Overview

Welcome to the tiny nation of San Marino, the fifth-smallest country in the world! San Marino is an Italian-speaking enclave in Italy, like Vatican City, but has always been an independent state. It has a spectacular location, nestled in the mountains near the Adriatic Sea. The capital is also called San Marino, but there are other towns within the country, all clustered around the mountain on which the capital city sits. The city of San Marino is a maze of hilly, medieval streets, dotted with cafes and small shops. From the guard towers and the piazzas, the views over the surrounding countryside are gorgeous.

San Marino’s capital is primarily a day-trip destination for visitors from nearby Italy and a luxury shopping hub for Italians. By sunset, the city is mostly left to the locals. While it’s possible to explore San Marino in a single day, we highly recommend staying at least one night. The tranquil atmosphere of an ancient, mountaintop citadel after dark is truly unforgettable. Most of the city’s main attractions are concentrated in the historic old town and easily accessible on foot. Even the iconic Three Towers are just a short 10-15 minute walk from one another.

Things To See & Do

Wander through Piazza Della Liberta, the most popular public square. From here, enjoy the view over the countryside, watch the changing of the guard, and explore the Palazzo Pubblico, San Marino`s town hall and its most iconic building. There is a staircase located inside the building that leads to the Council Hall on the top tower.

Stroll through the charming streets of San Marino, a compact city that can be explored on foot in just a few hours. Immaculately clean and undeniably picturesque, its winding lanes are lined with small shops, including perfume boutiques, sunglasses stores, and even shops selling an array of weaponry. Keep in mind that nearly every street is part of a steep hill, so be prepared for a bit of a climb as you take in the city's unique atmosphere.

Climb the towers of San Marino. There are three fortresses - Guaita, Cesta, and Montale, that crown the long ridge of Mount Titano. Each fortress features a tower from which there are splendid views of the Apennines, the coastal plain, Rimini, and the sea as far as the Dalmatian coast. The fortresses are linked by a paved path, the lower part of which is lined with kiosks selling snacks, drinks and souvenirs. You may want to pack some piadinas (local flat-bread sandwiches), for a picnic on your journey. Many of the paths offer excellent stopping points with benches providing a tranquil place to stop and enjoy the view on your journey.

Guaita is the oldest and the grandest of the three towers, dating from 1253. Not only can you take in the view from the tower, but you can also walk along the ramparts. Be prepared for lots of steps. There is one challenging, steep staircase that is more like a ladder to get to the top of the tower.

Head to the highest peak of Monte Titano (2,425 ft above sea level) and the fortress Cesta (or Fratta). This tower was built in the first half of the 13th century and renovated multiple times before being restored to its original look in 1925. The fortress was erected on the ruins of a former Roman fort. The second circle of defence walls dates back to the 15th century. Cesta is home to the Museum of Historical Weapons, where armors, swords and arquebuses from medieval times to the 19th century are on display.

Montale is the third tower and dates back to the end of the 13th century. This is the smallest of the towers; however for defensive purposes, this tower played a strategic role as it has the best position for a look-out post. Inside there is a prison called ‘the bottom of the tower’. Montale is surrounded by very large and ancient rocks arranged to form a primitive wall structure.

Explore Cava dei Balestrieri, the Crossbowmen`s Quarry. This quarry was artistically carved out of the rock and today, mostly hosts performances of the feration of crossbowmen and the site of the medieval festival that takes place every July. If you get lucky with your timing, you may be able to watch as the crossbow shooters put on a show.

Visit the several small and unique museums in San Marino. These include the Torture Museum, the Museum of Curiosity, Museo de Stato (State Museum), and the World of Leonardo to name a few.

Discover the number of small villages set on peaks and spurs throughout the Republic of San Marino. Most offer excellent views of the countryside and of Mount Titano, and several have interesting histories.

Cuisine

The history of a place is often reflected in its cuisine, making food a delicious way to explore the culture of the Republic of San Marino.

San Marino’s culinary traditions have been shaped over time by its Italian neighbors, particularly the regions of Romagna and Marche. As society evolved and rural life declined, traditional dishes adapted to modern tastes while still preserving their authentic roots.

San Marino’s rich culinary heritage is best experienced through its must-try traditional dishes.

One of the most iconic is piadina, a staple of the region’s earliest food traditions. Similar to the Rimini version but slightly thicker, this flatbread is a beloved specialty. The Terra di San Marino Consortium oversees the production of various local products, ensuring authenticity and quality. While piadina can be filled with nearly anything, the classic combination of stracchino cheese, arugula, and prosciutto crudo remains a favorite.

Another staple, especially in winter, is San Marino polenta. Typically served with rich toppings, it is most commonly enjoyed with sausage gravy and grated pecorino cheese or in a heartier version with a sauce made from birdseed, lard, and sage. What makes this dish unique is its traditional presentation—served directly on a wooden cutting board, giving it the name "polenta sul tagliere."

For those with a sweet tooth, Torta Titano is a must-try dessert. Named after San Marino’s Three Towers, this treat consists of five layers of square wafers filled with cocoa cream, coffee, and hazelnuts, all coated in dark chocolate. It has been crafted since 1942 by La Serenissima of Domagnano, a renowned San Marino company. Another locally inspired dessert, Verretta, takes its name from the arrows used by the Republic’s crossbowmen. This sweet delight features hazelnuts, pralines, and chocolate-covered wafer pieces, making it a delicious nod to San Marino’s traditions.