Hotels in Rimini

Nestled along the shores of the Adriatic Sea, the city of Rimini boasts breathtaking sceneries, sophisticated cuisine, and a long, proud history dating back to over 2000 years. Established by the Romans, the city centre is filled with impressive structures and awe-inspiring ruins from ancient times, while side streets carry the pastel-colored Old World charms of classic Italian cinema.

This coastal city, however, also embraces the hip and modern with a vibrant nightlife and an array of trendy restaurants and bars. To top it all off, Rimini is home to a beach with 3500 square metres of sand and sparkling blue waters--making the town perfect for all kinds of travelers.

How to Get There

Most international travelers fly to Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, and take a train to Rimini with Trenitalia, Italy’s national railway service. Trips from Bologna to Rimini are about an hour long, and the train station is located by Rimini’s historic centre.

The Federico Fellini International Airport is also available, and is a popular destination for budget airlines. This airport is just 6 kilometres away from the centre of Rimini, about a 30 minute bus ride (bus route 9) away.

Getting Around

The bus is undoubtedly the easiest way to get around the city. There are two main bus routes that visitors always use: Route Nos. 4 and 11. The former runs through the entire northern coast of Rimini while the latter covers the southern coast. These buses run every fifteen minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., making it easy for both early birds and night owls to travel around the city. Night buses are available during peak tourist season.

Top Things to Do

There are a great many tourist spots and things to do in Rimini, despite the city’s compact size. Visitors can travel back in time and walk amongst the well-preserved Roman ruins in the city, from the Tiberius Bridge, Augustus Arch, the Domus del Chirurgo, and the amphitheatre.

The Piazza Tre Martiri, which was once called Piazza Giulio Cesare, is said to be the site of Julius Caesar’s famous alea iacta est (“the die is cast) speech.

Rimini’s most impressive religious structure is the Tempio Malatestiano, an unfinished 9th century church with ornate marble and stucco work and religious art inside. The Museo della Citta has a wide variety of exhibits, from archaeological finds to Roman mosaics to Renaissance masterpieces.

Meanwhile, the Museo Fellini dedicates its entire exhibit to Rimini’s most famous native: Italian film director Frederico Fellini. Castel Sismondo is another must-see. Built in the 15th century, the castle features a unique combination of different architectural styles.

Thanks to its proximity to the Adriatic Sea, Rimini is home to long, beautiful beaches including Riccione, which also has natural thermal springs, and the picturesque Rimini Beach, the perfect spot for sunbathing while sipping on a freshly made cocktail from one of the beachside bars that run along the edge of the sand.

People travelling with children can stroll through the Italia in Miniatura park, or hop on roller coasters and other thrill rides at the Mirabilandia Theme Park. The 55-metre tall La Ruota Panoramica is located by Rimini Beach.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Rimini is among the best in Italy, as the city teems with young and energetic Italians and travelers looking for a good time. Vecchia Pescheria, Marina Centro, and Rimini Beach are where many bars and restaurants have set up shop.

Energetic parties can be found in the various nightclubs along the Rimini seafront, with Coconuts, Rock Island, and Bagno Tiki 26 being among the most popular spots. Those travelling in the summer should mark their calendars for La Notte Rosa or Pink Night, an all-night party with concerts, dancing, flashing lights, fireworks, and even live performances all along the Rimini riviera.

What to Eat

Rimini is famous for its thinly rolled out bread called piadina, which is often assembled into a sandwich with cured meats, local cheese (squacquerone is a local favorite), and fresh vegetables. Casina del Bosco is a popular spot for a freshly made piadina and a view of the Adriatic Sea.

Porchetta rabbit is another famous dish from Rimini, and is especially good in the Valmarecchia area, while Brodetto or Italian bouillabaisse is a great choice while dining in the Marina Centro. Osteria de Borg is a local favorite for freshly made pasta, while Pasticceria Rinaldini is home to the sweet creations of Roberto Rinaldini, Italy’s most famous pastry chef.

Where to Stay

Rimini’s visitor accomodations run the gamut from backpacker hostels to five-star accomodations. The historic centre has affordable hostels for young backpackers, making it the perfect spot for history buffs and culture lovers.

Meanwhile, the seaside promenade known as Lungomare is home to the majority of Rimini’s hotels. Here, one can find charming boutique hotels and chic, five-starred places (such as the Grand Hotel Rimini), which all have easy access to the beach, seafront restaurants, and nightclubs--ideal for those who want a no-stress Italian beach vacation.

Budget friendly and family-run hotels can be found in the Iseo Marina area to the north and the Riccione area to the south. These areas are popular choices for those travelling with family, as they are usually less crowded than the historic centre, and have cute local restaurants and easy access to public transportation.

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