A Travel Price Comparison for Italy San Remo vs. Genoa for Food, Beaches, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit San Remo or Genoa?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit San Remo or Genoa? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

San Remo

San Remo is a scenic, authentic, and historic coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a vibrant, colorful, and energetic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

San Remo and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in San Remo or Genoa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Genoa than San Remo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Genoa is very popular for its museums, while San Remo attracts visitors for its beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Genoa is more touristy than San Remo and is known for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. It is also well known for The Via Garibaldi Palaces. San Remo is famous for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is San Remo different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Genoa and San Remo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Remo or Genoa?

San Remo
Genoa

Genoa is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

Genoa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in San Remo or Genoa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Remo
Genoa

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both San Remo and Genoa.

San Remo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Genoa makes for a great culinary experience. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is San Remo or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

San Remo
Genoa

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in San Remo and Genoa.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in San Remo. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Genoa has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is San Remo or Genoa Better for Beaches?

San Remo
Genoa

San Remo is great for the beach. However, Genoa is not a good destination for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Remo. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.


Is San Remo or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

San Remo
Genoa

San Remo is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Many visitors go to San Remo to see the historical old town. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is the Shopping Better in San Remo or Genoa?

San Remo
Genoa

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both San Remo and Genoa.

San Remo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is San Remo or Genoa Better for Families?

San Remo
Genoa

Kids will enjoy a visit to either San Remo or Genoa.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in San Remo. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

Genoa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.


Is San Remo or Genoa Better for Couples?

San Remo
Genoa

With fun activities for couples, both San Remo and Genoa make for a very good place to visit.

San Remo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

Couples visit Genoa frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Is San Remo or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Remo
Genoa

Genoa is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

Is San Remo or Genoa Better for Students?

San Remo
Genoa

Genoa is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, San Remo is not popular with students.

Genoa is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

San Remo is not popular with students.


Is San Remo or Genoa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Remo
Genoa

Genoa is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Genoa offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

You'll find some public transit in San Remo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses around town.

Is San Remo or Genoa a more walkable city?

San Remo
Genoa

San Remo and Genoa are very good when it comes to walkability.

San Remo is a very walkable destination. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is San Remo Worth Visiting? and Is Genoa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Genoa or San Remo?

How long in San Remo or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either San Remo or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Genoa due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for San Remo, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

Families should spend more time in San Remo than Genoa. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Remo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Genoa than San Remo if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Genoa.


  • How many days in San Remo or Genoa? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Remo 1-2 
    Genoa 2-4

One day in San Remo or Genoa?

In San Remo, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this scenic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

The port city of Genoa offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in San Remo or Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Remo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Genoa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Genoa, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in San Remo or Genoa?

San Remo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Remo. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Genoa is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in San Remo or Genoa?

You'll find nightlife and food around the historic destination of San Remo. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Genoa is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Genoa or San Remo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in San Remo is €152, while the average daily cost in Genoa is €150. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for San Remo and Genoa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Remo 80
    Genoa 88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Remo 160
    Genoa 176
Compare Hotels in San Remo and Genoa

Looking for a hotel in San Remo or Genoa? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in San Remo


Hotels in Genoa


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: San Remo Hotel Prices and Genoa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Remo 46
    Genoa 8.69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Genoa

Also for Genoa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $119
  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $60
  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $60
  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa Airport Private Departure Transfer: $60
  • Private transfer from Genoa to Portofino with Hotel or Cruise Port pick-up: $121
  • Private Transfer: Genoa Cruise Port to Genoa City in Minivan: $66
  • Private Transfer: Genoa Cruise Port to Genoa City in Business Car: $66
  • Private Transfer: GOA Airport to Genoa city, Savona or Portofino by business car: $44
  • Private Transfer from/to Genoa to/from Portofino: $125
  • Private Transfer from/to Genoa Airport: $72
  • Private Transfer from Santa Margherita Port to Genoa Airport GOA: $44
  • Private Transfer from Santa Margherita Cruise Port to Genoa city: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into San Remo or Genoa?

Prices for flights to both Genoa and San Remo change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    San Remo 44
    Genoa 51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Genoa

For Genoa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Genoese cooking lesson in the garden with lunch: $68
  • Genoa Old town Food Tour: $75
  • Street Food Tour: $86
  • Do Eat Better Experience - Food Tours in Genoa: $87
  • Traditional Food Tour: $92
  • Traditional Home Cooking Class in Genoa: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Chiavari with Show Cooking: $94
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Camogli: $94
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Santa Margherita Ligure with Show Cooking: $94
  • Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at Local's Home in Genoa: $96
  • Small-group Street food tour in Genoa: $98
  • Small-group Street food tour in Camogli: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Remo 23
    Genoa 20

Tours and Activities in Genoa

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Genoa.

  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour from Via Del Campo 29 Rosso: $83
  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Genoa: $105
  • Aquarium of Genoa + Panera Ice Cream Taste experience: $30
  • Aquarium of Genoa Ticket and Whale Watching Cruise: $69
  • Aquarium of Entry Ticket and Aperitif: $31
  • Cesarine: Market Tour & Dining at a Local's Home in Genoa: $154
  • Cesarine: Small Group Market tour and Dining Experience in Genoa: $120
  • City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $25
  • Discover Genoa, old town walking tour: $133
  • E-Bike, Scooter and Scooter Tour: $39
  • E-bike tour in Genova: $83
  • Finance and Nobility: Explore medieval Genoa on a self-guided audio tour: $8.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Remo 14
    Genoa 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Genoa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Genoa:

  • 3 Hour Pesto Making and Wine Tasting Activity in Campetto Genoa: $92


When comparing the travel costs between San Remo and Genoa, we can see that San Remo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is San Remo Expensive? and Is Genoa Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Remo or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of San Remo and Genoa, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit San Remo or Genoa?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit San Remo or Genoa in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Remo and Genoa. Many travelers come to San Remo for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Genoa in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

San Remo is around the same temperature as Genoa in the summer. The daily temperature in San Remo averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Genoa fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Genoa this time of the year. In San Remo, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Remo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa during summer. San Remo gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Remo usually receives more rain than Genoa. San Remo gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    San Remo 23°C (73°F) 
    Genoa 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Genoa in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Remo as well as Genoa. Many visitors come to San Remo in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Genoa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, San Remo is cooler than Genoa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Remo in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Genoa averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, San Remo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa. San Remo gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun.

San Remo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. San Remo usually gets more rain in October than Genoa. San Remo gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    San Remo 17°C (63°F) 
    Genoa 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Genoa in the Winter?

Both Genoa and San Remo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to San Remo for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Genoa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, San Remo is generally cooler than Genoa. Daily temperatures in San Remo average around 9°C (48°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

San Remo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa during winter. San Remo gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, San Remo usually receives more rain than Genoa. San Remo gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    San Remo 9°C (48°F) 
    Genoa 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Genoa in the Spring?

Both Genoa and San Remo during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to San Remo because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Genoa this time of year.

San Remo is cooler than Genoa in the spring. The daily temperature in San Remo averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Genoa fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the spring, San Remo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa. San Remo gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun.

San Remo usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Genoa. San Remo gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    San Remo 13°C (56°F) 
    Genoa 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Genoa and San Remo

San Remo Genoa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)