Sanremo Music Festival 2026: how to reach Sanremo from Monaco and the French Riviera
Every winter, Sanremo becomes the beating heart of Italian music. During the Sanremo Music Festival 2026, the Ligurian Riviera welcomes artists, media professionals and visitors from all over Europe, making Sanremo an ideal destination also for those staying in Monaco and along the French Riviera.
Thanks to its close proximity and excellent transport links, reaching Sanremo is easy and allows travellers to combine music, lifestyle and Mediterranean travel, without changing accommodation.
🚗 By car: a scenic drive along the Riviera
Travelling by car from Monaco or Monte-Carlo offers one of the most scenic coastal routes in Europe.
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Travel time: approx. 1h30 – 2h from Monaco
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Recommended route: A8/E80 motorway towards Italy, exit at Ventimiglia, then continue on the coastal road towards Sanremo
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From Nice: around 2 hours
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From Cannes: around 2h30
This option is ideal for travellers seeking flexibility and panoramic sea views, although traffic may increase during Festival evenings.
🚆 By train: easy, sustainable and stress-free
The train is one of the most popular ways to travel from the French Riviera to Sanremo.
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From Monaco / Monte-Carlo: regional trains to Ventimiglia, with a simple change to Italian trains towards Sanremo
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From Nice Ville or Cannes: same route via Ventimiglia
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Average journey time: 2 – 3 hours
🎟 Booking in advance is highly recommended during Festival week due to increased demand.
🚌 By bus: a budget-friendly option
Several bus operators connect Monaco and major French Riviera cities with the Italian Riviera.
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Direct routes or connections via Ventimiglia
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Journey time: approximately 3 – 4 hours
A good solution for budget-conscious travellers.
🚖 Private transfers and taxis: premium comfort
For a seamless and exclusive experience, visitors can choose:
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international taxi services
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private transfers
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tailor-made solutions for groups or evening events
An ideal way to reach the Teatro Ariston directly or return comfortably to Monaco after the shows.
🎶 Experiencing Sanremo while staying in Monaco and the French Riviera
Visiting Sanremo during the Festival means much more than attending televised shows. The city comes alive with:
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live concerts and side events
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artist meet-and-greets and media activities
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a vibrant atmosphere throughout the city centre and seafront
For guests staying in Monaco or along the French Riviera, Sanremo is a perfect day or evening trip, easily combined with a luxury Mediterranean stay.
✨ Music, travel and Mediterranean lifestyle
Thanks to the short distance between Monaco, the French Riviera and Sanremo, the Sanremo Music Festival 2026 offers a unique opportunity to blend music, travel and lifestyle. Whether by car, train or private transfer, the journey becomes part of the experience—set against breathtaking coastal scenery and the energy of one of Europe’s most iconic music events.
