La Pigna Old Town
Explore La Pigna, Sanremo's enchanting medieval old town, a maze of narrow alleys, historic architecture, and breathtaking coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical atmosphere
La Pigna Old Town
Best Time
Magical atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore La Pigna, Sanremo's enchanting medieval old town, a maze of narrow alleys, historic architecture, and breathtaking coastal views.
"Getting lost in the alleys of La Pigna means discovering the most authentic soul of San Remo."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The medieval streets are steep and uneven. Comfy footwear is a must for exploring La Pigna!
🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost
The charm of La Pigna is its labyrinthine alleys. Don't stress about navigation; enjoy the discovery!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Medieval Caruggi
Throughout La Pigna
Wander through a captivating maze of narrow, winding alleys and ancient stone passages. Get lost and discover hidden gems.
Madonna della Costa Sanctuary
Top of La Pigna
Climb to this beautiful sanctuary for breathtaking panoramic views of Sanremo and the Ligurian coast.
Artisan Workshops
Various locations
Discover unique crafts and art in studios set up in historic blacksmith and fisherman spaces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Labyrinth
Best Time for Authentic Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The medieval streets are steep and uneven. Comfy footwear is a must for exploring La Pigna!
🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost
The charm of La Pigna is its labyrinthine alleys. Don't stress about navigation; enjoy the discovery!
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
Every corner offers a picturesque scene. Bring your camera to capture the unique architecture and charm.
🌙 Evening Stroll
La Pigna comes alive in the evening with shops and bars. It's a perfect time for a romantic walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The medieval streets are steep and uneven. Comfy footwear is a must for exploring La Pigna!
🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost
The charm of La Pigna is its labyrinthine alleys. Don't stress about navigation; enjoy the discovery!
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
Every corner offers a picturesque scene. Bring your camera to capture the unique architecture and charm.
🌙 Evening Stroll
La Pigna comes alive in the evening with shops and bars. It's a perfect time for a romantic walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about La Pigna's authentic medieval charm and labyrinthine alleys, calling it a magical step back in time. The panoramic views from the Madonna della Costa Sanctuary are a highlight, as is the vibrant evening atmosphere. Some note that navigating the steep streets can be challenging, especially for those with mobility issues or when carrying heavy luggage.
"There's a part of Sanremo called "La Pigna." It's the historic center, with its hilltop houses overlooking picturesque squares. I had the opportunity to live there, in an apartment in the La Pigna neighborhood. The aromas of fusion cuisine, prepared by residents of various ethnicities, permeate the air. You'll also find artists who have decided to open their workshops in rustic spaces where blacksmiths and fishermen once lived. Everything seems magical, among the narrow streets they call "caruggi." Living there, even for a few days, is a unique experience."
Riccardo Rabbolini
"It's beautiful to walk through, especially in the summer heat, as it's a cool and rewarding place. It's an interesting route through the heart of La Pigna, the historic district of the City of Flowers and the Festival 🎉🌺
It reaches the Piazzetta Oratorio dei Dolori with the Oratory of San Sebastiano, built by vow of the citizens after the liberation from the plague in 1502. At the center of the square is the characteristic fountain of the Fonderia Sociale Torino."
Roberto Moretto
"Wandering through the picturesque alleyways and colorful shops that enliven the village is a pleasure in any season, especially in summer. You can easily reach the Church of San Giuseppe, or, with a little patience, the Oratory of San Costanzo and the Church of the Madonna della Costa. No less fascinating is Borgo Tinasso and the mosaic discovered by chance, with its card players that seem to tell forgotten stories.
There's no shortage of surprises along the way: that's the beauty of strolling slowly. Just open your eyes and ears to what's around you and follow that subtle inner feeling, which rarely deceives."
Giusy Grasso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Pigna is the historic old town of Sanremo, located uphill from the main city. You can easily walk to its entrance from the city center, often starting near Piazzale Pian di Nave. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk, but be prepared for inclines as you ascend into the old town.
Parking in Sanremo can be challenging. There are paid parking garages and street parking available in the lower parts of the city, but it's often recommended to park further down and walk up to La Pigna to avoid congestion.
Generally, the narrow medieval streets of La Pigna are not accessible by car for tourists. It's best to park your vehicle in designated areas and explore the old town on foot.
