Reasons Why You Should Visit San Marino

The often-overlooked nation of San Marino is one of the world’s oldest republics, but beyond being known for its tiny size, the world has yet to fully discover its hidden treasures. The undeniable truth is that San Marino is also well worth visiting for its beautifully preserved historical architecture, sweeping panoramic views, fascinating museums and unique geography.

Gorgeous view of San Marino from The First Tower

Once you step foot into this fairy tale land, then you’ll truly get to experience the magic of San Marino.

Palazzo Pubblico, San Marino

Here are 7 Reasons Why You Should Visit San Marino.

1. You can visit on an easy day trip from Italy

This is the view of San Marino once you step out of the bus from Rimini

San Marino is literally nestled within Italy, making its geographical position extremely unique. It’s not a common occurrence where you can explore a whole new country thoroughly, and return back on a day trip – but that’s exactly what you can do in San Marino. The best part? Getting to San Marino and back to Italy is easy.

The simplest way is to first get to the city of Rimini, a popular beach resort escape for Italians in the summer. Rimini is well connected by Italian trains, and getting here is a simple train ride from nearby cities such as Bologna and Florence.

Once in Rimini, board the Bonelli Bus bound for San Marino – the bus stop is in front of Napoleon Hotel, not too far from Rimini Station. You can find official bus times and instructions on how to purchase your tickets here. Take note of the last bus that goes back to Rimini to ensure that you’ll be back in Italy before the end of the day.

Ralph in front of The First Tower in San Marino

We visited on a day trip from Bologna, spent about 6 hours in San Marino and loved every second spent in the small nation. There are no border checks between San Marino and Italy, making the whole process super easy and allowing you to maximise time on your day trip.

Of course, San Marino can be visited beyond just a day trip as it offers a plethora of other experiences, including wine tasting, visiting castles and food tours.

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2. It is the oldest sovereign state and constitutional republic

History is everywhere in Piazza della Liberta (Freedom Square)

The history of San Marino dates all the way back to the 4th century AD, and which makes this microstate one of the world’s oldest independent states. Interestingly, despite having such a long history, San Marino has never lost an invasion and has always maintained its sovereignty.

State Museum of San Marino

You can learn more about San Marino’s history at the State Museum of San Marino. Curious to see how the world’s oldest republic conducts its political affairs? The Palazzo Pubblico is open to the public for visitors, where you can learn more about the country’s political life and history. Make sure to also get a photo in front of the gorgeous building at the Piazza della Liberta (Freedom Square). This is one of the most iconic viewpoints in all of San Marino and you simply can’t miss it!

Learn more about San Marino’s political history at the Palazzo Pubblico

Basilica of San Marino

👉 Keen to gain a deeper insight about San Marino’s fascinating culture and history? Check out this 5-star rated comprehensive Private Tour of San Marino, visiting iconic sights such as The First Tower, Basilica of San Marino and Piazza della Liberta.

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3. It is home to some of the world’s most beautiful fortresses

Straight out of a fairytale – this is San Marino!

More than just a bunch of historical buildings, San Marino is also home to some of the world’s most beautiful fortresses I have ever seen. The Three Towers of San Marino, as they are known, are located on the three peaks of Monte Titano and represent San Marino’s defensive power, liberty and freedom.

The first two towers, Guaita Tower and Cesta Tower, can be visited and explored by visitors. The third tower, Montale Tower is a bit further away and can be visited from the outside.

A closer look at the Guaita Tower

Guaita Tower (First Tower) is the oldest of the three towers and was built during the 11th century. Up until 1965, it also functioned as a prison. This tower features the best views of San Marino, in my opinion – but make sure to climb all the way to the top to experience this – including going up the metal ladder that goes through a small opening in the ceiling.

The Cesta Tower is also majestically beautiful.

Beautiful tower structure of Cesta Tower

Cesta Tower (Second Tower) was built around the 13th century, but the current iteration you see was restored in the 20th century. Inside, you can also find the Museum of Ancient Arms – an exhibition of around 2,000 weapons from around the world.

Admiring the Montale Tower (Third Tower) from this spot inbetween the Second and Third Towers.

The Third Tower, Montale Tower, was built in the 14th century and is situated a little bit further away from the main attractions in San Marino. Still, it is a relatively easy walk from Cesta Tower, and one that I would absolutely recommend. Some of my favourite photography captures were from this location, in between the Second and Third towers.

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4. There is no such thing as a bad view in San Marino

San Marino is all about stunning, splendid views

Speaking of great photography locations, your camera is going to get a great workout when you visit San Marino. From the streets of the old town to the panoramic views found from the towers, to the views from Piazza della Liberta – there is no such thing as a bad view when you’re in San Marino.

Views by the entrance of The First Tower

View of The Third Tower

The views get even more dramatic during sunset time, so I would recommend sticking around in San Marino until the sun goes down for the most visually stunning experience you can get.

Piazza della Liberta during sunset time

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5. San Marino is for museum lovers

Inside the Saint Francis Museum

San Marino is a treasure trove of museums – you could easily spend a whole day just checking out the museums if you wanted to. The best museums are the State Museum, National Gallery, Stamp and Coin Museum and Saint Francis Museum. You can get free entry into these museums (and more) by purchasing the TuttoSanMarino Card. The Card also enables you reduced ticket entry into the First Tower and Second Tower, as well as private museums such as the Wax Museum, Museum of Curiosities, Museum of Torture and Exhibition of Vampire and Werewolves.

Exhibit from the State Museum

My favourite museum was the four-storey State Museum, where a large collection of artwork, relics and archaeological items kept me occupied for hours.

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7. Shop until you drop in San Marino

San Marino is full of shopping opportunities.

Finally, San Marino has become something of a shopping tax-free haven due to its tax-free status on goods within the republic. It’s here that avid shoppers stroll the streets of San Marino to purchase leather goods, souvenirs, clothing, perfumes and cosmetics, electronics and more.

Popular shopping locations include Azzurro Shopping Center, San Marino Outlet Experience, Brans Outlet San Marino and GOE Outlet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about San Marino

Do you have any other questions about San Marino?

Is San Marino Worth Visiting?

San Marino is definitely worth visiting. Although it is small in size, it is big in culture, history and beauty.

When Should I visit San Marino?

San Marino is a great all-round destination as it doesn’t usually get too busy, and remains visually stunning whether in the summer or in the winter.

Ralph at Piazza della Liberta

What other tips do you have for visiting San Marino?

If you’re planning to visit the First Tower, Second Tower, Public Palace and at least one or two museums, then I would recommend purchasing a TuttoSanMarino Card. This will save you money in the long run.

Collecting stamps on your passport? A San Marino stamp is pretty rare as there are no border crossings or mandatory customs checks. You can collect a San Marino passport stamp for 5 Euros at the San Marino tourism office.

Walking from The First Tower to The Second Tower

For more information about San Marino, check out the Republic of San Marino Tourism Board’s website.

Planning to visit San Marino and want to know more? Let me know in the comments below!

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NOTE: Thank you to Visit San Marino for helping me visit their unforgettable, magical country.