Imola
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Imola
Imola has a solid hotel offering shaped by its motor-racing connections and historic centre. The best-reviewed properties tend to combine reliable facilities with convenient access to the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, the railway station and the main streets of the old town.
Hotel Molino Rosso is one of Imola’s most established choices, offering spacious rooms, extensive communal areas, parking and professional service, making it popular with both business and leisure stays (€€€). Euro Hotel Imola provides a well-reviewed alternative close to the circuit, appreciated for its modern style, comfortable rooms and consistently positive guest feedback for service and cleanliness (€€€). Hotel Donatello Imola, located a short distance from the centre, offers a wider range of facilities including a pool and spa area, appealing to those seeking additional amenities during longer stays (€€€).
Hotel Molino Rosso is one of Imola’s most established choices, offering spacious rooms, extensive communal areas, parking and professional service, making it popular with both business and leisure stays (€€€). Euro Hotel Imola provides a well-reviewed alternative close to the circuit, appreciated for its modern style, comfortable rooms and consistently positive guest feedback for service and cleanliness (€€€). Hotel Donatello Imola, located a short distance from the centre, offers a wider range of facilities including a pool and spa area, appealing to those seeking additional amenities during longer stays (€€€).
Where is
Where is Imola?
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The city of Imola is situated around 30 kilometres south east of Bologna in the northern Italian region of the Emilia Romagna.
An official comune of the Metropolitan City of Bologna province, Imola had a population of 69,855 on 1 January 2022. It reaches a maximum elevation of 47 metres above sea level and covers a total geographical area of 205 square kilometres. |
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Comune di Imola
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Province: Metropolitan City of Bologna
Region: Emilia Romagna Population: 69,357 (in 2024 - source) Size: 205 km² Elevation: 47 metres Highlights: Rocca Sforzesca, Piazza Matteotti, F1 Circuit Close by: Faenza, Brisighella, Ravenna, Forlì, Cesena, Cervia |
What People Ask About Imola
Is Imola worth visiting?
What can you do in Imola?
How do you get to Imola?
What is Imola famous for?
When is the best time to visit Imola?
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Discover
Discover Imola
Within the city itself the main sights are the Rocca Sforzesca di Imola, a 14th century castle, and the attractive main square which is called Piazza Matteotti. Imola, although a part of Italy, is best known as the home of the San Marino Formula 1 Grand Prix with the motor racing circuit situated just outside the city centre.
Imola marks the traditional border between the two sub-regions of Emilia and Romagna which these days combine to form the official region. The River Santerno flows to the east of the city centre, with the lands beyond this point and east across to the Adriatic Coast within the Romagna. The sub-region of Emilia lies to the west of Imola and includes large cities such as Bologna, Modena and Parma.
Imola marks the traditional border between the two sub-regions of Emilia and Romagna which these days combine to form the official region. The River Santerno flows to the east of the city centre, with the lands beyond this point and east across to the Adriatic Coast within the Romagna. The sub-region of Emilia lies to the west of Imola and includes large cities such as Bologna, Modena and Parma.
Imola and Da Vinci's Map
When studying images of Imola it's possible that you'll stumble across the ingenious map created by Leonardo da Vinci in 1502, a groundbreaking piece of work that showed a city from an aerial position, believed to be one of the first of its kind in the world. At the time of the map's creation, Da Vinci was under the employ of the notorious Renaissance condottiero Cesare Borgia.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Imola
- Rocca Sforzesca is a 14th-century fortress that dominates the historic centre with its towers, drawbridges and stone courtyards. Originally built for defence, it was later expanded by the Sforza family and served as a prison. Today, it houses a small museum with armour, ceramics and period furnishings. The ramparts offer panoramic views of the town.
- Cathedral of San Cassiano stands near the central piazza and features a Baroque interior with chapels, frescoes and a marble altar. The adjoining bell tower and bishop’s palace add to its historic presence. The church is dedicated to the town’s patron saint and remains active in local religious life. It forms part of a walking route through Imola’s main sights.
- Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari is one of Italy’s most famous motor racing circuits, hosting international events including Formula One and World Superbikes. The circuit includes a monument to Ayrton Senna and a museum space with racing memorabilia. Guided tours of the track are available on select dates. The venue is located a short distance from the town centre.
- Tozzoni Palace and Civic Museum is an 18th-century aristocratic residence preserved with original furnishings, portraits and decorative objects. The museum gives insight into upper-class life in Imola during the Baroque and Neoclassical periods. Temporary exhibitions are often held in adjoining galleries. The palace is set along a quiet street near the main square.
