Santuario Madonna della Costa Sanremo
A historic hilltop sanctuary in Sanremo offering breathtaking city and sea views, adorned with ornate frescoes and sculptures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Santuario Madonna della Costa Sanremo
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic hilltop sanctuary in Sanremo offering breathtaking city and sea views, adorned with ornate frescoes and sculptures.
"The view from here is stunning. A wonderful church on top of the city."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up to the sanctuary is scenic but can be steep. Enjoy the journey!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Sanremo and the sea are spectacular, especially during golden hour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City & Sea Views
From the sanctuary grounds
Breathtaking vistas of Sanremo and the sparkling Ligurian coast await. A must-see for photographers and view-seekers.
Ornate Frescoes and Sculptures
Inside the sanctuary
Marvel at the intricate details of the church's interior, featuring stunning frescoes and sculptures that inspire awe.
Historic Marian Shrine
Main altar area
Discover the spiritual heart of this 14th-century Marian shrine, a place of peace and quiet reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Getting to the Sanctuary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up to the sanctuary is scenic but can be steep. Enjoy the journey!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Sanremo and the sea are spectacular, especially during golden hour.
⏳ Allow 15-30 Minutes
You can explore the church and enjoy the views in a relatively short time.
🕊️ Embrace the Peace
This is a serene place for quiet contemplation and enjoying the spiritual ambiance.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up to the sanctuary is scenic but can be steep. Enjoy the journey!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Sanremo and the sea are spectacular, especially during golden hour.
⏳ Allow 15-30 Minutes
You can explore the church and enjoy the views in a relatively short time.
🕊️ Embrace the Peace
This is a serene place for quiet contemplation and enjoying the spiritual ambiance.
🆓 Free Entry
There's no admission fee, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Santuario Madonna della Costa for its breathtaking panoramic views of Sanremo and the sea, as well as its beautiful and well-maintained interior filled with ornate art. It's often described as a peaceful and spiritual place, easily accessible with free entry, making it a highly recommended stop.
"At the top of the Pigna, this fantastic sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin is particularly important to the inhabitants of San Remo who could spot it when they were at sea. Erected to celebrate the liberation from Doria rule in 1361, the building today presents a structure that was remodeled in the Baroque period. Inside, it's the opportunity to admire a painting of the Virgin and Child by Nicolo da Voltri (15th century), considered miraculous."
Enjoy life
"Located on hilltop (a steep walk up), the church has beautiful views, plaza, and an intricate, interior ornate interior."
Maya Hanna
"What a beautiful surprise!! This small church had amazing sculptures and paintings. If you are already at the top of the hill, it is certainly worth visiting."
Heidi Celeghin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is located on a hill above Sanremo. You can walk up through the charming 'carrugi' (narrow streets) of the old town, which offers beautiful views along the way. Comfortable shoes are a must! Some visitors also mention reaching it via Via Dante Alighieri.
Parking directly at the sanctuary is limited. It's generally recommended to park in the city center of Sanremo and enjoy the walk up.
While there isn't a direct bus to the sanctuary itself, local buses can take you to the center of Sanremo, from where you can begin your walk. Check local bus schedules for routes serving the upper parts of the city.
The walk involves an incline and stairs, so it can be moderately challenging for some. However, many find the scenic route and the eventual reward of the view well worth the effort.
Many visitors enjoy the walk through Sanremo's historic center, taking in the architecture and atmosphere. It's part of the charm of visiting this hilltop site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Santuario Madonna della Costa is generally free. It's a place of worship open to visitors.
The sanctuary is usually always open, allowing visitors to explore at their leisure. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific event closures.
The stunning panoramic views from the sanctuary grounds are free to enjoy.
While the sanctuary is open, it's respectful to be mindful of any ongoing religious services. Some areas might have restricted access during these times.
As it is a place of worship, it's advisable to dress respectfully. Avoid overly revealing clothing.
📸 📸 Photography
The most popular photo spots are the panoramic viewpoints overlooking Sanremo and the sea. The church's exterior architecture and interior details also make for beautiful shots. 
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the sanctuary, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially during services.
Drone footage of the sanctuary and its surroundings has been captured, showcasing its beauty from above.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for capturing both the cityscapes and the sanctuary itself.
While generally allowed, be mindful of any signs or requests from church officials regarding photography, especially in sensitive areas or during ceremonies.
🎫 🏛️ Architecture & History
The origins of the Santuario Madonna della Costa date back to around 1361, making it a historic Marian shrine.
The sanctuary features a blend of architectural elements, reflecting its long history. Its ornate frescoes and statues are particularly noteworthy.
It is a Marian shrine dedicated to Our Lady of the Coast, a significant religious figure in the region. The image of the Madonna with Child dates back to the same period as the church's origins.
Visitors consistently praise the 'amazing interior details,' 'breathtaking' beauty, and the 'unique' architecture and decor.
Reviews indicate that the interiors are 'very well maintained,' contributing to the overall positive visitor experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While the interior is a place of worship, the visual richness of the frescoes and statues might interest older children. It's also a good opportunity to teach them about history and art in a real-world setting. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone and perhaps a snack for the walk. The free entry makes it an accessible outing for families on a budget.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
+1 The panoramic vistas of Sanremo and the Ligurian coast offer a breathtaking backdrop for conversations and memorable photos. +1Enjoy a leisurely stroll up to the sanctuary, taking in the charming streets of Sanremo.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset are particularly recommended for their soft, dramatic lighting that enhances the scenery. Inside the sanctuary, the ornate frescoes and detailed sculptures offer a different kind of photographic challenge and reward.
+1 The historical architecture itself is also a significant draw. While photography is generally permitted, always be mindful of church etiquette and any specific restrictions that may be in place. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to the Sanctuary
While the walk can be steep and involves some stairs, it's generally considered manageable and rewarding. Comfortable footwear is essential for this part of the visit.
The effort is often described as well worth it for the stunning views that unfold as you climb higher. For those who prefer not to walk the entire way, local buses can take you closer to the upper parts of the city, from where the sanctuary is a shorter walk. However, many find that the pedestrian journey is an integral part of appreciating the sanctuary's unique location and the beauty of Sanremo.
A Haven of Peace and Art
+1 Visitors often describe the interior as 'breathtaking' and 'beautiful,' filled with 'amazing sculptures and paintings.' The church's interiors are noted for being 'very well maintained,' showcasing 'unique' architecture and decor.
+1Despite its relatively modest size, the sanctuary leaves a lasting impression. It's a place where history, art, and spirituality converge, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city below. The combination of its historical significance and its artistic richness makes it a standout attraction in Sanremo.
Capturing Sanremo's Charm
+1 Many visitors recommend timing their visit for the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset to capture the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. Beyond the sweeping landscapes, the sanctuary itself presents numerous photographic opportunities. The intricate details of the church's exterior architecture, its ornate frescoes, and its detailed sculptures are all worthy subjects.
+1 Visitors are generally permitted to take photos inside the church, though it's always advisable to be discreet and respectful, especially during religious services. +1For those interested in aerial perspectives, drone footage has showcased the sanctuary and its picturesque setting from above, highlighting its strategic hilltop location.
+1 While generally allowed, it's crucial to be aware of and adhere to any local regulations concerning drone usage. Overall, the combination of natural beauty and architectural splendor makes the Santuario Madonna della Costa a photographer's delight.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit