San Marino

At a Glance

San Marino is one of the world's smallest and oldest republics, a hilltop city-state in the heart of Italy with medieval towers, panoramic views over the Adriatic coast, and a history of independence stretching back to the 4th century. Life here is quiet and orderly, with a lot of souvenir shops and day-trippers from the surrounding Italian coast. It is best enjoyed as part of a wider Italian itinerary rather than as a primary destination.

• World's oldest surviving republic — founded 301 AD.
• Entirely surrounded by Italy, yet has been independent longer than Italy itself.
• Has more cars than people.