Rimini: The Complete Guide
Located in the Emilia-Romagna region, Rimini boasts a rich history dating back to its Roman foundation in 268 BC. This coastal gem spans over 15 kilometers of pristine beaches, rendering it a favoured destination for seaside enthusiasts. Notably, the renowned filmmaker Federico Fellini hailed from this city, which is celebrated for its lively nightlife and historic landmarks, including the iconic Arch of Augustus and the storied Tiberius Bridge. Rimini flourished during the rule of the Malatesta family, evolving into a vibrant centre of Renaissance culture.
One of Rimini’s distinguishing features is its affordability, offering travellers a wallet-friendly Italian vacation experience. The city presents lower costs for accommodations, dining, and transportation compared to many other Italian urban centres. With a population of 149,211 residents as of 2023, Rimini exhibits a diverse demographic with an average age of 48, reflecting a mix of generations.
Rimini is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, especially during the summer months. The city comes alive with a plethora of bars, clubs, and beachfront parties, ensuring an exhilarating experience for night owls. Benefiting from a Mediterranean climate, Rimini enjoys hot summers and mild winters. For the best weather and fewer crowds, plan your visit during the pleasant months of May, June, or September.
Stretching across 15 kilometres of coastline, Rimini offers a variety of both private and public beaches. The shallow and safe waters make these beaches an ideal choice for families seeking relaxation and aquatic fun. Rimini, with its fascinating history, affordable charm, and lively atmosphere, beckons travellers to explore its sunny shores and vibrant culture.
Exploring Rimini on Foot
Below we have listed the top attractions to visit. We have put together a Complete Self Guided Walking Tour of Rimini with Maps & Tips for you. If you prefer a guided tour the best we have come across is this 2 hour Guided Tour of Rimini Historic City Centre.
History of Rimini
Rimini, with a history dating back to around a million years ago, saw its official foundation in 268 B.C. as the Roman colony of Ariminum. Initially strategic, it later became a municipium, thriving with Roman landmarks like the Piazza Tre Martiri, the cardo maximus, and the decumanus maximus. Notable structures included a vast amphitheater, the Tiberius Bridge, and the Arch of Augustus. The Surgeon’s House, a rare preserved medical clinic from ancient Rome, stands as a unique relic. The city’s significance continued through the Middle Ages, marked by artistic influences and the rise of the Malatesta Lordship in the Renaissance. Rimini endured changes in rulership, including a period under the Papal State in the 16th century. The 19th century saw the inception of seaside tourism, evolving into one of Europe’s premier beach destinations despite the challenges of war. Today, Rimini remains a beloved tourist spot, boasting a vibrant congress and fair industry with modern facilities like the Palacongressi and an advanced Fair district designed by prominent architects.
Visiting Rimini for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Rimini on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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18 Best places to See in Rimini
This complete guide to Rimini not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Rimini and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Porta Galliana
Location: Porta Galliana, Via Bastioni Settentrionali, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Porta Galliana
Ponte di Tiberio
Location: Ponte di Tiberio, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Ponte di Tiberio
Museo della Città di Rimini
Location: Museo della Città "Luigi Tonini", Via Luigi Tonini, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday and holidays 10:00-13:00 and 16:00-19:00 Closed on Mondays other than public holidays Wednesday and Friday in July and August also 9pm-11pm | Price: €7.00 | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Museo della Città di Rimini
ARimini Caput Viarum
Location: aRimini Caput Viarum, Corso d'Augusto, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: FROM OCTOBER TO MAY: Wednesday: 9.30 am - 12.30; Thursday and Friday: from 3.30 to 6.30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday: from 10 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. - from 3.30 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. On Monday & Tuesday the Visitor Centre is closedFROM JUNE TO SEPTEMBER: from Tuesday to Saturday 10-13 and 16-19; Sunday 10-13; evening opening Wednesday 20-22 (end of June, July and August) On Monday the Visitor Center is closed | Price: Free | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting ARimini Caput Viarum
Domus del Chirurgo
Location: Domus del Chirurgo, Piazza Luigi Ferrari, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: WINTER HOURS from 1 September to 31 May from Tuesday to Sunday: 10am - 1pm and 4pm - 7pm closed on non-holiday daysSUMMER HOURS from 1st June to 31st August from Tuesday to Sunday and holidays: 10am - 7pm closed on non-holiday Mondays from the end of June summer evening openings Wednesday and Friday 9pm - 11pm | Price: €7 (Includes “Luigi Tonini” City Museum) | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Domus del Chirurgo
Palazzo del Fulgor
Location: Fellini Museum Palazzo del Fulgor, Via Giuseppe Verdi, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10am-1pm and 4pm-7pm, Closed on Mondays | Price: €12 | Website | Fellini Museum Entry Ticket | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Palazzo del Fulgor
Palazzo Garampi, Rimini
Location: Palazzo Garampi, Piazza Cavour, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Palazzo Garampi, Rimini
Piazza Cavour, Rimini
Visiting Piazza Cavour, Rimini
Tempio Malatestiano
Location: Tempio Malatestiano, Via IV Novembre, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: Weekday hours: 8.30 am - 12.00 am; 3.30 pm - 6.30 pm Holiday Hours: 9.00 am - 1.00 pm; 3.30 pm - 7.00 pm | Website | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Tempio Malatestiano
Rimini Roman Amphitheatre
Location: Roman Amphitheatre, Via Roma, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: For full access contact Rimini Municipal Museums. In the summer it is used for theatrical performances.| Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Rimini Roman Amphitheatre
Castel Sismondo
Location: Castel Sismondo, Piazza Malatesta, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: From 1 September to 31 May: from Tuesday to Sunday 10.00-13.00 and 16.00-19.00from 1 June to 31 August: from Tuesday to Sunday 10.00am-1.00pm and 4.00pm-7.00pm from 28 June to 31 August every Wednesday and Friday evening opening from 9.00pm to 11.00pm closed on Mondays except holidays | Price: €10 | Website | Fellini Museum Entry Ticket | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Castel Sismondo
