Fast cars, walks through cities with rich history, excellent cuisine and sunny beaches. Does it sound like something you want to experience? This is Italy - specifically the Emilia-Romagna region - where precise Italian automotive engineering meets the true untamed Italian atmosphere of historical cities that have something to offer everyone. Did you know that there is another leaning tower in Italy that is even more leaning than the one in Pisa?
At the same time, you will also visit a microstate surrounded by Italy, which is often forgotten, but all the more worth visiting. It has a fascinating past - it is the oldest existing republic in the world - and the views from it are breathtaking, because the entire historical center lies on Mount Titano. If traveling exhausts you, you will be able to relax on the sunny beach in the famous seaside resort. While doing all this, you will taste the best pasta with ragù or mortadella originating from this region. So pack your bags and andiamo in Italia!
Today you arrive in Bologna - welcome to Italy, benvenuti in Italia!
The airport in Bologna is small but pleasant. After arrival, pick up the car at the airport (according to the instructions you will receive before departure), you will need it during your trip.
You will spend your day in the beautiful city of Bologna walking through the center, enjoying tasty food, and exploring interesting museums and palaces. Bologna has an interesting symbol, which is the covered porticoes in the historical center of the city. You will find them everywhere, and believe me, they are a comfortable protection from both the sun and any rain. These porticoes are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are over 60 km of them in the city.
An interesting thing you'll notice while wandering around the city is the ubiquitous orange color of the facades. Bologna is the most orange city in Italy. This was originally due to the composition of the mixture of sand and clay from the surrounding area - this mixture was used to make baked bricks (terracotta), the shade of which became a symbol of Bologna. Food in Bologna is a chapter in itself - the meat sauce ragù alla Bolognese or the sausage mortadella comes from here. But beware - don't look for Bolognese spaghetti here.
If you can't park at the accommodation, a good option is the car park south of the city center, ex Staveco. You won't need the car in the city at all.
Start your day in the quiet square in the historical center, often called "Piazza delle Sette Chiese" (Square of the Seven Churches). Here you will find a collection of several interconnected churches and courtyards. The square is quiet and beautiful, you can admire the diverse buildings and churches around it.
Next, proceed to the historic university building (Archiginnasio), where the 17th-century wooden anatomical theater/dissection hall is also located. It was used for public dissections and has a huge marble table in the center. The walls and corridors of the building are covered with thousands of coats of arms of students and professors from all over Europe. Admission to the building is free, admission to the dissection hall is for a small fee, payable at the entrance.
From Archiginnasio, it is just a few steps to the main square of the city, dominated by the Basilica of San Petronio. This basilica was never completed, notice the facade, which is half marble, half brick. Originally, the basilica was intended to be the largest church in the world, but the Pope himself stopped the project so that its size would not surpass St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Admission is free (main nave, interior), some parts require a small fee.
The main square surrounded by historical buildings is the heart of historical Bologna.
The main square is dominated by a significant medieval fountain with a statue of the sea god Neptune, one of the city's most famous symbols. Locals call him Il Gigante (Giant), and even today, Neptune is one of the most daring Renaissance sculptures in a public space in the world.
If you stand in a certain spot in the square (looking at Neptune from the side at a specific angle from behind), Neptune's thumb looks like a giant penis. The sculptor reportedly did this on purpose to circumvent church censorship.
In the corner of the square, you can see a lantern that lit up every time a new child was born in the town. It served as a public celebration of life and joyful news for the townspeople.
Next to the main square, you'll find the Salaborsa main public library, which also functions as a cultural space, and in the basement, you can see archaeological finds – the remains of original settlements and the Roman city of Bononia from the 2nd century BC, making the library a small, interesting museum.
For lunch, I recommend this restaurant where you can taste authentic Bolognese ragù with pasta. Ragù alla bolognese, as a traditional meat sauce, comes from Bologna, but it is not traditionally served with spaghetti, as you may be used to at home. Ideally, it is eaten with tagliatelle, gnocchi, or another type of pasta.
What would a visit to Italy be without a visit to a pinacoteca? The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna is a gallery exhibiting a collection of Italian art from the 13th to the 18th centuries. You can find it in the building of a former Jesuit monastery and see works by artists such as Raphael, Giotto, or Parmigianino. Tickets at the box office.
Want to feel like you're in Venice? This small opening window in one of the alleys offers a unique view of the city's old canal surrounded by colorful buildings. The whole neighborhood is called Little Venice because of the preserved water canal - there used to be many more of them in the city, used for boat transport of goods, but many of them were filled in.
You'll definitely be hungry after a full day of exploring the city. I recommend a restaurant/fast food place with fresh mortadella sandwiches - it traditionally comes from here, and in a sandwich, for example, with mozzarella and basil, it is absolutely delicious. Mortadella is made either classic or containing, for example, pistachios.
Another day awaits you in this picturesque city. You can reach the pilgrimage site towering above the city via the longest portico in the world and visit a typical market place full of colors, scents, and flavors.
In the Middle Ages, Bologna had more than 100 towers built by wealthy families. They served as a demonstration of power, prestige, but also in the defense of the city - today you will see two of them.
Start your day at the Two Towers - Le Due Torri - which are an unmistakable landmark of the city. The Gariselda Tower is even more inclined than the one in Pisa, by one-tenth of a degree (Gariselda has an inclination of 4° and the tower in Pisa 3.9°). In the 14th century, Gariselda even had to be shortened because it was leaning too dangerously to the side and threatened to collapse.
Entry is only possible to the Torre degli Asinelli, not to Gariselda. Advance booking here.
A medieval palace from the 14th century, now housing the city's history museum, is a great place to learn something new about the city's history. The palace is named after the prominent Pepoli family, who built the palace as a testament to their power and wealth in 1344. Tickets available at the box office at the entrance.
Next, go to the Quadrilatero district with its narrow and romantic streets that invite you to take a walk. Moreover, it is the gastronomic center of Bologna, you will find many restaurants, trattorias and the Mercatto di Mezzo market, where you can enjoy an excellent lunch - you can taste traditional cheeses, sausages, wine or have fresh pasta.
In the afternoon, take a beautiful walk outside the city. The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is a Baroque pilgrimage basilica that rises on a hill above the city and is one of the most important symbols of the city. The longest portico in the world leads from the city center to the basilica – approximately 3.8 km long and comprising 666 arches. After climbing the hill, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Bologna, the mountains, and the surrounding landscape. Admission to the basilica is free, there is a fee for the sightseeing route in the dome, but the view is worth it.
For dinner, after a walking trip, I recommend a bistro called Ragù, which already suggests what their main attraction is. Here you can have pasta, panini, or even a burger with tasty ragù. It's worth a try!
Who doesn't know Ferrari and Lamborghini, manufacturers of fast, precise, and expensive super sports cars? Ferrari is known for its distinctive red color and emphasis on performance and design. In addition, Lamborghini cars are known for their bold, aggressive design and powerful engines. The museums of these car manufacturers, with a horse and a bull in their logo, are ideal for all age categories.
