Entry Requirements and Visas
San Marino is only accessible through Italy, and there are no border controls when travelling between Italy and San Marino. If you require a Schengen visa to enter the Schengen Area, that same visa will allow you to enter San Marino.
If you wish to obtain a passport stamp as a souvenir, you can get one for €5 from the Tourist Office at Contrada Omagnano, 20.
If you plan to stay for more than 30 days in San Marino, you will need to obtain a permit from the government.
Getting There
San Marino has no airports or railway stations. The nearest major airport is Federico Fellini International Airport (RMI) at Rimini, from which you can reach San Marino by bus or car. Other nearby airports include those at Ancona, Bologna, and Forlì.
A bus runs from Rimini to San Marino approximately once an hour, with stops in Dogana, Serravalle, Domagnano, and Borgo Maggiore. Single tickets cost €7 and can be purchased online, on the bus (cash or card), or at tobacco shops near the train station (cash only).
If driving, you will have no problems crossing into San Marino as border controls do not exist. However, the City of San Marino has limited parking—consider leaving your car in nearby Borgo Maggiore and taking the cable car up to the city instead.
Money and Currency
San Marino's official currency is the Euro (EUR). The country uses the same currency as much of Europe, so standard payment methods should work throughout your visit. When purchasing bus tickets from tobacco shops near Rimini train station, note that only cash is accepted, and there are no ATMs nearby, so plan accordingly.
Staying Safe
San Marino is an extremely safe country, and you are unlikely to face major dangers or threats. However, as with travel anywhere, you should watch out for pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
The City of San Marino is built on a mountain, and many walkways are quite steep—avoid running on them to prevent accidents.
If you plan to drive in San Marino, driving laws are similar to those of Italy, and you are required to carry a red warning triangle with you.
In case of emergency, the emergency number is 112 (the standard European emergency number).
Health
San Marino is a very healthy place to visit. Tap water is drinkable, so you can safely drink water from the tap.
If you become ill, medical procedures are the same as in the European Union. For serious medical conditions, you will likely be transferred to Rimini for treatment.
Staying Connected
Free Wi-Fi is available in parts of the City of San Marino, though coverage may be limited. For mobile phone connectivity, San Marino's international dialing code is +378 if you need to make international calls. For information about obtaining a local SIM card, you may need to inquire with local mobile providers upon arrival.
Local Customs and Etiquette
- The official language is Italian, though Sammarinese, a dialect of Romagnol, is the traditional regiolect.
- Do not treat San Marino as part of Italy or confuse Sammarinese people with Italians—this is likely to cause offence.
- The Sammarinese are generally very friendly and welcoming to visitors.
- Be respectful when taking photos with the guards. A smile is welcome, but hand gestures or funny faces will not be received well.
- The Sammarinese take the politics of their nation seriously. You are unlikely to cause offence by asking about the country's unique political situation.