San Leo
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of San Leo is situated within the Province of Rimini and has a population of around 2,900 residents.
It stands at an elevation of 589 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include San Marino, Verucchio, Longiano, Rimini and Riccione. |
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What People Ask About San Leo
Is San Leo worth visiting?
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Discover San Leo
San Leo, located in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a historic town perched high on a rocky hill in the heart of the Montefeltro area. Known for its stunning views, medieval architecture, and rich cultural heritage, San Leo offers visitors a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. The town’s ancient streets, traditional stone buildings, and dramatic setting make it a must-see destination for those looking to explore both its historic landmarks and the surrounding countryside.
San Leo is famous for its Fortress of San Leo, a massive fortress that dates back to Roman times and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The Chiesa di San Leone, a small but significant church, adds to the town’s historical appeal. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, San Leo offers a variety of hiking and cycling trails that lead through the nearby hills, providing breathtaking views of the Montefeltro region. The town’s combination of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and peaceful surroundings makes it a perfect base for exploring the Emilia-Romagna region.
San Leo is famous for its Fortress of San Leo, a massive fortress that dates back to Roman times and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The Chiesa di San Leone, a small but significant church, adds to the town’s historical appeal. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, San Leo offers a variety of hiking and cycling trails that lead through the nearby hills, providing breathtaking views of the Montefeltro region. The town’s combination of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and peaceful surroundings makes it a perfect base for exploring the Emilia-Romagna region.
Things to Do
Things to Do in San Leo
- San Leo Fortress dominates the rocky outcrop above the town and is one of the most striking castles in Italy. Rebuilt by Francesco di Giorgio Martini in the 15th century, it later served as a prison. Visitors can tour its bastions, dungeons and panoramic terraces. Exhibits inside recount its military history and famous inmates, including Count Cagliostro.
- Cathedral of San Leone dates to the 12th century and is a fine example of Romanesque architecture in Montefeltro. Built in warm local stone, it features sculpted capitals and a crypt beneath the presbytery. The adjacent bell tower stands on the site of a former Roman temple. The cathedral sits on a raised platform overlooking the valley.
- Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta is even older, built in the 9th century on the remains of a Roman structure. The interior is austere, with three naves supported by massive columns. It’s considered one of the region’s most important early medieval churches. The church lies close to the main square, near the edge of the cliff.
- Panoramic walks around the cliff offer exceptional views of the Marecchia Valley and Apennine peaks. Paths run along the town walls and lead to natural viewpoints. Clear weather reveals distant landmarks across Emilia-Romagna and Le Marche. The routes are short but steep, with benches along the way.
- Cultural festivals and historical events are held throughout the year, often involving music, theatre and medieval reenactments. The fortress hosts summer concerts and evening tours. In August, events honour Count Cagliostro’s legacy with guided visits and performances. Seasonal markets and artisan fairs fill the main square in spring and autumn.
San Leo Tours and Activities
Comune di San Leo
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Province: Rimini
Region: Emilia Romagna Population: 2,805 (in 2024 - source) Size: 53 km² Elevation: 589 metres Close by: San Marino, Verucchio, Longiano, Rimini, Riccione |
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One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: La Fortezza del Mago (The Fortress of the Wizard) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Typical product: Liquore di Cagliostro 1 of 12 in Emilia Romagna listed by Touring Club Italiano |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in San Leo
- Locanda La Rocca Situated in the heart of San Leo’s historic centre, this inn offers traditionally furnished rooms with views over the surrounding hills. Guests appreciate the on-site restaurant serving regional cuisine, the central location near the fortress, and the atmosphere of the medieval building. €€ (mid-range)
- Albergo Castello Located just outside the main square, this small hotel features cosy rooms with classic décor and en-suite bathrooms. Visitors enjoy the warm hospitality, hearty breakfast, and close proximity to the cathedral, museums, and panoramic viewpoints. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B San Leo Positioned a short walk from the town centre, this bed and breakfast offers rooms with countryside views and a shared terrace. Guests value the welcoming hosts, homemade breakfast, and easy access to the historic centre on foot. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Poggio Duca Set in the countryside around 10 minutes’ drive from San Leo, this farmhouse offers rustic-style rooms and a restaurant serving dishes made from local ingredients. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, panoramic views, and opportunities for walking and cycling. €€ (mid-range)