From Bologna, take an hour-long trip northwest to the center of automotive engineering.
The museum is located directly in the hometown of the Ferrari brand, near the factory and test track. You will see legendary Ferrari models – from historic cars to supercars to Formula 1 specials. Various tours are available, from a classic museum tour to a bus ride through the factory grounds, where you will learn about the production of supercars from component assembly to the paint shop to the test track. Book in advance here. It is advisable to buy tickets as a package with the following museum. I recommend parking in front of the museum, but if the parking lot is full, there is another parking lot in Via Claudia 234, which is only a 5-minute walk to the museum.
A short distance from Maranello is a modern museum that tells in more detail about the founder of the brand, and you will also see even more supercars. An interesting fact is that the modern glass building itself resembles, from above, the aerodynamic engine cover of a yellow supercar located behind the seats, and the architect of the project is the Czech architect Jan Kaplický. In contrast to the modern building, across the street is the old brick house of Enzo Ferrari, where the founder of Ferrari was born and lived.
A bit further away is the museum of another supercar manufacturer and eternal rival of Ferrari - Lamborghini. The Lamborghini Museum is located in the town of Sant'Agata Bolognese, right where the Lamborghini brand was founded and is still based today. You will learn interesting facts about the history of the brand and see legendary models such as Miura, Countach, Diablo or Murciélago, as well as the latest supercars and concepts that show the future development of the brand. Tickets can be purchased here. If you are a true fan, you can also purchase a tour directly in the factory, where you will see the individual production processes (but beware, factory tours are only possible on weekdays).
You will visit the picturesque microstate surrounded by Italy - San Marino, with an area of only 61 km2. It is the oldest republic in the world - founded in 301 and still functioning as a republic. It is not a member of the European Union, but the euro is the currency - the state mints its own coins with a unique design. The state has never been conquered by anyone and has two presidents-regents, each with a term of only 6 months. You also won't find a single traffic light in this state - traffic is not heavy and roundabouts are sufficient.
Since the parking lots can be full during the season, I recommend setting off early in the morning. However, there are plenty of parking lots, ideally park at P6 or P7, which are closest to the center.
The entire historical center of the state is located on Mount Titano and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the parking lot, take a walk through the center.
The first stop is symbolic - the museum of this beautiful little country. 4 floors of art, works and history. Tickets available at the museum ticket office.
Then continue to the main square, dominated by the Palazzo Pubblico (Town Hall). In the middle of the town hall stands the Statue of Liberty, which is a symbol of the republic's freedom. The views from the square are breathtaking.
Take a stroll down Via Eugippo, which is full of souvenir shops. Another stop is also located on this street. Cava dei Balestrieri is a former quarry that was created in the 19th century to extract stone for buildings in the city, especially for the renovation of the town hall. Gradually, it was used as an amphitheater and cultural space. Today, crossbow shooting demonstrations and competitions are held here – San Marino has a long tradition of crossbow shooting. If you are lucky, you will see some folk festival or ceremony taking place in the city.
More or less everywhere you go in San Marino, you will be greeted by beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. You can also see the Italian coast with the Adriatic Sea or the Apennine Mountains. This viewpoint, Il Cantone, is just a few steps from the previous stop.
Walk to the main cathedral of San Marino. It was built in the 19th century in the neoclassical style on the site of an older Romanesque basilica. The interior is simple but impressive. Admission is free.
Stop by this famous restaurant for lunch. San Marino's cuisine is heavily influenced by Italian cuisine - have pasta, ravioli, grilled meat or fish.
Continue on foot to the three towers, which are a well-known symbol of the city. Specifically, these are the Guaita, Cesta, and Montale towers. You are starting at Guaita, which is the oldest and most famous, with a breathtaking view of the surroundings. All the towers are connected by the so-called Witch's Trail - the name comes from medieval legends about witches and legends that were passed down around this wind-swept ridge.
The second tower is a museum of old weapons.
The third tower is the smallest and not open to the public. From this tower, it's just a few minutes back to the parking lot.
Surprisingly, in such a small country, you can find an official Shinto shrine (jinja), located just a 10-minute drive from the center. It was built as a memorial to the victims of the great earthquake in Japan in 2011 – created as an expression of solidarity and a remembrance of the thousands of victims of this tragedy. It is also considered the first official jinja shrine in Europe, which is a significant cultural and religious matter.
Drive to Rimini and check into your accommodation.
Get to know the famous holiday resort of Rimini, which offers an interesting and rich history or a quiet and old fishing district full of colorful little houses. You can also relax on the beach!
Start your journey through Rimini at the Arco di Augusto, which is the oldest Roman gate in Italy (from 27 BC).
Continue along the Corso d'Augusto shopping promenade to the Renaissance cathedral, which is one of the city's symbols. Originally a Gothic church, it was rebuilt into a monumental temple in the 15th century. There is an admission fee to visit the interior, payable at the entrance.
While walking through the city, visit the Rimini City Museum, which will introduce you to the history of the region and the Malatesta family - they were one of the most powerful and important noble families of medieval Italy, closely associated with the city of Rimini.
An ancient Roman bridge from the 1st century BC spanning the Marecchia River. It is one of the best-preserved Roman bridges in the world, functioning continuously for almost 2000 years. The bridge has five stone arches made of Istrian stone, and its construction demonstrates masterful Roman engineering.
After crossing the river, you'll reach the old fishing district of Rimini, where you'll find colorful paintings and street art that have transformed the narrow streets and houses into a vibrant open-air art gallery. The tradition of painting began around 1980 during a local festival, when residents started decorating the walls of their homes as an expression of identity and resistance against the disruption of the neighborhood. A great place for nice photos.
One of the best restaurants in Rimini, they have excellent chicken with vegetables, meatballs, pasta and wine. It is located in one of the alleys in the old fishing district.
After lunch, you can also stroll through Parco XXV Aprile near the Ponte di Tiberio bridge - a good place to spend a good lunch. The park is beautifully maintained and also includes a nice little embankment on the riverbank.
Rimini's coast is lined with a 15-kilometer-long sandy beach with Lungomare Rimini - a promenade along the coast. Relax here, swim in the sea, and recharge after a busy week. Some parts of the beach are paid (including sunbeds and umbrellas), but you will also find many public areas on the beach.
You will drive from Rimini to the airport, where you will return your rented car and fly home. Don't forget to leave for the airport early enough to make sure you have enough time. Be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
Return the rental car at Rimini Airport. Have a nice flight!
I hope you enjoyed your trip around the beautiful region of Italy and the microstate of San Marino, and that you will long remember all the beautiful places, majestic and historical cities, automobile museums, hidden corners, tasty food, and sunny mood. Arrivederci, Italia!
