rimini travel

Rimini, Italy Travel Guide

A Guide to the Visiting Italy' Famous Beach Resort of Rimini

 Siri B.L./Flickr

Rimini is the capital of Italian seaside tourism and nightlife – it's one of Italy's most popular beach resorts and one of the largest and most famous in Europe. It has 15km of fine sandy beach with excellent bathing facilities. The seaside promenade is lined with restaurants, bars, hotels, and nightclubs. The city itself has an interesting historic center, Roman ruins, and museums. Film director Federico Fellini was from Rimini and is still honored here.

Rimini Location

Rimini is on Italy's east coast, about 200 miles south of Venice, on the Adriatic Sea. It's in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy (see Emilia-Romagna Map ). Nearby locations include Ravenna , the city of mosaics, the Republic of San Marino, and Le Marche region.

Getting to and Getting Around Rimini

Rimini is on Italy's east coast rail line between Venice and Ancona. Trains also go to Bologna and Milan. The station is between the beach and the historic center. Buses go to Ravenna, Cesena, and local towns. Federico Fellini Airport is just outside town.

Driving can be difficult, especially in summer. Local buses run to the beach areas, train station, and historic center. The free blue line bus connects the disco area west of town to the main beach area. In summer, some buses run all night. Bicycling is a great option for getting around town and to the beaches, too. There are bike rentals around the beaches and some hotels offer free bicycles to guests.

Rimini Lido, Beaches, Baths and Diversions

Marina Centro and Lungomare Augusto re are ground zero for beaches and nightlife. Beaches spread north and south with those farther from the center more family-oriented. A seafront promenade runs along the coast. Many of the beaches are private stabilimenti , with cabanas, umbrellas, and beach chairs for a day-use fee.

Rimini Terme  is a thermal spa on the sea with treatment facilities, four heated saltwater pools, and a wellness center. It's set in a park with a fitness trail, beach, and playground.

For rainy days or when you need a break from the beach, Rimini is rife with theme parks, old-style boardwalk arcades and, of course, lots and lots of bars and restaurants. Shops selling every imaginable beach toy, raft or game line the promenade. Gelato, pizza, typical Emilia-Romagna piadini flatbread sandwiches – they're all here, so there's no need to ever go bored, hungry or thirsty during your Italian seaside vacation.

Rimini Nightlife

Rimini nightlife is high-energy, to say the least. The central beachfront area, especially along Lungomare Augusto and Viale Vespucci one block inland, is teeming with bars, pubs, nightclubs, arcades, and restaurants, some open all night.  Rock Island is near the Ferris wheel on a little point out in the sea. The big discos are generally in the hills west of town. Some of them offer shuttle service and the blue line free bus connects discos to the main beach area. A night out in Rimini starts late and finishes in the wee hours – don't expect the music, dancing, and people-watching to really kick in until 11 PM or later.

Top Sights and Attractions

Besides beaches and nightlife, Rimini has a good historic center and is a city of art. Most of these sights are in the historic center. Your hotel should be able to provide you with a basic tourist map with these main sights marked.

• Roman Rimini dates from 268 BC and there are several ancient remains in good condition. The main town gate, Arco d'Augusto , was erected in 27 BC. There's a 62-meter long Roman bridge, Ponte di Tiberio , that was built in 21AD and part of a 2nd-century Roman amphitheater that once held over 10,000 spectators.
• Piazza Cavour is the main square, dating from the Medieval period. In the center of the square is a statue of Pope Paul IV and the circular Pigna fountain, built in 1543 incorporating some Roman remains. Around the square are several interesting buildings including the 13th century Palazzo dell'Arengo , the town hall, the old fish market, and neoclassical theater, Teatro Amintore Galli . Behind the theater is the 15th-century fortress, Castel Sismondo , used for cultural events.
• Piazza tre Martiri is the site of the old Roman Forum. In the square are the early 16th-century Tempietto of Saint Anthony,  and the clock tower, built in 1547 but with a clock face from 1750. There's also a 16th-century column commemorating Julius Caesar.
• The Malatesta Temple , Tempio Malatestiano , is Rimini's best monument and an important example of Italian Renaissance. A marble casing envelopes the original medieval church. The many art treasures inside include a Giotto painting from 1312, frescoes by Piero della Francesca , and sculptures by Duccio . Pope Pius II called it a temple of devil worship and condemned it.
• S. Agostino , a Romanesque-Gothic church, dates from 1247 and has important artworks and frescoes inside. Its 55-meter tall bell tower is the tallest in town.
• The City Museum , Museo della Citta, is housed in a former convent and has 40 rooms filled with more than 1500 artworks. The archaeology section focuses on Roman finds and the Pinacoteca has Italian art from the 11th through 20th centuries.
• Cineteca , the film library, has a collection of movies related to Rimini and Fellini memorabilia. Italian movies are shown on Friday nights.
• Viserba , 4km away, is an old fishing port and popular holiday resort. The popular park, Italia in Miniatura , Italy in Miniature, has 272 Italian architecture scale reproductions representing all of Italy's regions. From Rimini train station, take bus number 8.

Federico Fellini in Rimini

Federico Fellini, the famous movie director, came from Rimini and several of his movies, including Amarcord and I Vitelloni, were set here. The Grand Hotel Rimini  was featured in Amarcord. Murals commemorating Fellini and some of his movie characters can be seen in Borgo S. Giuliano, one of the oldest districts and a favorite haunt of Fellini.

Rimini Festivals

Rimini is a top place to celebrate New Year's Eve in Italy with parties in numerous nightclubs and bars and a huge New Year's Eve festival in Piazzale Fellini with music, dancing, and entertainment, culminating in a spectacular display of fireworks over the sea. It's usually shown on Italian television. The summer Sagra Musicale Malatestiana brings international artists for programs of music, theater, dance, and visual arts.

Where to Stay in Rimini

Most hotels are near the seaside promenade, the Lungomare. Quality and amenities vary widely, from basic budget hotels that offer little more than a (probably) clean bed to four- and five-star palaces with all the bells and whistles. We like  Hotel Corallo , a nice spa hotel by the sea in Riccione, to the south, and the less expensive family-run Hotel Eliseo by the sea in Iseo Marina to the north, both connected by bus to Rimini.  Hotel National  by the sea in  Marino Centro  has spa facilities and therapeutic treatments.

During high season, particularly July and August, many hotels will offer weekly packages only. These usually include all or most meals, access to a private beach with lounge chairs and umbrellas, and "animation" – which may include a kids' club or activities, and nightly entertainment with musicians, comedians or group dancing.

Original article by Martha Bakerjian.

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23 Best Things to Do in Rimini, Italy (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 17, 2023

Thinking of visiting Rimini in Italy and wondering what to expect and what there is to see and do there? In this guide, we feature some of the very best places to see and things to do in Rimini . Whether you are road-tripping in the Emilia Romagna region and just visit Rimini for a day, or you are planning a longer vacation in the area, this article should give you plenty of ideas of what to see. Find out!

When you think of Rimini, you may instantly picture the miles of sandy beaches that characterize this popular seaside destination. Indeed, its powder-white shoreline makes it the perfect place to soak up some Mediterranean sunshine.

But while Rimini is best known as a seaside resort attracting vacationers in the summer, it’s also a fascinating historic town that has a lot more to offer than it looks at first sight!

To visit Rimini without experiencing a taste of its ancient architecture and cultural attractions would be to do a disservice to this charming and historic town.

I find that Rimini is one of the most underrated cities in Northern Italy. I guess that the main reason why it’s overlooked by most international travelers is simply because there are so many other amazing places to see nearby ( Bologna , San Marino , or Ravenna to mention just a few…), and people run out of time. But Rimini is well worth a trip in its own right, so if you get a chance to visit, do it!

Below, you can find a list of top Rimini attractions that you really must see, from ancient Roman landmarks to one of the world’s most beautiful cinemas! At the bottom of the post, you’ll also find suggestions for a few of the best places to visit near Rimini .

To help you plan your visit, we also created a map indicating each place mentioned in this article, as well as some practical tips for your first visit to the city. Take a look!

Here are the best things to do in Rimini:

1. Ponte di Tiberio

Built over 2,000 years ago, the Tiberius Bridge ( Ponte di Tiberio ) is an absolute must-see in Rimini! It’s located in the heart of the old town, at the end of the canal running from the beach through to the Parco XXV Aprile.

The work on the bridge began in 14 AD, at the time of the reign of Augustus (which is why you’ll sometimes hear it referred to as the Bridge of Augustus). But it was completed in 21 AD under the rule of the new Emperor Tiberio, thus the official name.

The only bridge that escaped relatively unscathed after the Battle of Rimini in World War II, Ponte di Tiberio owes its longevity to the engineering expertise of the Romans. Made from white Istrian limestone, the bridge was built without separating the foundations of the individual pillars, creating a solid structure that carries pedestrians and light vehicles today just as it did all those years ago!

Making the perfect background for your photos, the scenic bridge has 5 arches spanning the canal. On a calm morning, their reflection in the blue water beneath is quite stunning. Although it’s also nice to visit at night when the bridge is beautifully illuminated.

TIP: For a good front view of the entire bridge, head to the Ponte di Tiberio Observation Deck , a short walk northeast of the bridge (we indicated it on our map further below). In addition, pretty much any side view of the bridge gives you a really good angle for pictures. The views from Parco XXV Aprile are also really nice, just as from the boardwalk next to Rimini Canal .

Talking of which, Rimini Canal may not be a top tourist attraction, but I highly recommend a walk or a bike ride along its entire length, all the way to the beach.

2. Borgo San Giuliano

To the west of Ponte di Tiberio, lies one of the most beautiful places in Rimini, Borgo di San Giuliano . The Borgo is a beautiful little neighborhood where you can soak up the simple charm of authentic Rimini.

As you wander along its cobbled streets lined with colorful restored fishermen’s houses and quaint restaurants, it’s hard to imagine that this was once an area known more for its poverty and crime.

Perhaps the most interesting things to see here are the striking murals that can be found all over the neighborhood. You’ll see these fresco-like pictures on the walls of many houses and businesses, highlighting scenes from the best works of Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini (who was born and grew up in Rimini).

Be sure to also check the fishermen’s cottages for their painted ceramic plaques, which depict old boats, and give the names of the sailors who once owned the houses. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful, and it’s a very romantic place to visit.

TIP: For the best pictures, come here early in the morning when there are not too many people around. But be sure to come back here in the evening too! You’ll find some of the best restaurants in Rimini in this area.

For dinner , we recommend La Esse Romagnola, an excellent restaurant serving traditional local food and with a very pleasant outdoor seating area. Alternatively, just nearby, trattoria La Marianna is a great place for seafood! We indicated both of these restaurants on our map. Just be sure to reserve a table in advance!

Good to know: If you’re visiting Rimini in September, see if your visit will coincide with the ‘La festa del Borgo’, which is held every 2 years on the first weekend of the month. It’s an exciting event involving the entire community. The streets fill with live performers, the restaurants prepare special menus, and the atmosphere is great! For more information, see their website (in Italian).

3. Piazza Cavour

Cavour Square ( Piazza Cavour ) is one of the most beautiful town squares in Rimini. It’s a great place to experience a true slice of local life. Take a seat outside one of the canopied cafes and watch as the locals come to shop, relax, or meet with friends.

Dominating the square is the cone-shaped Pigna fountain ( Fontana della Pigna ). The marble basins of the fountain are from the 15th century but the drum on which the fountain stands dates back to Roman times! This was once the only source of drinking water in the city and you can still refill your bottle there today.

Beside the fountain, you can see a statue of Pope Paul V . It was created as an act of devotion to the Pope in 1611 and recently restored.

Another must-see here is an ancient Pescheria ( Vecchia Pescheria ), an old fish market. The small market has two rows of Istrasian stone benches where the fish would be displayed. Nowadays, it is mostly used for selling flowers but is still very interesting to see.

Other sights to see on Piazza Cavour include the Town Hall of Rimin i, the lush Teatro Galli (more info below), and three scenic palaces – the Palazzo Garampi (built in 1562), the Palazzo del Podesta (built around 1330), and the Palazzo del Arengo (which dates back to 1204).

4. Piazza Tre Martiri

The Three Martyrs Square ( Piazza Tre Martiri ) is located in the center of town and is another place you can’t miss in Rimini. During the days of the Roman Empire, this was the site of the Roman forum where Julius Cesar delivered his famous speech after crossing the Rubicon.

This is commemorated by a Memorial Stone in the square, along with a bronze statue of Cesar himself.

Other attractions are the square’s 16th-century clock tower – Torre dell’Orologio – and the Palazzo Brioli , which dates back to the 17th century. The clock tower is quite unique and has displayed a dial with a calendar, the signs of the zodiac, and moon phases since 1750.

You can also see the Tempietto di Sant’Antonio . This small 16th-century chapel sits beside the Church of San Francesco dei Paoletti.

Today the historic square is bustling with visitors, shopping at one of its regular markets or simply enjoying a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants. As you browse the shops and mingle with the crowds, it’s incredible to think that you’re standing in a spot that was often used for the tournaments of knights in the middle ages!

Interesting to know: The name of the Three Martyrs Square is associated with a sad story from much more recent times. It was in this square that three resistance fighters were executed in 1944. The name was changed from Piazza Giulio Cesare to Piazza Tre Martiri in their honor.

5. Arco di Augusto

Guarding the entrance to Rimini’s Old Town at the end of Corso d’Augusto stands the impressive triumphal arch, Arco di Augusto .

Dating back to 27 BC, it is the oldest surviving arch in northern Italy! And – just like the Ponte di Tiberio – the arch is still in remarkable shape given its age.

The Arch was dedicated to Emperor Augustus by the Roman Senate and marked the end of the Via Flaminia, which connected the city of Romagna to Rome.

It bears the three round shields of the Roman gods Jupiter, Neptune, and Apollo, plus a fourth of Roma, the Goddess of Rome. You can also see crenulations at the top, although these were added in medieval times in place of the original bronze statue of Emperor Augustus.

Something that makes this arch rather unique is the size of the opening – it spans 30 feet, which would have been too wide to hold doors. According to experts, this was thanks to the emperor’s policy of peace, which made doors for protection unnecessary.

It really is quite a privilege to be able to view this outstanding piece of history, looking just as magnificent and imposing as it would have looked in Roman times. It’s difficult to describe the feeling you get when you walk underneath realizing that this arch stood here for over 2,000 years and will still be here long after us… It’s an absolute must-see in Rimini!

6. Tempio Malatestiano (Rimini Cathedral)

The beautiful Basilica Cattedrale , aka Malatestiano Temple , is another historical landmark that you should see in Rimini.

Constructed between the 9th and 15th centuries, the cathedral was never quite finished. If you look at the front facade you’ll see that there is a strange gap and a brick wall in the place where a central tower should have stood.

While the cathedral may appear relatively small from the outside, when you step inside it is quite breathtaking, with lofty, beautifully decorated walls and a striking beamed wooden ceiling.

Highlights include frescoes by Piero della Francesca, reliefs by Agostino di Duccio, and The Crucifix by Giotto.

Even if you do not usually visit religious buildings, the main churches in Italian cities are really not to be missed. The stunning Malatestiano Temple is no exception and is definitely worth seeing, plus it’s a great opportunity to view stunning Renaissance artworks. In the summer, it also provides some welcome respite from the heat of the day.

Good to know: The Cathedral is open daily, but – like most of the best churches in Italy – it closes for a few hours in the early afternoon. So try to visit before noon or come after 3.30 pm.

7. Cinema Fulgor

Rimini is the hometown of the famous Italian filmmaker Frederico Fellini. He watched his very first film at Cinema Fulgor when he was just 5 years old. Inspired by what he saw, he later began creating posters to publicize the films on show. So impressed was the cinema’s owner that he granted free entry to the cinema to Fellini and his brother.

Fellini would later go on to create some of the most influential movies of all time, including La Strada and La Dolce Vita.

Even if you are not familiar with his work, we recommend paying a visit to this cinema. It is absolutely stunning, decorated in an art nouveau style with gorgeous red and gold accents.

Whilst this may not have been how Fellini would have seen it all those years ago, it is wonderful to stand in the place that inspired a love of theater and a lasting legacy.

Good to know: There are several ways to see Cinema Fulgor. First, since it’s still a functioning cinema, you could simply buy tickets to a movie for an authentic experience. Alternatively, you can also arrange for a guided tour. These are usually only available to larger groups, although individual visitors can also email the cinema and see if it’s possible to arrange a visit. More info on their website .

Another way is to get this Fellini Museum Ticket , which includes the Fellini Museum, Sismondo Castle, and Cinema Fulgor. However, since this is a rather new offer, I’m not sure if you actually enter the theater hall itself or just see the cinema entrance hall with the posters, etc. We visited the cinema on a guided tour.

8. Castel Sismondo

Sismondo Castle was once a grand fortress, symbolizing the power and status of its architect and builder, the 15th-century Lord of Rimini Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta.

What you see today is merely the central keep, although it is beautifully maintained and impressive nonetheless!

The castle is also very unusual, with imposing towers and slanting walls. In fact, it has quite a formidable appearance and seems well suited to its role as a prison until 1967. The building features maiolica tiles on the outside and an interior filled with beautiful curtains, detailed tapestries, and elegant frescoes.

Good to know: While most people simply see the castle from the outside, you can also visit inside. It’s home to one part of the Federico Fellini Museum (more info below).

9. Fellini Museum

Fellini Museum is one of the more recent attractions in Rimini, spread out over several different locations in town. Incorporating Castel Sismondo, Piazza Malatesta, and the 18th-century palazzo housing the Fulgor Cinema, the museum ticket gives you access to all the Felini sights in Rimini.

The New York Times describes the Fellini Museum as being ‘as lavish as his movies’. This gives you some idea of what to expect from these exhibition spaces that pay tribute to the director and his work.

Rather than a dry display of pictures and text, here you can feel part of the magic, with drawings appearing on walls, incredible costumes, and even a giant soft sculpture of an actress on which you’re invited to recline and watch scenes from a movie!

If you want to learn more about the maestro of Italian cinema, check it out!

Good to know: The museum is open daily except on Mondays (unless it’s a public holiday). You can find more information on their website .

10. Teatro Amintore Galli

The Teatro Amintore Galli is Rimini’s opera theater. Centrally located in Piazza Cavour, the building had a troubled past.

However, after being badly damaged by bombing during WWII, it remained closed for decades. In 2018 the theater was finally opened once again, restored in spectacular style.

You might notice that this particular theater does not have a royal box. That’s because Rimini was under papal rule at the time of its inauguration.

Good to know: To view the stunning interior, you would need to book a guided tour , which is organized by the Municipal Museums of Rimini. It gives you access to the elegant foyer and opulent stalls. The availability of tours varies from month to month based on scheduled performances.

If available for your travel dates, I highly recommend visiting. The interior is stunning! Plus, it’s right in the center and a tour only takes about 45 minutes.

Alternatively, you can also attend a performance here. In that case, check their website for the program and tickets.

11. Parco Federico Fellini

If you feel like taking a break from sightseeing in Rimini town center and enjoying some natural beauty instead, head to Park Federico Fellini , one of the most popular parks in the town.

Located near the port and main beaches, this small park is a relaxing place with elegant sculptures, a children’s playground, lots of shaded areas, and a pleasant promenade.

The main highlights not to miss here include Macchina Fotografica Gigante “Fellinia”, a giant camera placed there in Fellini’s honor, and Fontana dei Quattro Cavalli (Fountain of the 4 horses). The fountain is quite spectacular and well worth a visit, with horses rising from the stunningly blue ‘sea’ and snorting water. On their heads, they support a large bowl from which a jet sprays high into the air.

TIP: If you get the chance, try to come back and see the fountain after dark – it looks even more beautiful when lit up at night.

12. Domus del Chirurgo

The Domus del Chirurgo – the Surgeons House – is a fascinating archeological site in the center of Rimini. Parts of the 2nd-century villa of a Roman surgeon were discovered during building work in 1989 and it’s now a museum.

The highlight of this attraction is a room containing an incredible polychrome mosaic, with Orpheus (known as the animal enchanter) in the middle.

Other important structures were found here, too, including the remnants of a late imperial residence and traces of an early medieval settlement.

Good to know: Along with the house was discovered a collection of 150 surgical instruments. These are currently on display at the City Museum next door (see below).

Practical info: The Domus del Chirurgo is open daily except Mondays, with hours varying per season. More info here . The ticket costs just a few euros and includes City Museum as well (see below).

13. City Museum

Rimini City Museum ( Museo della Citta ) is located in a former Jesuit convent, just next to Domus del Chirurgo. It is a must-see if you are interested in either archaeology or art and want to learn more about Rimini.

In addition to the surgical tools from the Surgeon’s House (above), you can see hundreds of interesting artifacts dating back to prehistoric times. These include ancient glassware and coins, beautiful Roman mosaics, and bronzes.

On the first and second floors is housed the Pinacoteca picture gallery, displaying Renaissance art and masterpieces from the 14th-century Rimini school.

Practical info: The City Museum is open daily except Mondays, with hours varying per season. More info here . As already mentioned, the same ticket gives you access to City Museum and Domus del Chirurgo.

14. Rimini Ferris Wheel

Rimini has its very own big Ferris Wheel – La Ruota Panoramica – which you’ll find on the edge of the main stretch of the beach.

At 55 m high, it provides one of the very best vantage points in the region, taking in the picturesque countryside towards the Adriatic Sea and the shoreline from Gabicce to Lidi Ferraresi. The wheel has 28 carriages and rotates very slowly, so you’ll have plenty of time to take photos.

It’s hard to say when is the best time to take a ride. Of course, the daytime views are wonderful when the sun is shining, or you could watch the sun go down from here! Alternatively, visit at night and see the lights twinkling in the sea.

Practical info: This is a popular summer attraction in Rimini and the big wheel is usually closed in the winter months. You can find out more about La Ruota Panoramica on their Facebook page . Or simply see if it’s open when you are there and go for a ride.

TIP: Check out Rimini’s Wharf ( Rimini Molo ) at the very end of the pier, behind the Ferris Wheel. There is a small lighthouse here, a sculpture, and a restaurant. It’s a nice place to be at sunset, and you can usually see locals fishing here too.

15. The Beaches of Rimini

Rimini’s beaches extend for miles, lined with hotels, restaurants, and beach bars. With powdery white sand and calm waters, they are very scenic and great for families. Be prepared, though, for the endless rows of deck chairs and parasols which – in high season – cover almost every available inch!

The shoreline is divided into numbered sections, with the numbering starting at the port (in the center) and increasing to the north and south.

Most of these numbered beach sections are owned by different operators, who will have different equipment and facilities available for you to rent and use.

In many cases, you will need to pay for the week, but sometimes you may be allowed to pay just for a day or even a few hours. The exception would be in August when Rimini’s beaches are at their busiest! It’s now even possible to reserve an entry/sunbed for some of the beaches in advance !

• If you’re looking for a lively beach with a fun atmosphere, try Bagno Libra or Bagno Tiki 26.
• For a quieter experience where the emphasis is on relaxation rather than fun, head to Bagno 84 Graziano or Bagno 107.
• To get away from the crowds, try the pet-friendly Bagno 28 Otello, a popular spot with locals.

Good to know: Even in the private sections, the area within 5 meters of the sea itself is free for everyone to use.

16. Sailing & Boat Trips

Located by the Adriatic Sea, it will come as no surprise that boat trips and sailing excursions are very popular in Rimini as well. However, there’s not much to see as such, except the city skyline in the distance. It’s more something that you do for the experience.

We visited Rimini with a small group and took a private sailing trip at sunset, with dinner on board. It was a wonderful experience. So if you are spending a longer vacation here and are looking for something nice to do in Rimini, see if you can find some local companies that can arrange this for you.

At the moment of writing, there is just one boat tour available on Viator . I’m sure that local hotels and tourism offices should have more options available.

In addition to the above-mentioned landmarks and things to do in Rimini, there is quite a lot to see and do nearby.

If you are visiting Rimini with kids or teens, you may want to check out some of the attractions and theme parks nearby.

And if you are more interested in sightseeing, there are some really interesting places in this part of Italy. We highlighted a few of them further below. Read on because you’d really not want to miss them!

Here are some recommendations for places to see and things to do near Rimini:

17. Italy in Miniature

A whimsical attraction for both adults and children, Italia in Miniatura is a delightful theme park containing more than 250 perfect-scale reproductions of important Italian and European buildings and monuments.

There are also activities to enjoy, such as touring a mini-Venice in a gondola, trying the hands-on experiments at the Science Pavilion, taking a treetop walk, and more. There’s even the opportunity for kids to learn to drive on miniature roads!

Good to know: It’s not an ideal place to visit on a rainy day. Almost all the attractions are outside and many are closed in poor weather.

Practical information: Italy in Miniature is open daily during the warm season as well as on some weekends and school holidays for the rest of the year. Here you can find more information and book tickets .

18. Oltremare Amusement Park

Fun for all the family, the main of Oltremare is to help kids discover nature through play. The main attraction is the dolphin show, but you can also see birds of prey and even kangaroos.

Kids get the opportunity to learn more about evolution and explore the fascinating ecosystem of Italy’s Po Delta.

There are also several interactive programs, such as ‘Trainer for a Day’ and ‘Meet the Dolphins’, but these are all conducted in Italian.

Practical info: The Park is located in Riccione, less than half an hour’s drive from the center of Rimini. You can find more info and buy tickets online in advance here .

19. Aquafan Water Park

Located just next to Oltemare, Aquafan is a seasonal water park. If you are vacationing in Rimini in the summer, it’s a great day out for the whole family.

With 3 kilometers of water slides, various pools for all ages, and lots of fun activities, Aquafan is a great place for a relaxing summer day. They also have good restaurants and eateries, shops, etc.

Practical info: Aquafan is located in Riccione and has a big parking area. The water park is open from the beginning of June to early September. For more information and tickets, see here .

20. Fiabilandia

Fiabilandia is a fun little theme park – one of the oldest in Italy – that is ideal for little children. It offers a variety of rides, a mini railway, a lake filled with ducks and turtles, a pool, a 4D cinema, and live shows.

There is also a small museum devoted to the circus and the Italian families associated with it.

Practical info: You can find Fiabilandia on the coastline close to Rimini Airport. For more information and to book your tickets see here .

TIP: Sometimes, the ticket gives you free access the next day, so be sure to check the conditions.

21. Santarcangelo di Romagna

Just 15 minutes from Rimini by car (and only 40 minutes by bike) is the beautiful medieval village of Santarcangelo di Romagna . It has a couple of claims to fame.

One is the fine wine produced in the region, made with Sangiovese grapes. The other is artisan printing using an ancient rust dying technique and Mangano. The best place to see this and buy some local souvenirs is the Artisan Printing House Marchi , dating from 1633.

But perhaps most interesting is the network of 160 artificial underground caves, Tuff Caves of Jovis Hill ( Grotte tufacee del Colle Jovis ). The original purpose of them is not quite clear. In the 20th century, the caves were used as shelters during the war, but also as cellars. So big is this network that it resembles an underground city. Parts of it are open to visitors and the local tourist office organizes guided tours of the tunnels. More info here .

The village itself is a lovely place to wander, too, with winding alleyways, a main square, scenic houses, and palaces dotted here and there. Indeed, it would be easy to spend an entire day in this quiet spot that feels a million miles from Rimini’s bustling beaches.

TIP: Rent a bike in Rimini and visit Santarcangelo di Romagna by bike. Alternatively, of course, you can just take a car or even a taxi. It’s very close by.

22. San Marino

Ok, this is not really a Rimini attraction and it’s not even in Italy, since San Marino is a separate Republic. However, it’s such a fabulous destination and it’s so close to Rimini that it would be unthinkable not to visit if you are in the area.

The hilltop town of Città di San Marino , the capital of the Republic of San Marino is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s just about 25 km, 45 minutes drive from Rimini. Don’t miss it!

The fifth smallest independent country in the world, San Marino has a population of just around 30,000 people and has its own police force and schools. It’s not a member of the EU, but it’s unlikely that you’ll have to show a passport when driving here. If you are collecting passport stamps, you can get one at a tourist office.

The City of San Marino is largely pedestrianized, with wonderful views of the Italian countryside at every turn and lovely sculptures dotted throughout. Among its highlights are the three medieval towers – Torri di San Marino – located on the three peaks of Monte Titano.

Also worth seeing are the neo-Gothic Palazzo Pubblico – San Marino’s official seat of government – and the Museo di Stato, which displays coins, archaeological exhibits, and art.

TIP: For some truly amazing views of the surrounding countryside, take the Funivia di San Marino – Borgo Maggiore. This cable car connects the center of San Marino at the top of the hill with Borgo Maggiore at the bottom.

Good to know: San Marino is a good day trip destination from Rimini, and indeed, most visitors just come here for a day. But if you want to experience the real charm of the place without the crowds, we recommend spending a night here. In that case, you may want to check this article: where to stay in San Marino .

There is a lot more to be said about this fascinating place! You can find all the information you may need and helpful tips for your visit via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in San Marino

23. San Leo Fortress

Located in San Leo, an ancient and beautiful village in Romagna, is the massive San Leo Fortress. It sits atop a hill overlooking the Valley of Marecchia.

The fortress has been both a palace for influential families like Malatesta and Sforza, then later a prison with a torture chamber. It is probably most well known as the prison where the occultist Count di Cagliostro spent his final days.

You might want to come here simply to see the village and views, which are both superb, or you can enter the castle itself, which now contains a museum exhibiting items relating to its history.

Practical information: San Leo Fortress is just 30 km, about 50 minutes drive from Rimini. In the high season, the fortress is open daily. You can find more info on their website . It’s possible to book tickets online in advance , but you should be able to get them on the spot too.

Good to know: If you only have time to visit one medieval village, you may want to know that San Leo is incomparably quieter than San Marino. It is less popular with tourists and has a much more traditional, authentic feel. You can’t really compare the two.

To give you a better idea of where everything is located, we created a map indicating all the top places to see in and near Rimini mentioned in this article.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Practical Info & Tips

Here is some additional information for planning a visit to Rimini:

• How much time do you need in Rimini? You can see all the best spots in Rimini in a day, so if you are only interested in sightseeing, 1 day is enough. However, if you are also planning to spend some time at the beach and explore a bit more of the region, you can easily fill a week here or more.
• Trip planning. If you are planning a trip to this part of Italy and are mostly interested in sightseeing, as an absolute minimum, we recommend 4 days for this area: one day for Rimini, one for San Marino, a day in Ravenna, and at least a day in Bologna. Both – Ravenna and Bologna – are just about 1 hour away by car or by train from Rimini. Here you can find our guide to the best things to do in Ravenna and here – the best things to do in Bologna . We also once did this 3-day trip in the Emiglia Romagna region that included Rimini, San Marino, Ravenna, and a few other places not mentioned in this article.
• Getting there. Depending on where you are traveling from/to, it can be wise to rent a car for your trip to the area. Public transport is also available. You can also book a bus transfer from Bologna Airport to Rimini , which is ideal if you are visiting in the summer and are planning to simply stay in Rimini for the biggest part of your vacation rather than touring around.
• Getting around. You don’t need a car in Rimini itself. The city is very walkable, and the distance between the old town and the beach is less than 2 km, about 20-30 minutes walk. You can rent bikes for bigger distances or take a taxi to a theme park or so. Railway connections are also very good. A car is very convenient if you want to do some excursions nearby, like San Marino or San Leo, or if you are planning a road trip and Rimini is just one of the stops in your itinerary.
• Where to stay in Rimini. For a sightseeing trip, stay in the city center. Card International Hotel is a very good option close to the station and the old town. For a longer summer vacation in Rimini, check out hotels by the beach, for example, a popular and highly-rated Club House Hotel . If you are looking for a classic luxury hotel, the recently-refurbished Grand Hotel Rimini is a great choice. Its location is good for both, sightseeing and the beach.
• Where to eat. Italian food is great no matter where you go, but Emilia Romagna is considered the foodie region in Italy. So be sure to try some local specialties! As already mentioned before, some of our favorite restaurants in Rimini can be found in the Borgo di San Giuliano area. If you would like to get acquainted with some local dishes, consider taking a food tour with a local !

READ ALSO: Italian food: regional dishes

So, this is our guide to some of the top sights and things to do in Rimini and nearby. I hope that this gives you a better idea of what to expect and inspires you to spend some time in this beautiful town.

Have a great trip!

TIP: If you are planning a longer trip to Italy, you may want to check out our other guides to so many interesting destinations all over the country. Below are just a few highlighted destinations, and you can find many more in our Italy travel guide .

More inspiration for some of the nicest Italian cities:

• Best cities to visit in Italy
• Best things to do in Rome
• Best things to do in Venice
• Best things to do in Florence
• Best things to do in Milan
• Best things to do in Naples
• Best things to do in Siena
• Best things to do in Verona

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Michael Cicchi

Sunday 30th of April 2023

And I always said that Rimini is good for nothing except for dormini. 😀😀😀😀 Just kidding, although I am surprised about how beautiful it is.

Tuesday 2nd of May 2023

@Jurga, I will include it in our 3rd trip to Italy. Our 2nd trip is all planned already so our 3rd trip will do it. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼. We will go to San Marino, Rimini, and Ancona.

Italy has so many places that are totally underrated and Rimini is one of them. I think - as said in the article - that the abundance of famous spots overshadows the rest since most people don't have the time to explore that many places. It took us many trips to Italy to get to Rimini too.

Awesome information. Thank you!

Glad to hear that. Have a great trip to Italy!

An Insider’s Guide to the Best Things to do in Rimini, Italy

By: Author Contributor

Posted on Last updated: 5th October 2023

Categories Italy

Last Updated on 5th October 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

If you’re planning an Italian summer escape, you should devote some time to exploring the area, and this guide to the best things to do in Rimini is certainly a helpful resource to bookmark and consult before the trip.

Considered one of the best beach resorts in Europe, Rimini is an Italian coastal town facing the Adriatic Sea, famous for its wide sandy beaches, the blue shallow sea, and the fantastic nightlife opportunities for travelers of all ages. 

Interesting Things to Know about Rimini

How to get to rimini, where is rimini, where to stay in rimini, head to the beach, three martyrs square, explore cavour square, admire augustus’ arch, discover the gates of the city, visit the malatesta temple, marvel at the beautiful tiberius’ bridge, visit the city museum, the surgeon’s house (domus del chirurgo), fellini museum, take a panoramic ride at rimini’s wheel, john paul ii park and mariotti lake, explore nearby riccione, enjoy one of rimini’s theme parks.

The popular city of Rimini is one of Italy’s favorite summer destinations. Especially popular among young crowds and families, Rimini receives hundreds of visitors every year between the months of July and September who come looking for relaxing beach days and entertaining evenings.

Today, Rimini is an important town in the region of Emilia-Romagna that people visit to enjoy the beach and the nightclubs, many of them ignoring the city’s remarkable past and rich history. 

Rimini was founded back in the third century BC, and it was an important port town on the Adriatic during the Roman Empire and the Medieval Ages. Housing more than two thousand years of history, Rimini is a town with ancient gates, arches, bridges, and temples worth a visit.

Federico Fellini International Airport in Rimini is the preferred gateway to Rimini if you’re traveling from Europe or other cities in the country. 

However, the best and cheapest way to get to Rimini is by train. There are frequent connections from every main city in Italy, especially in summer. Some rides are direct to Rimini while others require changing trains at Bologna, the capital of the region of Emilia-Romagna.

It is also possible to reach Rimini by long-distance bus, from Milan, Rome, Florence, Venice, and other Italian centers. Driving there is also a good idea as having a car will allow you to explore Rimini as well as other similar coastal resorts, the inner countryside, and the nearby small state of San Marino.

Rimini is located in northeastern Italy along the glittering Adriatic coastline. It’s just a short distance away from the micro-state of San Marino and can be found in the region of Emilia-Romagna.

There are plenty of hotels, apartments for rent, and bed and breakfasts in the area, for all budgets. If you plan to spend more of your time on the beach, it can be a good idea to stay close to the coast. The seaside promenade is home to dozens of hotels and rental apartments.

Instead, if you’re more interested in shopping, nightlife, and some of the best restaurants in the region, staying in the center can be a better idea. 

These are the places we recommend:

• Hotel Due Mari: This property boasts an excellent beachfront position in the central area of Rimini Miramare, within walking distance of a plethora of restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s only 700 meters from Riccione Beach and about 1.4 km from Rimini’s airport. Check prices and availability here.
• Astoria Suite Hotel: This property is in Rimini’s Central Marina area, it’s a family-friendly hotel with just a hundred meters from the beach, but also close to shops in the area of Rimini Marina Centro area. Check prices and availability here.
• Hotel Montmartre: The hotel is in the area of Torre Pedrera, opposite Bagno Celso beach but also close to other popular beaches such as Marina di Viserbella and Bellaria Igea Marina. Check prices and availability here.

Best Things to Do in Rimini

Although most visitors head to Rimini for its beaches, there are plenty of places to visit and things to do in Rimini, including kid-friendly parks, remarkable museums, and historical sites, as well as some fantastic day trip opportunities. Down below we offer you some of the best things to do in Rimini.

How not to start with the most popular thing you can do in Rimini? Yes, hitting one of the several beaches along the coast is the main thing to do in town. 

From the early days of June until the end of September, the area is blessed with pleasant weather conditions, offering plenty of sunny days to enjoy in the calm waters of this part of the Adriatic Sea.

Rimini is home to some excellent organized beaches where you can rent an umbrella and sun loungers for the day, the week, or the month! Most of them offer basic services, such as toilets and showers, canteens and snack bars, and beach sports. 

There are some areas dedicated to families, with games for kids and very shallow waters, while other beaches are better for couples and friends, with beach bars and music all day round.

The most attractive square in town, is Piazza Tre Martiri (Three Martyrs in English) , a historic location surrounded by historic churches as well as souvenir shops, high-end boutiques, restaurants, and trendy coffee shops.

If street markets fascinate you, this is another spot in town hosting both weekly and seasonal markets, such as the Christmas fair in December.

There are also midsummer concerts and other cultural events taking place during the warm season in this piazza.

Piazza Cavour is a popular square in the historic center of Rimini perfect for a walk after a day at the beach and some souvenir shopping in the surrounding streets.

It is also a favorite place for locals to meet, enjoy a walk, and shop for local products as different weekly markets are hosted in this space. Opposite the area, it is possible to admire the rich facade of the old Galli Theater, an architectonic gem in town.

The square is also close to the city’s main museum and a few minutes from another fantastic piazza, Three Martyrs Square. It’s easy to find the right place to sit for a drink when visiting the square since there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and informal eateries around the piazza.

In the middle of the square, it is possible to walk along the so-called Antica Pescheria a path flanked by a long line of impressive columns that lead to the central street of Via Pescheria. 

Located at the end of Corso d’Augusto, one of the central avenues in Rimini, it is possible to check out the eight-meter-tall Arch of Augustus, built to honor the life and rule of Rome’s Emperor Caesar Augustus. 

This is one of the most remarkable ancient sites in the region that loudly speaks about the prestigious past of Rimini.

The arch is located in the center of Rimini and despite dating back to the year 27 BC, it is preserved in excellent condition. It is the oldest standing Roman arch in the country and it features heavy decorations full of political and propaganda symbols. 

It was built at the end of Via Flaminia, a long road that connected Rome to the Adriatic. During restoration works in the late 1930s, it was discovered that the arch was part of a more vast system of defensive walls, most of which were lost earlier in the twentieth century.

Three different doors still stand in Rimini, Porta Montanara (also known as Saint Andrew’s Gate), Porta Galliana, and Porta Marina offering access from the sea.

Porta Montana was the only access to Rimini from Monte. Most of the door was lost during WWII, although restoration works have given the structure new splendor.

Porta Galliana was part of the defensive walls that protected Rimini and it was built back in the year two hundred.

The most stunning religious building still standing in Rimini, the Tempio Malaterstiano (or Malatesta Temple) is a cathedral projected back in the 900s that was never finished.

Despite the incredible cathedral seems to have been completed, the front facade lacks several details, including a central tower. In any case, inside the temple, it’s possible to observe religious artefacts, paintings, sculptures, and decorations, as well as a famous crucifix by Giotto.

Another Roman gem that you can admire in Rimini is what the locals call Ponte di Tiberio, a fantastic stone bridge with five arches over River Marecchia, built back in the year 20 BC. This is one of the most impressive Roman bridges still surviving in the country.

The pedestrian bridge marks the starting point of two important Roman roads, Via Emilia which connected Rimini to Piacenza, and Via Popilia which connected the city to Ravenna.

History and archaeological remains are not only visible through the streets of Rimini but they can also be admired inside the City Museum (or Museo della Città).

Located on the premises of an ancient monastery, a few steps from Tiberius’s Bridge, the museum hosts more than 1,500 objects, such as ancient coins, glassware, and even unique mosaics, ranging from the prehistoric era to modern times.  

Located in Piazza Ferrari, the Surgeon’s House was discovered in 1989 and is an archaeological area comprising of several buildings from the Late Republic, as well as a residence which is thought to date to the second half of the 2nd century A.D. A ticket to the City Museum also grants access to the Surgeon’s House.

Federico Fellini was arguably the most important Italian filmmaker of the last century, leaving a fantastic heritage with fins such as Amarcord and La Dolce Vita. Born in Emilia Romagna, the city of Rimini honors his life, work, and poetic legacy at the International Federico Fellini Museum.

Divided into three different sections, the diffused museum invades the city and finds settings in the fifteenth-century Sigismondo Castle, at Valloni Palace, and Malatesta Square, the urban section of the museum.

It is possible to book visits on the official website or at the premises. Take advantage of the incredible position of this museum to also discover the fantastic Sigismondo Castle partly built by Brunelleschi, which is another landmark in Rimini.

A massive Ferris wheel known as Ruota Panoramica is another attraction point in town. It is located on the edges of the city’s main beach with an impressive 55-meter height.

The wheel offers a great opportunity to discover the whole city from the sky and it is a fun thing to do when visiting Rimini. The whole ride takes about 20 minutes as the wheel moves quite slowly for you to enjoy the panoramic views so be sure to bring your camera along.

Those who enjoy green spaces and being in contact with nature will love Rimini’s several parks and piazzas. One of them is Parco Giovanni Paolo II (or John Paul II Park). 

Located in the southern part of the city, this is an impressive park with plenty of walking paths and benches to enjoy an afternoon far from the crowded beaches.

In the park, several kinds of sports are allowed, it is possible to ride bikes, jog, or simply explore the park following one of the many footpaths available.

Inside the park, you can also pay a visit to Mariotti Lake, to check out and also learn about the local flora and fauna.

If you came to Rimini ready to enjoy the beaches, then a short trip to the nearby coastal town of Riccione is another thing you should do. 

The lively settlement is a favorite place among young Italians who love spending their vacations here not just for the beautiful shore, but also to take advantage of the nightclubs and beach bars in the area.

However, Riccione is a relaxing place for people of other ages, with its several spa facilities and thermal springs, the place is perfect for pampering and enjoying some quality time on the Romagna Riviera.

There are two very different theme parks in the area of Rimini, geared to families with kids but attracting visitors of all ages. The first is Italia in Miniatura (which could be roughly translated as Miniature Italy).

The park is a short car ride from the center (about 20 minutes on Super Strada 16) and it guarantees fun moments as well as incredible photo options too. 

In the park, you will find a scale replica of some of the most famous monuments in the country, reconstructed with utmost detail. Over here you can explore the Colosseum, and admire the Leaning Tower of Pisa or Saint Peter’s Cathedral.

The park also has whimsical boat rides through mini-Venice, a kid-sized driving school, water cannons, fun rides, a parrot sanctuary, and much more to spend a whole day.  Check ticket prices here.

Another extremely fun theme park to visit is a favorite of Italian kids, Mirabilandia , The park is also a few minutes out of Rimini and it features all kinds of attractions and rides for the whole family, from very small kids to adults. 

Some of the most popular attractions include a Ferris wheel, water rides, and super thrilling rollercoasters.

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Rimini? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Gabi Ancarola is a journalist and travel writer who has lived over 20 years in Italy, and has been living in Crete for the last five years. She hosts culinary tours, translates and writes for her Crete travel blog The Tiny Book . She’s written for Greek Reporter and published several travel guides about Greece.

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• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 3 Get around
• 7.1.1 In the city center
• 7.1.2 Along the beach
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge

Rimini is a resort town in Emilia-Romagna , on Italy's east coast. Rimini is a thriving, bustling resort on the Italian Riviera that boasts "over a thousand hotels". It is one of the least pretentious towns in Italy. This is a place where the Italians (and Russians!) go for their sea and sun, and therefore the food is excellent as well as the people being friendly and helpful.

