WHEN TO GO:
If you’re looking to visit San Marino on a budget, the best time to go is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). These seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices for accommodations and tourist attractions. You can soak in the stunning scenery and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the historic center without breaking the bank. What’s more, San Marino hosts a range of events and festivals during these times, such as the Medieval Festival in July and the Summer Jamboree in August, which won’t cost you an arm and a leg and give you a unique taste of the country’s culture. Just make sure to steer clear of the peak summer months (June-August) when prices shoot up and the crowds can be overwhelming. If your just in the area and stopping by i guess it doesn’t make a difference what time of the year it is.
BEST ITINERARIES:
1-Day Itinerary (without sleeping in San Marino)
- Take a bus or train from Rimini, Italy to San Marino ( approx. 1 hour, €5-10)
- Visit the Piazza del Liberty and the Palazzo Pubblico (free admission)
- Explore the Basilica di San Marino and the adjacent museum (free admission, donations accepted)
- Grab a slice of pizza or a sandwich at a local café (€5-10)
- Visit the Museo di Stato (€5) and enjoy the views of the city
- Walk along the city walls and enjoy the views (free admission)
- Return to Rimini by bus or train
3-Day Itinerary
- Day 1:
- Arrive in San Marino and check-in at a hostel (€20-30 per night)
- Visit the Piazza del Liberty and the Palazzo Pubblico (free admission)
- Explore the Basilica di San Marino and the adjacent museum (free admission, donations accepted)
- Day 2:
- Visit the Museo di Stato (€5) and enjoy the views of the city
- Walk along the city walls and enjoy the views (free admission)
- Visit the Mount Titano Nature Reserve (free admission)
- Day 3:
- Visit the medieval town of Borgo Maggiore (free admission)
- Take a hike in the surrounding hills (free admission)
- Return to Rimini by bus or train
1-Week Itinerary
- Day 1-2: Explore San Marino City and its attractions (as above)
- Day 3-4: Visit the medieval towns of Borgo Maggiore and Fiorentino (free admission)
- Day 5: Take a day trip to the Italian coast (Rimini or Riccione, €10-20 return by bus)
- Day 6: Hike in the Mount Titano Nature Reserve and enjoy the views (free admission)
- Day 7: Return to Rimini by bus or train, or continue on to other destinations in Italy
TRANSPORTATION:
Getting to San Marino
- By Bus: Azienda Autonoma di Stato di San Marino (AASS) operates bus services from Rimini, Italy to San Marino City (approx. 1 hour, €5-10). Tickets can be purchased at the bus station or on board.
- By Train: There is no train station in San Marino. The nearest train station is in Rimini, Italy, from where you can take a bus or taxi to San Marino.
Getting Around San Marino
- By Bus: AASS operates bus services within San Marino, connecting the capital city to other towns and villages (€1-2 per ticket). Tickets can be purchased at newsagents, tobacconists, or on board.
- By Funivia: The San Marino Funivia is a cable car that connects the capital city to the town of Borgo Maggiore (€2.50 per ticket, €4.50 return).
- On Foot: San Marino is a small country and many attractions are within walking distance. Wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the scenic views!
Tips and Tricks
- Buy a rechargeable bus card (€5) for discounted fares and convenience.
- Validate your ticket on board the bus or funivia.
- Check schedules in advance, as services may be limited on Sundays and public holidays.
- Consider purchasing a San Marino Tourist Card (€10-20) for free public transportation and discounts on attractions.
Useful Links
- Azienda Autonoma di Stato di San Marino (AASS): www.aass.sm
- San Marino Funivia: www.funivia.sm
- San Marino Tourist Card:
ACCOMMODATIONS:
As of what i know there is only one hostel in san Marino, called Hostel San Marino its a pretty decnt spot not to fancy but it does the job, there are plenty of paid campsites all over and just spots you can put down a tent and no-one will notice,.
FOOD:
As a broke backpacker, I was determined to explore San Marino without emptying my wallet. I had heard that this tiny country was a food lover’s paradise, and I was eager to experience the local flavors without breaking the bank.
