I spent 3 nights in Bologna, but my day trips meant that I was hardly in Bologna at all! I snapped some pictures the afternoon I arrived but I didn't have a chance to investigate too much of the city unfortunately. It had a very different atmosphere than Rome or Florence. Here are a few of my photos from a city I hope to eventually return to.
One of my aforementioned day trips from Bologna was to the Most Serene Republic of San Marino just a couple of hours south by train and bus. It's one of those really little countries that often gets overlooked, which is a shame because visiting it is like stepping into a fairy tale. The republic was founded on September 3, 301–nope, not a typo, San Marino really is 1,700 years old.
The main attraction in San Marino has to be to the Three Towers. They are a symbol of San Marino and you'll spot them everywhere if you keep your eyes open.
The first tower is called Guaita and was built in the 11th century, though it was modified and enlarged as “recently” as the 15th century.
A zigzag stone walkway leads along a ridge to the second tower, Cesta, where you'll find a small arms museum inside.
Perched on a green cliff, Cesta has a spectacular view of the San Marino and Italy.
To reach the top level of the tower, be prepared to climb an insanely steep staircase/ladder.
The third and final tower, Montale, is reached by a short walk through a wooded section and is the only tower which is not open to the public. Unlike the other 2 towers which are more like proper forts, Montale is a simple tower.
The Piazza della Liberta.
There are plenty of churches and museums in San Marino. The Museum of Torture seemed to be a popular one but I figured I'd skip it.
I don't usually buy souvenirs when I travel but, like any traveler, I love collecting passport stamps so I shelled out the €5 for a San Marino stamp.
