Romagna RivieraRomagna Riviera

Cesenatico: sea, culture and hills in a single holiday

by /// June 26, 2025
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

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In Cesenatico, summer has an unmistakable scent: the salty air, the bike rides along the canal port, the sound of laughter on the beach and a hinterland waiting to be discovered.

This picturesque town on the Romagna Riviera is not just about beach umbrellas and pedal boats: in Cesenatico, every day can be a journey from the sea to the hills, filled with culture, authentic flavours and a warm welcome that makes you feel at home.


Beach and seaside life: relaxation and maritime tradition

  • Cesenatico, porto canale Ph. ermess via shutterstock
  • Cesenatico, spiaggia Ph. marcobir via shutterstock
  • Cesenatico, molo Ph. Nicola Simeoni via shutterstock

In Cesenatico, the sea is living history. Its famous Porto Canale, designed by Leonardo da Vinci, is the beating heart of the town: here, the fascinating historic boats of the Museo della Marineria (Maritime Museum) are moored all year round, with their colourful, traditional sails al terzo”, symbolising a past of fishermen and merchants.

The long, sandy beach is perfect for families and those who love to relax: well-organised beach establishments, water sports for those with boundless energy, kiosks selling hot piadina, walks at sunset along the pier among the fishing huts.

After sunbathing, lose yourself in the small fish restaurants, where every bite of the local cuisine tells the story of the Adriatic sea.


Beyond the sea: culture, villages and amusement parks

Culture: cities of art and picturesque hilltop villages

  • San Mauro Pascoli (FC), Villa Torlonia Ph. DinoPh via shutterstock
  • Longiano Ph. © Fabiana Rossi
  • Bertinoro, Rocca Ph. ermess via shutterstock
  • Biblioteca Malatestiana Ph. Archivio Comune di Cesena

Like every coastal town in Romagna, in Cesenatico you only need to travel a few kilometres inland to immerse yourself in a surprising hinterland, rich in art, history and unforgettable views.

Cesena: a small town of art and culture, famous for its Malatesta Library, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for the majestic Malatesta Fortress which dominates the town. Cesena has a lively historic centre, full of squares, cafés and historic sights.

Bertinoro: known as the Balcony of Romagna, this village offers spectacular views of the hills and the plain below, stretching all the way to the sea. Here, you can wander through ancient alleys and visit open wine cellars, experiencing the most authentic side of Romagna.

Longiano: a small gem in the foothills of Cesena, it charms visitors with its Malatesta Castle, important art collections and a historic theatre. It is the perfect village for those seeking art, culture and peaceful corners.

Villa Torlonia: located in the hamlet of San Mauro Pascoli, it is linked to the memory of the Italian poet Giovanni Pascoli and represents an important piece of Romagna’s rural and literary history. Today it hosts cultural events and exhibitions, surrounded by a park that is ideal for a quiet stroll.

Amusement parks: diving and laughter at Atlantica

For those travelling with children (or who are still a little child at heart!), Cesenatico also offers a water park: Atlantica. This historic water park on the Riviera features colourful slides, wave pools, water games and plenty of space to relax between dips. A perfect day to cool off and have fun together, just a stone’s throw from the town centre.


Cesenatico is the ideal destination for those who don’t want to choose between relaxation, culture and fun: within a few kilometres you will find well-kept beaches, seafood, ancient villages and amusement parks where you can have fun together.

Author

Elisa Mazzini

Social Media Manager for @inEmiliaRomagna and full-time mom.

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