Fast cars, walks through cities with rich history, excellent cuisine and sunny beaches. Does it sound like something you want to experience? This is Italy - specifically the Emilia-Romagna region - where precise Italian automotive engineering meets the true untamed Italian atmosphere of historical cities that have something to offer everyone. Did you know that there is another leaning tower in Italy that is even more leaning than the one in Pisa?
At the same time, you will also visit a microstate surrounded by Italy, which is often forgotten, but all the more worth visiting. It has a fascinating past - it is the oldest existing republic in the world - and the views from it are breathtaking, because the entire historical center lies on Mount Titano. If traveling exhausts you, you will be able to relax on the sunny beach in the famous seaside resort. While doing all this, you will taste the best pasta with ragù or mortadella originating from this region. So pack your bags and andiamo in Italia!
Today you arrive in Bologna - welcome to Italy, benvenuti in Italia!
The airport in Bologna is small but pleasant. After arrival, pick up the car at the airport (according to the instructions you will receive before departure), you will need it during your trip.
You will spend your day in the beautiful city of Bologna walking through the center, enjoying tasty food, and exploring interesting museums and palaces. Bologna has an interesting symbol, which is the covered porticoes in the historical center of the city. You will find them everywhere, and believe me, they are a comfortable protection from both the sun and any rain. These porticoes are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are over 60 km of them in the city.
An interesting thing you'll notice while wandering around the city is the ubiquitous orange color of the facades. Bologna is the most orange city in Italy. This was originally due to the composition of the mixture of sand and clay from the surrounding area - this mixture was used to make baked bricks (terracotta), the shade of which became a symbol of Bologna. Food in Bologna is a chapter in itself - the meat sauce ragù alla Bolognese or the sausage mortadella comes from here. But beware - don't look for Bolognese spaghetti here.
If you can't park at the accommodation, a good option is the car park south of the city center, ex Staveco. You won't need the car in the city at all.
Start your day in the quiet square in the historical center, often called "Piazza delle Sette Chiese" (Square of the Seven Churches). Here you will find a collection of several interconnected churches and courtyards. The square is quiet and beautiful, you can admire the diverse buildings and churches around it.
Next, proceed to the historic university building (Archiginnasio), where the 17th-century wooden anatomical theater/dissection hall is also located. It was used for public dissections and has a huge marble table in the center. The walls and corridors of the building are covered with thousands of coats of arms of students and professors from all over Europe. Admission to the building is free, admission to the dissection hall is for a small fee, payable at the entrance.
From Archiginnasio, it is just a few steps to the main square of the city, dominated by the Basilica of San Petronio. This basilica was never completed, notice the facade, which is half marble, half brick. Originally, the basilica was intended to be the largest church in the world, but the Pope himself stopped the project so that its size would not surpass St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Admission is free (main nave, interior), some parts require a small fee.
The main square surrounded by historical buildings is the heart of historical Bologna.
The main square is dominated by a significant medieval fountain with a statue of the sea god Neptune, one of the city's most famous symbols. Locals call him Il Gigante (Giant), and even today, Neptune is one of the most daring Renaissance sculptures in a public space in the world.
If you stand in a certain spot in the square (looking at Neptune from the side at a specific angle from behind), Neptune's thumb looks like a giant penis. The sculptor reportedly did this on purpose to circumvent church censorship.
In the corner of the square, you can see a lantern that lit up every time a new child was born in the town. It served as a public celebration of life and joyful news for the townspeople.
Next to the main square, you'll find the Salaborsa main public library, which also functions as a cultural space, and in the basement, you can see archaeological finds – the remains of original settlements and the Roman city of Bononia from the 2nd century BC, making the library a small, interesting museum.
For lunch, I recommend this restaurant where you can taste authentic Bolognese ragù with pasta. Ragù alla bolognese, as a traditional meat sauce, comes from Bologna, but it is not traditionally served with spaghetti, as you may be used to at home. Ideally, it is eaten with tagliatelle, gnocchi, or another type of pasta.
What would a visit to Italy be without a visit to a pinacoteca? The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna is a gallery exhibiting a collection of Italian art from the 13th to the 18th centuries. You can find it in the building of a former Jesuit monastery and see works by artists such as Raphael, Giotto, or Parmigianino. Tickets at the box office.
Want to feel like you're in Venice? This small opening window in one of the alleys offers a unique view of the city's old canal surrounded by colorful buildings. The whole neighborhood is called Little Venice because of the preserved water canal - there used to be many more of them in the city, used for boat transport of goods, but many of them were filled in.
You'll definitely be hungry after a full day of exploring the city. I recommend a restaurant/fast food place with fresh mortadella sandwiches - it traditionally comes from here, and in a sandwich, for example, with mozzarella and basil, it is absolutely delicious. Mortadella is made either classic or containing, for example, pistachios.
Another day awaits you in this picturesque city. You can reach the pilgrimage site towering above the city via the longest portico in the world and visit a typical market place full of colors, scents, and flavors.
In the Middle Ages, Bologna had more than 100 towers built by wealthy families. They served as a demonstration of power, prestige, but also in the defense of the city - today you will see two of them.
Start your day at the Two Towers - Le Due Torri - which are an unmistakable landmark of the city. The Gariselda Tower is even more inclined than the one in Pisa, by one-tenth of a degree (Gariselda has an inclination of 4° and the tower in Pisa 3.9°). In the 14th century, Gariselda even had to be shortened because it was leaning too dangerously to the side and threatened to collapse.
Entry is only possible to the Torre degli Asinelli, not to Gariselda. Advance booking here.
A medieval palace from the 14th century, now housing the city's history museum, is a great place to learn something new about the city's history. The palace is named after the prominent Pepoli family, who built the palace as a testament to their power and wealth in 1344. Tickets available at the box office at the entrance.
Next, go to the Quadrilatero district with its narrow and romantic streets that invite you to take a walk. Moreover, it is the gastronomic center of Bologna, you will find many restaurants, trattorias and the Mercatto di Mezzo market, where you can enjoy an excellent lunch - you can taste traditional cheeses, sausages, wine or have fresh pasta.
In the afternoon, take a beautiful walk outside the city. The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is a Baroque pilgrimage basilica that rises on a hill above the city and is one of the most important symbols of the city. The longest portico in the world leads from the city center to the basilica – approximately 3.8 km long and comprising 666 arches. After climbing the hill, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Bologna, the mountains, and the surrounding landscape. Admission to the basilica is free, there is a fee for the sightseeing route in the dome, but the view is worth it.
For dinner, after a walking trip, I recommend a bistro called Ragù, which already suggests what their main attraction is. Here you can have pasta, panini, or even a burger with tasty ragù. It's worth a try!
Who doesn't know Ferrari and Lamborghini, manufacturers of fast, precise, and expensive super sports cars? Ferrari is known for its distinctive red color and emphasis on performance and design. In addition, Lamborghini cars are known for their bold, aggressive design and powerful engines. The museums of these car manufacturers, with a horse and a bull in their logo, are ideal for all age categories.
