And The Least Visited Country In Europe Is...

Andorra, Liechtenstein, Malta, Monaco, The Vatican – these are likely to be European microstates that you’re familiar with, perhaps even visited, but what about San Marino? Here’s everything you need to know about this unique European spot.

Background

The Republic of San Marino is one of the smallest and oldest nations in the world, and in 2018 received the title of ‘least visited country in Europe’. The 23.6 sq. mile (61.1 sq. km), landlocked microstate can be found on the East coast of central Italy, and sits atop Mount Titano surrounded by dramatic Apennine landscape.

The history

In the following centuries, the fortified dwelling was subjected to many invasions, including an attempt by Cesare Borgia in the 1500s and during the 1600s, and again in 1700s, managing to withstand becoming part of the Papal State. The Napoleonic troops that arrived in the 18th century respected the autonomy of San Marino (and even offered it economic concessions) because it was a political body with a republican government.

During the Risorgimento, the mountaintop city became recognised as a place of political refuge, most notably for Giuseppe Garibaldi, which later helped ensure its exclusion from formal Italian Unification in 1867.

A piazza in the republic of San Marino, Italy

Why you should visit

The capital of San Marino (also called San Marino) is a pedestrianised UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring enchanting architecture, from 14th and 16th century convents, to neoclassical basilica, and of course the three fortresses that stand as testament to nation’s resilience and independence. There’s also Mount Titano, which is part of the Apennine mountain range and offers stunning views of the landscape and Adriatic coast. Like many other microstates, San Marino has a tax-free policy so you can shop liberally here – it is particularly appealing for collectors of rare stamps and coins!

Rocca della Guaita, a castle in the Republic of San Marino, Italy

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.