Of the nearly 200 independent countries on Earth, San Marino is the fifth smallest, but arguably the most curious. How exactly it exists is a mystery. As the sole survivor of Italy's once powerful network of city-states, this landlocked microstate remained long after the fall of the more powerful kingdoms of Genoa and Venice.
It still exists today, firmly established as the oldest surviving sovereign state in the world and its oldest republic (since 301 AD). San Marino is also one of the countries with the highest GDP per capita on the planet, although some say it still lacks competitiveness.
With an area of 61 square kilometers, the country is larger than many people think and consists of nine cities, each with its own settlements. The largest "town" is Dogana (on the bus route from Italy).
San Marino is a small, independent country completely surrounded by Italy. It is located in the mountains near the Adriatic Sea. Also known as San Marino, the capital is a labyrinth of hills, medieval streets dotted with cafes and small shops. From the guard tower and square, there are stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
It's easy to mistake San Marino for being part of Italy, but this small republic on the slopes of Monte Titano has a distinct character, with fairytale castles, culture, and plenty of wine.
San Marino is the third smallest country in Europe, after the Vatican and Monaco. It is also the oldest republic in the world, founded in 301 by a stonemason named Marinus. The ancient city of San Marino is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
San Marino is not part of the European Union, although they do use the euro as a currency.
When you travel there, don't call the people who live here Italians (they're called Sammarinese). They were proud to be independent from Italy.
Generally, it is rare to go to San Marino specifically for tourism, and you can stop by when you go to Italy. Here are some places to see and recommendations to experience. In general, a day is enough time to get to know the country.
National Museum (Museo di Stati)
San Marino is a living monument to the era in which the city-states prevailed in European history. The Museo di Stati is the best place to learn about the country's fascinating history. It houses archaeological remains, coins and ancient Etruscan and Roman artefacts from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages, as well as paintings and sculptures created by Guercino and others in the 17th century.
- Opening hours: June 20 to September 10 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., September 11 to June 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m
- Price: €4.50/3.50 per adult/concession
Eat ice cream at Altro Gelato
Altro Gelato is the first ice cream shop in San Marino to use ingredients from organic farms only in the region. Here, the young founders Samantha and Fabio created the unique Sammarinese gelato and semifreddo flavors, without additives.
Watch the Changing of the Guard at Liberty Square
Liberty Square was once the center of San Marino's political life. Here, you'll see Palazzo Pubblico – City Hall and Official Government House. The elaborately decorated façade is decorated with the coat of arms of the Republic. If you're visiting San Marino in summer, catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony before Piazza della Libertà – which takes place several times a day from June to mid-September.
- Time: 8.30am-12.30pm and 2.30-6.30pm Monday to Friday, 10.30am-5.30pm Saturday and Sunday summer
Climb the three towers
The first tower, Guaita, is the most iconic of San Marino's three impressive fortresses and is located on the peak of Monte Titano. Built in the 11th century, it looks like it fell out of a storybook about medieval knights and dragons.
This is the oldest and grandest of the three towers. Not only can you enjoy the view from the tower, but you can also walk along the city walls. Be prepared for many steps. There is a challenging steep staircase, more like a ladder to the top of the tower.
Cesta houses the Sammarinese Museum of Ancient Weapons, which houses a collection of traditional weapons and combat uniforms. The tower sits on the highest peak of Mount Tetano. You can climb the tower and visit the museum that displays weapons from the Middle Ages to modern times.
- Opening hours: June 20 to September 10 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., September 11 to June 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m
- Price: €4.50/3.50 per adult/concession
And the third tower, Montale, is an observation deck to move around. You can buy only the ticket for the first tower or a combined ticket that includes the second tower.
Climbing the tower is something worth doing in San Marino. Three towers and a certain length of fortress wall can be climbed and explored, with fantastic views, even on rainy days.
Three Towers of Guaita
Chesta
Monttale
Feast on seafood at Osteria La Taverna
Osteria La Taverna is the heart of one of San Marino's main squares, and you can expect incredible seafood (yes, there is even seafood here?). ）。 The terrace is the perfect place to watch the people come and go, or simply enjoy the view of the Tuscan hills with a glass of rich Sangiovese red wine. Try delicious seafood pasta or cod potato gnocchi.
Ride the San Marino cable car
Ride San Marino's cable car and glide over the rooftops of Borgo Maggiore for views that stretch to the Adriatic coast. The funicular runs from the lower stop in Borgo Maggiore to the upper stop in downtown San Marino, attracting tourists and commuter locals alike. Tip: Arrive at the car park early, otherwise you will most likely miss your parking space.
Public Palace
The neo-Gothic Palazzo Pubblico overlooks Liberty Square and is the official seat of government of San Marino. Visitors can watch a small video about San Marino's history, visit the ornate Congress Hall, and book a meeting with the president there. With a bit of luck, sometimes you'll come across an English-speaking fortress guard who will be happy to explain everything you see.
- Opening hours: June 20 to September 18 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., June 2 to 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and September 11 to December 31
- Price: €4.50/3.50 per adult/concession