Understand [ edit ]

There has been a settlement at Rimini since prehistoric times. Founded by the Romans in 268 BC, Rimini boasts a 2,000-year history that has left important marks testifying to its grandeur. To the Romans, Ariminum was a link between the "Italic" and the "Gallic" lands, a stronghold on the Adriatic and a gateway to the Po valley. Three major roads converged here - Via Flaminia , Via Aemilia and Via Popilia .

You won't find many tour buses filled with Americans or English here! This also means, however, that few speak anything but Italian (or Russian), so be sure to take your phrase book with you. The locals will work with you and are always happy to see a foreigner at least trying to communicate in their language.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

• You could also fly into Marche Airport [dead link] near Ancona , or into Bologna .

By train [ edit ]

Fast trains run from Milan via Bologna through Rimini to Ancona, Bari and Lecce. They don't all stop at Rimini, so you may have to change at Bologna for the hourly regional train via Imola, Faenza, Forli and Cesena.

Another train runs hourly from Ravenna via Cervia and Cesenatico to Rimini.

By car [ edit ]

The A14, a six-lane motorway known as the autostrada del mare runs away to the north. The SS 72 heads inland towards San Marino . The SS16 heads in from the North and Ravenna .

By bus [ edit ]

• Flixbus have direct buses from Milan, Venice-Mestre, Bergamo, Ancona, Pescara, Rome and elsewhere.

Get around [ edit ]

Most hotels are within walking distance of the beach and the centre, but if you want to take a trip along the coast or inland, buses run regularly from the train station and are frequent and cheap.

Mi Muovo [dead link] is an integrated public transport pass for the region. Short-stay visitors might use "Mi Muovo Multibus", a 12-trip bus ticket, see Emilia Romagna#Get around .

See [ edit ]

• 44.06238 12.56754 3 Domus of the Surgeon . An impressive archeological area documenting 20 centuries of Rimini history.  
• Federico Fellini Museum , Via Clementini 2 . Tu-F 16:00 to 19:00, Sa Su 10:00 to 12:00 and 16:00 to 19:00 . Fellini's Museum is in Rimini's historic centre and is popular with both Italian public and foreign visitors alike. This museum covers everything related to the great film director's life and career, from the earliest days of Federico Fellini (1920 - 1993) to his greatest masterpieces, including five Oscars. The Museo Fellini hosts regular exhibitions of drawings, photographs and sketches. Free . ( updated Dec 2016 )

Do [ edit ]

• La Marina means the 15 km of beaches, not the place for leisure craft, which is il Porto . It's free to visit and swim, but almost all of it staked out by sunchair-for-rent services. In summer it's hubbub, with loudspeakers blaring commercials and vendors touting their wares. The beach plots are numbered north to south: look for the unmanaged sections, spiaggia libera , where you can lay your own towel, e.g. around no 97 near Parco Murri. The sea is warm and sheltered with next-to-no tide. In winter La Marina is deserted and the Med is cold!
• Rimini Fiera is the exhibition centre 3 km northwest of the city, with its own railway station. It has a year-round programme of events: some of these are trade-only, but others (especially around food, drink and leisure) are open to the public by ticket. Don't confuse this place with the Convention Centre, the UFO-shaped hall 500 m south of city centre.
• Tour de France starts in Florence on Saturday 29 June 2024 and races 205 km to Rimini. Stage 2 next day races from Cesenatico in the hills above town to Bologna.

Buy [ edit ]

Downtown are the best fashion boutiques, where is it possible to find the best Italian designer brands (Gucci, Prada, Armani, D&G). In early 2006 the first and one of the biggest (in Romagna) shopping malls, called "Le Befane", opened. It's so big that it changed the landscape of the west side of the city.

For typically tourist stuff, the beachfront has small souvenir shops. If you enjoy scandalising the family or even your home country's postal service, don't miss some of the more risqué postcards on sale at any one of a number of the little shops on the seafront.

Eat [ edit ]

In Rimini you can find several good places to eat. Since the city is on the seashore it is suggested to have a fish-based dish. Some of the best restaurant are: Lo Squero, Il Lurido, Da Guido, Marinelli. Usually with every dish you will get the famous "Piadina", a thin and very tasty sort of bread.

At the beach in the San Guiliano a Mare area, there are beach restaurants where one typically dines Al Fresco in warm weather. Although one might be wary of such establishments, the food is excellent and inexpensive. A typical dinner might cost only €5-6 for the meal alone. Sometimes they offer a multi-plate dinner (good for 2 or even 3 persons) for €18 that includes a 1/4 litre of wine. There are also excellent restaurants just off the main streets.

Budget [ edit ]

In the city center [ edit ].

• 44.061245 12.567008 1 Pizzeria del Secolo , Via Alessandro Gambalunga, 14 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 44.059546 12.565828 2 Borgo Antico , Via Cairoli, 47 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 44.059934 12.56641 3 Yerbabuena , Via Cairoli, 31 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 44.057767 12.565968 4 La Golosa , Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 110 . A Deli ( updated May 2022 )
• 44.059781 12.569025 5 Chinatown , Vicolo San Michelino in Foro, 9 . ( updated May 2022 )

Along the beach [ edit ]

• 44.076303 12.558092 6 Osteria di mare da Wally , Viale Paolo Toscanelli, 28 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 44.070481 12.579753 7 The Piada And The Sea , Lungomare Claudio Tintori, 23 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 44.068043 12.579947 8 Pizzeria Mille Gusti , Viale Trieste, 1 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 44.063437 12.586037 9 La Piada di Amerigo , Piazza Alberto Marvelli, 8 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 44.049176 12.600285 10 I Mattarelli, Cucina Del Mare , Viale Regina Elena, 219 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 44.031794 12.621416 11 PesceAzzurro Rimini , Viale Principe di Piemonte, 4/A . ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 44.059803 12.566359 12 La Magnuga , Via Cairoli, 26-28-30 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 44.060408 12.566745 13 Osteria Delle Poveracce , Vicolo Pescheria, 5 . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 44.064489 12.563759 14 La Esse Romagnola , Via Ortaggi, 7 . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 44.063459 12.587784 15 Habana Cafè - Bagno 44 , Lungomare Augusto Murri, 20 . ( updated Jan 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 43.859222 12.690944 16 [dead link] Osteria dell'Accademia ( Osteria ), Via Roma, 20 Montegridolfo RN , ☏ +39 0541-855335 . Inside the Montegridolfo Castle (40 km from Rimini), the osterie dell'Accademia is famous for the typical Italian cuisine: for example tagliatelle, cappelletti, carne alla griglia, tartufo and mushroom. A beautiful panorama in front of the sea in a medieval castle between the hills. €30/35 drink included .  

Drink [ edit ]

The whole town is geared towards tourists, so the night life is very good and there are bars everywhere. Once the sun goes down, the streets of Rimini come alive with lights, colour and noise as the sunbathers of the day become the revellers of the evening.

There are however no "real" clubs in Rimini; only bars with dance floors. For real clubbing you have to go to Riccione , the next town over, which is about a 15 minute drive away. There is however one club called Carnaby's which is on the outskirts of Rimini and it has a free shuttle bus; the club is also within walking distance.

• Carnaby Club . Open every night from March to October. The Club is a 3-story building, each level having a different atmosphere, music style, bars and DJs. Free shuttle service on whole Rimini Area.  
• Life club , Viale Regina Margherita 11 . Lively nightclub boasting two floors. Open all summer long with a variety of music styles on both floors. Outdoor smoking area fitted with seats. Free bus to and from the club and free giveaways and drink promotions.  
• Opéra Marano , viale D'Annunzio 150, Riccione ( seafront bathing area 134 ), ☏ +39 3384430837 (for reservations quotes and promotions call Federico) , [email protected] . 09:00-17:00 . Open from May to half September. Dance club on the beach with a tropical setting and live music (Italian music, commercial/dance and revival on Fridays, commercial/dance and house on Saturdays). A dinner menu of meat and fish is also available 21:30 to 00:00. On request shuttle service on whole Rimini Area or you can take Bus Line 11.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• 44.09222 12.53222 1 Albergo Aquila , Via Porto Palos 13 , ☏ +39 0541 734504 , fax : +39 0541 734504 , [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00 , check-out: 10:00 . 25 - 60 .  
• Albergo Viking , Viale Galatea 4 ( Family Antonioli ), ☏ +39 0541 721064 , fax : +39 0541 721064 , [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00 , check-out: 10:00 . Near the beach, pool, hydro jacuzzi in the garden, car parking, garden with games for children.  
• Hotel Baia ( Viserbella di Rimini ), Viale Porto Palos 33 , ☏ +39 0541 721061 , [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00 , check-out: 10:00 . Located directly on the beach. Fully modernized and restored, the hotel offers to the guests wide and well-lighted rooms, air conditioned dining room, car park, well equipped rooms with modern and functional furnishing and comforts as air conditioning, safe-box and hairdryer. Double room from €60 .  
• Family Hotel Continental , Viale Vespucci 40 , ☏ +39 0541-391300 , fax : +39 0541-391350 , [email protected] . Four-star hotel with 116 rooms.  
• Hotel Elba , viale Brindisi 21, Rivazzurra di Rimini ( in front of Carnaby Club ), ☏ +39 0541 373539 . A 3-star hotel for youths only, situated right in front of th Carnaby Club. Within walking distance from the beach. Part of the Young People Hotels group.  
• Hotel Europa Rimini , Viale A. Vespucci, 83 , ☏ +39 03631830407 , fax : +39 03631830407 , [email protected] . Affordable, clean and modern 3-star hotel with private beach, located on the seafront. Easy access to main services, amenities and nightlife.  
• 44.062 12.587 2 Logis Hotel Vienna Ostenda ( formerly Kyriad Vienna ), viale Regina Elena, 11 , ☏ +39 0541 391744 , fax : +39 0541 391032 , [email protected] . Budget place near railway station, small rooms and old fittings but comfy enough. B&B double €70 . ( updated Jun 2021 )
• Hotel Morfeo , via Enna 22, Marebello di Rimini ( 200 m from the beach ), ☏ +39 0541 373322 . For young people only. Part of the Young People Hotels group devoted to party going people between 16 and 35 years. 24-hr reception, breakfast until 12:30 for daysleepers, bed & breakfast or half board, with all you can eat buffet, all rooms with air-conditioning, sunbeds and beach facilities included.  
• Hotel River , Via Ortigara, 21 , ☏ +39 0541 26904 . A nice little hotel right on the beach with private parking with breakfast bar laden with healthy and tasty treats and unlimited coffee from a machine. Charge extra €5 for aircon. Doubles from €60 per night, singles from €40 .  
• 44.05 12.56667 3 Jammin' Rimini Backpackers Hotel , Viale Bengasi 2 , ☏ +39 0541 390800 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:0₩ (at Jammin' Party Hostel, 100 m) , check-out: 11:00 . Clean large private rooms 1-2-4-6 beds all bathroom ensuite. Bar and reception 24h. Linen included hand given at check-in. Discounted tickets for discos and amusement parks. Small pets allowed upon authorization. At Jammin' Party Hostel, with a small extra, you can also have: buffet breakfast, WiFi, bicycles hire, self laundry, cocktail bar. Open June–August. from €12 .  
• Liverpool Hotel Rimini All Inclusive , Viale Bergamo, 8 - Rivazzurra di Rimini ( Family Zanotti since 1964 ), ☏ +39 0541-370999 , fax : +39 0541-370999 , [email protected] . Check-in: 10:30 , check-out: 10:00 . Elegant Family Hotel near the sea, with fantastic offers all inclusive for the holidays in Rimini. Pizza Party every Sunday evening at 22:00. Piadina Party every Thursday evening at 21:30. Special Dinner Fish every Tuesday at 20:20 for all the guests that love fresh fish. Free Internet Wifi and parking. Full board €35, all inclusive €44 .  
• [dead link] Residence Paradiso , Viale Tirrenia 2 , ☏ +39 0541 377439 . Doubles €80-150 .  
• Sunflower Beach Backpackers Hostels and Bar , via Siracusa 25 , ☏ +39 0541373432 , [email protected] . The Official Hostelling International of Rimini. Suggested on Lonely Planet, Lets'Go and Rouge Guide.Free breakfast and WiFi, laundry facilities, fully equipped kitchen, 24-hr security, bicycles, bar open 24 hr, parties and concerts. Europe Famous Hostels Member. The Sunflower Bar has happy hour every night and organise the Rimini pub & disco crawl. By bus : Line 11, Stop 24 from €15 per person .  

Connect [ edit ]

As of June 2021, Rimini has 4G with all Italian carriers. 5G has not reached this area.

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• Ravenna is a lovely old town that was once a Byzantine capital.
• Ancona is the next major city down the Adriatic coast, with ferries to the Balkans.
• Bologna is the stand-out among the cities along the Po valley.
• San Marino is an independent microstate perched on a hilltop southwest of Ravenna, an easy day-trip.

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The inside guide to Rimini, Italy’s iconic beach city

Famous for its 10-mile stretch of sand, this is a city that’s home to Roman and Renaissance history as well as colourful streets that inspired legendary director Federico Fellini, whose cinematic legacy is celebrated with a striking new museum.

To those who flock to its 10-mile stretch of biscuit-coloured sand, this is the ultimate seaside holiday spot. But a tale of two cities plays out in Rimini, not least because it’s sliced in half by a railway line. Here, the booming post-war beach resort sits side by side with Roman and Renaissance remains.

To get a handle on it all, start, as everyone does, with the beach, This is your classic Italian resort, with the sand divided into strips of private beaches. At Bagno Tiki 26 , you’ll have to pay for a sun lounger but you’ll get access to hot tubs, volleyball, yoga classes and a gym on the sand — plus an excellent seafood restaurant and a tapas bar, where there’s a DJ in the evening.

Head into town, and you’ll see a different Rimini: a compact Renaissance city where clothes shops sit in 16 th -century palazzi, a castle looms over a small square and a cobbled fishing village sits on the other side of a gleaming white Roman bridge.  

Spliced by that railway track, the two Riminis are connected by a long, thin swish of tree-shaded park, starting at   Piazzale Kennedy . Halfway along is a ruined Roman amphitheatre; at the end of the park is the   Arch of Augustus, a monumental gateway into the ancient city of Ariminum, and the end point of the Via Flaminia (the original road from Rome), built of blazing-white Istrian stone. The ancient forum, meanwhile, is now the   Piazza Tre Martiri, which sports elegant colonnades, a clocktower and a little chapel marking the spot of a 13 th -century ‘miracle’. Yet the streets of today are layered on top of the Roman ones. In the middle of Piazza Ferrari , protected by modern glass walls, stands the   Domus del Chirurgo   (The Surgeon’s House) — a sprawling former Roman home, carpeted with sumptuous mosaics, in which a huge collection of ancient surgical equipment was found. Today, the scalpels, forceps and bone saws are on display next door at the Museo della Città .

During the Renaissance, Rimini was ruled by the Malatesta clan, who conquered the surrounding area as they filled their hometown with resplendent architecture. Fifteenth-century ruler Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta brought architect Leon Battista Alberti over from Florence to rework the gothic church of San Francesco into his grandstanding mausoleum. Today, still half finished — Sigismondo died before its completion — the Tempio Malatestiano is one of Italy’s finest examples of architecture within the humanist movement, which put religion to one side and took its influence from the classical world. Instead of the usual religious trappings, there are zodiac signs, cherubs and even carved elephants, as well as artworks by Giotto and Piero della Francesca. While you’re there, break for a meal at Osteria Io e Simone . Set in a park a short walk from the church, it serves Emilia-Romagnan classics like   tagliatelle al ragù   and   cappellacci   with soft squacquerone cheese.

Not even the best Renaissance architects, though, could trump the Ponte di Tiberio – the striking white Roman bridge that connects the city centre to Borgo San Giuliano, an ancient fishing village. Federico Fellini, legendary film director and local lad, adored the area’s pastel-toned houses and cobbled streets; today’s residents have repaid the favour with murals depicting scenes from his films, including the famous Dolce Vita kiss. Once one of the poorest areas of Rimini, today it’s the place of choice for an aperitivo at wine bars like Biberius , which specialises in local wines, including Rebola, a white as light and heady as a day at the beach.

Until recently, that was the only hint of Fellini in his birth city; last year, however, saw the opening of the twin-centred Fellini Museum . The more academic half is round the back of the Cinema Fulgor, where the director got his first taste of Hollywood (today it’s been restored to its early-20 th -century glory by Oscar-winning set designer Dante Ferretti). The main, interactive museum sits in the 15 th -century Castel Sismondo, where scenes from the legendary director’s films play out alongside exhibits focused on his film scores, fixation with psychoanalysis, and forward-looking work that prefigured a number of social movements.

Three to try: beach towns

1. Otranto, Puglia English writer Horace Walpole hadn’t been to Italy’s easternmost town when he wrote the world’s first gothic novel,   The Castle of Otranto, in 1764. There is indeed a castle in Otranto — a grand, 15 th -century one built by the Aragonese — but it’s not even the town’s biggest draw. Vying for that position would be the Otranto Cathedral, with its 12 th century mosaicked floor (one of the finest in Italy), its labyrinth of whitewashed alleyways, pretty little port, and the Baia dei Turchi, one of Puglia’s best beaches, four miles to the north.

2. Trapani, Sicily Many people arrive in Trapani only to leave it soon afterwards, as this is the jumping-off point for the Egadi Islands, as well as for the island of Pantelleria. But this is no gritty port town; Trapani has been central to Sicily’s history ever since the Aragonese landed here in 1282, and its port has made it a key trading point for centuries. All that history means wealth, and you’ll see evidence of it in the grand palazzi of the old town, the florid churches, the stately, palm-lined gardens of the Villa Margherita park and the sheer mix of architecture, from gothic and Catalan to Renaissance and baroque. Don’t miss the cable-car that whisks you up to Erice (a town founded by the Greeks), 2,460ft above Trapani, for spectacular views of the coast.

3. Pesaro, Marche Located on the Adriatic Coast, Pesaro is better known for its beaches than its history, but that looks set to change in 2024, when it’ll be designated Italy’s Capital of Culture. Founded by the Romans (you can visit one of their villas here, the Domus di via dell’Abbondanza). It’s an elegant Renaissance town and was the birthplace of composer Rossini (hence the Rossini Opera Festival that’s held here every August). Many visitors are too smitten with the sea to venture into the hills, but if you do, you’ll find knockout views from the Monte San Bartolo Natural Park. Head to the town’s Renaissance-era summer residences, too, like the forest-wrapped Villa Imperiale, or the Villa Caprile, whose magnificent terraced gardens are open for visits.

Published in the September 2022 issue of   National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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Beyond the beach at Italy's seaside Rimini

May 2, 2019 • 5 min read

Photo Taken In Rimini, Italy

With its never-ending seafront, festive vibe and wild nightlife, Rimini is one of Italy’s favourite seaside resorts. It teems in summer as Italian holidaymakers and foreign sun-seekers take to its gentle Adriatic waters and long sandy beaches.

But venture back from the lungomare (seafront promenade) and you’ll discover it’s also a historic city with a charming old town and a fine collection of ancient relics, Renaissance landmarks and cultural gems.

Arco di Augusto

The Arco di Augusto , the oldest Roman arch in northern Italy, provides a monumental introduction to the centro storico (historic centre). Built in 27BC, the towering gateway marked the end of Via Flaminia, the consular road that linked Rome with ancient Ariminum (Rimini). Battlements were added in the 10th century but elements of the arch’s original decor remain, including four carvings of Roman deities: Apollo and Jupiter on the outside; Neptune and Minerva on the city side.

Tempio Malatestiano

From the Arco, it’s a short walk to the Tempio Malatestiano , Rimini’s showpiece Renaissance cathedral. Designed by Leon Battista Alberti in 1450, the Tempio takes its name from Sigismondo Malatesta, Rimini’s 15th-century ruler who commissioned it to replace an earlier Gothic church.

Sigismondo and his beloved mistress, Isotta degli Atti, are both buried here and you’ll find many decorative references to them in the cathedral. Further highlights including a crucifix by Giotto, a fresco by Piero della Francesca, and a series of sculptural bas-reliefs representing the signs of the zodiac.

Rimini’s compact old town is largely based on the layout of the Roman city. The main drag, Corso d’Augusto, follows the ancient decumanus maximus  Roman road, whilst the central Piazza Tre Martiri sits atop what was once the forum. Julius Caesar, immortalised in a statue, is said to have addressed his legionnaires here in 49BC. More recently, three partisans were executed on the square in 1944 – hence its name, Three Martyrs Square.

Further up the Corso, Piazza Cavour boasts an impressive duo of Gothic palazzi (mansions), a statue of Pope Paolo V, and a white marble fountain that supposedly impressed Leonardo da Vinci. On its southern side, a brick archway leads to the Vecchia Pescheria , an 18th-century fish market now crammed with bars and restaurants.

Teatro Amintore Galli

Also fronting Piazza Cavour is the Teatro Amintore Galli , Rimini’s historic theatre which recently reopened some 150 years after it was gutted by a WWII bomb. Thanks to a lengthy restoration, its magnificent neoclassical interior has been faithfully restored to its original 19th-century glory, complete with Greek-Roman-style columns, classical capitals and a refined gold and ivory palette. Check its website for the latest program of opera, classical music, drama and dance.

Castel Sismondo

A canon’s shot from the Teatro, Castel Sismondo has been part of Rimini’s cityscape since the mid-15th century. The austere Renaissance castle, also known as the Rocca Malatestiana, originally served as the fortress-residence of military leader Sigismondo Malatesta. Nowadays, it’s used to host cultural events as work continues on refurbishing it for a new museum dedicated to Rimini-born filmmaker Federico Fellini. If all goes according to plan, when the castle reopens its echoing stone halls will sport virtual recreations of Fellini’s legendary film sets.

Biblioteca Civica Gambalunga

For a change of scenery, retire to the hushed halls of Italy’s oldest civic library . This historic institution dates to 1619 when a wealthy benefactor, Alessandro Gambalunga, bequeathed his collection of 1438 books to the municipality. Since then the library’s stock has grown to around 325,000 volumes. These include some of the oldest books ever printed in Italy and titles formerly prohibited by the Church. Guided visits, which must be arranged in advance, take in a suite of centuries-old rooms on the first floor where tomes are stacked in dark-walnut-wood bookshelves.

Domus del Chirurgo

Books were still very much a thing of the future when patients headed to the Domus del Chirurgo for a check-up. The Domus, actually a 2nd-century Roman villa under Piazza Ferrari, belonged to a surgeon ( chirurgo in Italian) called Eutyches, who is thought to have run a kind of day hospital out of its main rooms. Of the many finds unearthed here, the most remarkable is a record-breaking collection of medical instruments, now on display at the Museo della Città . At the villa itself, you can see some wonderful floor mosaics, including one showing Orpheus surrounded by animals.

