San Marino

Located in central Italy, San Marino is the third smallest state in Europe. Only The Vatican and Monaco are smaller.

Local tradition holds that the country was founded in 301 A.D. by a stonemason named Marino. If true, this would make San Marino the world’s oldest republic.

The weather in mountainous San Marino is pleasant with warm Mediterranean summers and cool winters.

2.1 million visitors per year travel to the tiny country with a population of just 29,000. Tourism is in fact the largest industry and visitors will find numerous accommodations and the dining options are varied.

Italian is the most common language though English, German and Spanish can be heard in tourist areas.

Reported incidence of crime is low though as with most vacation areas, travelers should be alert for pick-pockets and other petty crime.