Getting Around San Marino. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transit Overview

The main public transport comprises a bus service connecting the various towns and villages within the republic. The most relevant for tourists is the international bus line linking San Marino to Rimini, Italy. This bus takes you directly to the base of the capital city.

A prominent and highly advised local transport option is the cable car. It connects Borgo Maggiore, the town at the base of Monte Titano, to the City of San Marino, located near the historic center. This has a scenic and swift ascent.

Transport Options

Buses: The main system, including the Rimini-San Marino international line.
Cable Car (Funivia): Connects Borgo Maggiore to the City of San Marino for scenic ascent.
No metro or tram systems.
Route maps and schedules available at the Tourist Information Office.

Ticketing & Fares

Bus tickets from driver/offices. Cable car tickets at stations. Fares: €1.50 - €6.

Hours & Frequency

Rimini-San Marino bus: hourly. Cable Car: frequent (every 15 min), hours vary seasonally.

Accessibility Notes

Newer buses and cable car are accessible. Historic center's steep cobblestones mean mobility challenges. Plan ahead.

Efficient Navigation

Getting to the City Center

For the historic center from Rimini or Borgo Maggiore, the Cable Car is fastest and most scenic.
If arriving by bus from Rimini, ensure your stop is Piazzale Calcigni for proximity to the historic center.
Once in the City of San Marino, walking is the main way to get around the pedestrianized zone.

Local Movement

Wear comfortable shoes to manage the hilly terrain.
The historic center is compact, making walking the easiest and cheapest way to get around.
Consult the Tourist Information Office for maps and local insights.

Taxis & Private Transport

Availability

Taxis are available, mainly found at designated ranks near major points.

Identification

Licensed taxis feature meters and official markings.

Fares & Payment

Fares are relatively expensive. Payment is usually in cash (Euros).

Ride-Sharing

Major international apps like Uber are generally not widely available.

Vehicle Rentals

Car rental provides flexibility for exploring San Marino and the surrounding Italian region.

Car Rental Details

Car rental typically happens in Italy (Rimini, Bologna airports/cities).
Major international companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) operate at Italian airports.
Requirements: Valid driving license (IDP if needed), passport, credit card for deposit.
Minimum age typically 21-25; young driver surcharges possible.

Other Vehicle Rentals

Scooter rental more common in Rimini/nearby Italian towns.
Bicycle rentals from specific shops; cycling in historic center impractical.
No unique local vehicle options (tuk-tuks, jeepneys).
Driving laws similar to Italy's; drive on the right.

Driving & Parking

Roads are generally in good condition.
Winding roads near Monte Titano; drive cautiously.
Winter conditions (snow, ice) affect roads; check forecasts.

Parking in San Marino City's historic core is restricted.
Several paid parking lots (Parcheggi P1-P10) just outside historic walls.
Fees apply per hour or per day for parking.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas

The entire historic center of San Marino is largely pedestrianized. It is great for walking exploration despite its steepness.

Walking Tours

Guided walking tours are available, often starting from the Tourist Information Office. Self-guided exploration is also rewarding.

Cycling Safety

San Marino has limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure. Cyclists share roads with vehicular traffic, requiring caution.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, San Marino means an unique and scenic transportation experience.

Unique Local Transport

The Funivia (Cable Car) connects Borgo Maggiore to the City of San Marino.
It means a quick ascent and descent, alongside spectacular panoramic views.
No dedicated hop-on-hop-off buses operate specifically within San Marino.
Some Italian tour companies offer day trips by coach that include San Marino.

Accessibility Services

Navigating the historic center with mobility challenges is very difficult due to terrain.
Some hotels and restaurants may offer accessible facilities.
Inquire directly with specific venues regarding their accessibility features before your visit.
Planning ahead is important for travelers with mobility needs.

Additional Transport Info

Sea/River Travel

San Marino is a landlocked country, with no direct sea or river access. Nearest port is Rimini, Italy.

Not applicable for direct arrival.

Airport Transfers

From Rimini Airport: taxi, or local bus to Rimini train station then Rimini-San Marino bus.

Plan time for transfers.

Rimini Train Links

Rimini Centrale connects to major Italian cities. Take a train to Rimini, then the bus to San Marino.

Main rail gateway.

Parking & Circulation

Parking Information

Parking in the historic center is restricted.
Large paid parking lots (`Parcheggi P1-P10`) are outside the city walls.
Fees apply per hour or per day.

Driving Laws & Roads

Driving laws align with Italian standards; drive on the right.
Roads are generally in good condition, but winding near Monte Titano.
Winter conditions (snow, ice) affect roads at higher elevations.

Important Travel Notes

No direct sea or river access to San Marino.
No major international ferry or cruise port for direct entry.
No navigable rivers connect San Marino to other areas.
No unique local vehicle options like tuk-tuks or jeepneys.

The historic center is largely pedestrianized; cycling is not permitted within the core zone.
Be aware of traffic and winding roads outside the city center.
Car rental is typically done in Italy, not within San Marino itself.
Plan airport/station transfers with extra time; connections depend on external transport.

Departure Logistics

Plan for a smooth exit from San Marino and the surrounding region.

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes upon departure from San Marino.
Airport departure taxes are typically included in airline ticket prices.
Check train/bus schedules in advance for onward connections.
Allow ample time for bus travel from San Marino to Rimini (approx. 50 mins).

Airport Timing

For Rimini Airport flights, arrive at least 2 hours before departure (European flights).
For Bologna/Ancona, add 1.5-2 hours travel time from Rimini to airport.
Allow 2-3 hours before departure for international flights from larger airports.
For train departures from Rimini Centrale, arrive 15-20 minutes before departure.

Bus Station Amenities

The bus stop in San Marino (Piazzale Calcigni) has basic amenities. The bus station near Rimini train station offers basic waiting areas.

Rimini Train Station Facilities

Rimini Centrale Train Station provides waiting rooms, restrooms, cafes, newsstands, and ticket offices for your comfort.

Airport Departure Amenities

Airports (Rimini, Bologna, Ancona) feature check-in desks, security screening, duty-free shops, various restaurants, and lounges.

Essential Departure Tips

Preparation

Have all travel documents readily accessible.
Consider confirming flight or train status before leaving your accommodation.
Allocate extra time for unexpected delays, especially during peak season.

Reminders

No special exit procedures or fees unique to San Marino.
Ensure you have enough Euros for any final purchases or taxi fares.
Know the precise location of your departure point in Rimini or at the airport.

Final Travel Thought

Your San Marino visit closes with a clear path to your next destination. Precision in departure planning avoids last-minute stress.

Consider your onward travel connections from nearby Italian hubs for a smooth journey.

Getting Around San Marino