Cinema Fulgor

With its striking art-deco facade and sumptuous gold and scarlet interior, Cinema Fulgor is a Rimini institution. This is where Federico Fellini watched his first films and developed his lifelong passion for the world of celluloid. Aficionados can now follow in the maestro’s footsteps after the cinema was reopened in January 2018 following a six-year revamp fashioned by former Fellini collaborator and Oscar-winning production designer, Dante Ferretti. The cinema is central to Rimini’s plans for a new Museo Internazionale Federico Fellini, and eventually the floors above it will host exhibitions dedicated to the director.

Ponte di Tiberio

Road traffic has been trundling over the Ponte di Tiberio since the 1st century AD and still today cars crunch across it to access the historic centre. In ancient times it marked the beginning of two Roman consular roads: Via Emilia, which ran northwest to Piacenza in the Po river valley, and Via Popilia, which served Ravenna and the northeast. For photogenic views of the bridges five arches, head down to the green landscaped area on the bridge’s western side.

Borgo San Giuliano

Cross the Ponte di Tiberio and you come to the Borgo San Giuliano , one of Rimini’s most atmospheric quarters. Now a hip area of cobbled lanes, prim pastel-coloured houses, wine bars and popular trattorias, the neighbourhood was once home to Rimini’s fishing community. Look out for ceramic signs attached to some houses with the names and nicknames of the fishermen who used to live there. Also of note are the murals that adorn the streets, many inspired by Fellini and his films.

Duncan Garwood’s tour of Rimini was provided by Discover Rimini and the Rimini Tourist Office. Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

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Rimini, Italy: A Great Guide to a Seaside City

Italy – the perfect trifecta of history, food and natural beauty. People fly to Rome just for a quick view of the Colosseum and a plate of homemade tagliatelle. But what if I told you, you can have all this and also be on the beach? Rimini, Italy is one of those destinations you should add to your Italian itinerary to get a bit of sun along with your food and fun adventure.

Where is Rimini, Italy?

Getting to Rimini, and then getting around Rimini is going to be the biggest challenge of your visit. But once these logistics are ironed out, you’re due to have a wonderful experience in this charming beach town.

If coming from the U.S., one of the closest airports to fly to is Milan. Another option is the region of Ancona, about an hour’s drive or train from Rimini. Check Skyscanner for the latest rates and routes. Depending on the time of year, you’ll have several options for making it to Rimini, Italy.

While Rimini is wonderful, it might be best to include it as a stop on a longer trip through Italy. You can fly into Rome, then rent a car or take the train direct to Rimini from there. Florence is within driving distance, as well as much of the rolling Tuscan region. You could take trains or drive to the Amalfi coast too on the east coast of Italy.

Have a look at our review of Adler Thermae in Tuscany – only three hours from Rimini.

If you’d rather spend your trip funds on seafood and Aperol spritz, that’s perfectly fine! There are public buses available throughout Rimini. They can be difficult to navigate and often still require a hearty walk in the heat from places like the marina and beaches. It’s worth investing in a rental car or taxis to get around. Or, simply plan to be in one area of Rimini throughout the day to limit your time in transit.

Consider a private guide who has access to a vehicle if you’d like to explore the old part of time alongside the beaches. Bicycles are another great option, especially the e-bikes on hot days that give you a little electric boost to get around!

If you’d like to book any of these experiences below, feel free to check out the Rimini Experience page and use code ‘WANDERGYRE’ for a special discount!

A Loose 3-Day Rimini and Romagna Itinerary

• Day 1: Yoga on the beach at sunrise, SUPing on the beach, then pasta/gelato time!
• Day 2: Half day sailboat cruise and Scamporella
• Day 3: Yoga class at Forma Mi, e-bike ride through Old Town
• Where to Stay in Rimini, Italy

Where to Eat in Rimini

Yoga in Rimini, Italy

What is better than a gentle stretch and meditation with ocean waves lapping nearby? Rimini has a budding yoga community that welcomes those new and familiar with the practice. There are several studios to choose from, but the best experience can be yoga on the beach. You can book a group class around sunrise on Rimini Beach. Our instructor was very sweet, and catered to our skill level (as well as energy level!) with ease. She even led us through Nadi Shodhan Pranayama, or alternative nostril breathing, to help energise and revitalize the body for the rest of the day.

You can book this beach yoga experience through the Rimini website here , and use discount code ‘WANDERGYRE’ too.

Be clear about what kind of yoga you’d like to do while in Rimini. Just like any other place in Europe, there will be several different styles and classes offered. Also, if you plan to do something like a Vinyasa flow, note it might be in Italian, so you’ll have to be familiar with the moves to enjoy the experience.

At Forma Mi in the Borgo San Giuliano area of Rimini, there are some English classes available. You’ll think you’ve found a secret garden, as behind the gate doors is a lovely grassy area with swinging lounge areas and quiet places to relax. Class spaces inside are large too and airy.

Cruising and Paddling the Sea in Rimini

You see right away that most people spend their time in Rimini on the beach.

At the marina, you can get a lay of the land first by taking a ½ day sail cruise along the coast. It’s an easy breezy way to enjoy the sunshine with your pals. The ship is in excellent condition and accommodations a small group; we had about six on board and were very comfortable. A celebratory bottle of bubbles was also welcome after a hot day – not to mention the stop off for a swim!

There’s plenty of operators along the beaches you can book in excursions with right away. We used Riki’s Tribu , which offered a variety of great options from paddleboards (SUPing) to windsurfing. Take note of the wave situation, both experiences can be tough when the sea is a bit rough! But it was great to be in the water and reserving activities with them was a breeze.

Don’t skip Rimini’s Old Town!

If you love Italian history, design and charm, it’s well worth exploring the old city center. Get your fill of the seaside fun, then go in town for a treat. It’s definitely a walkable area, with several squares to explore and, obviously, gelato stops to try. You can go for a stroll, or try an e-bike tour to see all the hotspots. E-bikes are simple to learn to use and give you and extra motorized boost alongside pedalling.

Have a peek at the old fish market in the Piazza Cavour, which has a beautiful archway corridor outside that still stands centuries after it was created. Nearby is the stunning old theatre, as well as Rimini’s oldest bridge called the Ponte di Tiberio. The stones and framework of the bridge is more than two millennia, surrounded by pretty green parks.

PS – did you know all the public fountains in Rimini have potable water? I loved this sustainable and class feature of the city. I think many Italian cities have the same system, which is wonderful. Not many tourists know you can refill your water bottle anywhere!

Just Outside Rimini – Scamporella!

While in town, you need to reserve one evening to experience this magical spot. You’ll find the Scamporella event about 45 minutes outside Rimini near the town of Cesena. Consider driving or booking a private car to the spot so your wine intake can be unregulated!

It’s an olive grove and picnic spot among the hills. They’ve done a wonderful job keeping things simple, elegant and classically Italian. Guest arrive and can choose a slow ride via wagon through the groves, or pop down at their pre-arranged blanket area.

Each duo receives a beautiful basket full of local delicacies to start – like rosemary cheese and paprika chips. You can share blankets with up to six people. All wine is included as well, so simply hop to the bar and pick up a bottle or red or white with stemmed glasses. If you prefer a cocktail, they have a full list too.

Once you settle in and the sun starts to go down, you’re surrounded in twinkling lights hanging from the trees and Italian music wafting through the warm night air. Each guest is brought a hot main dish (we had homemade lasagna!) and a dessert to finish (tiramisu of course).

This gathering is obviously popular, so making arrangement ahead of time is advisable. If you’d like a discount and reservations online, feel free to use the code ‘WANDERGYRE’ on the Experience Rimini website .

Where to Stay in Rimini

There’s plenty of options for accommodations in Rimini, many of which offer sea views and comfortable quarters. I enjoyed my stay at the Oxygen Lifestyle Hotel , about 15-minutes drive from the ferris wheel and old town section of Rimini. This is a good option for a small group or family, as rooms are spacious and offer stage closets, pull-out futons and large bathrooms. Décor is unassuming in the room, but the balcony space and strong air conditioning were welcome amenities.

The sand is just nearby, but make sure you leave time to splash in the baby blue pool to cool down between activities. There’s beachfront just across the street and you can reserve loungers/umbrellas with the front desk. Speaking of the staff, they are wonderful warm and welcome upon arrival. You can easily have them assist with taxis, dinner reservations and more.

Don’t skip the breakfast – it’s sprawling and lovely to indulge while sipping a cappuccino and sampling the European-style charcuterie to begin the day.

Being near all the action might be your priority when it comes to accommodations. You can check out the Villa Rosa Riviera hotel , near the marina and some of the best beaches in town. Not only is it’s location ideal to avoid too much transit, but they also boast an amazing breakfast/brunch to indulge. It’s called Panenostro . Everything on the menu incorporated fresh ingredients, like local berries and baked goods.

For something more upscale, there is the gorgeous Grand Hotel . It’s setting looks straight out of a Wes Anderson movie, with elegant marbled details and sprawling, manicured grounds. The property boasts influence from French and Venetian style, with private access to a nearby beach and spa onsite.

You’ll need to fuel up alongside all these amazing experiences in the sun. There’s a good mix of tasty tourist spots and local haunts to keep you satisfied three meals a day.

Now the purists will freak out – but I really dug the cream/cheese pasts combos with seafood! It sounds crazy, but the best dish I had in Rimini was cacio e pepe with mussels. Have a plate for lunch at Osteria e Pataca near the Grand Hotel. Delicious.

Another local nosh is ‘piades’. They are like paninis, but more in a thin pita pocket-like bread. You can catch these all over town. The classic variety is stuffed with parma ham, arugula/rocket, and a soft cheese called ‘squacquerone’. Have one or two of these at the kitschy yet fun Lella al Mare . The owner is a hoot and likes to wear a flowered straw hat – also donned by all of the staff.

I asked our local guide Janine for some of her additional recommendations as well for great places to eat, have a look! And follow her on Instagram for real-time tips in Rimini, Italy.

Her first place is La Romana for gelato . There was hot debate among those who live in Rimini for the perfect gelato spot, but many agreed this unassuming store font was the best around. Inside its elegant façade offered fresh, homemade flavors with lots of chocolate, fruit or nuts to satisfy all tastes. I chose lemon and strawberry but quickly wish I opted for the dark chocolate and coffee!

For a beautiful setting and perfect pasta dishes, you can head to Ristorante Pacini . It’s near the Castle of Montebello where they say that there is the ghost of “azzurrina”. It’s fun to visit the castle, then have a meal next door, all about 30 minutes from downtown Rimini.

Janine’s favorite dishes are the ‘gnocchi di patate consigliati al formaggio di fossa’, which are potato dumplings and cheese. A close second is the  the traditional ‘tagliatelle al ragù’ or  handmade noodles with meat sauce. Ristorante acini is also famous for the dessert called ‘porko spino’ (hedgehog), and the recipe remains a secret to this day.

Head there to enjoy the food a wonderful view over the countryside of Rimini.

If you’ve officially had your fill of housemade pasta, you can head to the city center of Rimini. Called l’ingrata , this restaurant specializes in meat dishes, such as carpaccio and Florentine steak. The house favorite is the ‘spiedone mix’ of barbecue meat. Definitely don’t miss the dessert trio of mascarpone too!

There’s a little bit of everything that will help you plan your upcoming trip to Rimini and the surrounding region of Romagna. Feel free to drop me a line if you have any questions. Enjoy all that Italy has to offer!

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Author Eileen Cotter Wright

Eileen Cotter is a freelance travel journalist and owner of Pure Wander. She's our resident expat extraordinaire and falls down a lot in yoga class. Follow her on Instagram @Pure_Wander.

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Fun! I love learning about new places and this is one of those spots in Italy that seems to have missed most people’s radars. I’m not a big beach person, but I’d definitely LOVE to take part in Scamporella! Looks magical. That’s exactly the kind of experiences I seek out. Maybe I need to return to Italy…

Scamproella was definitely a highlight! The countryside surrounding Rimini us gorgeous too.

This sounds like a perfect trip for me! Especially the yoga on the beach 🙂 I’ve been to Italy quite a few times, now, but the closest I got to a beach was in the Cinque Terre. Which is yeah on the ocean but most of the beaches are rocky, and the one in Monterosso is overrun with people. Rimini looks a bit more laid back, maybe because it is so difficult to get to!

I have not been able to visit ANY coastal area of Italy yet (Milan, Rome, Florence, Venice…but not the coast) and clearly I have been missing out! Rimini is totally adorable! I have to get there soon!

I love the idea of biking down the Mediterranean Coast and having a romantic picnic. I think what excites me the most about Italy is all the food. It looks so amazing. I don’t think I could eat my fill of homemade pasta, at least not according to my mouth.

Well, Rimini looks awesome! I’ve only been to Venice, Rome, Florence – the usual suspects. Even though I went in the dead of summer, I still really loved it and can’t wait to get back and explore more of the lesser known parts. I just want all the pasta and pizza I can eat.

I mean basically Italy is there for pizza and pasta, haha. But I do love the coastlines!

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Great article, Eileen! All that food looks wonderful! 😋

I was briefly in Rimini and definitely agree that it’s well worth visiting! Ft. Lauderdale is a sister city of Rimini and given the choice, I’d rather spend more time in Rimini. I enjoyed the historic center and had some delicious food as well. There’s excellent value in beachside accommodation as well with over 1,000 hotels along a long stretch of sandy beach.

AA recently launched a seasonal daily direct flight from Philadelphia to Bologna, which is what I flew. I believe it ends in September and it may or may not return next year. From Bologna to Rimini it’s just over an hour on the train.

Happy travels! 😀

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The Scamporella event spot is ADORABLE! I haven’t visited this part of Italy and would love to picnic here!

It was one of the most surreal travel memories I’ve had to date!

everything looks so amazing, would love to travel sometime to other countries

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15 fun things to do in Rimini, Italy – Rimini Travel Guide

September 18, 2023 | Posted in: Italy

Rimini is in the Emilia-Romagna region and was founded by Romans in 268 BC. It has over 15 km of beaches and is a popular seaside resort. Federico Fellini was born here, and the city is known for its nightlife and historic sites. It has monuments like the Arch of Augustus and Tiberius Bridge. The city later prospered under the Malatesta family and became a Renaissance cultural center.

Rimini is not considered expensive. It offers a budget-friendly Italian vacation experience with lower costs for accommodation, food, and transportation compared to other Italian cities. Rimini has 149,211 residents as of 2023. The average age is 48 years, and the city has a young population.

Rimini is also known for its vibrant nightlife, especially in summer. The city has numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties. Rimini has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best months to visit Rimini are May, June, and September. Rimini has a 15 km coastline with both private and public beaches. The waters are shallow and safe, making them ideal for families.

1. Ponte di Tiberio

2. borgo san giuliano, 3. parco xxv aprile, 4. chiesa di santa maria in corte o dei servi, 5. piazza tre martiri, 6. old cinema fulgor, 7. rimini city museum, 8. piazza cavour, 9. castel sismondo, 10. tempio malatestiano, 11. cuor di cioccolato, 12. arco d' augosto, 13. rimini beaches, 14. ruota panoramica ferris wheel, what are the best things to do in rimini with kids, where is rimini located, what's rimini famous for, is rimini expensive, is rimini good for nightlife, what is the weather like in rimini, what are the best beaches in rimini, what should a tourist know before visiting rimini, how to get to rimini, how many people live in rimini, what are the best hotels to stay in rimini, italy, what are the best restaurants to eat and drink in rimini.

Listed below are the best things to do in Rimini.

• Ponte di Tiberio. Ponte di Tiberio is a Roman bridge built under Augustus and completed by Tiberius, still used for pedestrian crossing between Rimini's historic center and Borgo San Giuliano.
• Borgo San Giuliano. Borgo San Giuliano is a charming medieval fisherman's village in Rimini with colorful houses, narrow streets, and seafood restaurants.
• Parco XXV Aprile. Parco XXV Aprile is Rimini's largest park located along the Marecchia River, featuring open meadows, groves of trees, and recreational facilities.
• Chiesa di Santa Maria. Chiesa di Santa Maria is a catholic church in Rimini known for its Baroque interior and Chapel of the Well containing a holy image of the Madonna
• Piazza Tre Martiri. Piazza Tre Martiri is a historic central square in Rimini named for three partisans executed there, located at the site of the Roman forum.
• Old Cinema Fulgor. Old Cinema Fulgor is a renovated 20th century movie theater in Rimini where Federico Fellini had his first filmgoing experience
• Rimini City Museum. Rimini City Museum is a museum housed in a former monastery displaying local archeology, art, and the surgical tools of the Surgeon's House.
• Piazza Cavour. Piazza Cavour is another historic square in central Rimini surrounded by medieval and Renaissance buildings like the Palazzo dell'Arengo.
• Castel Sismondo. Castel Sismondo is a 15th century castle in Rimini commissioned by Sigismondo Malatesta, designed with imposing square towers
• Tempio Malatestiano. Tempio Malatestiano is a church with Renaissance facade by Alberti and elaborate late Gothic interior with artworks.
• Cuor di Cioccolato. Cuor di Cioccolato is a famous gelato shop in central Rimini known for high-quality, creatively flavored artisanal gelato.
• Arco d' Augosto. Arco d' Augosto is a 27 BC Roman arch in Rimini honoring Augustus, the oldest surviving arch in northern Italy.
• Rimini beaches. Sandy beaches along the Adriatic Sea in Rimini, lined with restaurants, bars, and sun loungers.
• Ruota Panoramica Ferris wheel. Ruota Panoramica is a 55 meter tall Ferris wheel on Rimini's waterfront offering panoramic views of the coast.
• Italy in Miniatura. Italy in Miniatura is an imaginative theme park in Rimini displaying meticulously crafted miniature models of Italian landmarks.

Ponte di Tiberio is an ancient Roman bridge located in Rimini, Italy. It spans the Marecchia River and connects the historic city center to the Borgo San Giuliano district. The bridge was started by Emperor Augustus in 14 AD and completed by Emperor Tiberius in 21 AD, which is how it got its name. The address of Ponte di Tiberio is Viale Tiberio, Rimini 47900, Italy. The bridge is also referred to as the Bridge of Augustus because construction began when Augustus reigned but was only completed when Tiberius reigned. The crossing was the only one that wasn't destroyed in the Battle of Rimini and is still used for pedestrian and ordinary vehicle crossing – but is not suitable for trucks.

To get to Ponte di Tiberio, the nearest bus stop is Ducale, served by bus line 1. If coming from Rimini train station, walk north on Viale Dante until reaching Piazza Tre Martiri. Then take the road to the right and continue until you reach the bridge. Ponte di Tiberio can also be reached by walking or biking from many parts of central Rimini.

Ponte di Tiberio is an excellent activity for history buffs of all ages who want to see an ancient Roman bridge that is still in use after 2,000 years. Families with kids would also appreciate the history and legend behind the bridge. The bridge is located right on a bike path, so cycling across Ponte di Tiberio is also a popular activity. Photographers enjoy capturing photos of the picturesque bridge from the new Piazza sull'Acqua. Locals and tourists alike enjoy strolling across the pedestrian-only bridge and taking in views of the Borgo San Giuliano district.

Ponte di Tiberio makes for an interesting visit at any time of day, but it is particularly beautiful at sunset when its arches reflect off the water. In the evening, the bridge provides a popular gathering spot to enjoy the lively atmosphere of restaurants and cafes just across the bridge in Borgo San Giuliano. No matter what your interests, Ponte di Tiberio is a must-see attraction when visiting Rimini to appreciate its history, architecture, and scenic views. 

Borgo San Giuliano is an ancient neighborhood located in Rimini, Italy. The full address is Via San Giuliano, 47921 Rimini RN, Italy. Borgo San Giuliano started as a small fishing village around the year 1000 AD. It is located on the north bank of the Marecchia river and is connected to Rimini's historic center by the Tiberius Bridge. To get to Borgo San Giuliano, you can walk across the Tiberius Bridge from Rimini's city center. If driving, there are parking areas near the Tiberius Bridge and along Viale Tiberio. You may notice that many homes also have painted ceramic plaques that illustrate old boats and reveal the name of the sailor who used to own the house.

Borgo San Giuliano is a charming area to explore on foot. The narrow cobblestone streets and small squares have a medieval atmosphere. The houses are painted in pastel colors and many have murals depicting scenes from Federico Fellini films. Fellini was inspired by Borgo San Giuliano and its residents. There are also ceramic tiles on houses depicting the names and nicknames of former fishermen residents.

Borgo San Giuliano is enjoyable for people of all ages interested in art, culture, history, and good food. Families with kids can walk around looking at the murals and eating gelato. History buffs will appreciate the medieval layout and remnants of the old wall. Fellini fans can look for movie references. Foodies can try seafood restaurants and wine bars. The pedestrian-only streets make Borgo San Giuliano ideal for leisurely strolling through its picturesque alleys and small squares. Every two years in September, a lively festival called Festa de Borg takes place in Borgo San Giuliano.

Parco XXV Aprile is a large public park located in Rimini, Italy. It is also known as Marecchia Park. The full address is Viale Tiberio, 47921 Rimini RN, Italy. Parco XXV Aprile, also known as Parco Marecchia, covers 25 hectares and sits on the former riverbed of the Marecchia River. It is Rimini's largest civic park. The park stretches between the city's historic center, the Ponte di Tiberio (Bridge of Tiberius), and the districts of San Giuliano, INA Casa, Marecchiese and Celle. Parco XXV Aprile contains open meadows, groves of trees, sports facilities, and playgrounds for children. The park's tree population consists mainly of native species like poplar, willow, alder, linden and ash trees.

To get to Parco XXV Aprile, visitors can take public transportation to the nearby train station on Viale Tiberio. The park entrance sits just 350 meters from the iconic Ponte di Tiberio. Visitors can also drive and park in the public parking area next to the park. A bike path that runs through Parco XXV Aprile connects Rimini to Saiano along the Marecchia River, making the park accessible by bicycle as well.

Parco XXV Aprile appeals to a wide audience, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists in Rimini. The park's ample open space, playgrounds and sports facilities provide fun activities for children. Teens and adults can enjoy hiking, jogging and cycling on the park's paths. The scenic river views and abundance of trees and green space create an atmosphere of relaxation, attracting adults and seniors who want to read, picnic, or simply sit and enjoy nature. Leashed dogs are permitted in certain areas, so the park accommodates pet owners too. With its diversity of amenities, Parco XXV Aprile offers something for visitors of all ages and interests. 