First on my list was a cozy pizzeria, where I treated myself to a heavenly slice for just €5. The pizza was cooked to perfection, with a crispy crust and gooey mozzarella cheese. Every bite was a delight, and it felt like I had struck gold with this amazing deal.
Next, I made my way to a local supermarket, where I grabbed a sandwich, some fruit, and a block of cheese for a mere €2. I enjoyed my snack in a charming piazza, taking in the sights and sounds of the locals going about their day.
When dinnertime rolled around, I stumbled upon a quaint trattoria and decided to treat myself to a delicious pasta dish for €12. The portion size was generous, and the flavors were authentic and mouthwatering. I left the restaurant feeling satisfied but not overly stuffed.
The following day, I stumbled upon a street food stall that was serving piadine, a traditional San Marinese flatbread filled with meat, cheese, and veggies. For just €5, I enjoyed a tasty and filling snack that kept me energized throughout the day.
And of course, no trip to San Marino would be complete without indulging in some gelato. I treated myself to a scoop at a local gelateria, and let me tell you, the creamy texture and rich flavors took me to culinary heaven. And all this deliciousness only cost me €3!
TOP THINGS TO DO:
Historical Landmarks:
- Palazzo Pubblico (Public Palace)
- Basilica di San Marino (Basilica of San Marino)
- Torre della Rocca (Rocca Tower)
- Torre del Montale (Montale Tower)
- Palazzo Valloni (Valloni Palace)
- Palazzo del Governo (Government Palace)
- Castello di Faetano (Faetano Castle)
- Castello di Fiorentino (Fiorentino Castle)
Museums:
- Museo di Stato (State Museum)
- Museo delle Curiosità (Museum of Curiosities)
- Museo d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea (Modern and Contemporary Art Museum)
- Museo Numismatico (Numismatic Museum)
- Museo delle Arti e Tradizioni Popolari (Museum of Arts and Folk Traditions)
Nature and Outdoor Activities:
- Mount Titano Nature Reserve
- Parco Naturale del Montecchio (Montecchio Natural Park)
- San Marino Hills
- Valle del Marino (Marino Valley)
- Hiking and Trekking trails
- Paragliding and Skydiving
- Horseback Riding
- Cycling and Bike Rentals
Cultural Events:
- Medieval Day (July)
- Students dress up in costumes and re-live medieval San Marino
- Investiture of the New Captains Regent (April 1 and September 1)
- Installation of the Heads of State, outside Government Palace
- San Marino World Motorcycle Championship (June)
- Held at the Misano track in Italy
- Adriatic Music Festival (July)
- Welcoming musicians from across the globe, in San Marino City
- Medieval Days (July)
- Crossbow competition, medieval costume, and ancient events
- San Marino Ethnological Festival (mid-July)
- Ethnological culture from around the world, on Mt Titano
- San Marino Jazz Festival (July)
- World-famous jazz artists and bands, in Borgo Maggiore
- San Marino’s Day (September 3)
- Celebrating the founding of the San Marino Republic
- Marvels of Christmas (December 1 to January 6)
- Local food and handicrafts market\
And that’s a wrap! San Marino, the tiny but mighty country, has truly captured our hearts with its breathtaking views, rich history, and warm hospitality. As a budget-conscious traveler, you’ve discovered that San Marino is not only easily accessible but also surprisingly affordable, offering plenty of free nature activities, wallet-friendly accommodations, and delicious food options.
From hiking the picturesque trails of Mount Titano to wandering through the medieval streets of San Marino City, you’ve experienced the very best of this hidden gem without draining your bank account. Along the way, you’ve become a pro at navigating the country, finding the cheapest transportation options, and snagging the best deals on food and drinks.
As you bid farewell to San Marino and continue your backpacking adventure, remember the valuable lessons you’ve learned here: that even on a tight budget, you can still create unforgettable memories in one of the world’s most beautiful countries. Keep exploring, keep discovering, and keep living the backpacking dream!
