Rimini
Rimini
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Latest page update: 31 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The city of Rimini is the capital city of the Province of Rimini with a population of 150,756 inhabitants.
Situated on the Adriatic Coast, it covers a total area of 134 km² and lies 118 kilometres south east of Bologna, the regional capital of Emilia Romagna. Known principally as a beach resort and for its associated nightlife, Rimini does however have an historic centre that greatly contrasts its more famous attractions. |
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What People Ask About Rimini
What is Rimini famous for?
Can you swim in Rimini?
Is Rimini a good destination for families?
How do you get to Rimini by train?
What is there to see in Rimini besides the beach?
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Overview
Overview
Roman foundations
Founded in 268 BC by the Romans, the city was originally called Ariminum and there are some obvious traces from that period still in evidence today. The first sign of that era comes in the form of what many people consider to be the symbol of Rimini: the Arco di Augusto.
Built in 27 BC, the 17 metre high triumphal arch was commissioned by the first Roman Emperor, Augustus, and stands almost entirely intact to this day. The Arch marks the southern entrance to the city's old town, the centro storico, while at the opposite end we find another Roman monument, the Ponte di Tiberio.
Named after Rome's second emperor, Tiberius, the bridge was built in 27 AD and marked the beginning of the ancient Via Emilia road which connected Rimini to Piacenza.
Built in 27 BC, the 17 metre high triumphal arch was commissioned by the first Roman Emperor, Augustus, and stands almost entirely intact to this day. The Arch marks the southern entrance to the city's old town, the centro storico, while at the opposite end we find another Roman monument, the Ponte di Tiberio.
Named after Rome's second emperor, Tiberius, the bridge was built in 27 AD and marked the beginning of the ancient Via Emilia road which connected Rimini to Piacenza.
Things to Do
Things to Do
The historic centre
Rimini's centro storico is characterised by wide boulevards and beautiful piazzas, the most important of which are Piazza Tre Martiri and Piazza Cavour. Piazza Tre Martiri is home to the Torre dell'Orologio (Clock Tower) and the Chiesa dei Paolotti. It's also a great place for shopping, lined as it is with shops in porticoed arcades around its edges.
From Piazza Tre Martiri it's just a 2 minute walk to one of Rimini's most famous monuments: the Tempio Malatestiano. Originally built in the 13th century in Gothic style, the church was transformed in 1450 by the city's ruler, one Sigismond Malatesta.
Said to be a wicked and unjust leader, Malatesta was so grief-stricken by the death of his mistress, Isotta degli Atti, that in 1450 he hired the great Florentine Renaissance architect Leon Battista Alberti to convert the building into a shrine to her. As a result of this, then Pope Pius II excommunicated Malatesta, and condemned the building as a "temple of devil worshippers".
From Piazza Tre Martiri it's just a 2 minute walk to one of Rimini's most famous monuments: the Tempio Malatestiano. Originally built in the 13th century in Gothic style, the church was transformed in 1450 by the city's ruler, one Sigismond Malatesta.
Said to be a wicked and unjust leader, Malatesta was so grief-stricken by the death of his mistress, Isotta degli Atti, that in 1450 he hired the great Florentine Renaissance architect Leon Battista Alberti to convert the building into a shrine to her. As a result of this, then Pope Pius II excommunicated Malatesta, and condemned the building as a "temple of devil worshippers".
Federico Fellini: Rimini's film-maker supreme
Away from the controversial Tempio Malatestiano and heading back towards Piazza Tre Martiri, following the shopping street called Corso d'Augusto for 5 minutes brings you to Piazza Cavour.
Slightly smaller than Piazza Tre Martiri, it's no less grand with its Gothic buildings, the Palazzo del Podestà and Palazzo dell'Arengo on one side and the Teatro Amintore at one end. It's also home to the Peschiera Antica, an 18th century fish market that these days specialises in antiques.
