Sanremo is a great base for exploring the Riviera dei Fiori and the Ligurian hinterland. In under half an hour you can reach medieval villages, quiet beaches and countryside of olive groves and vineyards, and a little further on lies the French Riviera. Here are our top day trips, all easy to do by car or public transport.
Bussana Vecchia, the artists' village
A few minutes from Sanremo, Bussana Vecchia is a village abandoned after an earthquake and brought back to life by the artists who moved into its ruins. Today it's full of studios, galleries and atmospheric views: an unusual walk through art and history.
Dolceacqua and the hinterland
Dolceacqua charms visitors with its medieval bridge painted by Monet, the Doria castle and its stone alleys. It sits at the heart of the hinterland, home to Rossese wine and olive oil. Nearby hilltop villages such as Apricale and Pigna are also well worth a visit.
Bordighera, Menton and the French Riviera
Towards the French border, Bordighera offers a fine seafront, palm trees and a pretty old town. From here you're close to Menton, Monaco and Nice: in just over an hour you can be on the French Riviera. An easy way to combine Italy and France in the same holiday.