From Bologna, take an hour-long trip northwest to the center of automotive engineering.
The museum is located directly in the hometown of the Ferrari brand, near the factory and test track. You will see legendary Ferrari models – from historic cars to supercars to Formula 1 specials. Various tours are available, from a classic museum tour to a bus ride through the factory grounds, where you will learn about the production of supercars from component assembly to the paint shop to the test track. Book in advance here. It is advisable to buy tickets as a package with the following museum. I recommend parking in front of the museum, but if the parking lot is full, there is another parking lot in Via Claudia 234, which is only a 5-minute walk to the museum.
A short distance from Maranello is a modern museum that tells in more detail about the founder of the brand, and you will also see even more supercars. An interesting fact is that the modern glass building itself resembles, from above, the aerodynamic engine cover of a yellow supercar located behind the seats, and the architect of the project is the Czech architect Jan Kaplický. In contrast to the modern building, across the street is the old brick house of Enzo Ferrari, where the founder of Ferrari was born and lived.
A bit further away is the museum of another supercar manufacturer and eternal rival of Ferrari - Lamborghini. The Lamborghini Museum is located in the town of Sant'Agata Bolognese, right where the Lamborghini brand was founded and is still based today. You will learn interesting facts about the history of the brand and see legendary models such as Miura, Countach, Diablo or Murciélago, as well as the latest supercars and concepts that show the future development of the brand. Tickets can be purchased here. If you are a true fan, you can also purchase a tour directly in the factory, where you will see the individual production processes (but beware, factory tours are only possible on weekdays).
You will visit the picturesque microstate surrounded by Italy - San Marino, with an area of only 61 km2. It is the oldest republic in the world - founded in 301 and still functioning as a republic. It is not a member of the European Union, but the euro is the currency - the state mints its own coins with a unique design. The state has never been conquered by anyone and has two presidents-regents, each with a term of only 6 months. You also won't find a single traffic light in this state - traffic is not heavy and roundabouts are sufficient.
Since the parking lots can be full during the season, I recommend setting off early in the morning. However, there are plenty of parking lots, ideally park at P6 or P7, which are closest to the center.
The entire historical center of the state is located on Mount Titano and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the parking lot, take a walk through the center.
The first stop is symbolic - the museum of this beautiful little country. 4 floors of art, works and history. Tickets available at the museum ticket office.
Then continue to the main square, dominated by the Palazzo Pubblico (Town Hall). In the middle of the town hall stands the Statue of Liberty, which is a symbol of the republic's freedom. The views from the square are breathtaking.
Take a stroll down Via Eugippo, which is full of souvenir shops. Another stop is also located on this street. Cava dei Balestrieri is a former quarry that was created in the 19th century to extract stone for buildings in the city, especially for the renovation of the town hall. Gradually, it was used as an amphitheater and cultural space. Today, crossbow shooting demonstrations and competitions are held here – San Marino has a long tradition of crossbow shooting. If you are lucky, you will see some folk festival or ceremony taking place in the city.
More or less everywhere you go in San Marino, you will be greeted by beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. You can also see the Italian coast with the Adriatic Sea or the Apennine Mountains. This viewpoint, Il Cantone, is just a few steps from the previous stop.
Walk to the main cathedral of San Marino. It was built in the 19th century in the neoclassical style on the site of an older Romanesque basilica. The interior is simple but impressive. Admission is free.
Stop by this famous restaurant for lunch. San Marino's cuisine is heavily influenced by Italian cuisine - have pasta, ravioli, grilled meat or fish.
Continue on foot to the three towers, which are a well-known symbol of the city. Specifically, these are the Guaita, Cesta, and Montale towers. You are starting at Guaita, which is the oldest and most famous, with a breathtaking view of the surroundings. All the towers are connected by the so-called Witch's Trail - the name comes from medieval legends about witches and legends that were passed down around this wind-swept ridge.
The second tower is a museum of old weapons.
The third tower is the smallest and not open to the public. From this tower, it's just a few minutes back to the parking lot.
Surprisingly, in such a small country, you can find an official Shinto shrine (jinja), located just a 10-minute drive from the center. It was built as a memorial to the victims of the great earthquake in Japan in 2011 – created as an expression of solidarity and a remembrance of the thousands of victims of this tragedy. It is also considered the first official jinja shrine in Europe, which is a significant cultural and religious matter.
Drive to Rimini and check into your accommodation.
Get to know the famous holiday resort of Rimini, which offers an interesting and rich history or a quiet and old fishing district full of colorful little houses. You can also relax on the beach!
Start your journey through Rimini at the Arco di Augusto, which is the oldest Roman gate in Italy (from 27 BC).
Continue along the Corso d'Augusto shopping promenade to the Renaissance cathedral, which is one of the city's symbols. Originally a Gothic church, it was rebuilt into a monumental temple in the 15th century. There is an admission fee to visit the interior, payable at the entrance.
While walking through the city, visit the Rimini City Museum, which will introduce you to the history of the region and the Malatesta family - they were one of the most powerful and important noble families of medieval Italy, closely associated with the city of Rimini.
An ancient Roman bridge from the 1st century BC spanning the Marecchia River. It is one of the best-preserved Roman bridges in the world, functioning continuously for almost 2000 years. The bridge has five stone arches made of Istrian stone, and its construction demonstrates masterful Roman engineering.
After crossing the river, you'll reach the old fishing district of Rimini, where you'll find colorful paintings and street art that have transformed the narrow streets and houses into a vibrant open-air art gallery. The tradition of painting began around 1980 during a local festival, when residents started decorating the walls of their homes as an expression of identity and resistance against the disruption of the neighborhood. A great place for nice photos.
One of the best restaurants in Rimini, they have excellent chicken with vegetables, meatballs, pasta and wine. It is located in one of the alleys in the old fishing district.
After lunch, you can also stroll through Parco XXV Aprile near the Ponte di Tiberio bridge - a good place to spend a good lunch. The park is beautifully maintained and also includes a nice little embankment on the riverbank.
Rimini's coast is lined with a 15-kilometer-long sandy beach with Lungomare Rimini - a promenade along the coast. Relax here, swim in the sea, and recharge after a busy week. Some parts of the beach are paid (including sunbeds and umbrellas), but you will also find many public areas on the beach.
You will drive from Rimini to the airport, where you will return your rented car and fly home. Don't forget to leave for the airport early enough to make sure you have enough time. Be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
Return the rental car at Rimini Airport. Have a nice flight!
