Arriving at Rimini train station only to find there is no direct rail link to San Marino catches many travelers off guard. The shuttle bus is the only public option, and buying a ticket requires knowing which tobacco shop sells them, in cash, before you board.

  • Bus from Rimini: 50-60 minutes, departs across from Rimini train station (near Hotel Napoleon)
  • Tickets: cash only at the Tabaccheria opposite the station
  • Drop-off: Parcheggio 2 (P2) at the base of the historic center
  • Border: open, no passport check required
  • By car from Rimini: under 1 hour on well-signed roads

Taking the Bus from Rimini

The shuttle is operated by Bonelli Bus and Benedettini and runs every day of the year. The schedule shifts between summer and winter timetables, so check departure times online before leaving your hotel.

Where to Buy Tickets and Find the Stop

Tickets are strictly cash only. The authorized Tabaccheria sits directly across the street from Rimini train station and usually displays a sign for San Marino bus tickets. Buy a return ticket at the same time to avoid searching for a vendor later.

Tabaccheria tobacco shop near Rimini station where San Marino bus tickets are sold for cash
Bus tickets are sold only at the authorized Tabaccheria across from the station. Cards are not accepted.

The bus stop is on the same street, steps from the Hotel Napoleon. A ticket covers your transport but not a guaranteed seat. Standing is permitted when the bus fills. Arriving early secures a window spot.

Bus to San Marino parked across from Rimini train station with passengers boarding in the morning
The San Marino bus stop is on the street directly opposite Rimini train station, near the Hotel Napoleon.

Arriving at Parcheggio 2

The ride climbs steep, winding roads up Monte Titano. The bus drops passengers at P2, the main transit hub for the historic center.

Winding road ascending from the Rimini plain up to San Marino on Monte Titano through green hillsides
The drive from Rimini takes under an hour. The roads climb steadily once you leave the coast.

From there, elevators and stone staircases lead up to the old town and the Three Towers.

Check the return schedule posted at P2 immediately on arrival. Missing the last evening bus means paying for a taxi or an unplanned hotel night. For a full one-day plan once you arrive at the top, see the San Marino day trip itinerary.

Driving from Rimini

Renting a car gives flexibility to explore the wider Emilia-Romagna region. The drive from the coast takes under an hour on well-maintained, clearly signposted roads. Crossing the border feels no different from entering another Italian municipality.

Parking and the Cable Car

Driving into the narrow upper streets is impractical. The better approach is to park in Borgo Maggiore, where large car parks sit next to the San Marino cable car. The ride takes two minutes and deposits you directly into the historic center with views over the Adriatic coast.

Parcheggio 2 parking area at the base of San Marino historic center where the bus drops passengers
The bus terminates at P2. From here, elevators and staircases lead directly up to the historic center.

Is There a Train to San Marino?

No. Rail infrastructure stops at the Italian coast. Rimini is the closest train station, and all traffic up the mountain uses the road network.

If arriving by train, allow at least 45 minutes between your train arrival and the bus departure. That buffer absorbs minor delays without forcing a missed connection.