San  Leo​

Latest page update: 26 May 2025
By: Dion Protani

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in San Leo
Accommodation options in San Leo are limited, with most stays consisting of small B&Bs and rural guesthouses rather than established hotels. For full-service properties with strong reviews, the wider Province of Rimini offers the best selection, particularly in the nearby towns and along the coast.

​In Rimini, Grand Hotel Rimini remains the most prestigious choice, known for its historic architecture, formal service style and extensive facilities, including a pool and private beach arrangements (€€€€). Also on the seafront, Savoia Hotel Rimini offers modern rooms, spa services and consistently positive feedback across a large number of reviews (€€€). For those looking for a well-regarded hotel in the provincial capital with a focus on comfort and attentive service, Hotel De Londres provides welcoming rooms, a good wellness area and convenient access to the promenade (€€€).

Where is

Where is San Leo?
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. ​
Comune di San Leo
​​​​​​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
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

What People Ask About San Leo

Is San Leo worth visiting?
Yes, San Leo is a historic hill town in the Valmarecchia valley, known for its dramatic setting, fortress, and Romanesque architecture. It’s included in the “Borghi più belli d’Italia” list.
What can you do in San Leo?
You can visit the 15th-century fortress, explore the cathedral and parish church, and enjoy panoramic views from the cliffs. There are also small museums and walking trails in the surrounding area.
How do you get to San Leo?
San Leo is about 35 km from Rimini and is best reached by car. The nearest train station is in Rimini, with occasional bus connections or taxi options for the final stretch inland.
What is San Leo known for?
San Leo is known for its fortress perched on a rocky outcrop, its Romanesque cathedral and medieval history. It’s also linked to the alchemist Count Cagliostro, who died there in prison.
When is the best time to visit San Leo?
Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting, with clear views and mild temperatures. Summer is popular for events and outdoor visits to the fortress, but it can be busier.
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Discover

Discover San Leo
San Leo is a hill town in the province of Rimini, set on a rocky outcrop in the Marecchia Valley. Its dramatic position made it a strategic stronghold throughout history, with sheer cliffs surrounding the settlement and a single road leading into the centre. The town has long been associated with the Montefeltro region and has preserved its medieval character.
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The most striking landmark is the Fortress of San Leo, redesigned by Francesco di Giorgio Martini for Duke Federico da Montefeltro, which dominates the entire area. Within the town, important sites include the Cathedral of San Leone and the Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta, both early medieval in origin. Road links connect San Leo with Rimini and with neighbouring towns in the Apennines, while its elevated location provides sweeping views over the valley.

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.

Tours and Activities

San Leo Tours and Activities

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)

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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

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:
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  • 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.

Private Transfers

San Leo Private Transfers
A private transfer is the easiest way to travel to or from San Leo, giving you a direct service without the need to rely on limited buses or drive the winding mountain roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.

From San Leo, the nearest hub is Rimini, which can be reached in about 45 minutes, a distance of 35 km. Rimini Airport is around 40 minutes away at 40 km, while Ancona Falconara Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 20 minutes, covering 100 km. A transfer to Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport usually takes 1 hour 40 minutes with a journey of 130 km. For those travelling further afield, Florence Airport is about 2 hours away, a distance of 160 km.
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To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

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