San Marino is an amazing destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have and amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to San Marino?
A typical traveler spends $282 (€240) per day on a trip to San Marino. This is the average daily price for a vacation in San Marino based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $123 (€105) on meals
- $72 (€61) on local transportation
- $181 (€154) on hotels
A one-week trip to San Marino for two people costs, on average, $3,942 (€3,360). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is San Marino expensive to visit?
San Marino is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, San Marino is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Luxembourg or Monaco.
In San Marino, budget travelers spend $123 (€105) per person per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $281 (€240) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $539 (€461) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to San Marino.
Whether you're watching your wallet or ready to splurge, San Marino provides a range of accommodation options and things to do. For travelers on a budget, there are affordable hotels, while those seeking luxury can enjoy high-end stays, with mid-range hotels also available for couples and families.
While San Marino can be costly, following advice like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can make your trip more affordable.
For more details, see Is San Marino Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to San Marino?
The average San Marino trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these San Marino travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to San Marino cost?
San Marino on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$39
(€34)
|
$90
(€77)
|
$174
(€149)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$32
(€27)
|
$72
(€61)
|
$138
(€117)
|
|
Food2
|
$54
(€46)
|
$123
(€105)
|
$235
(€200)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$8.58
(€7.31)
|
$20
(€17)
|
$37
(€32)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$5-14
(€4-12)
|
$11-33
(€9-28)
|
$21-62
(€18-53)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to San Marino without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
Many people hear that you can visit San Marino for $123 per day, but unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a significant amount more.
Backpackers can often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
As a couple or family, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore major museums and attractions, many of which have entry fees. You won't want to miss all of the major sights and attractions. Since most things cost money, your daily budget should realistically be closer to $281 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in San Marino. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. In places like City Of San Marino, which are particularly family-friendly, you'll find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Also, in City Of San Marino, Hotel Rosa City Of San Marino is a good kid-friendly option, and in City Of San Marino, Hotel La Grotta is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for San Marino here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $539 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and hire private drivers to get around, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. With this level of spending, you'll be traveling alongside the rich and famous in places like the major cities and resort areas. Or you could plan an multi-day adventure by booking a higher end tour such as Best of Italy - offered by Collette.
Accommodation Budget in San Marino
In San Marino, you'll find a wide range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Peak season brings higher costs, but if you travel in the off-season, prices drop. Booking ahead is another great way to save some money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in San Marino for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $181 (€154). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $90 (€77) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in San Marino? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in San Marino
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $72 (€61) per person, per day, on local transportation in San Marino. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in San Marino is significantly more than public transportation.
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Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$72
€61
Food Budget in San Marino
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in San Marino can vary significantly, the average cost of food in San Marino is $123 (€105) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$123
€105
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in San Marino is around $123 (€105) per person, with previous travelers spending from $54 to $235. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in San Marino are as follows:
- Breakfast: $22 to $37
- Lunch: $18 to $61
- Dinner: $43 to $98
- Coffee: $11
- Fast Food or Street Food: $20
San Marino's cuisine is heavily influenced by Italian traditions but includes unique local twists. One of the must-try dishes is nidi di rondine (swallow's nests), a rich baked pasta dish rolled with ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce. Other local favorites include torta tre monti, a layered wafer cake filled with chocolate or hazelnut cream, symbolizing the three towers of San Marino.
For dining, La Terrazza offers delicious traditional fare with a view over the valley below, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion. Ristorante Righi, a Michelin-starred restaurant located on Piazza della Libertà, serves elevated Sammarinese cuisine with seasonal ingredients. For a casual meal, Il Beccafico and La Fratta are popular choices, offering hearty Italian-style dishes and local wines in cozy settings.
When dining with children, make sure to find restaurants that offer a childrens' menu. This can save you a considerable amount, as those meals are usually much cheaper. Also, remember that some restaurants might not list the kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask your waiter.
Many hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some may charge extra for it. The price and quality of breakfast can differ greatly between hotels. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you want to spend more on that hotel buffet or if a nearby bakery or café would be a more budget-friendly option.
Instead of purchasing drinks everywhere, bring a water bottle along. It's also an eco-conscious choice.
Before you head out on a tour, it's important to check which meals are included. If you have to pay for some meals yourself, it could affect your overall budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in San Marino
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in San Marino typically cost an average of $20 (€17) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$20
€17
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore San Marino. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Private Tour of UNESCO World Heritage Site for $172 details
- San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour for $153 details
- A Self Guided Audio Tour for $7 details
- Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience for $9 details
Nightlife Budget in San Marino
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $22 (€19) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in San Marino per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$22
€19
While enjoying the local nightlife is part of the adventure, limiting drinks can help stretch your travel funds.
Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 12, 2025
Traveling in San Marino
San Marino
San Marino, one of the world's smallest and oldest republics, is a captivating microstate perched atop Mount Titano in the heart of Italy. Despite its modest size, this independent nation boasts dramatic views, ancient architecture, and a fascinating history that stretches back to 301 AD. With its medieval fortresses, quaint cobblestone streets, and tax-free shopping, San Marino offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences, making it a worthwhile detour for travelers exploring northern Italy.
Top Tourist Attractions
The historic heart of San Marino is the old city of San Marino, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning medieval architecture. The crown jewels of this area are the Three Towers of San Marino - Guaita, Cesta, and Montale - perched along the ridge of Mount Titano. Guaita, the oldest and most accessible, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while Cesta houses a fascinating museum of ancient weapons.
Piazza della Liberta, the central square, is home to the Palazzo Pubblico, or Public Palace, the seat of San Marino's government. With its neo-Gothic facade and scenic setting, the palace is open for tours when not in session. Nearby, the Basilica di San Marino honors the country's founder and showcases neoclassical architecture and relics of Saint Marinus himself.
For museum lovers, the Museo di Stato features archaeological finds and artwork, giving a glimpse into San Marino's long and storied past. There are also quirkier museums, like the Museum of Curiosities and the Torture Museum, for those with niche interests.
Beyond sightseeing, San Marino is an ideal destination for leisurely exploration. Strolling through its narrow medieval alleys, browsing boutiques, and snapping photos from the cliffside viewpoints are pleasures in themselves. The historic center is pedestrian-only, making it perfect for a relaxed wander.
San Marino is also known for its tax-free shopping, especially for leather goods, perfumes, jewelry, and electronics. The Serravalle area hosts shopping centers and outlet stores for those looking to score deals.
For active travelers, hiking the trails around Mount Titano offers rewarding views and a peaceful escape into nature. The Passo delle Streghe (Witches' Path) between the first and second towers is particularly scenic. During certain times of the year, San Marino hosts medieval festivals and events with historical reenactments, traditional costumes, and artisan markets.
San Marino does not have its own airport or train station, but it's easily reached from nearby cities in Italy. The closest major airport is Federico Fellini International Airport in Rimini, about 25 km (16 miles) away. From Rimini, travelers can take a regular bus service (Rimini-San Marino line), which runs several times a day and drops passengers right at the historic center.
While there are no internal railways, San Marino is small enough to explore entirely on foot. Most of the key attractions are concentrated within the Old Town, and the pedestrian-friendly layout makes walking the preferred mode of transport. For those staying outside the center, taxis and car rentals are available, and there are a few local bus routes connecting the surrounding towns within the republic.
With its striking mountaintop vistas, intriguing history, and relaxed pace, San Marino offers an enriching travel experience that combines culture, scenery, and charm—all packed into one tiny yet impressive destination.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.