Explore the Rich History and Culture of San Marino
Hidden away in the Apennine Mountains and surrounded by Italy, San Marino is the smallest state in Europe. Also the oldest republic in the world, its origins date back to AD 301 when founded by a Christian stonemason fleeing religious persecution.
Perched on the slopes of Monte Titano, the City of San Marino is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through its alleyways and narrow streets will reward visitors with some unique discoveries and old-world architecture.
Travellers can explore the medieval city’s interesting past and culture in the historic centre, or visit the Three Towers of San Marino, situated on the three peaks of Monte Titano with views of the lush countryside.
Other attractions include the Gothic Palazzo Pubblico and colourful fortress guards at Piazza della Liberta. Sacred art adorns the St Francis Museum while compelling stories wait at the Museum of Emigration. The Basilica di San Marino is awe-inspiring while nearby villages such as Serravalle and Valdragone make pleasant day trips.
San Marino boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm, sunny summers, providing the perfect environment to explore this truly magical country. San Marino is safe with very little crime, but visitors should be aware of petty theft and pickpockets.
Although there are no major health risks associated with travelling to San Marino, visitors should have comprehensive medical insurance. San Marino has no airport of its own, but travellers can fly into Rimini, just 12 miles (20km) away.
Sample some of the country’s Limoncello and fine wine, or relax with a cup of coffee and a slice of La Torta Di Tre Monti(Cake of the Three Mountains) and watch the world go by in this beautiful, verdant mountain country.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The official language of San Marino is Italian.
- Passport/Visa:
Visa requirements for San Marino are the same as those that apply for Italy. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
San Marino is not a member of the European Union, but the local currency is the euro.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Plugs in use include the Italian three-pin and the European-style two-pin.
Health Notes when travelling to San Marino
There are no specific health risks when travelling to San Marino, though all eligible travellers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. An influenza vaccine is recommended for those travelling to San Marino between November and April.
Medical facilities in San Marino are good. However, travel insurance is still recommended for none EU-citizens as medical attention can be expensive. Serious conditions will result in a transfer to more comprehensive facilities in Rimini.
Safety Notes when travelling to San Marino
The City of San Marino is considered a very safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should keep a close eye on their valuables, as pickpockets are common in crowded areas.
Customs in San Marino
Many local customs and standards of etiquette in San Marino are similar to Italy, especially in the surrounding Italian area called Romagna.
Duty Free in San Marino
Travellers from EU countries are limited to 110 litres of beer, 90 litres of wine (of which 60 litres may be sparkling), 20 litres of fortified wine, 10 litres of spirits, and 800 cigarettes, 200 cigars, or 1kg of tobacco. Non-EU travellers are limited to 16 litres of beer, 4 litres of wine, 2 litres of fortified wine, 1 litre of spirits, and 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco. Prohibited items include narcotic drugs, medicinal products, arms and weapons, explosives and protected animal and plant species.
Doing Business in San Marino
Foreigners should wear suits when doing business in San Marino and prior appointments are essential. A knowledge of Italian is useful.
Communication in San Marino
The international access code for San Marino is +378. Visitors can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones; free WiFi is available in hotels and restaurants.
Tipping in San Marino
Tipping is part of the culture in San Marino and visitors should leave 10 percent of the bill in restaurants, taxis and hotels.
Passport/Visa Note
Visa requirements for San Marino are the same as those that apply for Italy. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
A passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay is required for US travellers. San Marino does not issue entrance visas. If visitors plan to stay more than 10 days, they must report to the Gendarmerie of San Marino to obtain a permit.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
A passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay is required for Canadian travellers. San Marino does not issue entrance visas. If visitors plan to stay more than 10 days, they must report to the Gendarmerie of San Marino to obtain a permit.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
A passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay is required for UK travellers. San Marino does not issue entrance visas. If visitors plan to stay more than 10 days, they must report to the Gendarmerie of San Marino to obtain a permit.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
A passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay is required for Australian travellers. San Marino does not issue entrance visas. If visitors plan to stay more than 10 days, they must report to the Gendarmerie of San Marino to obtain a permit.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
A passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay is required for Irish travellers. San Marino does not issue entrance visas. If visitors plan to stay more than 10 days, they must report to the Gendarmerie of San Marino to obtain a permit.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
A passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay is required for New Zealand travellers. San Marino does not issue entrance visas. If visitors plan to stay more than 10 days, they must report to the Gendarmerie of San Marino to obtain a permit.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
A passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay is required for South African visitors. A visa is required.
Tourist Offices
Tourism Office of San Marino, City of San Marino, San Marino: +378 0549 882914.
San Marino Embassies
- In the United States:
San Marino Embassy, Washington D.C. United States: (202) 223 2418
- In Canada:
San Marino Embassy, Washington D.C. United States (responsible for Canada): (202) 223 2418
- In the United Kingdom:
San Marino Honorary Consulate General, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7259 9754
- In South Africa:
San Marinese Honorary Consulate, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 460 5826.
Foreign Embassies in San Marino
- American Embassy
U.S Embassy, Rome, Italy (also responsible for San Marino): +39 06 467 41.
- Canadian Embassy
Embassy of Canada, Rome, Italy (also responsible for San Marino): +39 06 85444 1.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Rome, Italy (also responsible for San Marino): +39 06 4220 0001.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Rome, Italy (also responsible for San Marino): +39 06 852 721.
- Irish Embassy
Embassy of Ireland, Rome, Italy (also responsible for San Marino): +39 06 585 2381.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Rome, Italy (also responsible for San Marino): +39 06 85 2541.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