Returning to Corso d'Augusto and turning left, you shortly arrive at a very special place and a source of great pride to the locals. The Cinema Fulgor is where one of Rimini's favourite sons, the legendary Italian film producer Federico Fellini watched his first ever movie.
Another couple of hundred metres along Corso d'Augusto from the cinema brings you to the Ponte di Tiberio. The bridge spans the Ariminus River which leads down to the main marina at the northern end of the beach, two kilometres away.
However, if at this point you cross the bridge it takes you into another fascinating area of Rimini, the Borgo San Giuliano. A residential area, it's characterised by its multi-coloured houses, some of which are decorated with murals on the outside.
Slightly smaller than Piazza Tre Martiri, it's no less grand with its Gothic buildings, the Palazzo del Podestà and Palazzo dell'Arengo on one side and the Teatro Amintore at one end. It's also home to the Peschiera Antica, an 18th century fish market that these days specialises in antiques.
Returning to Corso d'Augusto and turning left, you shortly arrive at a very special place and a source of great pride to the locals. The Cinema Fulgor is where one of Rimini's favourite sons, the legendary Italian film producer Federico Fellini watched his first ever movie.
Another couple of hundred metres along Corso d'Augusto from the cinema brings you to the Ponte di Tiberio. The bridge spans the Ariminus River which leads down to the main marina at the northern end of the beach, two kilometres away.
However, if at this point you cross the bridge it takes you into another fascinating area of Rimini, the Borgo San Giuliano. A residential area, it's characterised by its multi-coloured houses, some of which are decorated with murals on the outside.
The beaches of Rimini
Once you leave the Borgo San Giuliano it takes around 20 minutes to reach the beach but it's an attractive walk where you'll pass hundreds of boats of different shapes and sizes along the way.
Walking to the end of the River Ariminus you'll eventually arrive at Rimini's Ferris Wheel which marks the northern end of the city's main beach. From this point there are dozens of private beaches from which to take your pick. The beach stretches out seemingly endlessly from this point, all the way down to Gabbicce Mare in the neighbouring region of Marche, some 21 kilometres away.
The two main areas of Rimini, the centro storico and the beach are two kilometres apart, a walk of around 25 minutes. Some of that walk can be offset by taking a number 11 bus to the train station, from which point it's an 8 minute walk of 700 metres to Piazza Tre Martiri.
Walking to the end of the River Ariminus you'll eventually arrive at Rimini's Ferris Wheel which marks the northern end of the city's main beach. From this point there are dozens of private beaches from which to take your pick. The beach stretches out seemingly endlessly from this point, all the way down to Gabbicce Mare in the neighbouring region of Marche, some 21 kilometres away.
The two main areas of Rimini, the centro storico and the beach are two kilometres apart, a walk of around 25 minutes. Some of that walk can be offset by taking a number 11 bus to the train station, from which point it's an 8 minute walk of 700 metres to Piazza Tre Martiri.