Chiesa di Santa Maria in Corte o dei Servi is a Catholic church located in Rimini, Italy. It is more commonly known as Chiesa dei Servi, referring to the Servants of Mary religious order who built the church in the 14th century. The church is located in historic city center of Rimini.

What makes Chiesa di Santa Maria in Corte special is its architecture and art. The original 14th century Gothic-style church was completely transformed in the late 18th century by the Bolognese architect Gaetano Stegani into the Baroque edifice seen today. The ornate interior has gilded stucco decorations and paintings by notable artists such as Lucio Massari, Pietro Tedeschi, and Gaetano Gandolfi. Fragments of 14th century frescoes from the school of Giotto can also be seen inside.

The main draw for visitors is the Chapel of the Well, containing a venerated image of the Madonna which miraculously emerged unscathed from a well on the church grounds in 1256. Today pilgrims can still drink water from this well for its believed healing powers. The event is memorialized in a large painting on the chapel wall depicting the Cardinal retrieving the image from the well.

Chiesa di Santa Maria in Corte is located next to Piazza Tre Martiri in the historic center of Rimini, about a 10 minute walk from the Arch of Augustus. It can be reached on foot, as the surrounding area of the old town is mainly pedestrian. There is paid street parking on the Corso d’Augusto and free parking at the Parcheggio Settebello garage just north of the city walls. The church is also a short walk from bus stops on Via Bastioni Settentrionali.

Religious pilgrims will find meaning in the Madonna del Pozzo chapel and holy water font, while art and architecture enthusiasts can admire the ornate Baroque interior. The church is open daily from 7am to 12pm and 4pm to 7pm, with extended hours on Sundays, providing ample opportunity for visitors to explore this Rimini landmark. Guided tours may also be available through the local tourist office for those seeking a deeper understanding of the church's history and artistic treasures.

Piazza Tre Martiri is a lively public gathering place lined with cafés, shops, bars, and restaurants. Visitors of all ages can enjoy strolling through the porticoes and sitting outside at one of the many cafés. The square comes alive at night when locals and tourists fill the bars and restaurants.

Piazza Tre Martiri is a historic square located in the center of Rimini, Italy. The square is named in memory of three young Italian partisans who were publicly hanged there by German forces on August 16, 1944 during World War II. Mario Cappelli, Luigi Nicolò, and Adelio Pagliarani were members of an anti-fascist resistance group who were captured, tortured, and executed after an act of sabotage. Today, Piazza Tre Martiri stands as a symbol of Rimini's liberation and resistance to fascism.

The square occupies the site of the ancient Roman forum of Ariminum, founded in 268 BCE. Located at the intersection of the cardo and decumanus maximus, two main streets in the Roman town plan, the forum was the political and commercial heart of the city. Parts of the original paving stones are visible under metal grates in the modern square. A 16th-century column with a bronze statue honoring Julius Caesar marks the place where he is said to have addressed his legions after crossing the Rubicon river nearby.

Piazza Tre Martiri is situated in central Rimini, about a 10-minute walk from the Rimini train station. It can be reached by local buses 1, 2, 14, and 15 which stop at the Alberti bus stop about 150 meters from the square. Limited street parking is available, but the nearest parking garages are under Piazza Malatesta and Largo Gramsci. The square is open 24 hours a day for visitors.

The old Cinema Fulgor was a historic movie theater located in Rimini, Italy at Corso d’Augusto 162. It first opened in 1914 and was renowned for being the childhood movie theater of famous Italian film director Federico Fellini. The old Cinema Fulgor was special because it was where Fellini saw his very first film Maciste in Hell in around 1926 while sitting on his father's lap. This experience had a huge impact on Fellini and inspired his lifelong love of cinema. The old theater is featured in Fellini's classic 1973 film Amarcord, which is loosely based on his memories of growing up in Rimini.

In the decades after Fellini's childhood, the old Cinema Fulgor remained a cornerstone of Rimini's cultural scene. It was owned and operated by the same family from its opening until 1980. Over the years, the theater became worn down but it remained open until 2009. After closing, the iconic old Cinema Fulgor underwent a major 5-year renovation led by architect Annio Maria Matteini. The historic movie palace had its interior redesigned by Oscar-winning production designer Dante Ferretti, who was a collaborator of Fellini's on six of his films. Ferretti aimed to recreate the magical atmosphere of 1930s and 40s Hollywood that Fellini loved. The restored old Cinema Fulgor reopened in January 2018 on what would have been Fellini's 98th birthday.

Today, visitors can still experience films in the same space where Fellini had his life-changing first moviegoing experience over 90 years ago. The main screening room in the renovated old Cinema Fulgor retains many of the original early 20th century architectural details. The theater also houses exhibits related to Fellini's films and legacy. Going to see a movie at the old Cinema Fulgor offers a uniquely immersive way to get to know one of Italy's greatest creative minds. The old theater can transport viewers back to the origins of Fellini's imaginative cinematic world. Film buffs, Fellini fans, and anyone interested in Rimini's culture will find a trip to the historic old Cinema Fulgor worthwhile.

Rimini City Museum is located in the city of Rimini, Italy. The museum is housed in a former 18th century Jesuit monastery and hospital near Piazza Ferrari. Special features of the Rimini City Museum include its Roman Lapidary containing inscriptions dating back 2000 years, and the archaeological remains of the “Surgeon's House” which were discovered nearby during excavations in 1989. The Surgeon's House includes well-preserved mosaics and a collection of over 150 Roman surgical instruments, giving insight into Rimini during the 2nd century AD.

The museum's collection spans prehistory to modern times with over 1500 works of art and artifacts displayed across 40 themed galleries occupying 3000 square meters. Key highlights are the municipal art gallery with Renaissance paintings and frescoes showcasing Rimini's cultural development. There is also a fashion design section dedicated to local 20th century designer René Gruau. The City Museum additionally houses some of filmmaker Federico Fellini's sketches and drawings in its collection.

The archaeological division continues on the ground floor, which shows Imperial Rimini between the 2nd – 3rd-centuries. You'll get to appreciate coins, glass, decorations, bronzes, and the surgical instrument equipment from the “Domus del Chirurgo” in Piazza Ferrari.

The Pinacoteca picture gallery is found on the first and second floors. It showcases art until the 19OOs, including that of the 14th-century Rimini school. Wood paintings, ceramics, and beautiful frescoes (including a 14th-century fresco “the Last Judgement”,) are displayed in the conference room.

The medieval section holds over 300 pieces varied between sculptures, old manuscripts, and 14th-century fine art. On the second floor, you'll discover locally made relics by the likes of Guido Cagnacci, Simone Cantarini, Giovan Battista Costa and Il Guercino.

The Rimini City Museum is located at Via Luigi Tonini 1, 47921 Rimini RN, Italy. The museum can be easily accessed on foot from Rimini's city center and train station, about a 10-15 minute walk away. Rimini's Federico Fellini Airport is a short 15 minute drive. The museum appeals to both locals and tourists interested in the art, history and archaeology of Rimini and the surrounding region. Families and students would appreciate the informative exhibits portraying various periods of Rimini's past. Admission prices are approximately $8 for adults, with discounts for senior citizens and youth.

Getting to Rimini City Museum is convenient by walking, driving, bus, or train. Visitors coming by car can find parking in the nearby Piazza Malatesta. The museum is also accessible by city bus, with the Piazza Ferrari stop located right outside. Rimini's central train station is under 15 minutes on foot. Bicycles are available to rent for touring Rimini's sights including the City Museum. 

Piazza Cavour is the second main town square in Rimini. Its stunning architecture and local markets are easily reached by a 5 minutes' walk from the Martiri Square and a short distance from Museo della Citta. Piazza Cavour is a historic public square located in the center of Rimini, Italy. The square dates back to ancient Roman times, when it was the site of the second Roman forum of Rimini. Over the centuries, Piazza Cavour has been the political and commercial heart of the city. Today, it remains one of Rimini's most important public gathering places.

The Piazza Cavour is known for its historic medieval and Renaissance-era buildings that line three sides of the square. The Palazzo dell'Arengo, built in 1204, was once home to Rimini's city council. Next to it stands the Gothic Palazzo del Podestà, residence of Rimini's chief magistrate, erected in 1334. On the west side is the neoclassical Teatro Amintore Galli theater, inaugurated in 1857. In the center of the Piazza Cavour are a 1614 statue of Pope Paul V and the Fontana della Pigna, a fountain dating to 1543 that was admired by Leonardo da Vinci.

The Piazza Cavour can be reached by public transportation or private car. The nearest bus stop is Duomo, about a 5 minute walk from the square. By car, it's about a 10 minute drive north from Rimini railway station. Limited street parking is available around the square. The Piazza Cavour is best suited for adults interested in history, architecture, and culture. The square offers the opportunity to admire medieval and Renaissance buildings and monuments up close. Visitors can also relax at one of the cafés lining the square while taking in the atmosphere of this historic public space.

Castel Sismondo is a 15th-century castle and fortress located in Rimini, Italy. The castle was commissioned by Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, lord of Rimini from 1432 to 1468, and designed with the help of renowned architect Filippo Brunelleschi. Construction on Castel Sismondo began in 1437 and was completed in the mid-1440s. The castle was built to be both a lavish residence and a defensive stronghold.

What makes Castel Sismondo special is its history and architecture. It was an important seat of power for the Malatesta family and helped them exert control over Rimini. The castle has imposing square towers, thick sloping walls, and once had a deep dry moat surrounding it. The striking red and white facade features architectural elements mixing Gothic and early Renaissance styles. Inside, the rooms were sumptuously decorated to receive guests and show off the family's wealth. Over the centuries, Castel Sismondo lost most of its fortifications but the remaining central part still shows its former grandeur.

Castel Sismondo is located right in the heart of the historic center of Rimini, an Adriatic coastal city in northeastern Italy. The full address is Piazza Malatesta, Rimini 47923, Italy. The castle is just steps away from Rimini's main square, Piazza Cavour, and sits opposite the city's cathedral. It is also walking distance from Rimini's train station.

To reach Castel Sismondo, visitors can take the train to Rimini Station and walk about 10 minutes to Piazza Cavour, then continue on another couple minutes until reaching Piazza Malatesta and the castle. Driving into central Rimini, parking lots can be found near Piazza Cavour. Local buses also stop right in Piazza Malatesta. The castle makes for an interesting visit for people of all ages interested in history, architecture, and art. Kids may especially enjoy exploring the imposing historic towers and walls. Guided tours are available allowing visitors to fully take in the significance of this remarkable Renaissance castle.

The Tempio Malatestiano is a Renaissance church located in Rimini, Italy at Via IV Novembre 35. Considered one of the most important monuments in Rimini, the Tempio Malatestiano was originally a 13th century Gothic church dedicated to St. Francis which was redesigned in the 15th century by architect Leon Battista Alberti for Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, Lord of Rimini. Alberti gave the facade a neoclassical look reminiscent of a Roman triumphal arch, drawing inspiration from the nearby Arch of Augustus. The Tempio Malatestiano is renowned for its harmonious exterior contrasts with the elegant Gothic interior designed by Matteo de' Pasti, which houses artworks by Piero della Francesca, Giotto, and Agostino di Duccio.

Two key features make the Tempio Malatestiano unique. The first is the facade designed by Alberti, made of Istrian stone. It has an unfinished upper section but the lower part shows Alberti's classicism with its tripartite division, Corinthian semi-columns, and central portal decorated with polychrome marble panels. The second is the church's interior which has one wide nave flanked by six side chapels elaborately decorated in the late Gothic style. Especially notable chapels include the Planets Chapel with its medieval zodiac motifs, and the Chapel of the Ancestors which holds the Tomb of the Ancestors and Descendants sculpted by Agostino di Duccio as a monument to Sigismondo's family.

The Tempio Malatestiano is located right in the historic center of Rimini, an easy walk from the central Piazza Tre Martiri and train station. Visitors can take the local Metromare bus to the Tempio Malatestiano stop. The facade of the church faces a piazza, providing an unobstructed view. The Tempio Malatestiano is open daily except Sunday afternoon. Admission is free, making it a top choice for art lovers interested in Renaissance architecture and sculpture. Kids may especially enjoy spotting the elephant symbols of the Malatesta family throughout the chapels. With its striking facade and elaborate Gothic details, the Tempio Malatestiano offers a unique look at Early Renaissance church design. 

Cuor di Cioccolato is a creative gelato shop located in the historic center of Rimini, Italy. What makes Cuor di Cioccolato special is its high-quality artisanal gelato made with the finest ingredients. The shop offers unique and creative flavors like chocolate ginger, chocolate with Modica chocolate crumbs, and pistachio from Bronte, Sicily. Cuor di Cioccolato is located at Via Circonvallazione Meridionale 1/3 in Rimini.

To get to the gelato shop, it is about a 10 minute walk from Rimini Railway Station. Alternatively, you can take city bus line 9 from Rimini Railway Station and get off at the Domus del Chirurgo stop, which is a 2 minute walk to Cuor di Cioccolato. The gelato shop is best suited for both adults and families with kids who want to experience authentic Italian gelato in a charming setting.

Reviewers praise the generous portions, reasonable prices, and excellent quality at Cuor di Cioccolato. The friendly staff expertly craft the gelato fresh daily. Customers can choose from typical flavors like pistachio and hazelnut along with rotating seasonal options. In addition to gelato, Cuor di Cioccolato serves delicious Italian coffee drinks, milkshakes, crepes, and affogatos. The atmosphere is elegant yet informal, complemented by the shop's warm lighting and displays of cakes. The central Rimini gelato shop satisfies cravings in a cozy setting, ideal for savoring uniquely flavored scoops alone or with family and friends. 

Arco d'Augusto is an ancient Roman arch located in Rimini, Italy. It was built in 27 BC to honor Emperor Augustus for his restoration of the Via Flaminia road that connected Rome to Rimini. The arch marks the end point of the Via Flaminia and the beginning of the Via Emilia road.

Arco d'Augusto is the oldest surviving Roman arch in northern Italy. The arch has a single arched opening that is almost 9 meters wide, which is unusually large for an archway. The grand scale and lack of doors reflects the Pax Romana period of peace and stability under Augustus when fortified town gates were no longer necessary. The arch is decorated with Corinthian columns, ornate moldings, and carved reliefs depicting Roman gods like Jupiter, Neptune, Apollo, and Minerva. These carvings symbolize the greatness of Rome and the power of Emperor Augustus.

The address for Arco d'Augusto is Corso d'Augusto, Rimini 47921, Italy. It is located right in the historic center of Rimini, at the intersection of Via XX Settembre and Corso d'Augusto. Rimini is a seaside town on the Adriatic coast about 100 miles southeast of Bologna.

Visitors can easily reach Arco d'Augusto on foot if staying in central Rimini. It's about a 10 minute walk from the Rimini train station. For those arriving by car, there is street parking available on Via Bastioni Meridionali about 500 meters away. Rimini is also very bike friendly, with a bike path leading from Piazza Kennedy directly to the arch.

Arco d'Augusto appeals to history buffs interested in ancient Roman architecture and art. Families would also enjoy a quick stop to see the arch and take photos. A visit is suitable for all ages, though small children might get bored since you can only look at the exterior. For a more in-depth experience, visitors can book a guided tour through the Rimini tourism office located right next to the arch. 

One of those typical Rimini activities for visitors and locals alike is to head to the beach. Rimini beaches starts at the Federico Fellini Park and stretches for miles. Here, you get to experience beach bars, restaurants, hotels, and large areas covered with sun loungers.

Some of the popular beaches are Beach Village, Bagno 38 Egisto, Spiaggia Libera, Bagni Ricci, and the Women's Beach. 

The Ruota Panoramica is a popular Ferris wheel located in Rimini, Italy. It is located along the city's picturesque waterfront, next to the Rimini Marina Centro. The giant wheel offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Adriatic coastline from its peak height of 55 meters (180 ft).

What makes the Ruota Panoramica special is its imposing size and prime beachfront location. Rimini's Ferris wheel is one of the tallest in Italy and dwarfs regular amusement park rides. Its unique position next to the sea provides stunning vistas of the golden beaches, azure waters and lively promenade. The wheel's fully enclosed, air-conditioned cabins ensure a comfortable experience for up to 168 riders at a time as it slowly rotates.

The Ferris wheel is located at Piazzale Boscovich, close to the city center and seafront hotels. The address is Largo Ruggero Boscovich, 47921 Rimini RN, Italy. Visitors can easily walk or take local buses to reach the site.

The Ruota Panoramica is suitable for people of all ages, including families with children. The leisurely ride showcases Rimini's seaside attractions and offers lovely sunset views. It remains open daily from April through September. Tickets cost around €10 for adults and €5-7 for kids under 10.

The iconic Ferris wheel lets visitors see Rimini from a unique aerial perspective. Its beachfront location and sweeping coastal views make it a must-visit attraction.

15. Italy in Miniatura

Italy in Miniatura is an imaginative theme park located in Viserba, a district of the city of Rimini on Italy's Adriatic coast. This one-of-a-kind attraction features over 270 scale models of famous Italian and European landmarks and monuments, allowing visitors to explore the wonders of Italy and beyond in miniature form.

What makes Italy in Miniatura truly special is the meticulous attention to detail in the creation of the scale models. Skilled artisans carefully craft each model to precisely reflect the architecture, design, and character of the original structure. Visitors can stroll through the expansive 85,000 square meter park and take in faithful renditions of architectural marvels like the Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, and St. Mark's Basilica. The miniature city of Venice is particularly impressive, with its Canal Grande and signature gondolas.

The park is surrounded by over 10,000 plants and miniature trees and uses 66,1000 gal/ 2,500 m³ of water to fill the water basins. You can see the Grand Canal of Venice with replicas of 119 buildings, St. Mark's Square Campanile, and the Castel Sismondo. Replays of water cannon battles between the Montefeltro and Malatesta families are set out.

Italy in Miniatura is located at Via Popilia 239 in the district of Viserba in Rimini. Rimini is a seaside city on the northeastern coast of Italy, situated along the Adriatic Sea. The park is approximately 5 kilometers north of central Rimini and can be easily reached by car via Highway A14. Visitors arriving by train can take bus number 8 from the Rimini train station directly to the park.

Kids can take lessons at the interactive driving school, battle with water cannons at a miniature castle, and ride through the story of Pinocchio. A monorail provides an aerial view of the miniatures, while simulation rides like the Canoe water coaster provide thrills. The Luna Park della Scienza gives future scientists hands-on physics experiments. Italy in Miniatura offers activities for all ages which makes it ideal for an engaging and educational family day out.

The meticulous models paired with amusement rides make Italy in Miniatura a one-of-a-kind theme park perfect for families, architecture buffs, miniatures enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an only-in-Italy experience. This hidden gem has delighted visitors for over 50 years by shrinking down the country's most famous landmarks into an imaginative park that kids and adults will adore.

Rimini offers many fun activities and attractions for kids and families. Listed below are the top kid-friendly things to do in Rimini:

• Italia in Miniatura : This miniature park contains over 200 small replicas of famous Italian landmarks like the Colosseum and Leaning Tower of Pisa . Kids love exploring the tiny structures.
• Fiabilandia: This charming fairy tale theme park is tailored for younger kids. It has storybook rides, shows, and a magical village.
• Aquafan: One of Europe's largest water parks, Aquafan has exhilarating slides, rides, and pools for cooling off on hot days.
• Oltremare: At this interactive park, kids can see dolphins, birds, reptiles, and more up close. There are shows and hands-on learning.
• Beaches: Rimini's beaches have shallow waters perfect for swimming and playing. Many have playgrounds, games, and activities.
• Fellini Museum: Older kids interested in film may enjoy exhibits about Federico Fellini, Rimini's famous director.
• Boat trips: Fun family excursions depart from Rimini's piers for cruising along the coast.
• Rimini adventure parks: Parks like Skypark and San Marino Adventures offer ropes courses and climbing for active kids.

Rimini is located along the Adriatic coast in the Emilia-Romagna region of northeastern Italy . Specifically, it is located in the province of Rimini, nestled between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa. Rimini is 124 km northeast of Bologna, which is the regional capital. The drive from Rimini to Bologna takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. San Marino, an independent state, lies just 24 km southwest of Rimini – only a 30 minute drive away. Major Italian cities like Florence, Venice and Rome are 2-4 hours from Rimini by car.

Rimini is  an easily accessible beach destination. Its central position near both major cities and coastal villages gives visitors ample choices for side trips up and down the Adriatic shore.

What is the history of Rimini?

Rimini has ancient origins, founded in 268 BC by the Romans who built it up as a key communication and trade hub between northern and southern Italy. Several major Roman roads converged in Rimini, including the Via Flaminia, Via Aemilia, and Via Popilia. The Romans erected impressive monuments like the Arch of Augustus and the Tiberius Bridge to mark the beginning and ending of Rimini's Decumanus.

After the fall of Rome, Rimini underwent political unrest and was ruled by various forces like the Goths, Byzantines, and the Papacy. From the 13th-14th centuries, the city prospered under the Malatesta family. Lord Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta transformed Rimini into a Renaissance cultural center, commissioning the Tempio Malatestiano cathedral designed by Alberti.

The Malatesta family ruled until the 16th century when Rimini passed to the Papal States. It later joined the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century. Rimini emerged as a seaside resort starting in 1843 with the opening of its first bathing establishment. Tourism boomed after World War II.

Rimini suffered damage in World War II bombings but was liberated in 1944. The city has since rebuilt and is now one of Italy's top beach destinations. It retains an important architectural and cultural heritage spanning ancient Roman to Renaissance times. Rimini is also the birthplace of famous film director Federico Fellini.

Rimini is considered one the most popular seaside resorts in Italy. In fact, Rimini is famous for its the beaches, the nightlife, the historic sites and Federico Fellini.

Firstly, the beaches of Rimini are over 15 km (8 miles) along the coastline. During summer, Rimini's beaches are packed with sunbathers and beachgoers. Rimini beaches are very lively with beach clubs, bars, and restaurants. Rimini's beaches are a major tourist draw.

Secondly the Nightlife of Rimini has a reputation to be very lively. The city has hundreds of bars, pubs, and nightclubs that stay open late into the night during summer. Rimini's nightlife scene centers around the Marina Centro district. Young people flock to Rimini's clubs to dance the night away.

Thirdly, Rimini has several historic sites and monuments that attract tourists. The Arch of Augustus, erected in 27 BC, still stands in Rimini's city center. Rimini's Roman amphitheater from the 2nd century AD hosts concerts and events. The Malatesta Temple from the 15th century mixes Gothic and Renaissance styles. Rimini also has medieval castles like the Castle of Sigismondo Malatesta.

