In the last post, we introduced the little gem that is the enclaved microstate of San Marino. Nestled between the Italian regions of Le Marche and Emilia Romagna, this impossibly pretty republic is a perfect spot for a day trip and has a surprising amount to offer visitors. Just find a vacation rental in Emilia Romagna or a villa in Rimini, in particular, or a holiday rental in Le Marche and then set aside a day to come and explore this incredible place that looks like a picture-perfect kingdom plucked right from the pages of a storybook. Aside from the stunning views and scenery, pretty streets, great food, and excellent value for money, here are even more reasons as to why it is a must-see...
6. Shop The Discounts
We noted that San Marino isn't overly expensive, in general, but it also boasts tax-free shopping, lots of great shops and boutiques to choose from, some malls, and, additionally, two outlets: San Marino Factory Outlet and Queen Outlet. Be sure to grab a bargain while you're in town!
6. Shop The Discounts
We noted that San Marino isn't overly expensive, in general, but it also boasts tax-free shopping, lots of great shops and boutiques to choose from, some malls, and, additionally, two outlets: San Marino Factory Outlet and Queen Outlet. Be sure to grab a bargain while you're in town!
7. Visit The Wide Range Of Insane Museums
San Marino is also home to a wide range of museums including: the State Museum, with its rich collection of paintings, archeological objects, and other items; the San Francesco Museum, with its collection of 16th century paintings; the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art; the Museum of Ancient Arms; the Wax Museum; the Museum of Curious Objects; the Ferrari and Abarth Museum; the Vampire Museum; and the Torture Museum. It's crazy that so many varied types of museums are in such a small state but good news for visitors as there are all sorts of places to visit and suit various tastes.
8. See The Changing Of The Guard
In addition to everything else, San Marino has its own military, which, although one of the smallest in the world, boasts snazzy uniforms and a charming amount of pomp and ceremony to this day. The theatrics that is the tradition of the changing of the guard takes place from April to September, every half hour from 8am to 6pm at the Palazzo Pubblico, and is one of the many quirky details about the place that makes it so rich and fascinating.
9. Take In The Stars
Mount Titano, on which the capital of San Marino is perched, offers an amazing vantage point for stargazing and taking in wonderful night views while the landscape just further out, surrounding the town, is a place where a lack of light pollution offers total darkness and crystal clear skyscapes. A rare thing to experience these days, it is truly magical.
10. Stop By The Teeny National Stadium
The National “Stadium” in the Old Town of San Marino is pretty small and has a capacity of only a few hundred people, which is okay in this case as the national sport is Cross Bow and, as a result, not a lot of space is really needed. Another of the charming curiosities that San Marino offers, it is an intriguing thing to take a look at.
With so many unique quirks and excellent perks, San Marino really is a delight and a must-see for anyone holidaying in the neighbouring regions of Italy.
