffrè along with other artists settled in the village. Despite the basic living conditions and disputes with police and with descendants of the original inhabitants, these artists have remained. They are technically still living there illegally and are under an eviction notice, but this has not been enforced. Over the past 60 years they have managed to rebuild part of the village. It is now a thriving artist community and a popular tourist attraction.
Why visit Bussana Vecchia
Bussana Vecchia is a unique and fascinating place to visit. It has a thriving international art scene and its set in a medieval village.
How long to spend at Bussana Vecchia
Allow one hour to explore Bussana Vecchia. If you want to stop for a meal or a drink allow extra time.
Opening hours for Bussana Vecchia
This free thing to do in Sanremo Italy is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend in Bussana Vecchia
There are restaurants, cafes and bars in the village. You can also buy artwork or locally made goods from one of the local artists.
Bussana Vecchia address
Bussana Vecchia, 18038 Province of Imperia, Italy
Historic neighbourhood in Sanremo Italy: La Pigna neighbourhood
About La Pigna neighbourhood
The La Pigna neighbourhood is an old neighbourhood Sanremo full of narrow alleyways and interesting looking buildings. Its name means pine cone, in reference to its shape. The neighbourhood winds its way up a hill, so comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the area.
Why visit La Pigna neighbourhood
Visiting the La Pigna neighbourhood is like taking a step back in time. This neighbourhood is steeped in history with its narrow streets and its charming old houses. There are no cars as the narrow paths and staircases don’t allow it. It’s a great place to get lost in. The neighbourhood also has shops and restaurants to discover.
How long to spend at La Pigna neighbourhood
To walk the full stretch of La Pigna neighbourhood takes the best part of an hour. We recommend spending a few hours meandering around the neighbourhood, enjoying the atmosphere and the views. Make sure you bring your camera is there are plenty of great photo opportunities!
Opening hours for La Pigna neighbourhood
This free thing to do in Sanremo Italy is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend at La Pigna neighbourhood
There are a number of shops, restaurants and cafes in the neighbourhood.
La Pigna neighbourhood address
La Pigna di Sanremo, 18038 Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Plus Code: RQ9G+H3 Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Hilltop church in Sanremo Italy: Santuario della Madonna della Costa
About Santuario della Madonna della Costa Italy
Santuario della Madonna della Costa, is a Marian sanctuary on a hill overlooking San Remo Italy. From the outside of the church there are panoramic views over the city and the surrounding countryside. The foundations of the building dates back to the 14th or 15th century. However the current Baroque style building was built in 1630. Additionally, the dome was built between 1770 and 1775. Inside, the church has marble, sculptures and frescoes. The sanctuary is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and as such the feast of the Assumption (August 15) is the main celebratory day of the church. Historically, there was also the “feast of chains”, where locals would walk to the sanctuary dragging chains to celebrate emancipation from the Doria family (a noble family from Genoa).
Why visit Santuario della Madonna della Costa Italy
This is a grand church that is stunning on both the inside and the outside. The opulent architecture makes for great photos. It’s a very peaceful place to visit.
How long to spend at Santuario della Madonna della Costa Italy
10-20 minutes is sufficient time to visit the church and take a few photos.
Opening hours for Santuario della Madonna della Costa Italy
Daily: 9am-6:30pm
If you have money to spend in Santuario della Madonna della Costa Italy
The church accepts donations.
Santuario della Madonna della Costa Italy address
Piazzale Santuario Assunta, 15, 18038 Sanremo IM, Italy
Plus Code: RQCF+J7 Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Main shopping street of Sanremo: Corso Giocomo Matteotti Sanremo Italy
About Corso Giocomo Matteotti Sanremo Italy
Corso Giocomo Matteotti (also known as Corso Matteotti and Via Giocomo Matteotti) is the main shopping street of Sanremo Italy. This pedestrian street is filled with international and boutique shops as well as restaurants and cafes. It is one of the busiest areas in Sanremo. Happy shoppers and holidaymakers fill the street both day and night. There are a number of prominent landmarks in Corso Giocomo Matteotti. Of particular note is Ariston Theatre, home to the famous Sanremo Music Festival. The street was named after Italian socialist politician Giacomo Matteotti who was murdered by fascists in 1924.
Why visit Corso Giocomo Matteotti Sanremo Italy
Corso Giocomo Matteotti is the most popular street in the city and a must visit in Sanremo. This is the heart of the city and is always brimming with people. The street is lined with beautiful shops, restaurants and landmarks which makes it a great place to get holiday photos. Throughout the year Corso Giocomo Matteotti is host to wide range of events and activities and it seems like there’s always something on. Moreover it is a busy commercial centre and it is conveniently close to many other landmarks in the city.
