A mere 30-minutes from the sea and high up on Mount Titan stands San Marino, guarded by its three medieval towers. On this walking tour, we’ll explore the unique nature of this city, the capital of Europe’s smallest and the world’s oldest republic of the same name, which dates back to 301 AD. Not only is San Marino a country inside a country, bordered by Italy on all sides – its capital is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Starting at the entrance to Porta San Francesco (Gate of Saint Francis), you’ll wander through the city’s narrow streets, past ancient churches and two of three towers, Torre Cesta and Guaita. Our 45-minute tour ends in Piazza della Libertà, where I’ll share how the city’s very own Statue of Liberty came to arrive in this square. Along the way, I’ll tell you how the people of San Marino have staunchly defended their freedom for over 17 centuries. You won’t only hear about the city, its architecture and history though. I’ll tell you about San Marino legends too, including one about a saint who befriended and rode a bear. Other highlights on this tour include: • Seeing the Cava dei Balestrieri, a quarry often used for crossbow shooting, a historical specialty in the city • Walking through the 13th century Passo delle Streghe (the ‘pathway of witches’) where young girls used to come and dance around bonfires • Taking in the sweeping views at the Il Cantone viewpoint and the tranquility of Giardini Borghesi, the Borghesi Gardens • Stopping in front of Basilica di San Marino, where a settlement was first established • Finding out about a number of unusual museums including the Torture Museum, the Curiosity Museum, and the Museum of Creatures of the Night There are plenty of cafes and restaurants along the way for you to taste the local cuisine and wine. You can also take advantage of lower sales tax and browse for clothes, leather goods, souvenirs and items that you’d pay more for in the rest of Italy.

Explore San Marino’s impressive history, architecture, and way of life on a guided walking tour. Meet your private guide at the Gate of Saint Francis and start your trip to explore the oldest Republic in the world. Walk through the streets of the city listening San Marino stories and culture. Reach Piazza della Libertà to see the Palazzo Pubblico, used for parliamentary sessions. Admire the beautiful Cava dei Balestrieri, then continue to see the Basilica del Santo, and the Church of San Piertro. Learn about the importance of religion in San Marino as you listen to your guide’s fascinating commentary. Head to the First Tower, the largest and oldest of the city’s three fortresses. Afterwards, follow your guide to the famous Passo delle Streghe, built at the end of the 11th century admiring stunning views along the way. End your tour by viewing the second tower, which you can continue to explore on your own after parting with your guide.