Lastly, Rimini was the birthplace of the famous Italian film director Federico Fellini in 1920. Fellini's movies often referenced and were inspired by his childhood in Rimini. Today there is a museum in Rimini dedicated to Fellini's films and legacy. Fellini helped put Rimini on the map.

Is it worth visiting to Rimini?

Yes, Rimini is definitely worth visiting. Rimini has historic landmarks like the Arch of Augustus and Tiberius Bridge. Rimini also has the charming fishing village Borgo San Giuliano with colorful murals depicting Federico Fellini film scenes. In addition, Rimini is famous for its expansive sandy beaches that draw big crowds in summer. While often associated with lively nightlife and beach parties, Rimini also offers cultural attractions. The Malatesta Temple and Old Cinema Fulgor showcase Rimini's art and architecture over the centuries. Rimini's combination of history, art, beaches and atmosphere has plenty to offer to visitors interested in more than just the beaches.

Rimini is not considered an expensive destination. The cost of living and prices for things like accommodation, food, and transportation are lower compared to many other cities in Italy and Europe. The overall day-to-day costs are quite budget-friendly for visitors. It provides an Italian vacation experience at a relatively low price point.

Grocery prices in Rimini are generally lower than in the United States. Milk costs around 1.10 EUR per liter, eggs are around 2.70 EUR per dozen, and chicken breast is about 9.50 EUR per kg. Transportation costs in Rimini are relatively affordable. The city has an extensive bus system, with a single ticket costing 1.50 EUR. Taxis start at around 4.80 EUR plus 1.30 EUR per km. A typical dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant in Rimini costs approximately 60 EUR, including appetizers, main courses, wine and dessert. More upscale restaurants can cost over 100 EUR. The average price per night for a 3-star hotel in Rimini is around 75 EUR. More budget-friendly 1-2 star hotels average around 42 EUR per night. The cost of petrol in Rimini is approximately 1.90 EUR per liter. This equals around $7.20 USD per gallon.

Yes, Rimini is well-known as one of the top nightlife destinations in Italy, especially during the summer tourist season. Rimini's location along the Adriatic coastline transforms it into an entertainment hub from June through August. Rimini draws partygoers from across Europe who flock to its seaside discos, beach clubs, pool parties, music festivals, and lively bars and pubs that stay open into the early morning hours.

During the peak summer months, Rimini's nightlife centers around the beaches and beach clubs. But the fun extends into the early fall with events like the Notte Rosa festival in July, featuring concerts, performances and parties all along the Riviera Romagnola coastline. For those craving a more underground scene, venues like Altromondo Studios and Classic Club are known for techno and house music events.

While the beaches may be the main nightlife magnet during Rimini's lively summer season, the city's historic center also provides a wealth of lively bars and pubs for a fun night out. The trendy San Giuliano district offers wine bars, pubs and small eateries that are packed with locals and visitors alike. Night owls can bar-hop around the atmospheric cobblestone squares until the wee hours.

Rimini has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters but hot and dry summers. Winters in Rimini are cool with average temperatures around 8°C (46°F) in January, the coldest month. Summers are very warm, with July and August being the hottest months, reaching average highs of 28°C (83°F). Spring and fall are mild and pleasant. Rimini gets significant rainfall, averaging about 28 inches per year. November is the wettest month, seeing about 2.8 inches of precipitation. July is the driest month, with only 1.2 inches of rain. Even during the driest months, Rimini can still see some rainfall.

The best months to visit Rimini for ideal weather conditions are May, June and September. In May, high temperatures reach around 22°C (71°F) with 7 hours of sunshine and low chances of rain. June brings highs of 26°C (79°F), over 15 hours of daylight, and low rainfall. September still sees warm high temperatures around 24°C (76°F) along with 12.5 hours of sunshine and low precipitation.

July is the warmest month for Rimini, when daily high temperatures reach 28°C (83°F) on average. This is the peak of summer, bringing lots of sunshine but also higher chances of rain compared to other summer months. At the other extreme, January is the coldest month with average highs of only 8°C (46°F) and overnight lows dropping to around 1°C (33°F). This mid-winter month tends to be cloudier as well.

The beaches in Rimini stretch along the coastline for 15 km from north to south. Most of the beaches are occupied by private beach establishments that rent out sunbeds, umbrellas, and offer amenities like showers, changing rooms, restaurants, and bars. There are also some public beaches that are free to access. The northern beaches of Rimini have breakwaters that protect the coastline from erosion but make the waters calmer. The southern beaches do not have breakwaters and can have seaweed washed up from the tides. The waters are shallower near the beach, making them good for families with children. The beaches are safe with lifeguard stations every 150 meters. There are also flags to indicate weather and sea conditions – white means calm, yellow means potential winds, and red means swimming is dangerous. The beaches are busiest from June through September and  beaches offer amenities like restaurants, bars, sports equipment rentals, lounge chair rentals and water sport activities. 

Listed below are the best beaches in Rimini.

• Bagno Egisto 38. Bagno Egisto 38 is a long sandy beach that is good for families. It has activities for kids like creative workshops, mini clubs, playgrounds, and parties. The waters are calm and shallow. There are amenities like a microwave, baby facilities, and hot showers. A popular family-friendly beach.
• Bagno Libra. Bagno Libra is very long, wide beach with fine golden sands. Good for groups and families. There is a bar for drinks, a mini kids club with activities, and the calm, shallow waters are good for swimming. It is a spacious and popular beach.
• Bagno Tiki 26. Bagno Tiki 26 is also a very large and spacious sandy beach that stays uncrowded due to its size. Warm soft sands and fantastic waters make it great for swimming and walking. There is a restaurant on site and the beach is popular with locals and tourists.
• Le Spiagge. Le Spiagge is Formed by combining 14 different beach establishments, this very long golden sandy beach has comprehensive amenities like lifeguards, sports areas, surfing clubs, and entertainment. Good for families or groups looking for an all-inclusive beach experience.
• Bagno 124 Mario e Luca. Bagno 124 Mario e Luca is a well maintained beach popular with locals for its friendly owners, bar, and majestic ocean views. Provides individual lockers for belongings during swims. A happening local favorite beach.
• Bagno 81 No Problem. Bagno 81 No Problem is a fun, pet-friendly beach with a restaurant and bar nearby. Shallow calm waters are good for swimming with friends or family. Provides a lively beach experience.
• Bagno 29 Palm Beach. Bagno 29 Palm Beach is a clean and nice local favorite for its serene vibe. Great for relaxing with rental chairs and umbrellas. Waters are ideal for swimming. A quieter spot in Rimini.

Listed below are the most touristic facts about Rimini.

• Location: Rimini is located on the Adriatic coast in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy.
• History: The city was founded in 268 BC by the Romans. Rimini's most famous monuments are the Arch of Augustus, built in 27 BC, and the Tiberius Bridge, completed in 21 AD.
• Architecture: The Tempio Malatestiano is Rimini's cathedral featuring Renaissance architecture and artworks by Piero della Francesca.
• Beaches: Rimini has over 15 km of sandy beaches along its coastline.
• Tourism: It is one of the most popular seaside resort towns in Italy with over 1000 hotels.
• Notable Residents: Rimini is the birthplace of famous film director Federico Fellini.
• Entertainment: The city has a historic Roman amphitheater that could seat 12,000 spectators. Rimini is known for its nightlife scene with lively bars, discos and nightclubs.
• Cuisine: Local cuisine specialities include seafood, Piadina flatbread, and Sangiovese wine.

The most common  way to reach Rimini is by flying into one of the nearby airports combined with ground transportation. Trains provide convenient and frequent connections from around Italy. Renting a car allows easy access to Rimini and surrounding areas. There are several ways to get to Rimini:

• By plane: The closest airport is Rimini Federico Fellini International Airport, located 8 km from the city center. There are regular buses and taxis between the airport and downtown Rimini. Other options are flying into Bologna Airport, 120 km away, or Ancona Airport, 97 km away, and taking ground transportation to Rimini.
• By train: Rimini's train station is centrally located and is served by high-speed and regional trains. Direct trains connect Rimini to major Italian cities like Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence and Bologna. Tickets can be booked online in advance.
• By bus: Long-distance buses operated by FlixBus and other companies connect Rimini to cities across Italy and Europe. The main bus stop is next to Rimini train station.
• By car: Rimini is easily accessible by car via the A14 motorway. The city is 268 km from Venice, 233 km from Florence, 124 km from Bologna and 341 km from Rome. Public parking is available but limited in the historic center.

To get around Rimini, the historic center is walkable and beaches are accessible by bike or local buses. For day trips, renting a car provides flexibility to visit nearby towns. Public transportation like trains and buses can also be used for short trips to destinations like San Marino, 30 minutes away.

There are 149,211 residents in Rimini, according to the 2023 census. Among them, 49% are men and 51% are women. The average age of a Rimini resident stands at 48 years. Rimini city has a young population with 4,281 infants under the age of 4, which includes 2,075 girls and 2,204 boys. Additionally, Rimini has 4,776 kids aged between 5 to 9 years, with 2,458 boys and 2,317 girls. Children aged 10 to 14 number 5,357, comprising 2,757 boys and 2,600 girls. Teenagers, ranging from 14 to 19 years, total 5,673, with 2,918 boys and 2,754 girls. Remarkably, Rimini also boasts 48 centenarians, with 7 men and 38 women having lived for over 100 years.

Listed below are the best hotels to stay in Rimini.

• Hotel Panama Majestic. The Panama Majestic is a 4-star hotel right on the seafront. Rimini city center is about a 20 minute walk away. The rooms are large and stylish with marble floors and air conditioning, all with free WiFi and an ensuite bathroom. It features two rooftop hot tubs, a fitness area and sauna for guests to use. There’s also a restaurant and bar area. View on Booking.com / Read reviews on TripAdvisor
• Admiral Art Hotel. This quirky Rimini hotel right next to its own private beach has an urban vibe to the decor. Each room has a unique design with a cool feature wall. It’s all air-conditioned and there’s a terrace area, restaurant bar and communal lounge complete with grand piano. View on Booking.com / Read reviews on TripAdvisor
• Best Western Maison B Hotel. Rimini’s Best Western hotel is a beachfront haven with a panoramic restaurant overlooking the waves. Free WiFi, air-conditioning, a swimming pool and private parking are just some of the great features of this classy hotel. View on Booking.com / Read reviews on TripAdvisor
• Card International Hotel. A city center option, Card International Hotel is really near both Rimini train station and Tempio Malatestiano, as well as loads of the other landmarks described above. The hotel has a 24-hour bar, sun terrace, fitness area, lounge area and you can rent bikes from the reception. View on Booking.com / Read reviews on TripAdvisor

Listed below are the best restaurants to eat and drink in Rimini.

• Lo Zodiaco: Lo Zodiaco is a Seafood Restaurant with fresh, high-quality seafood dishes. Dinner for two costs around €35 ($39) per person) and is until late. It is a great option for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
• Sotto Sale: Sotto Sale is a western-Style Restaurant It offers classic Italian and international dishes in a casual setting. Mains cost around €25 ($28) per person. It's moderately priced and popular for its rustic ambiance.
• Le Milton Beach. Le Milton Beach is a beachfront restaurant along the Rimini coastline. It serves Mediterranean cuisine and specializes in seafood. It has an outdoor terrace and scenic ocean views. Le Milton Beach is a nice option for lunch or dinner.
• La Puraza: La Puraza is an upscale seafood restaurant. The meals cost around €55 ($64) per person and is considered a fine dining option. It delivers high quality seafood dishes and attentive service.
• Guido Restaurant: Guido Restaurant is fine dining restaurants with amazing views. It is known for its elegant dishes and refined seafood menu. Main dishes cost around €65 ($77). It provides an exceptional dining experience with panoramic views of the sea.
• Cucina Della Nonna: Cucina Della Nonna serves classic Italian comfort food in a cozy trattoria setting. It serves hearty pastas, pizzas and more. It offers a taste of homemade dishes at reasonable prices.
• Osteria Grotta Rossa: Osteria Grotta Rossa is a solid choice for authentic regional specialty dishes. Main courses  cost around €20 ($24). Local dishes like stuffed pastas, seafood risottos and more can be enjoyed in this casual osteria.

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Rimini all year round

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Let’s get straight to the point: with everything Rimini has to offer in terms of entertainment, culture, food and wine, sports, nature and relaxing experiences, holidays should never end in Rimini. If you’re in a hurry, but you don’t want to give up visiting the city during a leisure or business trip, here is a list of things to see and do during your day trip in Rimini . You’ll surely want to come back as soon as possible! 

The historic centre

Rimini is not only the capital city of seaside tourism: it is also a thousand-years old art city , with a rich architectural and cultural heritage of an illustrious past.

First of all, let’s head to the Visitor Center (corso d’Augusto 235), where Giulio Cesare himself will be your guide in a virtual tour of Rimini’s cultural beauties. You’ll learn about Rimini’s historic connection with the Adriatic Sea, you’ll “sail” across the map of Ariminum and you’ll stroll among the city’s monuments. At the Visitor Center you’ll also find VisitRimini’s tourist information office: here you can receive suggestions on the best ways to experience Rimini’s cultural attractions and more!

Must see monuments

The best way to see the city’s most beautiful monuments is strolling through the centre, past churches, fortresses, works of art, squares and ancient hamlets. Arch of Augustus, dating back to 27 b.c., leads to the homonymous street (the roman decumanus) that ends in piazza Tre Martiri, where you can find the remains of roman cobblestones and three contemporary historical buildings, dating to the XVI century: a memorial built to pay tribute to Giulio Cesare, the S.Antonio temple and the clock tower standing high over the square.

Piazza Cavour

As you proceed along Corso d’Augusto, you’ll reach Piazza Cavour, the city’s “living room”. Leonardo Da Vinci, upon entering this square for the first time, was left in awe by the beauty of the central fountain, “Fontana della Pigna” (“Pine cone Fountain”), as the words engraved on the monument state. In piazza Cavour you’ll also find the Pescheria Vecchia (“old fish market”), the beautiful Municipal Theatre of Rimini, Teatro Amintore Galli, the thirteenth-century Palazzo dell’Arengo and the fourteenth-century Palazzo del Podestà, two mediaeval buildings now serving as exhibition venue under the name PART (Palazzi dell’Arte Rimini). At the back of the theatre, you will discover Piazza Malatesta with the majestic Castel Sismondo, surrounded by a stretch of water. Castel Sismondo houses the Fellini museum, named after the great Rimini born director.

From Tiberius’ Bridge to borgo San Giuliano

At the end of corso d’Augusto, you’ll find Tiberius Bridge, which leads to the picturesque district of San Giuliano, a former fishing village with a wide choice of bars and restaurants. The houses’ facades are decorated with murals that draw inspiration from Federico Fellini’s filmography and Rimini’s seafaring traditions.

Malatesta Temple and Surgeon’s Domus

From Piazza Tre Martiri, you can take Via IV Novembre, overlooked by the splendid Tempio Malatestiano, the city cathedral built in 1450 by Sigismondo Malatesta, lord of Rimini. Just a few streets away, in piazza Ferrari, you’ll find the Surgeon’s Domus, a renowned archaeological site with mosaics from the Roman era. If you want to take your time to discover Rimini’s museums , we suggest purchasing a Rimini Art Card , granting access to the Surgeon’s Domus, the City Museum, PART (New Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rimini) and Fellini Museum.

Rimini’s all year round charming beach

Without its colourful umbrellas and sunbeds, the Rimini beach appears as an endless stretch of fine, golden sand. You’ll realise how huge it is by going for a walk along the shore, or the seaside promenade “Parco del Mare”, while breathing healthy iodine-rich air.

A walk along the pier

Locally known as “palata”, the pier is the perfect spot to enjoy spectacular sunsets and admire the 18th-century lighthouse standing over the canal. To get to the pier from Marina Centro, simply walk past the Parco del mare boulevard. Movie enthusiasts will remember a young and charming Alain Delon walking along the very same palata in “La prima notte di quiete”.

Sports for all tastes

If you find yourself with some spare time, why don’t you get some exercise? You can go for a jog and train with the equipment available along the waterfront. Otherwise, you can play beach volleyball or beach tennis: courts are open all year round. As for padel courts, head to the seafront sport centre on Lungomare Tintori, in Marina Centro.

A dive into the flavours of Rimini

What better way to end your day trip than enjoying Rimini’s signature dishes and wines? For instance, you can sit on the grass and enjoy a picnic meal with typical products facing the Tiberius Bridge. Pre-order your “Tiberio Pic Nic” directly on the VisitRimini website : you can choose from a variety of menus by restaurants in Borgo San Giuliano, and you will receive a disposable picnic kit complete with placemat, cutlery and glasses. Otherwise, you can go for a delicious and traditional piadina (a sort of tortilla wrap with ham, squacquerone cheese and arugula, or anchovies), paired with a nice glass of Sangiovese or Rebola, two local excellences.

14 Charming Things to Do in Rimini, Italy: A Travel Guide

Rimini is a city that exceeded all my expectations. For many people, Rimini is primarily known as a beach and party destination, much like Cinque Terre is known to be crowded and busy or Milan is know as one of the “uglier” cities in Italy. As I found both of this untrue for Cinque Terre and Milan, I discovered the same of Rimini. When I arrived and found a nice city with a charming old city center, I was quite surprised. Rimini is great to visit for a day. Here all my best tips for beautiful things to do in Rimini, from the sights to restaurants and more!

How to Get to Rimini

Rimini is a seaside resort on the Adriatic Sea in the province of Emilia-Romagna in eastern Italy. The city has around 150,000 inhabitants.

Although Rimini has its own airport, there are no direct flights from the Netherlands . So it’s best to fly to Bologna and take the train (or the  rental car  ) from there. It takes less than an hour by train, and it takes about an hour and a half by car.

Rimini is also close to San Marino (more than half an hour by car), so that is great area to combine it with!

Parking in Rimini:

There are many parking options in Rimini. The easiest way is to park just outside the center. The parking spaces below are all around the old center.

• Rimini parking Settebello:  Via Rome 86, 47921 Rimini
• Parcheggio Tiberio:  Viale Tiberio, 47921 Rimini
• Parcheggio Multipiano Italo Flori:  Via Renato Fracassi, 47922 Rimini

For more information about parking in Rimini,  check this website .

Why Visit Rimini

As you are used to from me, I always go into a brief history of the destination in my travel guides. This gives you more context about the destination and the sights in the city. And so also Rimini!

Rimini is very old, and was founded by the Romans: in 268 BC. The city was then called Ariminum. Around the city were three important roads that connected the city with northern and central Italy. Because of this position, the city became more and more influential, and Rimini was also able to trade between the port and the hinterland.

In the early Middle Ages the city came into the hands of the Malatesta family. The family ruled in the city from 1295 to 1503, until the city finally came into the hands of the Popes. The most important sights from the city were either built by the Romans or by the Malatesta family.

Since the first beach pavilions were built in 1845, Rimini has been a popular tourist destination. The chic Grand Hotel was the first beach hotel to be opened at the beginning of the 20th century. During the Second World War, Rimini was considerably damaged by bombing. During the reconstruction of the city, much attention was paid to the development of tourism.

14 Things to Do in Rimini & Nearby

1. Visit the Old Center

The biggest surprise of my visit to Rimini was the fact that the city really has a very nice old center . Here you will find almost all important sights that demonstrate an age-long history. From a Roman bridge to the cinema where Federico Fellini saw his first films: Rimini is bursting with history.

When I walked through the center I also saw a lot of nice shops. I think you can really do good shopping here. It is good for my wallet that I didn’t have time for that. The old center is quite small; you can walk from one side to the other in about 10 or 15 minutes. So you have seen all the highlights this way.

2. Cross the Ponte di Tiberio

The marble bridge Ponte di Tiberio is one of the oldest sights in the city. The monumental structure dates from 20 AD, which makes the bridge 2000 years old (!). It was the only bridge over the Marecchia River that was not destroyed by the retreating armies of the Germans.

3. Watch a Movie at the Cinema Fulgor

Maybe a surprising tip to see a movie theater on this list, but I would definitely recommend watching a movie at the Cinema Fulgor . The room is beautiful, and completely decorated in vintage style. In this cinema, the famous director Federico Fellini, who was from Rimini, saw his very first films. (In fact, you can do a whole Fellini themed tour of Rimini here )

The cinema didn’t look that glamorous at all. This has only been true since 2018, and the design was inspired by Fellini’s creative films.

4. See Castel Sismondo

You can see from Castel Sismondo that it mainly had a defense function, because it is not very extravagant. The castle was built by the lord of Rimini, Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta in 1437. Originally there was a large moat around the castle.

The construction took 15 years, after which Malatesta lived here until his death. Fun fact: there are no windows on the town side of the castle because the man was afraid that he might even be attacked from his own town. He was not very popular.

5. Visit the Tempio Malatestiano

This unfinished church is the most important in Rimini. Just like the castle above, this church is named after the man who ordered the (re) construction: Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta.

You can tell that Tempio Malatestiano is unfinished at the top of the facade, as you can see that behind the white marble facade, there is an original 13th century church. The plan was that on top of this church a dome like that of the Pantheon in Rome would come.

The church was never finished because Malatesta was excommunicated from Rimini, and his fortune diminished so that he could no longer afford the costs. After his death in 1468, construction officially came to a halt. Both Sigismondo Pandolfo and his wife Isotta are buried in the church.

6. Cross Under the Arco d’Augusto

The Arch of Augustus is an arch that was built by Emperor Augustus in 27 BC, and was meant to mark the end of the Via Flaminia. This was an important road that connected the cities of Romagna and Rome. The city gate is particularly large for that time, and it is suspected that it was because there was no threat at that time, and therefore there was no need for a gate that could close.

The battlements on top of the gate date from the 10th century. The gate remained part of the city walls, until the Mussolini regime tore down the city wall, and the gate remained standing as a monument.

7. Visit the Piazza Tre Martiri

The Piazza Tre Martiri has always been the center of the city. Here you used to find the Foro Romano , a market place in Roman times. Julius Caesar is said to have given an important speech on this square. Even now there is a market on the weekend.

You can also find excavations from Roman times, and you can see how the Roman street was exactly in the same place here at that time. So you literally walk on a street where people have been walking for 2,000 years, how special?!

The tower on the square is the Torre dell’Orologio , which dates from later times: from 1547. Until 1945, the square was called Piazza Giulio Cesare. The square was then named after the three men of the Italian resistance who were executed on this square on 16 August 1944.