The best way to explore La Pigna is by foot. Wear comfortable shoes as the area is characterized by steep, narrow alleys and staircases. 
Due to its medieval layout with many steep stairs and narrow passages, La Pigna can be challenging for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to check specific accessibility options if this is a concern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, La Pigna is an open historic district, and there is no admission fee to wander through its streets and alleys. You can explore freely at any time.
La Pigna is always accessible as it's a residential area and historic town. However, individual shops, restaurants, and attractions within La Pigna will have their own operating hours.
Yes, guided tours are often available that can provide historical context and help you navigate the maze-like streets. Check with local tourist information centers for options.
The Madonna della Costa Sanctuary is generally free to enter, though donations are appreciated. The views from its location are a significant draw for visitors.
Yes, many artisan workshops are open to visitors. Their opening hours can vary, so it's best to check locally or look for signs indicating they are open.
📸 📸 Photography
Every narrow alley, archway, and hidden piazza offers a photographic opportunity. The climb to the Madonna della Costa Sanctuary provides stunning panoramic shots of the town and coast.
The narrowness of the streets can make it challenging to get wide shots, but it also creates unique perspectives. Be mindful of residents and other visitors when composing your photos.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for photography. Evenings can also be atmospheric with lights illuminating the alleys.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and historic sites due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is useful for capturing both the narrow alleys and wider views. A wide-angle lens can also be great for the confined spaces.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, La Pigna offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Ligurian trattorias to places with international influences. Many are tucked away in charming spots.
You can find authentic Ligurian cuisine, including fresh seafood and pesto dishes. Some residents also prepare fusion cuisine, adding an international flair.
Absolutely! La Pigna has charming cafes and bars, especially lively in the evenings, perfect for a coffee break or an aperitivo.
Prices can vary, but you can find both budget-friendly options and more upscale dining experiences. Exploring the smaller, less obvious spots might offer better value.
Look for local specialties like focaccia, fresh pasta with pesto, and seafood dishes. The area is known for its authentic Italian flavors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for small, open squares where children can briefly stretch their legs. The novelty of a medieval maze can be captivating for younger visitors, making it a memorable part of your Sanremo trip. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid crowds and the midday heat, ensuring a more comfortable experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
+1Engage with local shopkeepers and artists, and don't hesitate to try local eateries. The evening atmosphere, with its lively bars and restaurants, offers opportunities to mingle or simply enjoy a solo meal. The climb to the sanctuary provides a moment of reflection with stunning vistas.
couples
Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the many quaint restaurants, savoring local Ligurian cuisine. The evening ambiance, with soft lighting and the buzz of local life, makes for a perfect romantic stroll after dark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Labyrinth of La Pigna
Exploring La Pigna is an immersive experience. As you ascend, the modern city fades away, replaced by ancient stone buildings, flower-draped balconies, and glimpses of the sea between the tightly packed structures. It's a place where time seems to slow down, inviting you to wander without a specific destination. Many visitors describe the feeling of getting delightfully lost, discovering charming squares, small artisan shops, and local eateries tucked away in unexpected corners.
+1Key landmarks within La Pigna include the Madonna della Costa Sanctuary, perched at the highest point, offering spectacular panoramic views of Sanremo and the coastline – a rewarding climb for any visitor. You'll also find historic oratories and churches, such as the Oratory of San Sebastiano, and remnants of ancient fortifications. The area is also home to artists who have opened workshops in spaces once occupied by blacksmiths and fishermen, adding a vibrant, creative energy to the historic setting.
Experiencing La Pigna: Tips from Travelers
+1 Many visitors recommend embracing the maze-like nature of the old town; getting lost is part of the charm and often leads to the most delightful discoveries. Don't be afraid to wander off the main paths and explore the smaller 'caruggi'. For photography enthusiasts, La Pigna offers endless picturesque scenes. The narrow alleys, ancient architecture, and vibrant flower displays create a unique atmosphere. The best light for capturing these scenes is often during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, or in the early evening when the town lights begin to twinkle.
When it comes to dining, La Pigna boasts a range of options, from traditional Ligurian trattorias serving local specialties to places offering a more international fusion. The aromas of diverse cuisines fill the air, adding to the sensory experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit