Rimini, a charming city on the Adriatic Sea, is known for its sandy beaches, rich history and vibrant cultural scene. But the real beauty of Rimini lies in its surroundings, where visitors can explore the medieval villages, historic castles and natural beauty that the Emilia-Romagna region has to offer. In this four-day trip, we will explore not only Rimini, but also San Marino, Santarcangelo di Romagna, the Marecchia River Valley, and the cities of Ravenna and Ferrara. Every day will be full of experiences, from historical research to relaxation in nature, all of which will be imbued with authentic Italian culture and cuisine.
Start your trip in Rimini, where you will enjoy beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere by the sea. The first day will be dedicated to exploring San Marino, the smallest and oldest republic in the world, where you can admire the medieval towers and enjoy the panoramic views. The second day will be dedicated to discovering the charms of Santarcangelo di Romagna and the magnificent Verucchio Castle. On the third day, you will go to the valley of the Marecchia river, where you can go hiking and visit the medieval town of San Leo. The last day will be reserved for exploring the cultural treasures of Ravenna and Ferrara, two cities famous for their historical and artistic attractions.
Every day will be an opportunity to taste local cuisine, from fresh seafood to traditional pasta, and to relax in a natural environment. Get ready for an unforgettable trip that combines the best of Italian history, culture and natural beauty.
Day 1: San Marino – the smallest and oldest republic in the world
Morning: Departure from Rimini and arrival in San Marino
Start your first day exploring the surroundings of Rimini with a visit to the independent Republic of San Marino, just a 30-minute drive away. You can start your trip with a morning coffee at one of the local cafes along Rimini's waterfront before taking a short drive to San Marino. During the drive, you will be able to admire the beautiful landscape of Emilia-Romagna.
Morning: Visit of the three towers
San Marino is famous for its three towers rising on Monte Titano. It should be the first stop Guaita, the oldest and most impressive tower. Keep visiting Road, the second tower, which offers a wonderful view of the surroundings. the third tower, Montale, is slightly smaller, but just as well worth a visit. Climbing the towers will reward you with stunning panoramas (Visit Rimini).
Afternoon: Lunch and exploration of the old town
After exploring the towers, return to the old town of San Marino. Here you can enjoy lunch in one of the local restaurants, serving traditional dishes such as pasta with meat and locally produced ingredients. After lunch, walk through the narrow medieval streets, visit Basilica of San Marino and Museum of Ancient Weapons. This part of the day is ideal for shopping for souvenirs and admiring historic buildings(Visit Rimini).
Evening: Return to Rimini and dinner by the coast
After a day of exploring, return to Rimini. Spend the evening by the sea where you can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants such as La Tavernetta sul Mare. A walk along the beach at sunset will be the perfect end to the first day (Savoring Italy).
Day 2: Castles and villages around Rimini
Morning: Santarcangelo di Romagna
Start visiting on the second day Santarcangelo di Romagna, a picturesque medieval village just a short drive from Rimini. The village is famous for its cobblestones, ancient churches and underground caves. Visit Malatesta Castle and enjoy wonderful views of the Marecchia Valley. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the underground caves, which have been used since Roman times (Rimini Turismo).
Morning: Lunch at a local trattoria
Santarcangelo is famous for its cuisine. Have lunch in one of the local trattorias, where you can try homemade pasta and other local specialties. We recommend a visit Trattoria Il Passatore, where they serve traditional dishes made from fresh ingredients.
Afternoon: Verucchio Castle
After lunch, head to Veruccio, which is famous for its magnificent castle, which was once the home of the Malatesta family. The castle offers a rich history and wonderful views of the Marecchia Valley. During your visit to the castle, you will be able to learn about the history of the Malatesta family and admire the medieval architecture (Rimini Turismo).
Evening: Return to Rimini
After exploring the castles, return to Rimini. Spend the evening in a peaceful atmosphere, perhaps with a glass of local wine in one of the city's squares. Or you can decide to have dinner in one of the local restaurants serving fresh seafood.
Day 3: The natural beauty of the Marecchia River Valley
Morning: Hiking in the Marecchia Valley
Dedicate the third day to nature. The valley of the Marecchia river offers many hiking trails that will take you through a beautiful landscape. Start the day with a leisurely hike along the river where you can admire the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The way to Rocca di San Leo is one of the most popular routes that will lead you to the medieval castle on top of the hill (Visit Rimini).
Morning: Visit San Leo
San Leo is a small medieval town that boasts one of the most impressive castles in Italy. San Leo Castle offers stunning views of the surrounding area and a rich history. Visit the castle and walk through the narrow streets of the town where you will find many historic buildings and beautiful views.
Afternoon: Lunch and relaxation
After visiting San Leo, enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants. We recommend it Ristorante Belvedere, where you can enjoy traditional Italian dishes and a wonderful view of the valley. After lunch, relax and enjoy nature, maybe go for a short walk or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Evening: Return to Rimini
Spend the evening in Rimini, where you can enjoy dinner by the seafront or relax with a glass of wine in one of the local bars. A walk through the city streets in the evening atmosphere will be the perfect end to the day.
Day 4: Visit the beautiful cities of Ravenna and Ferrara
Morning: Departure to Ravenna
Spend the last day of your trip visiting the beautiful cities of Ravenna and Ferrara. Start by visiting Ravenna, which is about an hour's drive from Rimini. Ravenna is famous for its stunning mosaics and historical sites. Visit Basilica of San Vitale, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, which are all part of the UNESCO world heritage (Savoring Italy).
Morning: Lunch in Ravenna
Have lunch in one of the local restaurants, where you can enjoy traditional Ravenna dishes. We recommend a visit Ca' de Ven, where they serve homemade pasta and seafood specialties.
Afternoon: Departure to Ferrara
After lunch, head to Ferraro, which is about an hour's drive from Ravenna. Ferrara is famous for its well-preserved Renaissance city center and its beautiful castle Estense. Visit the castle and walk through the city streets, where you will find many historical buildings and wonderful views. (Savoring Italy) (Visit Rimini).
Evening: Return to Rimini
After exploring Ferrara, return to Rimini. Spend the evening by the coast, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and a wonderful view of the sea. It will be the perfect end to your unforgettable trip in Rimini and its surroundings (Visit Rimini) (Savoring Italy).
