Useful information

Activities in Romagna

The area between Rimini and Cesena, located in the heart of Romagna (Emilia-Romagna region, northern Italy), offers a rich mix of beach life, history, nature, and culinary experiences. Here are some top activities and places to explore in this vibrant area:

🏖️ 1. Enjoy the beaches in Romagna’s Riviera

• While the sea water is not the best in the country, Rimini and nearby towns like Bellaria, Igea Marina, Cesenatico or Riccione offer loads of seaside amenities.

• Day and night beach life: relax by day, and join the nightlife at beach bars and clubs after sunset.

• Try water sports like SUP, windsurfing, or sailing.

🏛️ 2. Explore Rimini’s Historic Centre

• Rimini is more than a beach town—visit the Tiberius Bridge, Arch of Augustus, and the Domus del Chirurgo (Surgeon's House), a Roman archaeological site.

• Don’t miss the Tempio Malatestiano and the Teatro Galli.

• Stroll along Piazza Cavour for a coffee or aperitivo.

🚲 3. Bike the Marecchia Valley or Coastal Routes

• The Marecchia River cycle path connects Rimini with the hills inland—perfect for scenic rides.

• The flat coast between Rimini and Cesenatico has family-friendly bike paths.

🏰 4. Visit Medieval hilltop towns

• Santarcangelo di Romagna: located very close to the bride’s home house, it’s an exquisitely charming town with caves, art, and food. Great for a half-day trip.

• Verucchio and San Leo (a bit further inland): stunning views and fortress tours.

  🍝 5. Taste the Local Cuisine

• Try piadina romagnola (the local bread), or local types of pasta like cappelletti and strozzapreti, and local seafood dishes.

• Explore wine routes—Romagna is known for Sangiovese, Trebbiano and Albana wines, you can try some in the local bars, wineries or cellars!

  🚆6. Day Trip to Ravenna – The City of Mosaics

📍 Distance: ~45 min from Rimini by train or car

Highlights:

• Visit UNESCO-listed sites like the Basilica di San Vitale, Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, and Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, famous for their Byzantine mosaics.

• Explore the Dante Alighieri Tomb and museum.

• Walk through the elegant historic center and relax with a coffee in Piazza del Popolo.

• Try a traditional piadina with squacquerone cheese at a local kiosk.

🔹 Travel tip: Ravenna is compact and easy to explore on foot in one day.

🚆7. Day Trip to Bologna – The Culinary and Cultural Capital (highly recommended by the bride, who loves Bologna)

📍 Distance: ~1 hr 15 min by train from Rimini

Highlights:

• Climb the Asinelli Tower for a panoramic view of the red-roofed city.

• Visit Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica di San Petronio, and the Archiginnasio library.

• Explore Bologna’s famous porticoes (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

• Don’t miss lunch: try tagliatelle al ragù, lasagne verdi, or tortellini in brodo. (Try not to go as mad as the groom with the food in Bologna… he really loves it!)

🔹 Travel tip: The city’s central station is right by the center – perfect for a walking itinerary.

🚆 8. Day Trip to Ferrara – Renaissance Charm and City Walls

📍 Distance: ~1.5 hrs by train (direct from Rimini)
Highlights:

• Explore the moated Este Castle right in the city center.

• Visit the Cathedral of San Giorgio and walk along the ancient city walls.

• Rent a bike and tour the city like a local—Ferrara is one of Italy’s most bike-friendly cities.

  🔹 Travel tip: Ferrara is less crowded than Bologna or Ravenna—perfect for a relaxing escape.