Bellaria
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The seaside town of Bellaria is situated within the Province of Rimini and has a population of 19,569 inhabitants.
It lies 107 kilometres south-east of Bologna, the regional capital of Emilia Romagna. The main attractions of the town are its beach and the River Uso which flows out to the sea from here. Places of interest nearby include Cervia, Cesenatico, Cesena, Forlì, Rimini and Riccione. |
Bellaria, Emilia Romagna
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What People Ask About Bellaria
Is Bellaria worth visiting?
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Bellaria Overview
Bellaria, located in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a lively seaside town along the Adriatic coast, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant holiday atmosphere. With a blend of modern amenities and traditional Italian charm, Bellaria offers a variety of activities for visitors looking to enjoy both the coast and the surrounding region. The town’s lively promenade, bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants, adds to its appeal as a popular destination for tourists.
Bellaria is famous for its sandy beaches, where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a range of water sports. The town is also home to the Parco del Gelso, a large park that provides space for relaxation, walking, and picnicking. For those who enjoy cycling or hiking, Bellaria offers several scenic routes through the surrounding countryside and along the coastline. The combination of coastal beauty, outdoor activities, and lively atmosphere makes Bellaria an ideal destination for those exploring the Emilia-Romagna coast.
Bellaria is famous for its sandy beaches, where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a range of water sports. The town is also home to the Parco del Gelso, a large park that provides space for relaxation, walking, and picnicking. For those who enjoy cycling or hiking, Bellaria offers several scenic routes through the surrounding countryside and along the coastline. The combination of coastal beauty, outdoor activities, and lively atmosphere makes Bellaria an ideal destination for those exploring the Emilia-Romagna coast.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Torre Saracena is a 17th-century coastal watchtower built to defend against pirate raids. It now houses a small museum dedicated to maritime history and local fishing traditions. Exhibits include model boats, navigational tools and archival documents. The tower stands close to the harbour and is surrounded by a public park.
- Isola dei Platani is the pedestrian heart of Bellaria, lined with shops, cafés and open-air markets. This tree-lined avenue stretches from the railway station towards the beach. It's a popular place for strolls, street performances and seasonal events. The area is also home to several public art installations and benches.
- Casa Rossa di Alfredo Panzini was the summer home of the early 20th-century writer and is now a museum. It contains original furnishings, manuscripts and personal artefacts. The museum hosts literary events, readings and cultural festivals. Located inland, it offers insight into the town's cultural identity and past.
- Beaches and lidos dominate Bellaria’s coastline, with well-maintained sandy shores and shallow waters. Facilities include sunbeds, umbrellas, play areas and water sports equipment. Many beaches also have cafés and restaurants serving seafood dishes. The seafront promenade is ideal for walking or cycling.
- Boat trips along the coast depart from nearby ports such as Rimini and Cesenatico, both within easy reach. Excursions include dolphin watching, fishing tours and panoramic cruises. Some trips stop at natural sites like the mouth of the River Marecchia. Most excursions operate during the warmer months, from spring to early autumn.
Comune di Bellaria-Igea Marina
My recommended accommodation options for Bellaria:
- Hotel Eliseo Located just a few steps from the beach, this family-run hotel offers modern rooms with balconies and sea views. Guests appreciate the on-site restaurant serving Romagna cuisine, friendly service, and close proximity to Bellaria’s pedestrian area and shops. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Mondial Positioned on the seafront, this hotel features bright rooms, an indoor heated pool, and a rooftop terrace. Visitors enjoy the generous breakfast, free bike hire, and direct access to the beach. It’s within easy reach of the town centre and Bellaria train station. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel St. Moritz Situated near the beach and close to Viale dei Platani, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and family-friendly facilities. Guests value the relaxed atmosphere, daily entertainment for children, and good access to local shops and restaurants. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Garden This centrally located hotel features simply furnished rooms with air conditioning and private balconies. Guests enjoy the welcoming hosts, buffet-style meals, and easy access to the beach, parks, and train station. € (budget)
- Bell Suite Hotel Just metres from the seafront, this boutique-style hotel provides stylish, contemporary rooms with sea views and modern amenities. Visitors appreciate the fresh design, quality breakfast, and location near Bellaria’s cafés and beachfront promenade. €€€ (high-end)
- Ristorante White & Blue: Located near the seafront, this refined restaurant offers a modern take on Romagna’s seafood traditions. The menu includes dishes such as tuna tartare, seafood risotto, and grilled fish, all served in a stylish dining room with a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria La Baracca: Situated just inland from the beach, La Baracca is a family-run trattoria serving hearty local fare such as tagliatelle al ragù, mixed grilled meats, and piadina with cold cuts. The rustic interior and generous portions make it a long-standing favourite with locals. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria Giapponese Geko: A slightly different option near the centre of Bellaria, Geko combines Japanese and Mediterranean influences, offering sushi alongside seafood pasta and rice dishes. The setting is modern and casual, ideal for something a little different. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Sirocco: Found along the beachfront promenade, Sirocco serves fresh seafood and pasta dishes with views over the Adriatic. The menu features classics like spaghetti alle vongole and fritto misto, with outdoor seating available in the warmer months. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria da Mirko: A popular and affordable spot near the town centre, Da Mirko serves thin-crust pizzas and simple Italian favourites in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. It’s ideal for a quick, informal dinner. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Bellaria Gallery
- Cesenatico (approx. 20 km south of Bellaria): A charming seaside town on the Adriatic coast, Cesenatico is known for its canal designed by Leonardo da Vinci. The town also features the Museo della Marineria, dedicated to the maritime heritage of the region. The beach area is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, and the historic centre offers a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Rimini (approx. 15 km south of Bellaria): A vibrant city with a rich history, Rimini offers a mix of ancient Roman landmarks and a lively beach resort atmosphere. Key attractions include the Arco d'Augusto, the Tempio Malatestiano, and the Piazza Cavour. Rimini is also famous for its long sandy beaches, making it an ideal destination for those looking to combine history with seaside relaxation.
- Santarcangelo di Romagna (approx. 15 km northwest of Bellaria): A picturesque medieval town known for its well-preserved historic centre, Santarcangelo di Romagna features the Rocca di Sant'Arcangelo, a fortress that offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside. The town is also known for its charming streets, traditional cafes, and vibrant cultural events, including the annual Teatro del Drago festival.
- Misano Adriatico (approx. 20 km south of Bellaria): A popular beach resort town, Misano Adriatico is known for its wide sandy beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. The town is also home to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, a famous motorsport race track that hosts international events. Visitors can also enjoy the town's seaside promenade, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Verucchio (approx. 30 km northwest of Bellaria): A hilltop town with a rich medieval history, Verucchio offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Valmarecchia valley. Visitors can explore the Rocca di Verucchio, a fortress that dates back to the 13th century, and enjoy the town's historic centre, which is filled with charming streets and local shops.
By Rail: Bellaria has its own train station on the Rimini–Ravenna railway line, served by Trenitalia regional trains. Services run regularly to Rimini, Ravenna, and other local destinations along the Adriatic coast. The journey takes about 20 minutes to Rimini and 45 minutes to Ravenna. The station is located close to the town centre and within easy walking distance of the beach and accommodation areas.
By Road: Bellaria is a seaside town in the province of Rimini, situated along the Adriatic coast of southern Emilia-Romagna. It lies approximately 15 kilometres north of Rimini and 40 kilometres south of Ravenna. The drive from Rimini takes about 20 minutes via the SS16 Adriatica road. From Bologna, the journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A14 motorway. Public parking is available throughout the town, including spaces near the beach, train station, and shopping areas.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Bellaria is a seaside town in the province of Rimini, situated along the Adriatic coast of southern Emilia-Romagna. It lies approximately 15 kilometres north of Rimini and 40 kilometres south of Ravenna. The drive from Rimini takes about 20 minutes via the SS16 Adriatica road. From Bologna, the journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A14 motorway. Public parking is available throughout the town, including spaces near the beach, train station, and shopping areas.
Nearest International Airports:
- Rimini Airport (Aeroporto di Rimini Federico Fellini): Located about 25 kilometres south of Bellaria, the drive takes approximately 30 minutes. Train connections are also available via Rimini.
- Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi): Situated around 115 kilometres north-west of Bellaria, the drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Trains run to Bellaria via Rimini or Ravenna.
- Ancona Airport (Aeroporto di Ancona-Falconara): Roughly 110 kilometres south of Bellaria, the drive takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Public transport options include a combination of train services via Rimini.
