At Porta San Francesco, your journey begins. As you step through the medieval arch, your licensed guide welcomes you into the living history of the world’s oldest Republic. Founded in the 4th century and still proudly independent, San Marino is a treasure of stone walls, towers, and timeless views.
During this 1.5-hour private walking tour, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed heart of the Republic and learn how a tiny mountain community became a symbol of freedom in Europe. The walk follows the ancient route through the cobbled streets of the old town, lined with artisan shops and panoramic terraces overlooking the Italian countryside.
Your first stop is Piazza della Libertà, the civic heart of San Marino, where the flag waves in front of the Palazzo Pubblico, seat of the Captains Regent and the Great Council. From there, you’ll continue to the Basilica del Santo, the neoclassical church dedicated to Saint Marino, the humble stonecutter who founded the Republic on Mount Titano. The air smells faintly of old stone and wind—every step here echoes centuries of self-governance and peace.
The route climbs toward the First Tower (Guaita), perched dramatically on the cliff edge. From its walls, you’ll admire one of the most breathtaking panoramas in Europe: rolling hills, fortress walls, and the blue line of the Adriatic Sea on the horizon. It’s the perfect place for a photo and a moment of silence to take in the spirit of this ancient Republic.
Along the way, your guide shares stories of medieval defense, secret passages, and the resilience that helped San Marino stay free through wars and empires. You’ll discover local anecdotes, fun curiosities, and a few lesser-known corners often missed by larger groups.
As a guest of San Marino Experience, you’ll also receive a free digital eBook with stories, photos, and tips for exploring the Republic on your own, plus an exclusive discount code for the official Museum & Towers Pass — allowing you to keep discovering after the tour.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been before, this private experience offers a deeper, more personal understanding of a nation that has survived the centuries without losing its soul.
Book now and walk through history — one stone at a time.