I hope you enjoyed your trip around the beautiful region of Italy and the microstate of San Marino, and that you will long remember all the beautiful places, majestic and historical cities, automobile museums, hidden corners, tasty food, and sunny mood. Arrivederci, Italia!
itinerary by Martin Hornak
Fast cars, walks through cities with rich history, excellent cuisine and sunny beaches. Does it sound like something you want to experience? This is Italy - specifically the Emilia-Romagna region - where precise Italian automotive engineering meets the true untamed Italian atmosphere of historical cities that have something to offer everyone. Did you know that there is another leaning tower in Italy that is even more leaning than the one in Pisa?
At the same time, you will also visit a microstate surrounded by Italy, which is often forgotten, but all the more worth visiting. It has a fascinating past - it is the oldest existing republic in the world - and the views from it are breathtaking, because the entire historical center lies on Mount Titano. If traveling exhausts you, you will be able to relax on the sunny beach in the famous seaside resort. While doing all this, you will taste the best pasta with ragù or mortadella originating from this region. So pack your bags and andiamo in Italia!
Today you arrive in Bologna - welcome to Italy, benvenuti in Italia!
The airport in Bologna is small but pleasant. After arrival, pick up the car at the airport (according to the instructions you will receive before departure), you will need it during your trip.
You will spend your day in the beautiful city of Bologna walking through the center, enjoying tasty food, and exploring interesting museums and palaces. Bologna has an interesting symbol, which is the covered porticoes in the historical center of the city. You will find them everywhere, and believe me, they are a comfortable protection from both the sun and any rain. These porticoes are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are over 60 km of them in the city.
An interesting thing you'll notice while wandering around the city is the ubiquitous orange color of the facades. Bologna is the most orange city in Italy. This was originally due to the composition of the mixture of sand and clay from the surrounding area - this mixture was used to make baked bricks (terracotta), the shade of which became a symbol of Bologna. Food in Bologna is a chapter in itself - the meat sauce ragù alla Bolognese or the sausage mortadella comes from here. But beware - don't look for Bolognese spaghetti here.
If you can't park at the accommodation, a good option is the car park south of the city center, ex Staveco. You won't need the car in the city at all.
Start your day in the quiet square in the historical center, often called "Piazza delle Sette Chiese" (Square of the Seven Churches). Here you will find a collection of several interconnected churches and courtyards. The square is quiet and beautiful, you can admire the diverse buildings and churches around it.
Next, proceed to the historic university building (Archiginnasio), where the 17th-century wooden anatomical theater/dissection hall is also located. It was used for public dissections and has a huge marble table in the center. The walls and corridors of the building are covered with thousands of coats of arms of students and professors from all over Europe. Admission to the building is free, admission to the dissection hall is for a small fee, payable at the entrance.
From Archiginnasio, it is just a few steps to the main square of the city, dominated by the Basilica of San Petronio. This basilica was never completed, notice the facade, which is half marble, half brick. Originally, the basilica was intended to be the largest church in the world, but the Pope himself stopped the project so that its size would not surpass St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Admission is free (main nave, interior), some parts require a small fee.
The main square surrounded by historical buildings is the heart of historical Bologna.
The main square is dominated by a significant medieval fountain with a statue of the sea god Neptune, one of the city's most famous symbols. Locals call him Il Gigante (Giant), and even today, Neptune is one of the most daring Renaissance sculptures in a public space in the world.
If you stand in a certain spot in the square (looking at Neptune from the side at a specific angle from behind), Neptune's thumb looks like a giant penis. The sculptor reportedly did this on purpose to circumvent church censorship.
In the corner of the square, you can see a lantern that lit up every time a new child was born in the town. It served as a public celebration of life and joyful news for the townspeople.
Next to the main square, you'll find the Salaborsa main public library, which also functions as a cultural space, and in the basement, you can see archaeological finds – the remains of original settlements and the Roman city of Bononia from the 2nd century BC, making the library a small, interesting museum.
For lunch, I recommend this restaurant where you can taste authentic Bolognese ragù with pasta. Ragù alla bolognese, as a traditional meat sauce, comes from Bologna, but it is not traditionally served with spaghetti, as you may be used to at home. Ideally, it is eaten with tagliatelle, gnocchi, or another type of pasta.
What would a visit to Italy be without a visit to a pinacoteca? The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna is a gallery exhibiting a collection of Italian art from the 13th to the 18th centuries. You can find it in the building of a former Jesuit monastery and see works by artists such as Raphael, Giotto, or Parmigianino. Tickets at the box office.
Want to feel like you're in Venice? This small opening window in one of the alleys offers a unique view of the city's old canal surrounded by colorful buildings. The whole neighborhood is called Little Venice because of the preserved water canal - there used to be many more of them in the city, used for boat transport of goods, but many of them were filled in.
You'll definitely be hungry after a full day of exploring the city. I recommend a restaurant/fast food place with fresh mortadella sandwiches - it traditionally comes from here, and in a sandwich, for example, with mozzarella and basil, it is absolutely delicious. Mortadella is made either classic or containing, for example, pistachios.
Another day awaits you in this picturesque city. You can reach the pilgrimage site towering above the city via the longest portico in the world and visit a typical market place full of colors, scents, and flavors.
In the Middle Ages, Bologna had more than 100 towers built by wealthy families. They served as a demonstration of power, prestige, but also in the defense of the city - today you will see two of them.
Start your day at the Two Towers - Le Due Torri - which are an unmistakable landmark of the city. The Gariselda Tower is even more inclined than the one in Pisa, by one-tenth of a degree (Gariselda has an inclination of 4° and the tower in Pisa 3.9°). In the 14th century, Gariselda even had to be shortened because it was leaning too dangerously to the side and threatened to collapse.
Entry is only possible to the Torre degli Asinelli, not to Gariselda. Advance booking here.
A medieval palace from the 14th century, now housing the city's history museum, is a great place to learn something new about the city's history. The palace is named after the prominent Pepoli family, who built the palace as a testament to their power and wealth in 1344. Tickets available at the box office at the entrance.
Next, go to the Quadrilatero district with its narrow and romantic streets that invite you to take a walk. Moreover, it is the gastronomic center of Bologna, you will find many restaurants, trattorias and the Mercatto di Mezzo market, where you can enjoy an excellent lunch - you can taste traditional cheeses, sausages, wine or have fresh pasta.
In the afternoon, take a beautiful walk outside the city. The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is a Baroque pilgrimage basilica that rises on a hill above the city and is one of the most important symbols of the city. The longest portico in the world leads from the city center to the basilica – approximately 3.8 km long and comprising 666 arches. After climbing the hill, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Bologna, the mountains, and the surrounding landscape. Admission to the basilica is free, there is a fee for the sightseeing route in the dome, but the view is worth it.
For dinner, after a walking trip, I recommend a bistro called Ragù, which already suggests what their main attraction is. Here you can have pasta, panini, or even a burger with tasty ragù. It's worth a try!