Tours & Activities
Comune di Rimini
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Province: Rimini
Region: Emilia Romagna Population: 150,272 (in 2024 - source) Size: 136 km² Highlights: Tempio Malatestiano, beaches, Arch of Augustus Close by: Cesenatico, Cesena, Forlì, San Marino, Pesaro |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay
- Hotel Sporting Located just a short walk from the beach, this upscale hotel offers stylish rooms with sea views, a restaurant serving Italian cuisine, and an outdoor pool. Guests appreciate the comfortable facilities, the central location near the seafront, and the excellent service. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B Casina delle Rose Situated a short distance from the beach and Rimini's historic centre, this charming bed and breakfast features cosy rooms, a lovely garden, and a homemade breakfast. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, the welcoming hosts, and the easy access to local attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Orazio Set close to the beach, this family-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and an outdoor terrace. Guests value the convenient location, the friendly service, and the relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for both families and couples. €€ (mid-range)
- Residence Terminus A collection of self-catering apartments located near the beach, featuring kitchenettes, private balconies, and air conditioning. Guests appreciate the flexibility of apartment living, the outdoor pool, and the proximity to both the beach and Rimini's lively promenade. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Apollo Located in the heart of Rimini, just a short walk from the beach, this well-rated hotel offers modern rooms, a bar, and free parking. Guests enjoy the clean and comfortable facilities, the good value for money, and the easy access to both the historic centre and the seafront. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat
- Ristorante Da Giulio: Located near the seafront, Ristorante Da Giulio offers a variety of traditional Italian and local Emilia-Romagna dishes, including fresh seafood and homemade pasta. The relaxed atmosphere and attentive service make it a popular choice for a casual dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria degli Antichi Rioni: Situated in the historic centre of Rimini, Osteria degli Antichi Rioni offers a menu focused on regional specialties such as passatelli and tagliatelle with ragu. The charming interior and friendly service add to the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Brasserie: Found near the beach, La Brasserie offers a refined menu featuring Italian and Mediterranean dishes, including seafood pasta and grilled meats. The stylish setting and scenic views of the Adriatic make it a great spot for a relaxing meal. Price guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Pescatore: Located along the coast, Ristorante Il Pescatore specializes in fresh seafood, offering dishes like risotto with seafood and grilled fish. The elegant interior and outdoor seating area with views of the sea make it an ideal dining location. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria La Sangiovesa: Situated near the historic centre, Trattoria La Sangiovesa offers traditional Emilia-Romagna dishes, such as piadina and meat-based pasta. The rustic décor and local wine selection make it a great place to enjoy an authentic meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Photo Gallery
Close to Rimini
- Riccione (approx. 15 km south of Rimini): A popular seaside resort town, Riccione is known for its long sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and the Viale Ceccarini, a street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. The town also offers attractions like the Odissea 2000 water park and Villa Mussolini, a historical villa with a scenic park.
- Cattolica (approx. 20 km southeast of Rimini): A coastal town with a charming historic centre, Cattolica offers a mix of beaches, shopping, and dining. Visitors can explore the Aquarium of Cattolica, one of the largest aquariums in Italy, and the nearby Riviera Romagnola, known for its beautiful coastline and nature reserves.
- San Marino (approx. 30 km west of Rimini): A medieval republic perched atop Mount Titano, San Marino is famous for its historical sites, including the Guaita Fortress, Basilica di San Marino, and the Piazza della Libertà. The city offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic coast.
- Santarcangelo di Romagna (approx. 15 km north of Rimini): A quaint medieval town known for its cobbled streets, historic centre, and the Roman Theatre. Santarcangelo offers a peaceful atmosphere with several local shops, cafes, and festivals, including the renowned Sagra del Montefiore, celebrating traditional food and culture.
- Gradara (approx. 20 km northwest of Rimini): Famous for its impressive Castello di Gradara, a medieval fortress with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, Gradara is also known for its connection to the tragic love story of Paolo and Francesca, immortalised by Dante in his Divine Comedy. The town also features a well-preserved historic centre with quaint streets and local eateries.
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
Rimini Travel
It's possible to take a non-stop train from Rimini to Bologna with a journey time of 55 minutes, the same train eventually making its way to Milan (2 hours 5 minutes) with an intervening stop at Reggio Emilia (1 hour 22 minutes). Heading south from Rimini you can take a train all the way down the coast to Taranto (7 hours 11 minutes) in the Puglia region, or a bit closer to home, to the neighbouring seaside resort of Riccione (9 minutes).
There's no question of which airport is the most convenient for the city; Rimini has its own airport located just seven kilometres from the city centre. Alternatives include Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (123 km) and Marche Airport (93 km), further down the coast towards Ancona.
There's no question of which airport is the most convenient for the city; Rimini has its own airport located just seven kilometres from the city centre. Alternatives include Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (123 km) and Marche Airport (93 km), further down the coast towards Ancona.
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By car: Cesena - 35 minutes (35 km), Forlì - 45 mins (53 km)
Fly to: Rimini & San Marino Airport - 13 mins by car (7 km) |
Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network