- La Torretta Located in the nearby hamlet of Pietracuta, this guest house offers modern rooms with private balconies and garden views. Guests appreciate the clean, comfortable accommodation and the short drive to San Leo’s historic attractions. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in San Leo
- Ristorante La Rocca: Located near the entrance to the historic centre, La Rocca offers refined Romagna cuisine in an elegant dining room with panoramic views. The menu features seasonal ingredients, fresh pasta, and game dishes such as wild boar and venison, ideal for a special meal after visiting the fortress. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria Belvedere: Situated along one of San Leo’s scenic lanes, this cosy osteria serves traditional dishes including tagliatelle with mushrooms, grilled meats, and local cheeses. The rustic interior and attentive service make it a popular choice for visitors seeking authentic regional flavours. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria La Corte: Found close to the main square, La Corte specialises in home-style cooking with a menu that includes passatelli in broth, roast rabbit, and piadina with cured meats. The informal setting and generous portions reflect the area’s culinary traditions. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Locanda San Francesco: Just a short walk from the town centre, this welcoming restaurant offers a mix of traditional and contemporary Romagna cuisine, with dishes such as pork fillet with balsamic glaze and handmade desserts. The views from the terrace are especially appealing in the warmer months. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Il Castello: A casual and budget-friendly option near the historic walls, Il Castello serves wood-fired pizzas along with salads and light pasta dishes. It’s a convenient choice for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
San Leo Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to San Leo
- Montefeltro (approx. 15 km northeast of San Leo): A region of rugged beauty, Montefeltro is known for its breathtaking landscapes, medieval villages, and the towering Monte Carpegna. The area offers a wealth of hiking opportunities, with trails that lead through forests, hills, and villages, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity.
- Urbania (approx. 25 km southwest of San Leo): A small town with a rich history, Urbania is famous for its Palazzo Ducale and the Museo Civico, which showcases the town's art and history. The Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista is another notable landmark. Urbania is also known for its traditional ceramics, with local artisans continuing the town’s long history of pottery making.
- Sant'Agata Feltria (approx. 15 km south of San Leo): A picturesque medieval town nestled in the hills, Sant'Agata Feltria is known for its historical centre and beautiful landscapes. The town’s Castello di Sant'Agata offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The Fiera di Sant'Agata, a traditional fair held annually, is also a popular event in the area.
- Verucchio (approx. 20 km east of San Leo): A hilltop town with stunning views, Verucchio is home to the impressive Rocca di Verucchio, a medieval fortress that overlooks the surrounding valley. The town has a rich history and offers a charming old town with narrow streets and historical buildings, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Rimini (approx. 35 km southeast of San Leo): A popular coastal city, Rimini is known for its wide beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere. The Arco d'Augusto, the Tempio Malatestiano, and the Piazza Cavour are just a few of the city’s cultural highlights. Rimini also offers a lively seafront, perfect for a day of relaxation and entertainment.
Emilia-Romagna Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna
1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to San Leo
By Rail: San Leo does not have its own train station. The nearest major station is in Rimini, approximately 35 kilometres to the east. Rimini is a well-connected hub on the Bologna–Ancona line, with frequent Trenitalia regional and high-speed services to Bologna, Ancona, Florence, and Milan. From Rimini, San Leo can be reached by bus or taxi, with the journey taking around 50 minutes by road. Bus services run more frequently during the summer months.
By Road: San Leo is a hilltop town in the Marecchia Valley, within the province of Rimini and close to the border with the Marche region. It is located about 35 kilometres west of Rimini and 50 kilometres south of Cesena. The drive from Rimini takes approximately 50 minutes via the SP258 and local mountain roads. Public parking is available at the entrance to the town, as the historic centre is largely pedestrianised.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: San Leo is a hilltop town in the Marecchia Valley, within the province of Rimini and close to the border with the Marche region. It is located about 35 kilometres west of Rimini and 50 kilometres south of Cesena. The drive from Rimini takes approximately 50 minutes via the SP258 and local mountain roads. Public parking is available at the entrance to the town, as the historic centre is largely pedestrianised.
Nearest International Airports:
- Rimini Airport (Aeroporto di Rimini Federico Fellini): Situated about 40 kilometres south-east of San Leo, the drive takes around 1 hour. Public transport options include a train or bus to Rimini followed by a connecting bus or taxi.
- Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi): Located approximately 140 kilometres north-west of San Leo, the journey takes about 2 hours by car. Train travel to Rimini followed by road transport is also possible.
- Ancona Airport (Aeroporto di Ancona-Falconara): Roughly 130 kilometres south of San Leo, the drive takes around 2 hours. Travellers can also take a train to Rimini and continue by road.