Who doesn't know Ferrari and Lamborghini, manufacturers of fast, precise, and expensive super sports cars? Ferrari is known for its distinctive red color and emphasis on performance and design. In addition, Lamborghini cars are known for their bold, aggressive design and powerful engines. The museums of these car manufacturers, with a horse and a bull in their logo, are ideal for all age categories.
From Bologna, take an hour-long trip northwest to the center of automotive engineering.
The museum is located directly in the hometown of the Ferrari brand, near the factory and test track. You will see legendary Ferrari models – from historic cars to supercars to Formula 1 specials. Various tours are available, from a classic museum tour to a bus ride through the factory grounds, where you will learn about the production of supercars from component assembly to the paint shop to the test track. Book in advance here. It is advisable to buy tickets as a package with the following museum. I recommend parking in front of the museum, but if the parking lot is full, there is another parking lot in Via Claudia 234, which is only a 5-minute walk to the museum.
A short distance from Maranello is a modern museum that tells in more detail about the founder of the brand, and you will also see even more supercars. An interesting fact is that the modern glass building itself resembles, from above, the aerodynamic engine cover of a yellow supercar located behind the seats, and the architect of the project is the Czech architect Jan Kaplický. In contrast to the modern building, across the street is the old brick house of Enzo Ferrari, where the founder of Ferrari was born and lived.
A bit further away is the museum of another supercar manufacturer and eternal rival of Ferrari - Lamborghini. The Lamborghini Museum is located in the town of Sant'Agata Bolognese, right where the Lamborghini brand was founded and is still based today. You will learn interesting facts about the history of the brand and see legendary models such as Miura, Countach, Diablo or Murciélago, as well as the latest supercars and concepts that show the future development of the brand. Tickets can be purchased here. If you are a true fan, you can also purchase a tour directly in the factory, where you will see the individual production processes (but beware, factory tours are only possible on weekdays).
You will visit the picturesque microstate surrounded by Italy - San Marino, with an area of only 61 km2. It is the oldest republic in the world - founded in 301 and still functioning as a republic. It is not a member of the European Union, but the euro is the currency - the state mints its own coins with a unique design. The state has never been conquered by anyone and has two presidents-regents, each with a term of only 6 months. You also won't find a single traffic light in this state - traffic is not heavy and roundabouts are sufficient.
Since the parking lots can be full during the season, I recommend setting off early in the morning. However, there are plenty of parking lots, ideally park at P6 or P7, which are closest to the center.
The entire historical center of the state is located on Mount Titano and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the parking lot, take a walk through the center.
The first stop is symbolic - the museum of this beautiful little country. 4 floors of art, works and history. Tickets available at the museum ticket office.
Then continue to the main square, dominated by the Palazzo Pubblico (Town Hall). In the middle of the town hall stands the Statue of Liberty, which is a symbol of the republic's freedom. The views from the square are breathtaking.
Take a stroll down Via Eugippo, which is full of souvenir shops. Another stop is also located on this street. Cava dei Balestrieri is a former quarry that was created in the 19th century to extract stone for buildings in the city, especially for the renovation of the town hall. Gradually, it was used as an amphitheater and cultural space. Today, crossbow shooting demonstrations and competitions are held here – San Marino has a long tradition of crossbow shooting. If you are lucky, you will see some folk festival or ceremony taking place in the city.
More or less everywhere you go in San Marino, you will be greeted by beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. You can also see the Italian coast with the Adriatic Sea or the Apennine Mountains. This viewpoint, Il Cantone, is just a few steps from the previous stop.
Walk to the main cathedral of San Marino. It was built in the 19th century in the neoclassical style on the site of an older Romanesque basilica. The interior is simple but impressive. Admission is free.
Stop by this famous restaurant for lunch. San Marino's cuisine is heavily influenced by Italian cuisine - have pasta, ravioli, grilled meat or fish.
Continue on foot to the three towers, which are a well-known symbol of the city. Specifically, these are the Guaita, Cesta, and Montale towers. You are starting at Guaita, which is the oldest and most famous, with a breathtaking view of the surroundings. All the towers are connected by the so-called Witch's Trail - the name comes from medieval legends about witches and legends that were passed down around this wind-swept ridge.
The second tower is a museum of old weapons.
The third tower is the smallest and not open to the public. From this tower, it's just a few minutes back to the parking lot.
Surprisingly, in such a small country, you can find an official Shinto shrine (jinja), located just a 10-minute drive from the center. It was built as a memorial to the victims of the great earthquake in Japan in 2011 – created as an expression of solidarity and a remembrance of the thousands of victims of this tragedy. It is also considered the first official jinja shrine in Europe, which is a significant cultural and religious matter.
Drive to Rimini and check into your accommodation.
Get to know the famous holiday resort of Rimini, which offers an interesting and rich history or a quiet and old fishing district full of colorful little houses. You can also relax on the beach!
Start your journey through Rimini at the Arco di Augusto, which is the oldest Roman gate in Italy (from 27 BC).
Continue along the Corso d'Augusto shopping promenade to the Renaissance cathedral, which is one of the city's symbols. Originally a Gothic church, it was rebuilt into a monumental temple in the 15th century. There is an admission fee to visit the interior, payable at the entrance.
While walking through the city, visit the Rimini City Museum, which will introduce you to the history of the region and the Malatesta family - they were one of the most powerful and important noble families of medieval Italy, closely associated with the city of Rimini.
An ancient Roman bridge from the 1st century BC spanning the Marecchia River. It is one of the best-preserved Roman bridges in the world, functioning continuously for almost 2000 years. The bridge has five stone arches made of Istrian stone, and its construction demonstrates masterful Roman engineering.
After crossing the river, you'll reach the old fishing district of Rimini, where you'll find colorful paintings and street art that have transformed the narrow streets and houses into a vibrant open-air art gallery. The tradition of painting began around 1980 during a local festival, when residents started decorating the walls of their homes as an expression of identity and resistance against the disruption of the neighborhood. A great place for nice photos.
One of the best restaurants in Rimini, they have excellent chicken with vegetables, meatballs, pasta and wine. It is located in one of the alleys in the old fishing district.
After lunch, you can also stroll through Parco XXV Aprile near the Ponte di Tiberio bridge - a good place to spend a good lunch. The park is beautifully maintained and also includes a nice little embankment on the riverbank.
Rimini's coast is lined with a 15-kilometer-long sandy beach with Lungomare Rimini - a promenade along the coast. Relax here, swim in the sea, and recharge after a busy week. Some parts of the beach are paid (including sunbeds and umbrellas), but you will also find many public areas on the beach.
You will drive from Rimini to the airport, where you will return your rented car and fly home. Don't forget to leave for the airport early enough to make sure you have enough time. Be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
Return the rental car at Rimini Airport. Have a nice flight!
I hope you enjoyed your trip around the beautiful region of Italy and the microstate of San Marino, and that you will long remember all the beautiful places, majestic and historical cities, automobile museums, hidden corners, tasty food, and sunny mood. Arrivederci, Italia!
