This charming destination is the world’s oldest republic and offers breathtaking views, well-preserved medieval architecture, and a rich culture. So, if you’re looking for a unique place full of history and charm, San Marino — a tiny country nestled in the mountains of Italy — could be your next stop! To help you enjoy an unforgettable trip through this hidden gem, we’ve prepared this guide with the best tips on what to do in San Marino in just one day.
All About San Marino
History of San Marino
Founded in 301 AD by a Christian stonemason named Marinus, San Marino was created as a refuge from the persecutions of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Over time, the small community grew and managed to preserve its independence through wars and revolutions that shaped Europe. Today, San Marino proudly stands as one of the smallest and oldest republics in the world, with a remarkable history of resilience and freedom.
Language in San Marino
The official language is Italian, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Do You Need a Visa to Enter San Marino?
Although San Marino is not part of the Schengen Agreement, it is surrounded by Italy, so no visa or passport control is required. However, always carry your passport for safety, and if you want a fun souvenir, you can get a symbolic stamp at the tourist center.
Currency
San Marino uses the euro (€).
Is San Marino Good for Shopping?
Yes! San Marino is known for its duty-free shops where you’ll find great deals on perfumes, electronics, sunglasses, and more. We bought sunglasses there, and it was totally worth it.
How Big Is San Marino?
The country is only 61 km², ranking among the world’s five smallest nations.
Population of San Marino
San Marino has approximately 34,000 inhabitants, according to recent estimates.
Where Is San Marino Located?
San Marino is a small enclave in Europe, completely surrounded by Italy. It’s located in the north-central part of the Italian Peninsula, just a short distance from the seaside city of Rimini on the Adriatic coast. Despite its small size, San Marino attracts curious travelers looking for something beyond the usual European hotspots. Distances from major cities:
Rimini: 31 min (18.2 km)
Milan: 3 h 57 min (342 km)
Rome: 4 h 38 min (335 km)
Venice: 3 h (277 km)
What to Visit in San Marino
La Rocca (Guaita Fortress)
The iconic Guaita Fortress, also called La Rocca, is San Marino’s postcard image. Located on the summit of Mount Titano, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Built in the 11th century, it once served as a prison. Walking along its walls feels like stepping back in time.
Piazza della Libertà
This charming square is the political heart of San Marino. Here you’ll find the Public Palace, seat of government, with its impressive Gothic architecture. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place several times a day and is a tourist favorite. And if you want to deeply explore the history, there are options for guided tours with a private guide at Tour San Marino.
Basilica di San Marino
The Basilica of San Marino is an important religious landmark and houses the remains of Saint Marinus, the country’s founder. Its neoclassical interior is both impressive and inspiring, offering a moment of peace and reflection.
Museo di Stato
For history lovers, the State Museum of San Marino is a must. It features a rich collection of artifacts that tell the country’s story from its foundation to modern times.
Best Time to Visit San Marino
The best time to visit San Marino is spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can get hot and busy with European vacationers, while winter brings a peaceful charm — perfect if you enjoy colder mountain weather.
How to Get to San Marino
By Plane
San Marino doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest one is Federico Fellini International Airport (RMI) in Rimini, Italy, just 16 km away.
By Car
If you’re already in Italy, driving to San Marino is easy and scenic. Roads are good, and there are plenty of parking options near the main attractions.
For rentals, we recommend DiscoverCars to compare prices and reviews across multiple companies.
Valuable tips for drivers Driving in Italy: Essential Tips for Car Rental, Tolls, Parking, and ZTL Zones and How to Rent a Car in Italy: Complete Guide for Travelers
By Train
Although San Marino has no train station, you can travel by train to Rimini and continue by bus or taxi into the country.
We recommend Omio to book train tickets in Europe, as it lets you compare companies, schedules, and prices in one place.
By Bus
From Rimini, there are regular buses to San Marino, making it an affordable and convenient option.
Where to Stay in San Marino
When planning your stay in San Marino, consider the best balance of comfort and location. Staying in the Historic Center is perfect if you want to soak up the medieval vibe. You’ll find charming hotels and guesthouses within walking distance of towers, museums, and viewpoints, with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
We recommend Booking.com for a wide variety of stays and trusted user reviews.
Where to Eat in San Marino
Here are some top-rated restaurants on TripAdvisor:
- La Terrazza Ristorante: Italian food with an incredible view!
- Ristorante Bolognese: Affordable Italian cuisine.
- Il Piccolo: Italian, pizza, seafood, Mediterranean. Very charming spot.
- Ritrovo dei Lavoratori: Excellent quality Italian food.
Our Final Thoughts
San Marino may be small, but it overflows with charm and history. Add this destination to your travel list and discover a lesser-known European treasure!
For more Italy travel tips, check out:
The 50 Most Famous Italian Wines
Venice Travel Guide: What to See, When to Go & How to Visit
Milan, Italy: What to Do in 1 Day
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