- Parks and walking routes along the Santerno River offer green spaces and leisure trails within easy reach of the centre. Areas such as Parco Tozzoni provide shaded paths, picnic areas and viewpoints over the surrounding countryside. The riverbanks are popular for cycling, jogging and birdwatching. Facilities and signage are maintained throughout the year.
Tours and Activities
Imola Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Imola
- San Domenico: Located in the centre of Imola, San Domenico is one of the region’s most acclaimed restaurants, known for its refined take on Emilian cuisine. The menu blends tradition and innovation, with dishes such as handmade tortellini, duck breast, and seasonal specialities, all served in an elegant historic setting. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria del Vicolo Nuovo: Tucked away in a side street of the old town, this osteria serves traditional local dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu includes tagliatelle al ragù, slow-cooked meats, and regional desserts, accompanied by a well-chosen wine list. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Gianni: A long-standing favourite in Imola, Trattoria Gianni offers classic home-style Emilia-Romagna cooking in a simple, rustic setting. Known for generous portions and consistent quality, it’s a good choice for relaxed meals with a focus on authenticity. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Regina Margherita: Situated near the town centre, this informal pizzeria is popular for its wood-fired pizzas, calzoni, and salads. The atmosphere is lively and family-friendly, making it ideal for casual dinners. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Ristorante Le 3 Corti: Found on the outskirts of Imola, this modern restaurant features a menu that mixes classic Italian dishes with creative presentation. Set in a quiet location with a stylish interior, it’s well suited for a peaceful evening out. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Imola Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Imola
- Bologna (approx. 35 km northwest of Imola): The capital of Emilia-Romagna, Bologna is known for its medieval architecture, vibrant food scene, and lively atmosphere. Key attractions include the Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers (Asinelli and Garisenda), and the Basilica di San Petronio. Bologna is also a UNESCO City of Music and offers excellent dining options, particularly for its famous tagliatelle al ragù.
- Faenza (approx. 20 km east of Imola): Known for its rich history in ceramic production, Faenza is home to the Museo Internazionale delle Ceramiche, which showcases the town's famous ceramics. The town also boasts historical sites like the Piazza del Popolo and the Faenza Cathedral, making it a charming destination for history and culture enthusiasts.
- Ravenna (approx. 45 km northeast of Imola): A UNESCO World Heritage city, Ravenna is famous for its stunning Early Christian Monuments found in landmarks like the Basilica di San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. The city is also home to the Basilica di Sant'Apollonia in Classe and the Dante's Tomb, making it an essential stop for art and history lovers.
- Dozza (approx. 10 km south of Imola): A picturesque hilltop town famous for its medieval castle, Rocca di Dozza, which houses a wine-tasting room offering local wines. The town's streets are decorated with beautiful murals painted by artists from all over the world, creating a vibrant and artistic atmosphere. Dozza is also known for its excellent local wines, particularly the Sangiovese variety.
- Castel San Pietro Terme (approx. 10 km west of Imola): Known for its historic thermal baths, Castel San Pietro Terme is a spa town that has been a popular destination for relaxation since Roman times. Visitors can enjoy the natural hot springs or explore the town’s charming historic centre. The surrounding hills offer excellent opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
Emilia-Romagna Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna
1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Imola
Imola's train station is situated within the city centre: trains run north west to Bologna in around 20 minutes or south-east towards Rimini on the coast in just under an hour. Those two train destinations also represent the cities with the closest airports to the city: the most convenient airport for Imola is Bologna Airport which takes around 40 minutes to reach by car.
Imola has an exit on the main E45/A14 motorway, known as the Autostrada Adriatica which runs from Bologna down to Taranto in the southern region of Puglia.
Imola has an exit on the main E45/A14 motorway, known as the Autostrada Adriatica which runs from Bologna down to Taranto in the southern region of Puglia.
Private Transfers
Imola Private Transfers
A private transfer is the most convenient way to travel to or from Imola, offering a direct service without the need to manage train changes or drive the busy roads of Emilia-Romagna yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and reliable journey.
From Imola, the nearest hub is Bologna city centre, which can be reached in about 35 minutes, a distance of 40 km. Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport is around 45 minutes away at 50 km, while Florence Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 30 minutes, covering 95 km. A transfer to Rimini usually takes 1 hour with a journey of 70 km. For those heading north, Milan Linate Airport is about 2 hours 15 minutes away, a distance of 210 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Imola, the nearest hub is Bologna city centre, which can be reached in about 35 minutes, a distance of 40 km. Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport is around 45 minutes away at 50 km, while Florence Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 30 minutes, covering 95 km. A transfer to Rimini usually takes 1 hour with a journey of 70 km. For those heading north, Milan Linate Airport is about 2 hours 15 minutes away, a distance of 210 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
