Cesenatico: the pearl of the Romagna Riviera for cycling enthusiasts
Soft sand, well-equipped facilities capable of satisfying even the most demanding visitors, a lively historic centre and two large parks marking its boundaries, the Parco di Levante and the Parco di Ponente: these are the ingredients that will make your stay in Cesenatico a special experience for the whole family.
This renowned seaside resort on the Adriatic coast, located between Ravenna and Rimini, does not hide its rich history and is able to take you back in time while leaving you anchored in the present.
The evocative encounter between Cesenatico's past and present
The most striking example is the Leonardo Canal Harbour, designed in 1502 by Leonardo da Vinci and used as a landmark for the development of the city century after century. It is on the quays of the Canal Harbour that you will breathe in the atmosphere of the old fishing village, with the Maritime Museum ready to take you on a journey through the history of traditional boatbuilding in the Adriatic.
A short distance away, you can visit the rooms of Casa Moretti, a treasure chest containing the life of the crepuscular poet with the original furnishings, books and papers perfectly preserved by Marino Moretti himself.
Valverde, Villamarina or Zadina? Cesenatico's beach brings everyone together
Want well-equipped facilities, free beaches, pristine areas or places open to our four-legged friends? There really is something for everyone! Cesenatico’s beach is characterised by a wide shoreline of soft golden sand and a clear blue sea with sloping, sandy seabed, ideal for swimming, bathing and water sports.
In the central area, we recommend the Tents by the Sea, an art exhibition set up on the free sandy shore in front of Piazza Andrea Costa to shelter you from the sun with a touch of art between swims. To the north, towards the Ponente park, you will find establishments devoted to relaxation, while the Levante beach represents the most touristy area of the city. Whichever area you choose, however, there will be no shortage of opportunities for outdoor sports such as cycling, beach volleyball, sailing and tennis.
Those who prefer green to sandy gold can count on the Gardens by the Sea, a long strip of trees, flower beds and hedges for walks out of the sun and in absolute silence.
A cycling paradise
The best time to experience Cesenatico is undoubtedly summer, also thanks to a rich calendar of events including concerts, themed evenings with tastings, open-air theatre and evening markets.
If in summer the city is a favourite destination for families seeking a calm and relaxed atmosphere, during the rest of the year it is cyclists who choose Cesenatico for its specialised services and the international cycling events that the city hosts, especially in spring. One of them is the Nove Colli, a cycling cross-country race that takes place every year between the provinces of Forlì-Cesena and Rimini, starting and finishing in Cesenatico.
Since 1986, however, there is a good reason to discover Cesenatico even during the winter period: the evocative Maritime Nativity Scene set up directly on the traditional boats of the Maritime Museum.
And at the table?
Cesenatico can also win you over with its gastronomy based on the freshest fish. You cannot leave the city without first tasting a dish of Adriatic blue fish in one of the many traditional restaurants overlooking the Leonardo Canal Harbour.
And if you are in the area in late October, you cannot miss 'Il pesce fa festa', the gastronomic event that for four days transforms the centre of Cesenatico into a large open-air restaurant.