I satyed in San Marino and was glad i did. In the daytime, especially in summer this tiny town is one of the most heavily touristed places anywhere - elbow to elbow folks flocking here to mainly buy tax-low cigarettes and booze it seemed.

But it's a lovely place - especially when tourists have departed back to Rimini beaches at night.

Some sweet little hill villages nearby and lovely panoramas over neat countryside.

PalenQ - you and I agree on this one 100%. By day, loads of bus tours and very crowded. In the evening after the daytrippers depart, you are left with a beautiful, walled medieval town nearly all to yourself. We found the prices there a bargain compared to surrounding Italy. Overnight is enough.

Arian:

I agree with the others above, that overnight is the best asnwer...however, because we had a ferry reservation to catch in Ancona, we decided to spend the better part of a day and it worked out very nicely.
It was not as crowded as a we expected, espepcially since it was on an April 1st.."Investiture Day" when the new 6-month "President" is sworn in. Pomp and circumstance abounded, very colorful and fun to watch.
So whatever you decide, this spotless little mountaintop country is a unique experience..and yes, the restaurant prices seemed a lot more reasonable than those in surrounding Italy.

(Park in the ample parking garages, and take the elevator to the top. There is a very good photo-op electronic "Welcome to San Marino" sign at the elevators).

Stu T.

and most of the crowd swarms around the tacky shops by the 'royal palace' but rarely it seems ambles up to the two old fortresses or whatever on two pinnacles right in town - sweeping views, etc.

i'd go in the day if that's all i could. Buy some postage stamps!

Yes, PQ...we noticed that..and spent most of our time after the Investiture
up on the heights and in the "lower town" which is quite nice. You're right, even a day is well worth it if you're in the region.

Aside from this Forum, I have yet to meet anyone or hear of anyone who has been to RSM.

stu T.

I would definately spend the night.
It has a wonderful ambience when the
daytrippers are gone.

And you can add one more country to your list.

I agree with staying over. We just "stumbled" into San Marino on a trip and were glad we did. Try to stay at the hotel on the main street that has rooms overlooking the valley.