Fast cars, walks through cities with rich history, excellent cuisine and sunny beaches. Does it sound like something you want to experience? This is Italy - specifically the Emilia-Romagna region - where precise Italian automotive engineering meets the true untamed Italian atmosphere of historical cities that have something to offer everyone. Did you know that there is another leaning tower in Italy that is even more leaning than the one in Pisa?
At the same time, you will also visit a microstate surrounded by Italy, which is often forgotten, but all the more worth visiting. It has a fascinating past - it is the oldest existing republic in the world - and the views from it are breathtaking, because the entire historical center lies on Mount Titano. If traveling exhausts you, you will be able to relax on the sunny beach in the famous seaside resort. While doing all this, you will taste the best pasta with ragù or mortadella originating from this region. So pack your bags and andiamo in Italia!
Today you arrive in Bologna - welcome to Italy, benvenuti in Italia!
The airport in Bologna is small but pleasant. After arrival, pick up the car at the airport (according to the instructions you will receive before departure), you will need it during your trip.
You will spend your day in the beautiful city of Bologna walking through the center, enjoying tasty food, and exploring interesting museums and palaces. Bologna has an interesting symbol, which is the covered porticoes in the historical center of the city. You will find them everywhere, and believe me, they are a comfortable protection from both the sun and any rain. These porticoes are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are over 60 km of them in the city.
An interesting thing you'll notice while wandering around the city is the ubiquitous orange color of the facades. Bologna is the most orange city in Italy. This was originally due to the composition of the mixture of sand and clay from the surrounding area - this mixture was used to make baked bricks (terracotta), the shade of which became a symbol of Bologna. Food in Bologna is a chapter in itself - the meat sauce ragù alla Bolognese or the sausage mortadella comes from here. But beware - don't look for Bolognese spaghetti here.
If you can't park at the accommodation, a good option is the car park south of the city center, ex Staveco. You won't need the car in the city at all.
Start your day in the quiet square in the historical center, often called "Piazza delle Sette Chiese" (Square of the Seven Churches). Here you will find a collection of several interconnected churches and courtyards. The square is quiet and beautiful, you can admire the diverse buildings and churches around it.
Next, proceed to the historic university building (Archiginnasio), where the 17th-century wooden anatomical theater/dissection hall is also located. It was used for public dissections and has a huge marble table in the center. The walls and corridors of the building are covered with thousands of coats of arms of students and professors from all over Europe. Admission to the building is free, admission to the dissection hall is for a small fee, payable at the entrance.
From Archiginnasio, it is just a few steps to the main square of the city, dominated by the Basilica of San Petronio. This basilica was never completed, notice the facade, which is half marble, half brick. Originally, the basilica was intended to be the largest church in the world, but the Pope himself stopped the project so that its size would not surpass St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Admission is free (main nave, interior), some parts require a small fee.
The main square surrounded by historical buildings is the heart of historical Bologna.
The main square is dominated by a significant medieval fountain with a statue of the sea god Neptune, one of the city's most famous symbols. Locals call him Il Gigante (Giant), and even today, Neptune is one of the most daring Renaissance sculptures in a public space in the world.
If you stand in a certain spot in the square (looking at Neptune from the side at a specific angle from behind), Neptune's thumb looks like a giant penis. The sculptor reportedly did this on purpose to circumvent church censorship.
In the corner of the square, you can see a lantern that lit up every time a new child was born in the town. It served as a public celebration of life and joyful news for the townspeople.
Next to the main square, you'll find the Salaborsa main public library, which also functions as a cultural space, and in the basement, you can see archaeological finds – the remains of original settlements and the Roman city of Bononia from the 2nd century BC, making the library a small, interesting museum.
For lunch, I recommend this restaurant where you can taste authentic Bolognese ragù with pasta. Ragù alla bolognese, as a traditional meat sauce, comes from Bologna, but it is not traditionally served with spaghetti, as you may be used to at home. Ideally, it is eaten with tagliatelle, gnocchi, or another type of pasta.
What would a visit to Italy be without a visit to a pinacoteca? The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna is a gallery exhibiting a collection of Italian art from the 13th to the 18th centuries. You can find it in the building of a former Jesuit monastery and see works by artists such as Raphael, Giotto, or Parmigianino. Tickets at the box office.
Want to feel like you're in Venice? This small opening window in one of the alleys offers a unique view of the city's old canal surrounded by colorful buildings. The whole neighborhood is called Little Venice because of the preserved water canal - there used to be many more of them in the city, used for boat transport of goods, but many of them were filled in.
You'll definitely be hungry after a full day of exploring the city. I recommend a restaurant/fast food place with fresh mortadella sandwiches - it traditionally comes from here, and in a sandwich, for example, with mozzarella and basil, it is absolutely delicious. Mortadella is made either classic or containing, for example, pistachios.
Another day awaits you in this picturesque city. You can reach the pilgrimage site towering above the city via the longest portico in the world and visit a typical market place full of colors, scents, and flavors.
In the Middle Ages, Bologna had more than 100 towers built by wealthy families. They served as a demonstration of power, prestige, but also in the defense of the city - today you will see two of them.
Start your day at the Two Towers - Le Due Torri - which are an unmistakable landmark of the city. The Gariselda Tower is even more inclined than the one in Pisa, by one-tenth of a degree (Gariselda has an inclination of 4° and the tower in Pisa 3.9°). In the 14th century, Gariselda even had to be shortened because it was leaning too dangerously to the side and threatened to collapse.
Entry is only possible to the Torre degli Asinelli, not to Gariselda. Advance booking here.
A medieval palace from the 14th century, now housing the city's history museum, is a great place to learn something new about the city's history. The palace is named after the prominent Pepoli family, who built the palace as a testament to their power and wealth in 1344. Tickets available at the box office at the entrance.
Next, go to the Quadrilatero district with its narrow and romantic streets that invite you to take a walk. Moreover, it is the gastronomic center of Bologna, you will find many restaurants, trattorias and the Mercatto di Mezzo market, where you can enjoy an excellent lunch - you can taste traditional cheeses, sausages, wine or have fresh pasta.
In the afternoon, take a beautiful walk outside the city. The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is a Baroque pilgrimage basilica that rises on a hill above the city and is one of the most important symbols of the city. The longest portico in the world leads from the city center to the basilica – approximately 3.8 km long and comprising 666 arches. After climbing the hill, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Bologna, the mountains, and the surrounding landscape. Admission to the basilica is free, there is a fee for the sightseeing route in the dome, but the view is worth it.
For dinner, after a walking trip, I recommend a bistro called Ragù, which already suggests what their main attraction is. Here you can have pasta, panini, or even a burger with tasty ragù. It's worth a try!
