- 2809 San Marino
- Information
- Traveler Advice
- Forums
48HourVisit.com
Planning a short visit? Check out 48HourVisit.com, your online guide for short stays and weekend getaways. Ad
San Marino Travel Guide
Small-sized states treat one to such a compact experience that the taste tingles for years. After the Vatican and Monaco, San Marino is the smallest country in the whole of Europe. It is landlocked in northern Italy among the Apennine Mountains, near the Adriatic coast. Its location awards it with a Mediterranean climate of mild proportions. Italy influences it every aspect, from food to politics.
The history of San Marino is very rich as it dates back to the 3rd Century AD. Its freedom from the Roman Empire at the hands of a Christian stonemason Marinus and complete autonomy since then, makes it the world's oldest republic. Its status was respected by Garibaldi and Napoleon who didn't annex it into their states. As its foreign policy is aligned with Italy, it took part in the World Wars.
The popularity of this petite country can be gauged from the fact that its population of 25000 is outnumbered by visitors, 125 to 1. The hordes usually descend at the fortresses of the capital San Marino that are perched at an elevation of 2000 mts on the cliffs of Monte Titano. The three towers within this walled city give a panoramic view of the countryside, the nearby Italian sea-side resort town of Rimini and the Adriatic Sea. One can reach there by the aerial tramway, which is a great opportunity in itself for viewing the dreamy surroundings.
Once one is inside, the souvenir shops are worth a try. Postage stamps, fancy weapons and special Euro currency ask to be taken home for remembrance. The absence of sales tax makes certain items a lot cheaper than in Italy. The preferred option to move about is on foot. The streets are narrow and ancient enough to transport you back to another millennium. The winding walkways and the monuments along are reminiscent of 19 centuries of cultural activity.
The festival of Medieval Days during July is an assortment of parades, crossbow competitions, grand dinners, historic games and colorful cultural activities. The San Marino Grand Prix calls F1 racers from around the world. The event is held at nearby Imola in Italy. Though there are some other towns dotting the mountains, San Marino is the prettiest among all.
User blogs:
What to see in Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is a charming town on the banks of the Salzach River. On the left bank, on top of the Monchsberg, stands the fortress, which dominates the center of town with many houses in the '500 and '600. In addition to wander through the streets and pastries, you can visit the Cathedral, the Residenz in which they lived archbishops and princes, the castle of Maribel with the beautiful gardens ... Read full Blog post
Road To Sri Lanka Tours- Inbound Tour Operaters in Sri Lanka
OUR MISSION The mission of Road To Sri Lanka Tours is to provide unique, tours and travel experiences, for a niche market of discriminating clients, which results in their satisfaction, evidenced by repeat booking as well as favorable word-of-mouth comments. Road To Sri Lanka Tours seeks to distinguish itself as a specialist in the field of luxury travel and to be recognized for ... Read full Blog post
Baguio: City of Pines
This is SM City Baguio. The biggest mall in the city. I never imagine to live here in Baguio for a long time. But becuase of studies, I prefer to take my college course here than in Manila. After a two year long of staying in here I am learning to appreciate what Baguio has to offer to its tourists and locals. But seeing its changes from its foundation last 1909, Baguio grew a lot faster ... Read full Blog post
San Gimignano and San Pellegrino
Night falls on the flourishing and industrious San Gimignano, its 72 towers stand on the low roofs of the houses lit by the moon. This is not a luxury travel spot but is something you don't see every day. In the distance the clatter of hooves echoed tired in the Via Francigena. The hand of the blacksmith stops beating, the frame of the weaver becomes silent, the streets of the tank only a concert ... Read full Blog post
In our Magazine
Summer Destination to Avoid: Gulf of Mexico
EPA is failing to do their job monitoring the air and reporting factual data. The people need to be made aware that their lives and long term livelihood are at stake because of the air quality in Gulf of Mexico.
How to Avoid Traveling Troubles
Traveling to a certain destination might not become memorable if there are too many troubles along the way. Remember that even the best trips are usually not trouble-free. Follow these tips that help lessen the hassles.
Unique Toys from Japan
Japan is known for its fascinating, and sometimes, eccentric culture. From anime, karaoke, to advanced technology, the Land of the Rising Sun always has something unique to offer.
