Rimini è una delle mete turistiche più amate d’Italia, ma il suo vero punto di forza è la posizione strategica: in meno di un’ora è possibile raggiungere borghi medievali, città d’arte, panorami naturali e destinazioni enogastronomiche uniche.
In this guide from Hotel Ardesia, we suggest the best places to visit in the area around Rimini, ideal for day trips or longer stays. This page is designed for those looking for things to see near Rimini, with practical advice and useful links to help you plan your visit.
Gradara (PU) – Medieval village and the Malatesta Fortress
A panoramic view of Gradara Castle, one of the most romantic medieval villages near Rimini.
📍 Distance from Rimini: about 30 km – 30 minutes
Gradara is one of the most beautiful villages in the Marche region and one of the most romantic day trips from Rimini. The village is famous for the perfectly preserved Rocca Malatestiana and for the tragic story of Paolo and Francesca, as told by Dante.
What to see in Gradara:
- Rocca di Gradara and walkways
- Medieval old town
- Historical events and re-enactments
🔗 Useful links:
- https://www.gradara.org
- https://www.roccadigradara.org
Gradara – by car from the Hotel Ardesia
Open Google Maps → Route Hotel Ardesia → Gradara
Open Apple Maps → Route Hotel Ardesia → Gradara
San Marino – What to see in the world’s oldest republic
The iconic Three Towers of San Marino, overlooking the Adriatic Riviera.
📍 Distance from Rimini: 25 km – 40 minutes
San Marino is one of the most popular destinations near Rimini. Its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers spectacular views of the Adriatic Riviera and a perfect blend of history, shopping and culture.
Main attractions in San Marino:
- The Three Towers of Mount Titano
- Town Hall and Piazza della Libertà
- UNESCO Historic Centre
🔗 Useful links:
San Marino – by car from Hotel Ardesia
Open Google Maps → Route Hotel Ardesia → San Marino
Open Apple Maps → Route Hotel Ardesia → San Marino
San Leo (RN) – Fortress, history and views of the Apennines
The Fortress of San Leo, perched on the rock, is the symbol of the Valmarecchia.
📍 Distance from Rimini: 35 km – 45 minutes
San Leo is a small village in the Romagna hinterland, ideal for those looking for things to see near Rimini off the beaten track. Its imposing fortress overlooks the Valmarecchia valley and is linked to the mysterious figure of Cagliostro.
Not to be missed in San Leo:
- San Leo Fortress
- Cathedral and Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta
- Panoramic viewpoints
🔗 Useful links:
San Leo – by car from the Hotel Ardesia
Open Google Maps → Route Hotel Ardesia → San Leo
Open Apple Maps → Route Hotel Ardesia → San Leo
Comacchio (FE) – The ‘Little Venice’ of the Po Delta
The Trepponti of Comacchio, the historic heart of the town and an iconic landmark of the Po Delta.
📍 Distance from Rimini: 110 km – 1 hour 30 minutes
Comacchio is the perfect destination for a day trip from Rimini, especially for those who love photography, nature and traditional cuisine. Its canals and bridges are reminiscent of Venice, but with a more laid-back and authentic atmosphere.
Things to do in Comacchio:
- Trepponti, the city’s symbol
- A stroll along the canals
- Traditional cuisine of the Po Delta (eel and lagoon fish)
🔗 Useful links:
Comacchio – by car from the Hotel Ardesia
Open Google Maps → Route Hotel Ardesia → Comacchio
Open Apple Maps → Route Hotel Ardesia → Comacchio
Ravenna – UNESCO Mosaics and Cities of Art
Byzantine mosaics from the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ravenna.
📍 Distance from Rimini: 55 km – 1 hour
Ravenna is one of the most important cities of art near Rimini. Famous for its Byzantine mosaics, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a must-see destination for lovers of art, history and culture.
What to see in Ravenna:
- Basilica di San Vitale
- Mausoleo di Galla Placidia
- Tomba di Dante Alighieri
🔗 Useful links:
Ravenna – by car from Hotel Ardesia
Apri Google Maps → Percorso Hotel Ardesia → Ravenna
Apri Apple Maps → Percorso Hotel Ardesia → Ravenna
Why choose Rimini as a base for visiting Romagna
A stay in Rimini allows you to combine the seaside with culture, relaxation with exploring the local area. All the suggested destinations are easily accessible by car, and many can also be reached by public transport.
At the Hotel Ardesia, we are always on hand to offer personalised advice on:
daily tours
Traditional restaurants
seasonal events
Rimini is the ideal starting point for exploring Romagna and its wonders.