For visitors vacationing on the French Riviera who are interested in jaunting over into Italy for a few days, San Remo is the definitive choice. Located 50 km east of Nice and even closer to Monte Carlo, San Remo is an easily reachable city much closer then Genova and is rich in heritage and culture. While many visiting Italy decide on Venice, Florence, or Rome, San Remo, located south and west of Torino and Milan, has fewer tourists and in many ways offers a more authentic Italian experience.

A Day or Two in San Remo

Fly into Nice International Airport from either New York, London or Paris. While European cities offer services to Nice, London and Paris are the closest U.S. connectors.

Secure a hotel reservation in any of the cities along the Cote d’ Azur, but a visitor must note that prices can be quite expensive. It seems that the better known the city--Cannes, Nice, or Monte Carlo--the more expensive. Consider smaller towns or quaint bed-and breakfasts. Reverse the trend and make San Remo the travel hub, finding accommodations in San Remo and then seeing the Cote d’ Azure westward from there.

Travel to San Remo by train. Avoid the hassle of renting a car. Rail Europe offers several trains at reasonable intervals and affordable prices. Each train connects all the cities previously listed.

Exit the train at the rail station and be awestruck at the futuristic design of the terminal. Once in the city of San Remo, all is within walking distance. Note that public transportation abounds.

Make the trip toward the port, utilizing the following streets: Via Zefiro Massa which becomes Via Giovanni Marsaglia and then a right onto Corso Guiseppe Garibaldi and then a left onto Via Bartolomeo Ascquasciati which become the port street, Corso Nazario Sauro. Nazario Sauro encompasses the port area and makes for a leisurely and memorable stroll.

Choose to dine anyplace and experience cuisine that is simply amazing. While the thinnest, most mouth-watering pizza is available everywhere and must be tasted, please diversify and try other rich and satisfying fare. Don’t forget the dessert.

Visit the beach area where for a nominal fee, one can enjoy the soft white sand beneath bright colorful umbrellas. Tents are also available for rent for private changing. Gelato is served.