Entertainment In San Marino

Despite being one of the worlds smallest republics, San Marino still has a number of entertainment options. There is some excellent Italian cuisine to be enjoyed, and dining in a small local restaurant in one of San Marinos villages is an experience to savour. As one of Europes tax havens, San Marino attracts many visitors for its shopping. The 20 per cent Italian sales tax doesnt exist here and there are also some excellent souvenirs to be bought, in particular, San Marino coins and stamps. San Marino has a small but interesting theatre and music scene.

Eating out

Eating out with family and friends is a favourite pastime for locals and visitors alike in San Marino, and rather than have formal closing times, restaurants tend to stay open until the last diners have departed. As you would expect, the restaurants in San Marino have a strong Italian emphasis, although it is also possible to find a range of cuisines throughout the republic. Surrounded by a region of Italy famous for many great dishes, it is well worth visiting some of San Marinos small villages to enjoy the atmosphere and some wonderful Italian specialities. The closest village to the old city, Borgo Maggiore has a number of good eateries.

Local cuisine

Some of Italys most famous pasta dishes originate from this region including tortellini, lasagne, tagliatelle, cannelloni and ravioli. Roasted rabbit with fennel is a popular local dish, and with Bologna just a short drive away, the spaghetti Bolognese is also something of a local speciality, traditionally made with beef and pancetta. Desserts famous in the area include cacciatello (like a crme caramel) and San Marino tart. There are a number of good quality, locally produced wines, in particular Sangiovese, Muscat and Biancale. After an evening of fine dining, you can relax with a glass of Mistra, the local liquer.

Theatre and music

There are a number of different possibilities for theatre and music lovers in San Marinos eight villages. The magnificent Concordia Theatre in Borgo Maggiore hosts some interesting events including an international piano competition. There are regular accordion concerts at the Nuovo Dogana theatre in the village of La Dogana. Also you will find smaller venues in some of the other villages and it is well worth enquiring about events during your visit.

Shopping

San Marino is a popular shopping destination, as goods here are not subject to the 20 per cent sales tax you would have to pay in Italy.

There are numerous souvenir shops, many of which stock a wide range of replica weapons. These items have become popular souvenirs for any visitor to the republic and range from knives and swords to chain mail armour.

One of San Marinos biggest sources of income is from the sale of commemorative stamps and coins, and these are keenly sought by both serious collectors and tourists to the republic. One of the most sought after items is the famous Scudi, San Marinos gold coin. There is an official stamp and coin souvenir shop in the city centre.

Like other states within the Euro zone, San Marino has its own designs on the back of its Euro coins and sets of these can be bought from most souvenir shops.