Piazza Tre Martiri
Location: Piazza Tre Martiri, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Piazza Tre Martiri
La Ruota Panoramica
Location: La Ruota Panoramica, Largo Ruggero Boscovich, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: Every day from 10am to 11pm | Price: €9 | Website | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting La Ruota Panoramica
Porta Montanara di Rimini
Location: Porta Montanara, Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, Rimini, RI, Italy | Distance: 1.2km
Visiting Porta Montanara di Rimini
Arch of Augustus (Rimini)
Location: Arch of Augustus, Corso d'Augusto, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.2km
Visiting Arch of Augustus (Rimini)
Italia in Miniatura
Location: Italia in Miniatura, Via Popilia, Rimini, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: Daily 10am - 5pm | Price: €24.00 | Website | Buy Tickets Here! | Distance: 5.1km
Visiting Italia in Miniatura
Oltremare Theme Park
Location: Oltremare, Viale Ascoli Piceno, Riccione, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: 10.00-18.00 | Price: € 22 | Website | Buy Tickets Here! | Distance: 11.0km
Visiting Oltremare Theme Park
Fortress of San Leo
Location: Fortress of San Leo, Via Giacomo Leopardi, San Leo, Province of Rimini, Italy | Hours: Monday to Friday from 10.00 to 18.45 (last admission at 18.00) Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 10.00 to 19.45 (last admission at 19.00) | Price: €10.00 | Website | San Leo: Fortress Entry Ticket and Cagliostro's Prison | Distance: 26.1km
Visiting Fortress of San Leo
Best Time to Visit Rimini
Rimini, located on the Adriatic coast of Italy, is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history. Here’s a guide to the best time to visit Rimini:
- Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Rimini, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. This is the best time to visit if you’re looking to enjoy the city’s stunning beaches, water sports, and beachfront bars and clubs. The city comes alive with events, concerts, and festivals, making it ideal for those seeking a lively atmosphere. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this time.
- Spring (March to May): Spring is a lovely time to visit Rimini as the weather begins to warm up, and the city’s parks and gardens come to life with blooming flowers. The temperatures are mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities like exploring the historic center, cycling along the seafront promenade, and visiting nearby attractions such as the ancient city of Ravenna or the Republic of San Marino. Spring also sees fewer tourists compared to the summer months, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
- Fall (September to November): Fall is another great time to visit Rimini, as the weather remains pleasant, and the summer crowds begin to dissipate. The temperatures are still warm enough for beach activities, and the sea is often still warm from the summer months. This is also a fantastic time to explore the region’s culinary scene, with many local restaurants offering delicious seasonal dishes featuring fresh seafood and regional produce.
- Winter (December to February): Winter in Rimini is relatively quiet, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures. While the weather may not be suitable for beach activities, winter still offers opportunities to explore the city’s cultural attractions, such as its historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries. Additionally, winter is a great time to experience Rimini’s local festivals and events, including Christmas markets and carnival celebrations.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Rimini depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of summer or the peaceful ambiance of the shoulder seasons, Rimini has something to offer for every traveler throughout the year.
Average Temperatures in Rimini
- January 12°C 54°F 6
- February 13°C 56°F 10
- March 16°C 60°F 8
- April 19°C 67°F 7
- May 23°C 74°F 11
- June 28°C 83°F 6
- July 31°C 89°F 6
- August 31°C 88°F 5
- September 27°C 82°F 8
- October 23°C 73°F 8
- November 17°C 62°F 11
- December 12°C 54°F 7
How to get to Rimini
Reaching Rimini by Plane
Rimini is served by its own airport, the Aeroporto Internazionale Federico Fellini di Rimini-San Marino. Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offer flights from the UK to this airport. Located just outside the city centre in Miramare, a seaside suburb, the airport features a tourist information office. You can easily connect from the airport to Rimini’s city centre using the urban bus service, specifically bus number 9, which links the airport to Rimini’s railway station.
Reaching Rimini by Train
Rimini is located on a railway line that connects Bologna with Ancona, running down the Adriatic coast. Many trains make stops in Rimini, and connections to other major Italian destinations are typically made via Bologna. It’s important to note that various categories of trains stop in Rimini, with some being faster but more expensive than others. Ensure you purchase the correct ticket for the specific train you plan to take. Additionally, in addition to the main Rimini station, some trains also stop at smaller stations along Rimini’s coastline, including Rimini Miramare and Riccione.
Other nearby seaside resorts are also accessible via the same railway line, making it convenient to explore the entire coast. Bus services are available for the surrounding region, with urban buses covering the built-up area, extending south to Riccione. Several buses each day run to the Republic of San Marino, a 45-minute journey, and in the summer, there are direct buses to other interesting towns like San Leo and Urbino. During the off-season, regular public transport is relied upon. To reach Urbino, take a train to Pesaro and catch a bus outside the railway station.
Local Buses in Rimini
Within Rimini itself, AM, a local bus company, operates bus services. You can find a ticket and information kiosk outside the railway station. The bus services are efficient and tickets are affordable. While the historic centre is easily navigated on foot, the seaside areas extend quite a distance and might not be the most interesting for walking, making bus rides a practical option. Bus stops are clearly labelled with numbers, which is convenient for travellers. A town map available from the tourist office outlines bus routes and stops. It’s generally a good idea to purchase a period bus ticket for convenience.