How long to spend at Corso Giocomo Matteotti Sanremo Italy
We recommend spending a couple of hours here to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Opening hours for Corso Giocomo Matteotti Sanremo Italy
This free destination in Sanremo Italy is open at all hours. It is a great place to visit both day and night.
If you have money to spend in Corso Giocomo Matteotti Sanremo Italy
There’s no end to the amount of things you can spend your money on in Corso Giocomo Matteotti. We recommend visiting one of the restaurants or cafes for a meal. You may also enjoy shopping for souvenirs. Also keep an eye out for any events that might be on when you visit.
Corso Giocomo Matteotti Sanremo Italy address
Via Giacomo Matteotti, 18038 Sanremo IM, Italy
Plus Code: RQ8F+35 Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Best free beach in Sanremo Italy: Tre Ponti beach
About Tre Ponti beach Sanremo Italy
Tre Ponti beach is a free public beach in Sanremo Italy. It’s a sandy beach and the water is generally fairly calm. On a windy day there may be some waves.
Why visit Tre Ponti beach Sanremo Italy
Tre Ponti beach is the best free beach in Sanremo Italy. It’s a nice place to go for a swim.
How long to spend at Tre Ponti beach Sanremo Italy
Between half an hour and a couple of hours is a good amount of time to spend at this beach.
Opening hours for Tre Ponti beach Sanremo Italy
This free thing to do in Sanremo Italy is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend near Tre Ponti beach Sanremo Italy
Shop ‘til you drop! There are also a number of restaurants and cafes nearby.
Tre Ponti beach Sanremo Italy address
Str. Tre Ponti, 60, 18038 Sanremo IM, Italy
Plus Code: RRF5+5R Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Hillside gardens with beautiful views in Sanremo Italy: Giardini di Villa Ormond
About Giardini di Villa Ormond Sanremo Italy
Giardini di Villa Ormond (or the Garden of Villa Ormond in English) are lush gardens that stretch up the side of the hill near the waterfront in Sanremo. Villa Ormond is at the top of the hill with views out to the sea below. The “room” structure design of the gardens segments it into areas such as an olive grove, palm grove and cedar grove. There is also a Japanese style garden in honour of Sanremo’s twin city Atami.
Villa Ormond was the home of Swiss businessman Michel Louis Ormond. He and his wife commissioned the house and did extensive work on the gardens. Many famous people from European high society visited the house over the years. The Municipality of Sanremo now owns the garden and the garden is a public space. The villa is used for exhibitions and conferences and also holds the offices of the International Institute of Humanitarian Law.
Why visit Giardini di Villa Ormond Sanremo Italy
Giardini di Villa Ormond are beautiful gardens and the many different sections provide a lot of interesting areas to explore. The views from the villa at the top of the hill are spectacular.
How long to spend at Giardini di Villa Ormond Sanremo Italy
Half an hour to an hour is a good amount of time visit this Sanremo Italy free attraction.
Opening hours for Giardini di Villa Ormond Sanremo Italy
Daily: 7am-8pm
If you have money to spend in Giardini di Villa Ormond Sanremo Italy
Buy a picnic lunch and enjoy it in the gardens.
Giardini di Villa Ormond Sanremo Italy address
Corso Felice Cavallotti, 113, 18038 Sanremo IM, Italy
Plus Code: RQFR+24 Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Best walking area in Sanremo Italy: Corso Imperatrice
About Corso Imperatrice Sanremo Italy
Corso Imperatrice (also known as Corso dell’Imperatrice) is a wide promenade on the waterfront of San Remo. It is named after Empress of Russia Maria Alexandrovna, who spent time in Sanremo and also gifted the city money for palm trees to line this street. There used to be a railway below the Corso, but it was turned into a cycle path.
Why visit Corso Imperatrice Sanremo Italy
Corso Imperatrice is a lovely walkway that is popular with both tourists and locals alike. This free thing to do in Sanremo Italy is one of the most famous waterfront promenades in Europe. It is a wide walkway that is lined with palm trees. On one end it is a pedestrian street with lots of shops as well as restaurants. The promenade continues along the waterfront where there are also flower beds and a statue.
How long to spend at Corso Imperatrice Sanremo Italy
It’s possible to walk from one end of Corso Imperatrice to the other in ten minutes, however we recommend spending a couple of hours exploring the area and enjoying the atmosphere. There are plenty of shops to look at and it’s also a nice area to have a meal or a drink.
Opening hours for Corso Imperatrice Sanremo Italy
This free thing to do in Sanremo Italy is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend in Corso Imperatrice Sanremo Italy
There are plenty of restaurants and shops along Corso Imperatrice. Alternatively you can hire a bike and cycle around here.
Corso Imperatrice Sanremo Italy address
Corso Imperatrice, 18038 Sanremo IM, Italy
Plus Code: RQ7C+P9 Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Historic fort in Sanremo Italy: Forte Santa Tecla Sanremo Italy
About Forte Santa Tecla Sanremo Italy
Forte Santa Tecla (or Fort Saint Tecla in English) is an historic fort near the port of Sanremo. It was built in 1756 in response an uprising from the locals against the Genoese government. The intention was for the building to be used in the event of any future uprisings and also to act as a deterrent in order to keep the population under control. However by the end of the 1700s, Napoleonic forces took control of the fort after freeing Sanremo from Genoa’s control. In the subsequent years, the area became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia and the fort was used as an army barracks. Following unification it was mainly used as a prison with brief periods as a seaplane base and also an ammunition depot. The fort is currently closed due to renovations, but will become an event and exhibition space as well as a cultural centre.
The fort has a triangular layout with bastions at the corners. It is one of the few remaining forts from that era on the Ligurian coast.
Why visit Forte Santa Tecla Sanremo Italy
Forte Santa Tecla is one of the most prominent landmarks in Sanremo Italy. This historic fort is now a cultural centre and also an events and exhibition space. While there is an entry fee on most days, it has free entry on the 1st Sunday of the month.
How long to spend at Forte Santa Tecla Sanremo Italy
Allow 30-40 minutes to visit the fort.
Opening hours for Forte Santa Tecla Sanremo Italy
Fort Santa Tecla is currently closed for renovations.
Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Sunday: 10:30am-1pm, 3:30pm-6pm
If you have money to spend near Forte Santa Tecla Sanremo Italy
On days other than the 1st Sunday of the month the entry fee is 5 euro for adults (price as at 2024).
Forte Santa Tecla Sanremo Italy address
Giardini Vitt. Veneto, 34, 18038 Sanremo IM, Italy
Plus Code: RQ7H+V5 Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Public square in Sanremo Italy: Piazza Bresca Sanremo Italy
About Piazza Bresca Sanremo Italy
Piazza Bresca (or Bresca Square in English) is a charming public square a short walk from the port of Sanremo. The square is full of both palm trees and orange trees. There are a number of restaurants around the square, and in particular fish restaurants. It is also a popular nightlife spot in Sanremo. Piazza Bresca was named after Captain Benedetto Bresca, a sailor from a local Sanremo family.
Legend has it, Captain Bresca was in St Peter’s Square in Rome on the day the great Egyptian obelisk was to be raised. Ropes were used to lift the obelisk into place. This was a delicate task, and the Pope ordered complete silence while the task was carried out, on punishment of death. However Captain Bresca noticed that the ropes were beginning to fray and the obelisk was about to collapse. Using his sailing knowledge, he knew how to avert disaster. He called out “water on the ropes”, alerting the architect to what needed to be done. Thankfully his warning was heeded and the obelisk was safely put in place. To thank Bresca for his timely intervention, the Pope said he could name his own reward. Captain Bresca asked that he and his descendants be able to supply the palms for Palm Sunday to the Vatican each year.
Why visit Piazza Bresca Sanremo Italy
Piazza Bresca is a lively public square filled with great restaurants, bars and clubs. Its proximity to the port makes it a great place for a meal of fresh seafood and it’s known in particular for its fish restaurants. At night the square comes alive with vibrant nightlife and a young hip crowd. It’s a great place to come for an evening aperitif.
How long to spend at Piazza Bresca Sanremo Italy
You can walk through the square in less than five minutes. However this free thing to do in Sanremo Italy is a great place to come for a leisurely lunch, in which case we’d recommend allowing a couple of hours.
Opening hours for Piazza Bresca Sanremo Italy
This free thing to do in Sanremo Italy is open at all hours. It’s a nice place to come for lunch and it’s also a popular nightlife spot.
If you have money to spend at Piazza Bresca Sanremo Italy
Have some fresh seafood at one of the restaurants in the square. If you are here at night, it’s a great place to have an aperitif.
