We will be in Bologna early January and are trying to find a couple of good day trips. We will be staying in Rome, Florence and Ferrara as well so those areas are covered. I have heard that San Marino is stunning with amazing views but a bit tricky to get to via public transportation (which we will be using). Has anyone been? Good trip in January? Also, any other suggestions are welcome. We are easy going adults who use public transportation and like like to take our time and enjoy food, architecture, and castles.
Posted by
Washington DC
28388 posts
I haven't been to San Marino, but I don't think it rates anywhere near Ravenna. Alternatively, Ravenna could be a day-trip from Ferrara.
Padua also has a lot of sightseeing options and is a viable day-trip from Ferrara; the trip takes as little as 35 minutes by train.
Posted by
Boston
1807 posts
We were very disappointed with San Marino. Dramatic location, many souvenir shops, many banks, end of list. Ravenna is nice, Parma is a gem.
Posted by
Vignola, Modena, Italy
564 posts
For San Marino there isn't a better period for a visit, even if January could be a good moment because there aren't the Summer tourists.
In any case if you haven't been to Ravenna, Parma or Modena these are much better daytrips than San Marino.
As castles unfortunately the most aren't easy to be reached by train from Bologna. I can suggest you Vignola and Carpi. The first is more interesting in my opinion, but Carpi is a bigger town with something more to visit.
In January remember that northern Italy could be cold, with rain and we hope snow. Visit Modena or Parma where you can find even a lot of indoor activities (museums and churches) is a better option.
Posted by
494 posts
San Marino, excellent place to get that Tshirt or hoodie. San Leo is close by and marvelous.
Posted by
Vignola, MO, IT
710 posts
San Marino does have stunning views but other than that and that it is a separate country there is not much going for it. Very touristy... lots of little shops. Parma is nice also but I prefer Ravenna and usually bring people to Ravenna. The mosaics are beautiful. Modena is also an easy day trip from Bologna as well as Vignola (I live part time in Vignola but think you'd like the other towns more!). Imola is small but quaint also.
Posted by
Milwaukie, Oregon
1057 posts
There’s a great day long tour from Bologna that takes you to a parmigiana factory, a balsamic vinegar producer, a prosciutto factory and either a winery or the Ferrari factory and ends with a fabulous meal (in addition to generous samples at each venue). I loved this!