Cesenatico Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Cesenatico? Read our comprehensive travel guide about top places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy, customs, and tips for a memorable trip to Cesenatico.


Introduction to Cesenatico

Nestled in the heart of the Forlì-Cesena province in Emilia-Romagna, Cesenatico is a must-visit coastal town in Northeast Italy. This beautiful and vibrant town is filled with picturesque canals, stunning beaches, historic architecture, and some of the best seafood cuisine in the region.

Cesenatico is the birthplace of iconic Italian cyclist, Marco Pantani, and the town celebrates its cycling history with the annual “Nove Colli” international bike race.

List of Places to Visit in Cesenatico

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Maritime Museum of Cesenatico - A prominent museum showcasing the maritime history of Cesenatico. It has an impressive collection of boats, ships, and the ancient hydraulic system.

  • Piazza delle Conserve - A famous 16th-century rectangular square and the heart of the town. Tourists can take a stroll in the evening here and dine at one of the many outdoor restaurants.

  • Casa Moretti - An ancient 17th-century house that has transformed into a museum displaying works of art from modernist painter Marino Moretti.

Natural Attractions of Cesenatico: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Levante Park - A stunning park situated on the edge of the sea and home to a variety of plant species and a play area for kids.

  • Pineta di Levante - A vast pine forest with walking paths, cycling paths, picnic areas, and many beautiful hidden streams.

  • Spazio Pantani - A modern museum situated in the heart of the town that celebrates the cycling career of Marco Pantani.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cesenatico

Cesenatico is known for its bike-friendly lanes, and tourists can rent bikes to explore the town at their own pace. Some popular bike routes include the Colle Gesuiti, the Colle del Gelso, and the Colle dei Castellari.

Best Things to Do in Cesenatico: Activities and Tours

From its beautiful beaches to its fascinating museums, Cesenatico offers a range of activities for tourists. Some of the best things to do in Cesenatico include:

  • Relax and swim at the Levante beach.

  • Visit the Pineta di Levante and have a peaceful picnic.

  • Take a bike and explore the historical town center of Cesenatico.

  • Attend the weekly market on Wednesdays - selling everything from fresh produce to artwork.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cesenatico

Day 1: Explore the town center of Cesenatico, visit the marketplace, and try some local cuisine.

Day 2: Visit the Maritime Museum of Cesenatico, and take a stroll on the port canal.

Day 3: Rent a bike and explore the beautiful Pineta di Levante.

Day 4: Visit the Spazio Pantani and learn about the cycling history of Cesenatico.

Day 5: Take a day trip to the nearby art cities- Ravenna and Urbino.

Day 6: Relax at Levante beach and enjoy water sports activities such as swimming, windsurfing and kayaking.

Day 7: Visit Casa Moretti in the morning and have an afternoon coffee at the Piazza delle Conserve.

Food and Drink Scene of Cesenatico

Must-Try Dishes

The rich culinary tradition of Cesenatico offers a variety of seafood, pasta, and sweet dishes such as piadina Romagnola, seafood casserole, cream-colored macaroni, and grape fritters.

Local Beverages

The region is famous for its local wine varieties such as Sangiovese and Trebbiano.

Where to Stay in Cesenatico: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tourists can choose from a range of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses located in the heart of the town, beachside, or nearby surrounding areas. Some popular accommodation options in Cesenatico include: Hotel Plaza, Hotel Rosa, Hotel Lungomare, and Hotel Adlon.

What to Buy in Cesenatico: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Tourists can bring home some unique souvenirs like locally crafted pottery, wine, cheese, cured meat, olive oil, and artisan jewelry made with corals and seashells.

Local Culture and Customs of Cesenatico

Cesenatico has a rich tradition of celebrating festivals, food fairs, wine tasting, and traditions. The main events are the International Street Theatre Festival (F.I.S.T.), Pagani Day, and the traditional Fiera di San Giacomo, a street festival that takes place on November 3.

Best Time to Visit Cesenatico

The best time to visit Cesenatico is between May and September when the weather is warm, and tourists can enjoy the beach life.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cesenatico

Do:

  • Dress in comfortable and summer clothes in the warmer months.

  • Respect local culture and traditions.

  • Try the local cuisine and wine.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or in public areas.

  • Take photos of the locals without asking for permission.

  • Engage in inappropriate behavior or activities that can offend locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cesenatico

Cesenatico is an entirely safe town with low crime rates. It is always advisable to lock your belongings safely if you are on the beach. The Italian sun can be intense, and it is necessary to pack sunscreen and protective clothing.

Health in Cesenatico

Tourists can always find excellent health care facilities and pharmacies located nearby.

Getting to Cesenatico: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cesenatico

Cesenatico is located approximately between the airports of Rimini (25 km), Forlì (30 km), and Bologna (100 km). From there, tourists can take a train or taxi to Cesenatico.

Bus Stations Near Cesenatico

Tourists can take a bus from the station of Cesena to Cesenatico.

Other Options

Tourists can use local car rental services or use the public bike-sharing system.

How to Get Around in Cesenatico

Tourists can easily navigate the town by foot, bike, or local bus services.

Where to Go Next from Cesenatico: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tourists can take day trips to other charming coastal towns such as Rimini, San Marino, or visit the art cities of Ravenna and Urbino, all located within one hour of Cesenatico.

Conclusion

If you are looking for an authentic Italian experience filled with history, culture, scenery, and great food, look no further than Cesenatico. This town has something for everyone, and it’s no surprise that it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. A trip to Cesenatico is a must-do when considering a visit to Northeast Italy.