8. Visit the Piazza Cavour

The other important square of Rimini (which, by the way, is much nicer) is Piazza Cavour . During the Middle Ages, this square grew into the commercial heart of the city. On one side of the square you will find Palazzo Grampi (1562), the Roman-Gothic Palazzo dell’Arengo (1204) and the Palazzo del Podesta (1330).

At the head of the square you will find Teatro Galli (see below). And on the other sides of the square you will find the old fish market (1747), and a large number of restaurants and cafes. You will also find monuments for Pope Paul V on this square, and a 16th-century fountain, which until 1912 was the only source of drinking water in the city.

Although the square is very beautiful during the day, it is even more romantic in the evenings.

9. Do a Tour or See a Show at Teatro Galli

The beautiful Teatro Galli dates from 1857, when it was opened by composer Giuseppe Verdi. Rimini has never been a city with a very great opera tradition. However, the theater nevertheless played an important role in the city. Unfortunately, the theater was destroyed during bombing during the Second World War.

It took no less than 75 years for the theater to open again: in 2018. The building now looks like it once looked like in its heyday. You can only visit the theater itself with a tour (or with a show!), But you can of course simply view the café and the foyer.

10. Visit the Borgo San Giuliano

If you cross the Ponte di Tiberio from the center you will arrive in Borgo San Giuliano, a neighborhood that used to be a lovely fishing village. In the 11th century, this was a fishing village that lay outside the city walls of Rimini, where life was poor. In the 20th century, however, the district was incorporated into the growing city.

You really want to browse through this, it is so romantic. Think: narrow colorful streets with cobblestones and squares with street art inspired by the work of Federico Fellini, who was born in this neighborhood. Tip: Go to Via Marecchia and walk into the neighborhood.

11. Relax on Rimini Beach

Of course you can’t go to Rimini and skip the beach . It is not for nothing that it is the most famous seaside resort in Italy. Although I am not a big fan of sunbathing, I went there for a nice walk. Rimini has almost 15 kilometers of beach. On the promenade you will also find a lot of restaurants and beach clubs.

12. Go Sailing in Rimini

Rimini also has a marina, from where you can take a boat trip. We made a trip with a sailboat and were even allowed to sail it, haha. Afterwards we sat down with our feet in the water with a glass of prosecco, while we looked out over the coastline. Delicious!

13. Cycle in Rimini

Also one of the nice things to do in Rimini: cycling. I thought that there were quite a lot of cycle paths, and that the city was easy to discover by bicycle. Especially since the center is not that big. But the walk to the beach can take quite a long time (20 minutes), so there is nothing better than renting a bike and cycling to it.

14. Go to Nearby San Marino

Okay, so San Marino is not in Rimini, but it’s super close. You can even see it from the city, because it is on top of a mountain. In half an hour you are there. 

San Marino is one of the smallest countries in the world and, moreover, the oldest republic in the world. It has a beautiful location on top of a mountain, and I would definitely recommend you to visit the capital, with its beautiful winding streets and towers.

Where to Eat in Rimini

La marianna.

You can eat good fish in Rimini, given its location on the sea. And where better than in the former fishing village?  La Marianna is a popular seafood restaurant where locals come when they have something to celebrate.

Grand Hotel

This beautiful five-star hotel is not only my accommodation tips, but also my lunch tip. We had a fantastic lunch with pasta and all kinds of small snacks while we sat on the sun-drenched terrace of the Grand Hotel.  A highlight of my trip!

Private dinner on a catamaran with Chef Mirko de Lirio

Another absolute highlight was that evening on a catamaran when a private chef cooked a four-course dinner for us, while we were watching the starry sky on the deck with prosecco. Magic. You can book through  Chef Mirko  .

Where to Stay in Rimini

Duomo hotel  .

During my city trip in Rimini I slept in this design hotel in the heart of the city. My room was so spacious that I even had a fitness machine and a private jacuzzi! The breakfast was also really delicious. Check here for rates & availability

If you want classic luxury, then of course you can only stay in one place: the Grand Hotel . Enjoy the lovely swimming pool, or stroll across the boulevard and settle down on the beach. This is the best choice for luxury travelers. Check here for rates & availability

Prefer a different hotel in Rimini? See all options here.

What are your best tips for what to do in Rimini?

General travel tips.

• For accommodation, I always check Airbnb or  Booking.com  for the best prices.
• If your insurance at home doesn’t cover travel, you may want to look into  SafetyWing for an affordable option.
• I always recommend checking  Get Your Guide  for the best tours in Europe and  Tiqets  for specific attraction deals.

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Disclosure: I was in Rimini on a press trip.

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to Do in Rimini (Italy)

15 Best Things to Do in Rimini (Italy)

Rimini is possibly one of the most well-known and renowned beach resorts in the whole of Europe – this is due to its 15km long stretch of beautiful white sand beaches, plethora of hotels and myriad of bars and restaurants. Thousands of visitors flock here to soak up the sun, relax on the beaches and escape from busy modern life.

As the capital of the Province of Rimini, this city has a population of approximately 146,000 which makes it one of the largest in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy . This region of Italy was once prominent in the Roman Empire and remains of the Roman city can still be seen today in Rimini. Originally founded in 268 BC, the city served as a vital communications outpost and its location on the Adriatic Sea made it an important stronghold. Throughout the Middle Ages, Rimini changed hands and came under the rule of the Ostrogoth’s. It was also highly important during the Italian 19th century revolution.

Aside from the fantastic beaches, Rimini also has a plethora of historical sites, beautiful parks, charming Piazzas and interesting museums. It is easy to see why this city is so popular and why tourism accounts for a large portion of Rimini’s economy.

Lets explore the best things to do in Rimini :

1. Arco d’Augusto

Taking pride of place at the end of Corso d’Augusto, the Arch of Augustus is a fantastic site and the main historical structure that stands in the centre of Rimini.

Constructed in 27 BC, the arch was built as part of the Flaminia defences that was destroyed in the 1930’s and was named in honour of Caesar Augustus.

Originally, an impressive statue of the Emperor stood on top of the gateway, but this was replaced by the later medieval addition of crenulations.

Today the arch stands in fantastic condition despite its immense age and the surrounding grounds are pleasant to walk through once you have admired this important Roman relic.

2. Rimini Beach

Rimini is famous for its long stretch of golden sands and this is the perfect place to relax, enjoy the sun and swim in the warm Adriatic Sea.

Starting at the Parco Federico Fellini, the beach stretches for miles and is lined with first-rate hotels, beach bars, restaurants and large areas of sand covered with sun loungers.

Consider kicking back in the sun, having a cocktail or two, taking a dip in the sea and maybe building a sand castle! The plethora of resorts and amenities will keep you and your family entertained for days and you will simply love the laid back coastal atmosphere and charm.

3. Tempio Malatestiano

Rimini has a plethora of religious buildings, but none as impressive or renowned as the Malatesta Temple.

This unfinished cathedral was constructed in the 9th century and was deemed to be completed in the 1400’s.

Sitting on Via IV Novembre, the cathedral looks almost finished, but it is clear that there should be a central tower on the front façade – instead there is a gap and an exposed brick wall.

Inside there is a plethora of decoration and religious artefacts including an ornate crucifix designed by Giotto and sculptures created by Agostino di Duccio.

Furthermore, there is also a host of marble and stucco artwork on the walls, columns and arches.

3. Museo della Citta

For those interested in archaeology and ancient history, the Museo della Citta is the perfect establishment to visit.

You can find this delightful museum in the confines of an old convent on the Via Luigi Tonini only a short walk from the Ponte di Tiberio and Piazza Tre Martiri.

Within this museum you can find a staggering 1500 artefacts and relics dating as far back as the prehistoric era up to the present day.

Particularly impressive exhibitions include a display of stunning Roman Mosaics, ancient coins and glassware, and even archaic surgical equipment.

There is also an enlightening display of Renaissance artwork and some renowned masterpieces from artists such as Bellini.

5. Italia in Miniatura

There is something inherently fascinating about miniature model displays and Italia in Miniatura is a truly epic attraction that displays some beautifully detailed models of famous structures in Italy.

Located approximately 15 minutes to the north east of Rimini, this attraction can be reached via the SS16 route and has dedicated parking.

Inside the grounds you will find over 200 miniature models including the Colosseum, the leaning tower of Pisa, and Florence Cathedral.

Each structure has a fantastic level of detail and has been recreated faithfully using scaled plans.

Aside from the models, there is also a monorail, a restaurant and an education centre for children.

6. Ponte di Tiberio

Another fantastic relic of the Roman inhabitation of Rimini, the Ponte di Tiberio sits at the end of the canal that runs from the beach through to the Parco XXV Aprile.

If you walk from the Arch of Augustus towards the canal, you will eventually cross onto the beautiful Tiberio Bridge.

Constructed in 20 BC, it is an amazing feat that this bridge still stands in practically perfect condition despite being nearly 2000 years old.

Its 5 arches span the canal and during a calm day, the reflection of the bridge in the deep blue water creates a picture perfect scene.

7. Piazza Tre Martiri

As the heart of the city, the Piazza Tre Martiri has played host to some historic moments in the history of Rimini and stands as a popular location that is full of important buildings.

To the southern end of the square you can find the small but impressive Tempietto di Sant Antonio and the Chiesa Dei Paolotti, whilst at the other end is a series of fantastic shops and high-quality restaurants and cafes.

At certain times of the year, seasonal markets are also held here and sometimes even musical concerts.

The stunning design of the square, its magnificent architecture, and the variety of amenities located here make the Piazza a brilliant place to visit.

8. Riccione Beach

Whilst Rimini is known for its high quality beaches, a short trip down the coast will take you to a resort that is just as beautiful – Riccione.

This small coastal city has a wonderful expanse of golden beach that is packed full of amenities and is lined with a selection of high quality hotels.

Aside from the beach, Riccione is also known for its natural thermal springs and its spa retreats – come here to truly relax and rejuvenate your body and mind.

9. Piazza Cavour

Located within the historic town centre of Rimini, the Piazza Cavour is a fantastic public area that features some wonderful architecture and often hosts local markets.

You can find this charming square approximately 5 minutes walk from the Piazza Tre Martiri and only a short walk from the Museo della Citta.

Notable buildings on the square include the town hall and the opulent Teatro Galli.

Furthermore, at the centre of the square is the Antica Pescheria which is an ancient columned walkway leading off to the Via Pescheria.

Moreover, there is also a range of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal.

10. Parco Giovanni Paolo II

Although Rimini is a world class coastal resort, it also has several stunning public parks and the most notable is the Parco Giovanni Paolo II. You can find this wonderful natural space in the southern regions of Rimini next to the Congressional Palace.

At the centre of the park is the large Lago Mariotti that is home to a wide variety of wildlife and fauna.

This park is perfect for those who love to walk and enjoy the outdoors, or for families who want an open space to relax and play sport.

Footpaths wind through the parkland and open pastures provide space to play games.

11. Castel Sismondo

Created by Sigismondo Malatesta the Lord of Rimini in the 1400’s, Castel Sismondo was once a large complex with surrounding walls but all that stands today is the central keep.

This impressive structure stills holds an important place in the culture and history if Rimini and exhibitions and markets are often held within the castle grounds.

Everything about the castle is unusual; from its irregular design, to its amalgamation of various different styles.

It is possible to take guided tours of the castle and learn about its extensive history.

12. La Ruota Panoramica

Sitting at the edge of the main stretch of beach in Rimini is a colossal Ferris wheel dubbed La Ruota Panoramica.

This gigantic wheel stands at 55m high, weighs approximately 360 tons and has 28 cabins that can hold 168 people at full capacity.

What better way to see the city and to relax than to take a ride on the Ruota Panoramica? The wheel moves slowly and a complete circule takes approximately 20 minutes.

13. Mirabilandia Theme Park

If you are looking for a place to take the family for a day out then head to Mirabilandia Theme Park.

Located to the north west of Rimini next to Lago Standiana, this amazing park is full of fun rides and attractions for people of all ages and sizes.

This is one of the most popular theme parks in Italy and sees a huge amount of visitors on an annual basis.

Here you can ride on super-fast rollercoasters, get soaking wet on a log flume or even ride a large Ferris wheel.

Moreover there is also a series of thrill rides, and gentler rides for the younger audience, and also several action packed shows and eateries.

If you are tired of the beach, then head to Mirabilandia!

14. Play crazy golf on the Rivergreen Course

For a unique activity, why not try your hand at a round or two of adventure golf? Rivergreen Golf is located (as you guessed) next to the canal and the beach of Rimini.

Covering 6000m, this delightful course is proud to be the first eco mini golf course in Italy and its ground is full of beautiful trees and water features.

Two courses await your golfing skills, both of which contain 18 challenging but fun holes.

This truly is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon and engage in some friendly competition with your friends or family.

15. Try seafood at the Guido Restaurant

Due to its coastal location, Rimini has a host of pleasant sea facing restaurants that serve high quality sea food.

The Guido Restaurant is one such establishment and can be found on the main promenade in the Rivazurra district of the city.

As you try the delicious selection of food and wine, you can gaze out across at the Adriatic Sea and watch the world go by.

Each meal is freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients and freshly caught fish/seafood.

Why not try some Calamari or Prawns? Or perhaps some traditional Spaghetti? In the evenings, Guido also has regular live entertainment for your enjoyment.

15 Best Things to Do in Rimini (Italy):

• Arco d’Augusto
• Rimini Beach
• Tempio Malatestiano
• Museo della Citta
• Italia in Miniatura
• Ponte di Tiberio
• Piazza Tre Martiri
• Riccione Beach
• Piazza Cavour
• Parco Giovanni Paolo II
• Castel Sismondo
• La Ruota Panoramica
• Mirabilandia Theme Park
• Play crazy golf on the Rivergreen Course
• Try seafood at the Guido Restaurant

Rimini travel guide

Rimini tourism | rimini guide, you're going to love rimini.

Fusing the charm of an elegant Adriatic resort and the energy of a world-class nightclubbing center, Rimini is one of Italy's leading beach destinations, with some hidden depths that culture lovers will adore.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Rimini

1. the famous nightlife.

Above all else, people flock to Rimini for the nightlife. Megaclubs like Baia Imperiale and Carnaby attract world-class DJs and massive crowds. If you love to dance, they aren't to be missed.

2. The Beach

Rimini's beach is long, sandy and enjoys almost constant summer sunshine. On such a large beach, you should be able to find plenty of room, even at the height of tourist season.

3. It's a Key Location in Movie History

If you are into world cinema, you'll know the name Federico Fellini. The director of classics like La Dolce Vita and La Strada was born in Rimini and visitors can tour the excellent Fellini Museum.

4. Fascinating Roman Ruins

The modern tourist city is a long way from Roman Arminum, but you can still tour the atmospheric ruins of the Roman city, including the impressive Augustus Arch.

5. The Notte Rosa Summer Festival

Every July, Rimini lights up its promenades in pink and creates an enchanting space to socialize, dine, walk and party, with plenty of live music and a spectacular fireworks display.

What to do in Rimini

1. arco di augusto: the oldest roman arch remaining in the world.

If you love Roman history, antiquities and culture, the Arco di Augusto (the Arch of Agustus) will leave you breathless. This magnificent structure is the oldest surviving Roman arch in history. Dating back to 27 B.C., it's located near Piazza Cavour and marks the entrance to the city of Rimini like the triumphant Arch of Constantine does to Rome. A pillar sits atop each vertical block, distinguished by solemn Roman decorations representing the Pax Romana decreed by Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus. In addition to the Romanesque, curved and linear architecture, the arch instilled peace from the carved faces of Neptune, Goddess Romana, Jupiter and Apollo.

2. Tempio Malatestiano: Symbol of the Malatesta Family

Admire Leon Battista Alberti's Renaissance chapel adorned with a splendidly crafted relief sculpture created by Agostino di Duccio. The mausoleum has the Malatesta's initials imprinted all around the temple and the doorway expands to a tall arch inscribed in Latin. Vist Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta's tomb adorned with two laurel crowns and armor medallions. You'll be marveled by the Isotta (Chapel of the Angeles) and its ark of Isotta and painted crucifix as well as the Chapel of the planets, where you'll find various Zodiac signs, bronze baskets, fruits, butterflies, animals and more.

3. Ponte di Tiberio: Rimini's Roman Bridge

Survey the magnificent blue waters of the Marecchia River as you stroll down the Tiberius Bridge. Roman by design, its eloquent Istrian stone architecture is comprised of five arches, each sitting on top of a pillar. Embedded in the architecture are handles that redirect the flow of the river's current and reduces its force on the bridge. As the evening turns to night, the bridge is illuminated by light to give a romantic and reminiscent glow.

4. Piazza Cavour: Rimini's Glamorous Civic Center

Glance over the illustrious, historic monuments, vibrant culture and civilization that inhabit Rimini's popular square. The famous Pigna Fountain stands in the middle of the square and has been said to have a reciprocal relationship with its water creating a musical, steady and rhythmic flow. A few feet from this structure, you'll come across the life-size majestic bronze statue of Pope Paul V depicted as San Gaudenzo, Rimini's patron saint. His sitting firm posture, hand and extended fingers allude to his blessing of the city.

5. Italia in Miniatura: Mini Me!

Walk into the world of tiny Italy where you'll be the Titan with the omniscient view. If you love miniatures, you'll be blown away by the intricate, accurate and gorgeous designs of Rimini's Thematic Park: Italy in Miniature. Ponder over the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli in Assisi and visit the Portiuncula Chapel and its infirmary cell that held St Francis until his death. Whichever monument you stop by, you'll be mesmerized by the sites that made Italy the most decorated recipient of UNESCO.

Activities & attractions in Rimini

Where to Eat in Rimini

Rimini has some first-class Italian restaurants. Don't miss highlights like La Marianna (that specializes in Adriatic seafood) and Osteria de Borg, where meat is the star. Meals should cost between EUR15 and EUR25 per head.

When to visit Rimini

Rimini is mainly a summer destination. July brings the Notte Rose festival and sees the clubs filling up, but if you want thinner crowds, try a break in May or late September.

How to Get to Rimini

Rimini International Airport offers a range of flights from European hubs like Amsterdam or Berlin. Take Bus number 9 from the airport, which costs EUR1.60.

You can reach Rimini directly by train from Bologna and indirectly from Milan, Rome and Venice. It takes around 3 hours from Rome at a cost of about EUR30.

From Florence or Rome, take the E35 to Bologna, then the E45 to Rimini. The E35 southbound runs from Milan, while you'll need to take the A13 from Venice.

Flixbus operate a daily bus service from Rome to Rimini and Baltour offer a service with one change. The quickest bus journey from Rome takes about 6 hours.

Airports near Rimini

Airlines serving rimini, where to stay in rimini.

Rimini has plenty of superb seafront accommodation, including the exceptional Grand Hotel Rimini and the more modern Hotel Mercure Rimini Artis.

Popular Neighborhoods in Rimini

Centro Storico - Rimini's city center was heavily bombed in World War Two, but has been lovingly restored. It's a lovely, atmospheric part of town.

Rivabella - The northern part of Rimini, Rivabella has a fine beach and plenty of green space as well as great seafront eateries like La Posada or Terae Maris.

Riccione - South of Rimini, Riccione is a lively resort suburb with one major attraction: the superb Oltremare water park.

Where to stay in popular areas of Rimini

Most booked hotels in rimini, how to get around rimini, public transportation.

Rimini's bus network is a good way to travel the coast. Single tickets cost EUR1.30.

If you need to take a taxi in Rimini, expect to pay a meter drop of around EUR7.50, then EUR5 per mile.

Having a car is a great way to see the coast and the inland principality of San Marino. You can rent a vehicle from Hertz, Budget or Europcar for a daily rate of around EUR10-15.

The Cost of Living in Rimini

Shopping streets.

The Centro Storico features some of Italy's most prestigious fashion labels, with Gucci and Prada being represented, but it's the smaller independent stores that shine. Check out stores like Nicole's Boutique or Sabattini to uncover Italian apparel gems.

Groceries and Other

Local supermarkets include Coop and Conad, where you can expect to pay around EUR2.50 for 12 eggs.

Rimini: Holiday, Tourist & Travel Information

Famous and traditional Italian beach resort which also boasts archaeological sights, historic buildings and good day-trip potential

About Rimini

Rimini is probably the most famous seaside resort in Italy. Its miles of sandy beach along the Adriatic coast made the town a trendy destination in the 1960s and 1970s and its popularity has never waned, although it became rather less fashionable. Nowadays Rimini is chiefly known for its hordes of partying youngsters and sunbathing families. But the opening of some stylish hotels – including the hyped ‘designer’ Duomo Hotel – and of a new archaeological area has focussed attention on Rimini’s other attractions and a newer, more select kind of tourism. Part of this may be hoteliers’ wishful thinking, and the beach certainly isn’t going to lose its following, but it is true that Rimini has a lot more to offer than its beaches and tacky seaside attractions. It is also a good base for exploring some interesting sights, has direct budget flights from the UK and offers very competitive hotel prices out of season. All in all, it is not a bad destination for a stylish weekend break, a budget taste of Italy or a varied family holiday – even if you visit in winter or simply hate beach culture, you will still find plenty to keep you busy and interested for several days.

Rimini is a town of two parts. The original historic town is now located around a mile inland (the coastline has shifted in past centuries). Despite Second World War bombing which destroyed some old buildings, this is still a typical Italian town with historic lanes, palazzi , piazze and tourist sights. The ‘other’ Rimini is the long beachside sprawl which has grown up since the Second World War. It extends for miles along the sandy beaches, with hotels and modern apartment blocks lining the shore in a built-up strip several streets deep. This is very monotonous and not at all picturesque, although there is no high-rise development. The beach is divided into hundreds of private beach concessions where you pay for entry, sunbeds and parasols. Most hotels have their own private stretch of beach, or arrangements with one. You could stay in one Rimini and never visit the other, should you lack a taste for exploration. Here we’ll describe both parts of the town, and the different holiday and day trip possibilities for visitors.

• Find and book a hotel in Rimini . With location maps and guest reviews.

Rimini – the historic town and sights

Rimini’s centro storico , historic centre, is an old walled town which dates back to Roman times. Before the Romans, Rimini was the port for the nearby Etruscan-Villanovan town of Verrucchio. The Romans, who called it Ariminum after the local river, developed the town and it rose to some importance. The sea was much nearer town in those days, with the port close to the site of the modern railway line.

