On a map of Sanremo in Russian, pay particular attention to the old town - here it is called La Pigna. The name can be translated from Italian as 'lump' or 'bunch of grapes' - in the XI century there were strong fortifications built to protect against the Saracens.
Today La Pigna on the map of Sanremo is a maze of narrow cobbled streets, arches and staircases that take you down to the seafront from the hill - it really does resemble the scales of a cone or bunch of grapes. However, unlike in mainland European cities, the best hotels on the map in Sanremo are not in the centre, but in the western part of the city and around the main avenue, Corso Matteotti.
San Remo can be divided into three areas where tourists can find better accommodation options:
- The central area of San Remo along the main avenue, Corso Matteotti (the main shopping artery with boutiques and restaurants).
- The adjacent neighborhoods of the Old Town, La Pigna (here you can find most of the main attractions of San Remo in a compact area).
- The western part of the city, known as the Center (within walking distance to the sea, where historic villas coexist with modern high-rise buildings).
For tourists who are unsure of which area in San Remo to stay in, we recommend choosing hotels on the waterfront or in close proximity to Corso Matteotti. There are no dangerous areas in San Remo, but during the peak season, it's advisable to remain vigilant in La Pigna, as pickpocketing activities may increase in that area.
