How to Get to San Marino from Rimini, Bologna & Florence

Venturing to the Republic of San Marino offers a journey into one of the world's oldest and smallest sovereign states, perched atop Monte Titano with breathtaking views. While San Marino doesn't have its own international airport or train station, accessing this unique microstate is straightforward, primarily via Italy's well-connected transport network. This guide details the most practical routes from key Italian cities: Rimini, Bologna, and Florence.

San Marino, a UNESCO World Heritage site, promises an unforgettable experience with its medieval fortifications, charming streets, and panoramic vistas. Though entirely surrounded by Italy, it maintains a distinct identity and culture, making it a captivating destination for history buffs, shoppers, and sightseers alike. Planning your transportation is key to a smooth visit.

General Travel Tips for Visiting San Marino

• Currency:San Marino uses the Euro, consistent with Italy.
• Language:Italian is the official language.
• Border Control:There are no formal border checks when entering San Marino from Italy, but remember you are crossing into a separate country.
• Entry Requirements:If you can enter Italy, you can enter San Marino.

Getting to San Marino – The Gateway: Rimini

Rimini, a vibrant city on the Adriatic coast, serves as the primary gateway to San Marino. Its excellent rail connections and proximity make it the most convenient starting point for the final leg of your journey.

From Rimini to San Marino by Bus

The public bus service is arguably the most popular and efficient way to reach San Marino from Rimini.

• Departure Point:Buses depart from outside Rimini Centrale train station. Look for signs indicating "San Marino" or "Bus per San Marino." The bus stop is usually located on the Piazza Cesare Battisti side of the station.
• Operating Company:The service is operated by Bonelli Bus (Autolinee Benedettini).
• Journey Duration:The bus ride typically takes around 45-50 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Arrival Point in San Marino:Buses arrive at Piazzale Calcigni, just outside the historic center of San Marino City. From here, you can easily walk or take the cable car (Funivia) up to the highest points.
• Frequency:Buses run frequently throughout the day, though schedules can vary by season (more frequent in summer). It's advisable to check the latest timetable online or at the bus station.

From Rimini to San Marino by Taxi or Ride-Share

For a more direct and private transfer, taxis or ride-share services are available from Rimini. This option offers convenience, especially if you're traveling with luggage or a group, but will be more expensive than the bus.

• Availability:Taxis are readily available at Rimini Centrale station and other key points in the city.
• Journey Duration:Similar to the bus, approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on your exact destination in San Marino and traffic.

From Rimini to San Marino by Car

Driving offers flexibility and allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

• Route:The journey from Rimini is straightforward, primarily following SS72 (Strada Statale 72) directly to San Marino. The route is well-signposted.
• Journey Duration:Expect the drive to take about 30 minutes.
• Parking in San Marino:Parking in San Marino City's historic center is restricted. Numerous paid parking lots are available at the base and sides of Monte Titano, with shuttle services or elevators connecting to the upper town. Consider parking in Parcheggio P1, P2, P3, P4, or P6 for easy access.

Travel Tip:When driving to San Marino City, aim for the paid parking lots (Parcheggi) situated around the historic center. These are clearly marked and offer the most convenient access to the pedestrian-only zones of the old town, including the path to the Three Towers of San Marino.

Getting to San Marino from Bologna

Bologna, a major transport hub in Emilia-Romagna, is well-connected to the rest of Italy by high-speed rail. From Bologna, the most logical step is to first travel to Rimini.

From Bologna to Rimini by Train

The train journey from Bologna to Rimini is quick and frequent.

• Departure Point:Bologna Centrale train station.
• Operating Company:Trenitalia operates regular services.
• Journey Duration:High-speed trains (Frecciarossa/Frecciargento) take approximately 50 minutes, while regional trains can take 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Frequency:Trains run very frequently throughout the day.
• Next Step:Once you arrive at Rimini Centrale, follow the instructions above for getting from Rimini to San Marino by bus, taxi, or car.

From Bologna to San Marino by Car

Driving directly from Bologna to San Marino is also a viable option.

• Route:Take the A14 motorway (Autostrada Adriatica) south from Bologna towards Ancona. Exit at "Rimini Sud" or "Rimini Nord" and then follow signs for San Marino (SS72).
• Journey Duration:The drive typically takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
• Parking:As with all car travel to San Marino City, utilize the designated paid parking lots upon arrival.

Getting to San Marino from Florence

Florence, nestled in Tuscany, is further inland than Bologna and Rimini, making the journey to San Marino a bit longer but still very manageable.

From Florence to Rimini by Train

The most common route involves a train journey from Florence to Rimini, often with a transfer in Bologna.

• Route Option 1 (Via Bologna):
  1. Florence to Bologna:Take a high-speed train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Bologna Centrale. This leg typically takes about 35-40 minutes.
  2. Bologna to Rimini:From Bologna Centrale, transfer to a train heading to Rimini Centrale. This leg takes 50 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, as detailed above.
• Total Journey Duration:The total train journey from Florence to Rimini (including transfer time) can range from 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
• Next Step:Upon arrival at Rimini Centrale, proceed as described in the "From Rimini to San Marino" section.

From Florence to San Marino by Car

Driving directly from Florence offers scenic views but is the longest driving option.

• Route:Head east from Florence towards Bologna (A1 motorway), then take the A14 motorway south towards Ancona. Exit at "Rimini Sud" or "Rimini Nord" and follow signs for San Marino (SS72). Alternatively, you can take more scenic but slower regional roads through the Apennines.
• Journey Duration:The drive typically takes between 3 to 4 hours, depending on the chosen route and traffic conditions.
• Parking:Remember to use the designated paid parking lots when you reach San Marino City.

Exploring San Marino Once You Arrive

Upon reaching the historic center of San Marino, you'll find a pedestrian-friendly city best explored on foot. The cable car (Funivia) from Borgo Maggiore to the historic center is a popular way to ascend and enjoy panoramic views.

Don't miss the chance to visit key landmarks such as the impressive Palazzo Pubblico, the government building, which overlooks the bustling Piazza della Libertà. A short stroll will lead you to the solemn Basilica of San Marino - Pieve, the microstate's main church.

The true highlight for many is the ascent of Monte Titano to explore the iconic Three Towers of San Marino. The First Tower,Guaita Tower, is the oldest and most famous, offering incredible views. Continue along the scenic "Passo delle Streghe" (Witches' Pass) to reach the Falesia Second Tower(Cesta Tower), which houses a museum of ancient weapons. The Third Tower, Montale, is not open to the public but completes the dramatic skyline.

Conclusion

Whether you're starting your journey from the coastal charm of Rimini, the historic streets of Bologna, or the artistic heart of Florence, reaching San Marino is an accessible adventure. With frequent train services connecting to Rimini and direct bus routes to the microstate, planning your visit is straightforward. Prepare to be enchanted by the unique history and stunning landscapes of the Republic of San Marino.