Hello Fellow Local Guides!
Greetings from the “City of Flowers ”! My name is Kawsar MUNSI, and as a Local Guide living in the heart of Sanremo, Italy, I am thrilled to share one of the most exciting weeks of the year with you.
From February 24th to February 28th, 2026, our city transforms into the musical capital of the world as we host the 76th edition of the Sanremo Music Festival. This isn’t just a song contest; it is a cultural phenomenon that has been the soul of Italian music since 1951.
What Makes the 76th Edition Special?
This year, the festival is under the artistic direction of the legendary Carlo Conti, who is joined by the world-renowned singer Laura Pausini as a co-host. The atmosphere here is electric!
- The Venue: The iconic Teatro Ariston. If you visit Sanremo, this is “Ground Zero” for the festivities.
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The Contestants: 30 established “Big” artists and 4 “Nuove Proposte” (Newcomers) are competing for the trophy and the chance to represent Italy at Eurovision.
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Star-Studded Guests: The lineup for 2026 is incredible, featuring performances by Tiziano Ferro, Eros Ramazzotti, and an international appearance by Alicia Keys. The grand finale on the 28th will feature a special tribute by Andrea Bocelli.
Local Guide’s Insider Guide to Sanremo during Festival Week
If you are visiting Sanremo or planning a future trip during the festival, here are my top recommendations as a local:
Via Giacomo Matteotti – A Walk Through Musical History
Via Giacomo Matteotti is not just a shopping street; it feels like a living museum of Italian music. Since 1951, the names of the winners of the Festival di Sanremo and their winning songs have been installed along this street. As you walk, you can follow the timeline of history—each plaque representing a memorable chapter in Italian music.
On both sides of the street, you’ll find famous and luxury brand stores, cafés, and elegant boutiques. During the festival, the area becomes especially lively, filled with shoppers and tourists. In the evening, decorative lights and live broadcasts make the atmosphere even more vibrant and exciting.
Walk the “Green Carpet”: Instead of a traditional red carpet, the street in front of Teatro Ariston features a lush green carpet. It’s the best spot to catch a glimpse of celebrities, journalists, and influencers.
Piazza Colombo Stage: For those who can’t get a ticket to the Ariston, the “Suzuki Stage” in Piazza Colombo offers free live performances and a massive screen to watch the show with thousands of fans.
The Casino di Sanremo: This architectural masterpiece hosts various press events and after-parties. The illumination at night is a photographer’s dream!
Local Flavors: Escape the main crowd for a moment and head to Piazza Bresca. It’s the perfect place for a seafood dinner or an aperitivo while soaking in the festival vibes.
Tips for Capturing the Best Content:
- Golden Hour: Head to the Porto Vecchio (Old Port) just before sunset. The view of the yachts with the festival lights reflecting on the water is magical.
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Arrival of TouristsOn the occasion of the Festival di Sanremo, many tourists arrive aboard large cruise ships at Porto di Sanremo. Visitors arriving by sea step into the city and immediately immerse themselves in the vibrant festival atmosphere.
- Hidden Gem: Walk up to La Pigna, the medieval old town. From there, you can see the entire city lit up for the festival—it’s the best panoramic shot in town!
Security Measures
During the festival, strict security measures are implemented throughout Sanremo. Police officers, the Carabinieri, and volunteer teams remain on duty around the clock to ensure constant monitoring, allowing both local residents and tourists to enjoy the festival safely and peacefully.
Let’s Discuss!
Have you ever visited Italy during the Sanremo Festival? Does your country have a similar musical tradition that brings the whole nation together? I would love to see your photos or hear your stories in the comments below!
Happy Guiding,
Kawsar MUNSI
Local Guide from Sanremo, Italy 
