Sam
I have been several times to San Marino with and without kids. It’s a great place to explore and I still haven’t really explored as much as I could. A little background information San Marino is actually its own little country within Italy. So if you are one for ticking off countries then make sure you stop by for a visit. Even if you are not wanting to count countries then San Marino is a great place to stop by.
San Marino With Kids
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Visiting San Marino
When I have visited San Marino in the past I have been staying nearby in Riccione. It is easy enough to find and is well signposted. You start driving up and up towards San Marino wondering when the windy roads will stop. I normally park up in the cable car park, or even just by the side of the road in the parking bays then walked. The cable car (costs extra to go up in) takes you straight to the top to where the castle sits.
If you don’t have a car then there is a regular bus service between Rimini and San Marino. The cable car can be found in the town of Borgo Maggiore. However, be warned the car park isn’t huge and it does tend to fill up pretty quick.
Cafes and Shops Galore
You will find lots of little souvenir shops, cafes and shops in the narrow streets. There are so many selling similar things that you can spend most of your time hunting out the best items. There are also many shops selling knives, swords and guns. I usually stay clear of these shops but other people might find them interesting.
Beautiful Views
Enjoy the views once you have explored for a while as you get some great views if the weather is good. I haven’t explored the whole city and usually just go back to my favourite areas including Palazzo Pubblico which is in the Piazza della Liberta.
Places of Interest
There is the Three Towers which include Gaita which is the oldest of the three towers. Then the Cesta which is located on the highest of Monte Titano’s summits. The third tower isnt open to the public and this is called Montale. You can also visit the Piazza della Liberta which is the square with the Palazzo Pubblico (government building). If you like beautiful buildings then you can also see the Basilica del Santo Marino which is a beautiful church, remember to wear respectful clothing. No clothes above the knee and cover your shoulders and you should be fine.
Family Friendly
As it is set on a hill the roads are quite steep and some are cobblestones. It is pretty hard work with a pram but it is doable. The cafes we have stopped at before were very nice however, none I have been to have had baby changing facilities. Which is okay as I would just put jackets on the floor and change my boys on them. However, I know for some people this is a big no-no.
Have you ever been to San Marino?
San Marino wait for me! I love reading about your travels and experiences, Sam!
Thank you for your comment. Its so nice to hear you love reading about our travels 🙂 San Marino is a great place to visit. You must go sometime!
Thank you for this helpful post! Excited to visit and planning our trip there. As you mentioned you have been a few times, did you happen to see any children’s picture book featuring San Marino written in English or know of one? We would like to get one there or ahead of the trip! Many thanks!
Hiya, No unfortunately I don’t remember seeing any picture books. Sorry I couldn’t help.
Thank you for letting me know and your reply! I was able to find a kids book about San Marino with some digging around online. Just in case it might be helpful, the book is called “Finding Home on Mount Titano” and is about the start of San Marino as a country. We are all excited for our trip to San Marino! Many thanks again for your helpful blog post 🙂