Piazza Bresca Sanremo Italy address
Piazza Bresca, 2, 18038 Sanremo IM, Italy
Plus Code: RQ8H+G5 Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Beautiful public garden in Sanremo Italy: Giardini Nobel
About Giardini Nobel
Giardini Nobel (or Nobel Gardens in English) is a beautiful public garden in Sanremo Italy. There is a fountain in the middle of the garden as well as lots of palm trees and benches to sit on. Next to the garden is Villa Nobel, which is the historic home of Swedish scientist Alfred Nobel. The house is now a museum that is free to enter between 10am-12:30pm Tuesday-Saturday and 3pm-6pm Friday-Saturday.
Why visit Giardini Nobel
Giardini Nobel is a nice place to come for a picnic or to enjoy some open space. It’s a very peaceful and relaxing place to visit in Sanremo Italy.
How long to spend at Giardini Nobel
15 minutes to an hour is a good amount of time to spend in this free attraction in Sanremo Italy.
Opening hours for Giardini Nobel
This free thing to do in Sanremo Italy is open at all hours. However we recommend going during the day.
If you have money to spend at Giardini Nobel
We recommend buying a picnic lunch and bringing it to the garden.
Giardini Nobel address
Via Alfredo Nobel, 18038 Sanremo IM, Italy
Plus Code: RQCQ+CQ Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Local market in Sanremo Italy: Mercato Bisettimanale di Sanremo
About Mercato Bisettimanale di Sanremo
Mercato Bisettimanale di Sanremo (or Biweekly Market of Sanremo in English) is a local market held twice a week on Tuesday and Saturday mornings in the centre of Sanremo. The market includes a covered food market with fresh produce such as fruit, vegetables and fish. Outside the food market there are stalls selling clothes, home ware and other items. Prices are very reasonable and it has a great community atmosphere. Stalls generally close by around 1pm.
Why visit Mercato Bisettimanale di Sanremo
Mercato Bisettimanale di Sanremo has a fun local atmosphere and a great range of items for sale. This open air market a great place to come and grab a bargain.
How long to spend at Mercato Bisettimanale di Sanremo
Half an hour to an hour is plenty of time to look around the market.
Opening hours for Mercato Bisettimanale di Sanremo
Tuesday and Sunday: 8am-1pm
If you have money to spend at Mercato Bisettimanale di Sanremo
Shop ‘til you drop! There’s a great range of items on sale and prices are very reasonable.
Mercato Bisettimanale di Sanremo address
Piazza Eroi Sanremesi, 18038 Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Plus Code: RQ8F+WH Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy
Train to Sanremo Italy
Trains are a cheap and efficient way to get to Sanremo Italy. Sanremo has one train station which It is located about 15 minutes walk from the main part of town.
We recommend using the app and website TrainLine to book intercity train tickets in Italy. This is the app we used. We found it very easy to use with great functionality. Another great feature is that you can see days ahead to see what times of the day were the cheapest rates.
Where to stay in Sanremo Italy
We recommend the following accommodation in San Remo Italy:
- Best 3 star hotel in San Remo Italy – we highly recommend staying at Pisolo Resort in Sanremo. We stayed here ourselves and had a very comfortable and enjoyable stay. The hotel is ideally positioned overlooking Piazza Colombo. It was great waking up to views of the local market from our bedroom window. Furthermore, the owner Michele was very friendly and helpful.
- Best 4 star hotel in San Remo Italy – Hotel de Paris Sanremo is a beautiful old style hotel in a prime location. The rooms are spacious and clean and the breakfasts are delicious.
- Best 5 star hotel in San Remo Italy – for a deluxe experience with old school charm we recommend the Royal Hotel Sanremo. This historic luxury hotel in San Remo has been around since 1872. It is perfectly positioned within an easy walk of restaurants, shops and the beach. Service is excellent and it has a beautiful pool area.
Sanremo Italy Blogs
For more information on Sanremo, check out our Sanremo Destination Guide.
Italy Blogs
You can find our Italy travel blogs below.
19 Best FREE Things To Do in Trieste Italy (with map)
14 Best FREE Things To Do in Venice Italy (with map)
15 Best FREE Things To Do in Verona Italy (with map)
17 Best FREE Things To Do in Milan Italy (with map)
15 Best FREE Things To Do in Genoa Italy (with map)
12 Best FREE Things To Do in Sanremo Italy (with map)
Trieste Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Venice Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Verona Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Milan Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Genoa Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Sanremo Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
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