Who doesn't know Ferrari and Lamborghini, manufacturers of fast, precise, and expensive super sports cars? Ferrari is known for its distinctive red color and emphasis on performance and design. In addition, Lamborghini cars are known for their bold, aggressive design and powerful engines. The museums of these car manufacturers, with a horse and a bull in their logo, are ideal for all age categories.
From Bologna, take an hour-long trip northwest to the center of automotive engineering.
The museum is located directly in the hometown of the Ferrari brand, near the factory and test track. You will see legendary Ferrari models – from historic cars to supercars to Formula 1 specials. Various tours are available, from a classic museum tour to a bus ride through the factory grounds, where you will learn about the production of supercars from component assembly to the paint shop to the test track. Book in advance here. It is advisable to buy tickets as a package with the following museum. I recommend parking in front of the museum, but if the parking lot is full, there is another parking lot in Via Claudia 234, which is only a 5-minute walk to the museum.
A short distance from Maranello is a modern museum that tells in more detail about the founder of the brand, and you will also see even more supercars. An interesting fact is that the modern glass building itself resembles, from above, the aerodynamic engine cover of a yellow supercar located behind the seats, and the architect of the project is the Czech architect Jan Kaplický. In contrast to the modern building, across the street is the old brick house of Enzo Ferrari, where the founder of Ferrari was born and lived.
A bit further away is the museum of another supercar manufacturer and eternal rival of Ferrari - Lamborghini. The Lamborghini Museum is located in the town of Sant'Agata Bolognese, right where the Lamborghini brand was founded and is still based today. You will learn interesting facts about the history of the brand and see legendary models such as Miura, Countach, Diablo or Murciélago, as well as the latest supercars and concepts that show the future development of the brand. Tickets can be purchased here. If you are a true fan, you can also purchase a tour directly in the factory, where you will see the individual production processes (but beware, factory tours are only possible on weekdays).
You will visit the picturesque microstate surrounded by Italy - San Marino, with an area of only 61 km2. It is the oldest republic in the world - founded in 301 and still functioning as a republic. It is not a member of the European Union, but the euro is the currency - the state mints its own coins with a unique design. The state has never been conquered by anyone and has two presidents-regents, each with a term of only 6 months. You also won't find a single traffic light in this state - traffic is not heavy and roundabouts are sufficient.
Since the parking lots can be full during the season, I recommend setting off early in the morning. However, there are plenty of parking lots, ideally park at P6 or P7, which are closest to the center.
The entire historical center of the state is located on Mount Titano and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the parking lot, take a walk through the center.
The first stop is symbolic - the museum of this beautiful little country. 4 floors of art, works and history. Tickets available at the museum ticket office.
Then continue to the main square, dominated by the Palazzo Pubblico (Town Hall). In the middle of the town hall stands the Statue of Liberty, which is a symbol of the republic's freedom. The views from the square are breathtaking.
Take a stroll down Via Eugippo, which is full of souvenir shops. Another stop is also located on this street. Cava dei Balestrieri is a former quarry that was created in the 19th century to extract stone for buildings in the city, especially for the renovation of the town hall. Gradually, it was used as an amphitheater and cultural space. Today, crossbow shooting demonstrations and competitions are held here – San Marino has a long tradition of crossbow shooting. If you are lucky, you will see some folk festival or ceremony taking place in the city.
More or less everywhere you go in San Marino, you will be greeted by beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. You can also see the Italian coast with the Adriatic Sea or the Apennine Mountains. This viewpoint, Il Cantone, is just a few steps from the previous stop.
Walk to the main cathedral of San Marino. It was built in the 19th century in the neoclassical style on the site of an older Romanesque basilica. The interior is simple but impressive. Admission is free.
Stop by this famous restaurant for lunch. San Marino's cuisine is heavily influenced by Italian cuisine - have pasta, ravioli, grilled meat or fish.
Continue on foot to the three towers, which are a well-known symbol of the city. Specifically, these are the Guaita, Cesta, and Montale towers. You are starting at Guaita, which is the oldest and most famous, with a breathtaking view of the surroundings. All the towers are connected by the so-called Witch's Trail - the name comes from medieval legends about witches and legends that were passed down around this wind-swept ridge.
The second tower is a museum of old weapons.
The third tower is the smallest and not open to the public. From this tower, it's just a few minutes back to the parking lot.
Surprisingly, in such a small country, you can find an official Shinto shrine (jinja), located just a 10-minute drive from the center. It was built as a memorial to the victims of the great earthquake in Japan in 2011 – created as an expression of solidarity and a remembrance of the thousands of victims of this tragedy. It is also considered the first official jinja shrine in Europe, which is a significant cultural and religious matter.
Drive to Rimini and check into your accommodation.
Get to know the famous holiday resort of Rimini, which offers an interesting and rich history or a quiet and old fishing district full of colorful little houses. You can also relax on the beach!
Start your journey through Rimini at the Arco di Augusto, which is the oldest Roman gate in Italy (from 27 BC).
Continue along the Corso d'Augusto shopping promenade to the Renaissance cathedral, which is one of the city's symbols. Originally a Gothic church, it was rebuilt into a monumental temple in the 15th century. There is an admission fee to visit the interior, payable at the entrance.
While walking through the city, visit the Rimini City Museum, which will introduce you to the history of the region and the Malatesta family - they were one of the most powerful and important noble families of medieval Italy, closely associated with the city of Rimini.
An ancient Roman bridge from the 1st century BC spanning the Marecchia River. It is one of the best-preserved Roman bridges in the world, functioning continuously for almost 2000 years. The bridge has five stone arches made of Istrian stone, and its construction demonstrates masterful Roman engineering.
After crossing the river, you'll reach the old fishing district of Rimini, where you'll find colorful paintings and street art that have transformed the narrow streets and houses into a vibrant open-air art gallery. The tradition of painting began around 1980 during a local festival, when residents started decorating the walls of their homes as an expression of identity and resistance against the disruption of the neighborhood. A great place for nice photos.
One of the best restaurants in Rimini, they have excellent chicken with vegetables, meatballs, pasta and wine. It is located in one of the alleys in the old fishing district.
After lunch, you can also stroll through Parco XXV Aprile near the Ponte di Tiberio bridge - a good place to spend a good lunch. The park is beautifully maintained and also includes a nice little embankment on the riverbank.
Rimini's coast is lined with a 15-kilometer-long sandy beach with Lungomare Rimini - a promenade along the coast. Relax here, swim in the sea, and recharge after a busy week. Some parts of the beach are paid (including sunbeds and umbrellas), but you will also find many public areas on the beach.
You will drive from Rimini to the airport, where you will return your rented car and fly home. Don't forget to leave for the airport early enough to make sure you have enough time. Be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
Return the rental car at Rimini Airport. Have a nice flight!
I hope you enjoyed your trip around the beautiful region of Italy and the microstate of San Marino, and that you will long remember all the beautiful places, majestic and historical cities, automobile museums, hidden corners, tasty food, and sunny mood. Arrivederci, Italia!
