San Marino (SM)

A compact, high-income microstate entirely surrounded by Italy, known for low taxes, strong public administration, hilltop heritage, cross-border dependence on Italy and a small but rules-heavy residence system.

Capital: San Marino City

Region: Europe

Language: Italian

Currency: EUR (€)

Cost of living: Moderate (index 65)

Emergency: 112

Getting Around

Transport options for living in San Marino.

Public Transport Overview

San Marino has no airport or railway. Daily mobility is based on buses, cars, taxis, the Borgo Maggiore cable car, and cross-border access through Rimini.

Main operators:

AASS public transportBorgo Maggiore cable carRimini-San Marino buslocal taxi operatorsRimini railway stationBologna and Rimini airportsItalian regional bus/rail networks

🎫 Transit Passes

AASS local bus ticket/pass Low EUR fares; passes/tariffs change periodically

Local San Marino bus routes

💡 Coverage is useful but limited by the microstate geography and hilltop layout.

Rimini-San Marino bus Route fare in EUR

Cross-border bus link between Rimini and San Marino

💡 Essential for non-drivers arriving by train.

Funivia cable car ticket Single/return tourist-commuter fare

Borgo Maggiore to San Marino City

💡 Fastest way to avoid historic-centre parking pressure.

Taxi & Rideshare

Taxis exist but are limited. Book ahead for early departures, late returns, hospital visits or airport transfers.

Rideshare (Long-distance)

International rideshare coverage is not reliable; Italian apps may not work consistently across the border.

Cycling

Road cycling is scenic but steep and mixed with tourist traffic. E-bikes help, but storage and road confidence matter.

Intercity Trains

No railway inside San Marino. Use Rimini station for Trenitalia regional, Intercity and high-speed connections via Bologna/Ancona.

Driving

Driving is on the right. Speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas; lower limits apply near the historic centre and on steep mountain roads. Steep roads, tight parking, ZTL-style historic areas, Italian border errands and winter fog make car planning important.

Airports

Closest practical airports are Rimini and Bologna; many international expats use Bologna because of wider flights and rail links.