Nestled on a cliff top in the heart of Italy, the tiny enclave of San Marino offers an alternative to the tourist trail as Europe’s least visited country.
Nearly 600 million tourists flocked to Europe last year and those visitors are spoilt for choice. A relatively small two million made it to San Marino, mostly from other European countries.
One of the world’s smallest countries, the San Marino Apennine range features prominently in the microstate’s stunning panoramas. The tiny country of just 23.6 square miles offers a bit of everything.
History buffs can enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage Site which boasts no less than three imposing fortresses positioned on towering peaks. San Marino is also one of the world’s oldest republics surviving from a time when city-states spread across Europe.
Mount Titano dominates San Marino’s skyline offering clear views all the way to the Adriatic Sea. Benches line the slopes of the mount offering walkers a place to sit among the greenery.
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A cable car connects Borgo Maggiore to the historic centre offering sweeping views over Italy in every direction.
San Marino has a strong cheese-making tradition – its cuisine has been influenced by northern Italian cooking rich with local ingredients.
Sammarinese cuisine features hearty pasta and meat dishes. Locals have a particular fondness for filled flatbread called piada.
Wine has been produced in the country for nearly 2,000 years and local production sees bottles aged in caves with optimal temperatures.
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Shoppers can explore the old centre where shopping is much cheaper than in nearby Italy. The country has a tax-free policy to entice visitors.
While San Marino is not a member of the European Union, it enjoys open borders with Italy which surrounds the country on all sides.
Top Italian tourist towns like Florence and Bologna are around three hours away from San Marino by public transport meaning day-tripping is possible.
San Marino is a hidden gem tucked inside one of Europe’s most visited countries. With breathtaking panoramas, delectable cuisine and an ancient, deep history, Europe’s best-kept secret likely won’t stay that way for long.
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