The most striking remains of Roman Rimini are a triumphal arch and a bridge, lying at either end of a straight road which traverses the town centre, about ten minutes’ walk apart. The Arco d’Augusto (Arch of Augustus) was built in 27 BC to honour Augustus It is battered now but still bears portrait carvings and parts of its central inscription. At the other side of the town centre is the Ponte di Tiberio (Bridge of Tiberius), a bridge which was constructed during the reigns of the Emperors Augustus and Tiberius. The Roman bridge is constructed of white Istrian stone, has five arches, and remarkably traffic is still permitted to rumble across it. It has been repaired and patched several times; the river it crossed has changed course but it still stands there as an elegant testament to the town’s past.

The layout of town hasn’t changed a great deal since the Roman era. The Roman forum would have stood where Piazza Tre Martiri still fills up with bustling locals. This is where Caesar, after crossing the nearby Rubicon, is said to have addressed his soldiers before marching on Rome. There is a statue commemorating this event at one end of the square. Bits of Roman road and stonework have been uncovered at various spots in town, with the remains of a theatre off Via Tempio Malatestiano and part of the Roman amphitheatre next to Via Roma. There is not much to see in either place, though.

A truly great archaeological find was made in 1989 under some public gardens in Piazza Ferrari. Excavations exposed walls, floors and graves from various eras, including the town’s new great pride: the so-called Surgeon’s House . This is a dwelling from the second or third century AD which obviously belonged to a well-off and presumably skilled doctor, who had a large collection of specialised surgical tools. The building was destroyed in a fire probably during raids by Germanic tribes, leaving mosaic floors, decorations and the doctor’s equipment preserved. The mosaic floors and walls from the surgeon’s house and an adjacent, later villa are on display in a new building in Piazza Ferrari, which opened in 2007. The ruins visible include those of later buildings on the site, and the fascinating sight of medieval burials interred on and under mosaics . Glass walkways mean you can get a good look at what’s under your feet.

Close to the Roman ruins and visited on a joint ticket is the town museum, the Museo della Città . This has a good archaeological section with finds from the surgeon’s house including a lovely glass fish-decorated wall panel. The museum has also created reconstructions of two rooms where this gentleman surgeon would have seen patients: you can walk in to feel history brought to life. Upstairs is Rimini’s art gallery, which contains many works by local artists or from local churches and houses. One of the highlights is a painting by Giovanni Bellini of Christ supported by angels. Some interesting old views and plans show how Rimini has grown and changed in the last few decades. There is also a collection of self-portraits by local artists, including some marvellously decadent attitudes from the 1930s.

After the Romans, Rimini’s next period of glory came in the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance, when the town was the seat of the powerful Malatesta family. The most significant of these rulers was Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta. When he wasn’t waging war, he commissioned some of the fine art and architecture which still ornaments Rimini. The greatest of his creations was the so-called Tempio Malatestiano (Malatesta Temple), designed by Leon Battista Alberti. Although it is in fact a church, not a temple, it was hugely significant for Renaissance architecture in its adoption of classical forms. The interior is wonderfully decorated with sculptures by Agostino di Duccio and many tributes to the Malatesta family including a fresco by Piero della Francesca of Sigismondo before the saint of the same name; Sigismondo’s initial S entwined with I for his wife Isotta; the elephants that were family emblems. The building was never completely finished as Sigismondo’s fortunes waned. The irreligiousness of the ‘temple’ was among the excuses of the Pope for excommunicating him. The building is closed during religous services so visit as soon as you can in order not to be disappointed. At the town museum I found a great free pamplet in English produced by the tourist board, examining the Tempio Malatestiano in depth.

The fortress of the Malatesta dynasty, the Castel Sismondo , or Castello Malatestiano, sits on the edge of the town centre. The high-walled building is quite bare, but some of its rooms are used for temporary exhibitions.

Other cultural destinations in Rimini include a museum dedicated to Federico Fellini, in the house which was his sister’s home. The film director was born in Rimini, and is buried in the cemetery here. His early semi-autobiographical film I Vitelloni , though filmed elsewhere, gives a glimpse of what small-town Rimini life was like when the director was growing up. Rimini also has lots of the usual seaside attractions – but for these you should read on about the ‘other’ Rimini, the seaside town.

Still in the historic centre, the most interesting piazza is probably the one now named Piazza Cavour. It’s a medieval square, and the fountain here is one of the town’s most significant historic features, praised by Leonardo da Vinci and recorded in Renaissance art as well as a film by Fellini ( Amarcord ). The principal buildings in the piazza are the Palazzo dell’Arengo, built in the thirteenth century and the Palazzo del Podestà. The buildings were restored after an earthquake in 1916 . The old fish market by the fountain, where the stone slabs are now often topped by flowers or socialising locals, is now one of the hubs of old Rimini – read on to our food and drink section to learn more. You can easily spend a half-hour or more pottering around Rimini’s lanes and shops. There are some interesting boutiques selling clothes, shoes and designer goods as well as typical Italian high-street stores. It is generally much classier than the cheap clothes and souvenir shops by the seaside. There are plenty of cafes to rest at and watch the world go by, principally around the two main squares, Piazza Tre Martiri and Piazza Cavour.

Rimini – the beach resort

If you are visiting Rimini purely for a beach holiday, you need never leave the sand. All along the beach are private beach concessions where you can hire sunbeds and parasols, eat at cafes, bars and restaurants and watch your children have fun on the play equipment. The Italians have made beach life very comfortable and orderly. For much of the resort’s length there are two busy traffic-filled streets, one running along the back of the beach, the other a block inland. Rimini’s hundreds of hotels are mostly located on these two streets, or on little side-streets branching off them. Buses run along the length of the resort, and the streets are fairly featureless and unchanging; a procession of restaurants, snack bars, drinking bars, night-time bars and cheap clothes shops. Personally I missed being able to walk along a promenade and admire the sea; the seaside road is busy and it is lined with the entrances to private beaches, blocking any views. The best place for strolling is by the mouth of the river and port, level with the old town. Here you can actually walk out along a jetty whereold men fish and which affords good views along the built-up coastline and towards the distant southern headland which gives interest to the scenery.

As well as the attractions of the sandy beach and the safe shallow waters, Rimini also has its full share of other seaside attractions for adults, teenagers and children. There are amusement arcades, bicycles to hire, mini-golf (near the lighthouse) and a dolphinarium ( Delfinario ). I caught the bus to Italia in Miniatura , an old fashioned theme park built around ‘Italy in Miniature’, which comprises lots of small models of Italian landmarks and a boat ride through Venice ‘at one-fifth its actual size’. And this being Italy, there is lots and lots of food.

Practicalities, food and drink

As described below, the bus services are a good way to cut down on boring walks through seaside Rimini. Once you have got a map you’ll be able to find your bearings along the long unchanging streets; the bus-stop numbering helps, too. When you are booking your hotel, check its location on the maps provided on the online booking sites to get an idea of how far you will be from the railway station and the old town. If you are planning travel or sightseeing it makes sense to be fairly near these, perhaps in the Marina Centro area which is the nearest seaside to the old town.

Although Rimini isn’t renowned for its cuisine or restaurants, there are plenty of perfectly decent places to eat varied meals, from pizzas to seafood, as well as take-aways and bars serving piadine – local heated flat-bread sandwiches. By the seaside I ate at Chi Burdlaz ‘Garden Bar’ (Viale Vespucci, 63) – which was over-hectic but served good pizzas, pasta and meat dishes and was ruled over by a real character. There is a cluster of popular eating places on Via Becadelli, where the street from the town centre reaches the seafront area. These include the stylish white-decor Ex-Dancing, which offers pizzas, salads and piadine at outdoors tables in the sun. Along the street from the railway station, next to the pedestrian underpass on the route to the sea, is a chain pizzeria, Zio Ciro (Piazzale Battini, 21), which has outdoors tables under trees (albeit squeezed between road and railway line) and serves reliable food at reasonable prices.

The evening hub of the old town is the old fish market, the Pescheria, where there is a cluster of bars and young people (and not-so-young) can perch on the old stone market-slabs with their wine glasses. Just around the corner in a tiny square is an excellent restaurant, Osteria della Piazzetta, which served the best meals I ate in Rimini.

Around Rimini

The Emilia-Romagna region has several historic towns which make interesting day trips within reach of Rimini. Ravenna , Ferrara and Bologna all have lots of art, architecture and sights to enjoy as well as attractive squares where you can sit and enjoy a very different atmosphere to Rimini – or to seaside Rimini, anyway. Rimini is well-placed for exploring this stretch of the Adriatic Coast, and I found it a good base for a varied holiday. As well as the other purpose-built beach resorts, travellers can head south into the region of Le Marche , where there are still more villages and hills to explore. I visited seaside Pesaro (half an hour away by train) and famous Urbino in a combined day trip, since the bus for Urbino leaves from Pesaro. For comfortable exploring I’d allow a day each for the towns, though. Rimini is also the best base for visiting the independent Republic of San Marino : a bus service runs throughout the day between the two towns; the journey takes 45 minutes. In the summer holiday season there are additional bus services designed for day-trippers: for example to the historic castle and town of San Leo, and a direct service to Urbino. Other nearby towns can be visited using normal public bus services, including Verucchio, which has an important archaeological museum. The tourist information office in Rimini produces interesting leaflets and even books in English detailing sights in the surrounding province; it’s a good first stop for planning your travels. Naturally they also stock pamphlets advertising all those attractions designed for summer trippers and families, of which there are many in the area: theme parks, water parks and so on.

Rimini travel & transport

Rimini has its own airport, the Aeroporto Internazionale Federico Fellinio di Rimini-San Marino. Both Ryanair and Easyjet operate budget flights to the airport from the UK. It is only just outside the centre of town at Miramare, one of the stretches of seaside suburb. It has a tourist information office, and an urban bus service, the number 9, connects the airport with Rimini railway station.

Rimini is on a railway line which links Bologna with Ancona, further down the Adriatic coast. A good number of trains stop here; connections with other major Italian destinations are generally via Bologna. If you are planning a journey to or from Rimini by train, be aware that different categories of train stop here; some are faster but cost a lot more than others. You will need to buy the right ticket for the particular train you plan to catch. As well as the main Rimini station, some trains also stop at little stations further along Rimini’s built-up coastline, at Rimini Miramare and at Riccione.

The other seaside resorts nearby are on the same railway line, making it easy to visit the rest of the coast. Buses also serve the surrounding area; urban buses run the length of the built-up area as far south as Riccione, and other services head into the inland region. There are several buses a day running to the Republic of San Marino, a 45-minute trip, and in summer there are also direct buses to other towns of interest like San Leo and Urbino. Out of season you will need to rely on regular public transport. To reach Urbino, take a train to Pesaro and then catch a bus outside the railway station.

Within Rimini, bus services are run by a company called AM. There is a ticket and information kiosk outside the railway station. Services are efficient and tickets are cheap. Within the historic centre it is easy to get around on foot, but the seaside areas spread a long way, and are quite boring to walk through, so hopping on a bus is often a good option. Stops are labelled with numbers which is very helpful for travellers. A town map available from the tourist office shows bus routes and stops. It is generally worth buying a bus ticket covering multiple days if you’ll be in town a while.

Accommodation

There are literally hundreds of hotels in Rimini, of every category and quality. I’ve stayed in two contrasting but good hotels – but do check the most recent reviews before you book: > Duomo Hotel – a four-star ‘design hotel’ in the heart of the old town ideal for a stylish stay where you can ignore the beach if you wish. > Ambienthotel Peru – a three-star which is more traditional but with stylish aspirations (some rooms only) and ahead of most Italian hotels with its excellent and friendly service. > Rimini hotels, B&Bs and apartments

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Wonderful Time in Italy We were covered from the moment we landed in Rome. The drivers were great, the connections were flawless, and it was well-planned a...

Rimini, Italy’s largest and most varied beach resort, has long been a traditional summer magnet for families and many Italians return year after year. But there is also an upmarket side to the town, with its boutique hotels, high-end restaurants and chichi clubs. And with that comes a less savoury aspect: Rimini is known throughout Italy for its fast living and chancy nightlife, and there’s a thriving hetero- and transsexual prostitution scene alongside the town’s more wholesome attractions.

Rimini’s nightlife

The resort is best avoided in August, unless you have a penchant for teeming crowds. Out of season, it’s pleasant enough, though bear in mind that many hotels, restaurants and shops are closed and the atmosphere along the seafront is almost eerily quiet.

Given that so much of Rimini was destroyed in the last war, it’s surprising to find that the town has a much-ignored old centre that is worth at least a morning of your time. Located inland, past the station, it is an often unseen part of Rimini, made up of old stone buildings clustered around the beautiful twin squares of Piazza Tre Martiri and Piazza Cavour, and bordered by the port-canal and town ramparts. Unlike the touristy side of town, this quiet, refined community stays in business throughout the winter, albeit in a low-key, backwater sort of way. But it’s the beach, the crowds and the wild nights that you really come for: Rimini is still the country’s best place to party.

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From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

Rimini’s nightlife is mainly concentrated on the seafront and in the fashionable enclave of Misano Monte, 15km south of Rimini and about 5km inland. Clubbing is a seasonal activity in Rimini, with full-on nightlife in summer, and few places open in winter. Even on a balmy July evening, things tend to start late with crowds cruising the bars from about 11pm onwards before heading off to the first club at around 1am. If you haven’t got a car, or are drinking, use night buses. For up-to-date information on the Rimini club scene, go to riminiturismo.it , or riviera.rimini.it for English-language listings.

Top image: Bridge of Tiberius (Ponte di Tiberio) in Rimini, Italy © Zhukov Oleg/Shutterstock

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“Rimini is like the Blues, it has a bit of everything.” (Luciano Ligabue)

Whether you are a true globe trotter set off to see the world on a low budget, or you can afford to book a suite at Federico Fellini’s five-star Grand Hotel, Rimini , "the city of small villas", is the place to go!

The most famous seaside resort on the Adriatic Riviera , Rimini is truly a place of artistic and cultural interest, a place that breathes out the unique force and energy of the many Roman and Renaissance masterpieces waiting for you to discover and enjoy.

A former colony of the Roman Empire ( Ariminum ), Rimini is still pending between past and present, and boasting about the pride and glory of the long gone days, the ruins of which stand as hard evidence today: the Piazza Tre Martiri - a large forum, two central streets - the Cardo Maximus (Via Garibaldi e Via IV Novembre) and the Decumanus Maximus (Corso d’Augusto), and last, but not least, domus del chirurgo - the surgeon’s house.

Rimini is the very expression of original cultural ferments, and this is why it has always stood out among the other cities of the world: the famous names of Augustus, Hadrian, Galla Placida, Gitto instantly make you think of the city’s sumptuous archeology and cultural history disclosed by The Arch of Augustus, The Bridge of Tiberius - two triumphal monuments, The Amphitheatre - outsized by the Coliseum alone, the Church of San Stefano, or The School of Rimini – a cultural trend.

No doubt that this is far from being a comprehensive list. However, closing in to the modern world, Luigi Poletti should also be added on the list as the father of the modern Neoclassical Rimini which can still be seen in the architecture of the theatre designed by him, or of the palaces built along Corso Augusto.

Unquestionably, this must be the bit of everything that you will get while in Rimini!

Other Italian Resorts on the Adriatic Sea

Jesolo is a destination containing all the ingredients necessary for unforgettable vacations. Beaches stretching for 15 kilometers, shopping opportunities, golf and trips in the surroundings, all these recommend Jesolo as a virtually complete alternative on the Adriatic Sea.

Caorle is advisable for those who want to complement sunbathing with cultural circuits and with nature exploration. These activities are enabled, beaches proper aside, by the historic center of Caorle and by its lagoon.

Grado, on the other hand, strikes by its resemblance to Venice, being in fact dubbed the miniature Venice. Besides its overall dash, Grado gets even more interesting when deepening its specific beauties and opportunities, of which the lagoon and the traditional casoni are but an example.

What is impressive about Bibione is it blends into a single coherent picture several heterogeneous elements. Untamed nature and spa treatments, forests and sunbathing, sports activities and shopping opportunities are all available in Bibione.

The likelihood of getting bored in Lignano is close to nothing, since this resort comes with an overwhelming offer of pastime activities and facilities. Ranging from the mere sunbathing to nightlife and golf and dish and wine sampling, Lignano should definitely not be overlooked as alternative in terms of resorts on the Adriatic Sea.

The plethora of tourist activities in Lignano is sustained by a proficient tourist infrastructure which, in terms of accommodation, comes down to some 150 hotels. The hotels in Lignano suit all pockets and tastes, which is no dismissible feature.

Located some 10 kilometers southwards from Rimini, Riccione is a highly popular destination on the Adriatic Sea. The success of this resort to the huge tourist flow is substantiated, amongst others, by the more than 500 establishments offering accommodation solutions, hotels included.

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Postcard From Rimini, Italy: Designer Alberta Ferretti on Transforming Her Family Home into a Magnificent Hotel

By Billie Bhatia

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

What does Rimini mean to you?

“Rimini is my home. I grew up in Cattolica, a nearby village, and I’m incredibly proud of this region of Italy. It’s an often-overlooked part of the country, but there is so much to explore in this area, from the food to the beaches , the culture and, most importantly, the people. There is an easiness to Rimini that makes you feel like a local even when you are just visiting.”

“There is an easiness to Rimini that makes you feel like a local even when you are just visiting,” says the Italian designer Alberta Ferretti.

Where do you stay?

“My family home is in San Giovanni in Marignano, a small Baroque town near Cattolica. But in 1994, I bought a 13th-century castle in the medieval village of Montegridolfo, in the Emilia-Romagna region, about a 45-minute drive from Rimini. I restored it to its previous grandeur and turned it into Palazzo Viviani , a hotel full of personality and charm. The eight bedrooms are furnished with antiques and original terracotta floors, and there’s a swimming pool and sloping lawns with beautiful views of the countryside. We serve up a vast breakfast too. I would also recommend Carducci 76 , a sleek architectural hotel in Cattolica, designed by my brother Massimo.”

For travelers in the Rimini area, Ferretti recommends a stay at either Palazzo Viviani or Carducci 76, the hotels she and her brother restored and designed, respectively.

Where’s a great spot to go for a drink?

“One of my favorite things to do is have an aperitivo at Osteria dei Poeti , a buzzy little wine bar behind the historical Piazza Cavour. For me, it’s a home away from home. I won’t make a reservation; I just turn up in the evening, safe in the knowledge that friends and family will be there. It’s like a magnet. The bar is lined with beautiful photos of old Rimini. I’ll order a bottle of local wine, such as a Sangiovese, and some seasonal small plates.”

To eat out?

“My two sons decided not to follow in my footsteps, but to open restaurants instead. Il Falco is my favorite. It is far away from the nightlife of the town, with its feet in the sand on Rimini’s beachside boulevard, Viale Principe di Piemonte. Dining on the beach and watching the sunset always moves me. The emphasis is on seafood, and the fresh fish here is unmissable, cooked simply on the grill. Another of my favourites is A Pesce in Faccia , which is an old saying for rude behavior, roughly translating to “being slapped in the face with fish.” This gorgeous little taverna on Via Dante is young, easy, and playful, encompassing the vibrancy of Rimini. I always recommend the passatelli (pasta made from breadcrumbs) cooked in fish broth or the cappelletti (similar to tortellini) with bottarga, which is like caviar made from tuna and is a regional speciality.”

For a pit stop?

“You can’t go to Italy and not have gelato. Santa Colomba on the Piazza Malatesta is an award-winning gelateria that makes the most delicious organic ice cream, including vegan options. The mango sorbet and peanut salted caramel flavors are highlights. It is right by Rimini’s main piazza, which is named after the 15th-century Lord of Rimini, Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, and is the ideal location to just sit and watch the world go by.”

For a sundowner?

“ Le Milton Beach , a laid-back restaurant by the tip of Porto di Rimini, is a wonderful place to while away an evening. The interior design is bold and bright—much like the town—with blue-and-white striped decor on the beachfront and quirky color-pop florals inside. It’s the best spot to soak up one of Italy’s beautiful sunsets, and has a great ambience at night.”

To get away from it all, Ferretti visits Monte San Bartolo, a beautiful nature reserve where hawks still nest.

Where is your favorite place to walk?

“The old area of Rimini—we call it the antique neighborhood—is one of my favorite places in the city to wander around. The beautiful Ponte di Tiberio has five semicircular arches made of white Istrian stone. Construction began under emperor Augustus in the year 14 CE and was completed during the reign of Tiberius. The bridge forms part of the Via Aemilia, an important ancient Roman road that connected the cities of Northern Italy, from Rimini to Bologna and modern-day Milan . It’s in impressive condition considering it’s more than 2,000 years old and is a wonderful example of the rich heritage of this area. I also love walking the beaches of Cattolica, just south of Rimini, picking up shells that I then use at home as dinner-table decorations. To get away from it all, there’s Monte San Bartolo, a beautiful nature reserve where hawks still nest.”

Jessica Puckett

Scott Laird

Lucy Bruton

Jahnavi Bhatt

To dip into the culture of the area?

“One of the most famous people born in Rimini is the film director Federico Fellini, of La Dolce Vita fame, so everyone must visit the Fellini Museum within the beautiful Sismondo Castle in the heart of the city. I chose this setting for the Alberta Ferretti cruise 2024 show. Presenting my collection here was very special. When I was a little girl, Fellini told the story of Rimini to the entire world, and it left such a lasting impression on me. I wanted to relay the same message. The flowing satins and rich colors of my pieces use prints of his films, elements of cinematic drama, and the backdrops of his famous cinematography.”

The cruise 2024 show took place shortly after the devastating flooding in the region. How did that impact the presentation and the collection?

“It was the worst possible test of our resilience. The collection was my swan song to this land, filled with the emotions that have always inspired my creations: soulfulness, sensuality and humanity—that’s Rimini. But it became more about the people. The presentation included 32 volunteers who helped the Emilia-Romagna community during the floods. They each wore Alberta Ferretti shirts that read Io ci sono , which means, “I am here.” All proceeds of the sales will be donated to the Emilia-Romagna civil protection charity.”

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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Hope someone can help.

We are trying to find a way of getting from Ancona Airports to the Rimini/ Riccioni coast where our hotel will pick us up

So we thought to catch train and or bus.

Looking at the website are soo confusing and contradictory just wondering if one of you guys would know best way.

We are not going until September plenty of time to think and worry I know, but we are no spring chickens.

Thanks in advance

For Ancona Airport, then you will use the Train Station Falconara Marittima. Have a look at http://www.trenitalia.com/en. Use that train station as your departure and Rimini as your Arrival. There are many Direct trains without changes daily taking around one hour travel time.

The schedules may not be posted for your travel dates today, but put in a date close to today to see the number of trains and departure times.

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