Back to San MarinoSan Marino

Published on January 4, 2026

Getting Around San Marino: Transportation Guide for Travelers

San Marino, the world's oldest republic, offers a captivating blend of history, stunning vistas, and unique culture. Navigating this mountainous microstate requires a good understanding of its transportation options, especially given its elevated capital city and pedestrian-friendly historic core. This guide will help you plan your journey, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable exploration of San Marino.

Arriving in San Marino

As an independent state entirely surrounded by Italy, San Marino does not have its own international airport or major train station. Access typically involves first traveling to a nearby Italian hub and then connecting to the Republic.

By Car: The Most Common Approach

Driving is arguably the most flexible and popular way to reach San Marino, particularly from nearby Italian regions like Emilia-Romagna or Marche. The roads leading into San Marino are well-maintained, offering scenic views as you ascend towards the capital.

  • Driving from Italy:San Marino is easily accessible via state highways, primarily the SS72 from Rimini. Ensure you have all necessary vehicle documentation, including an international driving permit if your license is not from an EU country.
  • Parking:San Marino City's historic center is largely pedestrianized. Numerous multi-story car parks are located around the base and lower slopes of Monte Titano, specifically designed for tourists. From these parking areas, you can often find elevators or local buses to take you closer to the heart of the old town.

Travel Tip:For the most convenient access to the historic center, consider parking in one of the lower car parks and utilizing the elevators or the Funivia (cable car) from Borgo Maggiore. This saves you the effort of navigating steep, narrow streets.

By Bus: A Convenient Connection

Public bus services provide a direct and affordable link between San Marino and Italy, making them an excellent option for travelers without a car.

  • From Rimini:Regular bus services connect Rimini's train station and city center directly to San Marino City. The journey is scenic and takes approximately 45-50 minutes. This is the primary public transport route for international visitors.
  • Within San Marino:Once in San Marino, local buses connect the capital with other municipalities (castelli) within the Republic, such as Borgo Maggiore, Serravalle, and Dogana.

By Train and Air: Connecting Via Italy

While San Marino has no direct train or air service, you can easily connect from Italian transport hubs.

  • Nearest Train Station:Rimini, Italy, is the closest major train station. From Rimini, you can take a bus directly to San Marino.
  • Nearest Airports:Federico Fellini International Airport (RMI) in Rimini is the closest, though it offers limited international flights. Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is a larger international hub, approximately 1.5-2 hours drive from San Marino, offering more flight options. From either airport, you can arrange a taxi, private transfer, or connect to bus/train services to Rimini, and then take the bus to San Marino.

Navigating Within San Marino

Once you've arrived, getting around San Marino depends heavily on which part of the Republic you wish to explore. The historic center, perched atop Monte Titano, has its own unique transport dynamics.

Walking: The Best Way to Explore the Historic Centre

For the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center of San Marino City, walking is not just a recommendation; it's often the only way to truly experience its charm. The city is a labyrinth of winding, cobblestone streets, steep staircases, and pedestrian-only zones, making it a delight for explorers on foot.

Fun Fact:San Marino City's elevated position and pedestrian-focused layout contribute to its unique atmosphere, offering breathtaking panoramic views at almost every turn.

The Funivia (Cable Car)

The Funivia is a quintessential San Marino experience, connecting the lower town of Borgo Maggiore with the historic center of San Marino City. It offers both practicality and spectacular views.

  • Convenience:It's an ideal way to ascend or descend Monte Titano without driving or a strenuous walk. Parking is readily available in Borgo Maggiore.
  • Views:The short ride provides stunning vistas of the surrounding Apennine countryside and the Adriatic Sea on clear days.
  • Operation:The Funivia operates frequently throughout the day, though hours may vary seasonally.

Local Buses

Beyond the historic center, San Marino has a network of local buses that connect the variouscastelli(municipalities). These are useful if you plan to explore areas outside the capital, visit shopping centers in Dogana, or reach specific hotels located further afield.

  • Routes:Buses typically run from San Marino City to Borgo Maggiore, Serravalle, Dogana, and other residential or commercial areas.
  • Tickets:Tickets can usually be purchased directly from the driver or at designated ticket offices.

Taxis

Taxis are available in San Marino, though they are generally a more expensive option compared to buses or the Funivia. They can be convenient for specific routes, late-night travel, or if you have a lot of luggage.

  • Availability:Taxi stands can be found in key areas, or you can ask your hotel to arrange one for you.

Driving Within San Marino (Limited Use)

While driving is excellent for reaching San Marino, using a car within the historic center of San Marino City is generally discouraged and often restricted to residents. The narrow, steep, and often pedestrian-only streets are not designed for tourist vehicle traffic.

  • Outside the Capital:If you wish to explore the other, less-visited municipalities of San Marino or venture into the surrounding Italian countryside, having a car can be beneficial.
  • Parking:Always look for designated parking areas; illegal parking can result in fines.

Practical Tips for Travelers

  • Footwear:Always wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to explore the historic center on foot. The cobblestones and inclines can be challenging.
  • Accessibility:San Marino City's historic center, with its steep hills and numerous stairs, can be challenging for travelers with mobility issues. The Funivia and elevators from lower car parks offer some assistance, but direct access to all attractions may be difficult.
  • Maps and Apps:Download offline maps or use navigation apps to help you find your way, particularly within the historic center.
  • Currency:San Marino uses the Euro (€), consistent with Italy.
  • Weather:Be prepared for varying weather conditions. Summers can be hot, while winters can be chilly and occasionally snowy. A light jacket is often advisable for evenings, even in warmer months.

Conclusion

Getting around San Marino is an integral part of the travel experience, blending modern convenience with the timeless charm of a medieval city. Whether you arrive by car or bus from Italy, your journey within the Republic will likely involve a delightful mix of walking through ancient streets, soaring above the landscape on the Funivia, and perhaps a local bus ride. Embrace the unique topography and enjoy the breathtaking beauty that awaits at every turn in this captivating microstate.