Europe
Three hilltop towers and one of the world's oldest republics.
San Marino is a tiny republic entirely surrounded by Italy, perched on the slopes of Monte Titano. Its historic centre and three medieval towers, Guaita, Cesta and Montale, sit along the ridge with sweeping views towards the Adriatic and the Apennines. It claims to be the oldest surviving republic in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Most people visit as a day trip from Rimini, by bus, walking the steep lanes, towers and small museums before heading back to the coast. Food is Italian, from piadina to local wine and the layered Torta Tre Monti. May, June and September are ideal; summer weekends are busy, and winter is quiet and chilly.
May, June, September.