Passport to Italy

Adriatic coast

The Riviera Adriatica (Adriatic Riviera) stretches along Italy’s eastern coastline, offering beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, charming towns, and a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From Venice in the north to Barletta in the south, the Adriatic Coast is a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure.

What to SEE?

   • Rimini: the most famous resort town on the Adriatic, known for its long sandy beaches and lively nightlife. Explore the Malatesta Temple, Arco d’Augusto, and the beautiful Rimini Marina.

   • Riccione: a stylish beach town near Rimini, famous for its trendy shops, spas, and vibrant nightlife. It’s also known for its Viale Ceccarini, a street full of boutiques and cafés.

   • Cesenatico: a charming seaside town famous for its picturesque canal designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Visit the Maritime Museum and enjoy the relaxing beach atmosphere.

   • Pesaro: a cultural gem, Pesaro is home to beautiful beaches and landmarks such as the Rossini Theatre and Villa Imperiale. It’s also known as the birthplace of composer Gioachino Rossini.

   • Ancona: a historical port city with a wealth of cultural sights, including the Ancona Cathedral, Arch of Trajan, and the National Archaeological Museum of the Marche Region.

   • Ravenna: a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its early Christian mosaics. Visit the Basilica di San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Basilica di Sant’Apollonia in Classe.

   • Urbino: located inland but close to the Adriatic coast, this charming Renaissance city is home to the stunning Palazzo Ducale and the birthplace of the painter Raphael.

   • Conero Riviera: a stretch of coastline known for its beautiful beaches, cliffs, and clear waters. Visit the Sirolo and Numana beaches and take in the stunning views from the Monte Conero Natural Park.

   • Grottaglie: famous for its ceramic tradition, this charming town is known for its Ceramic Quarter, where you can watch local artisans create traditional pottery.
 
   • Barletta: located in the region of Puglia, Barletta offers a mix of history and culture, with sights such as the Castello Svevo, the Colossus of Barletta, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore.

What to do:

   • Relax on the Beaches: The Adriatic coast is famous for its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy the lively beach clubs of Rimini, the quiet beaches of Porto Recanati, or the stunning cliffs of Conero Riviera.

   • Take a Boat Tour: Explore the coastline on a boat tour, especially around the Gargano Peninsula and the Conero Riviera, where you can discover hidden coves, caves, and pristine beaches.

   • Visit the Saline di Cervia: The salt pans of Cervia offer a unique experience where you can visit the salt museum, learn about salt production, and even enjoy salt-themed treatments at the spa.

   • Cycle Along the Coast: Rent a bike and explore the picturesque coastline or venture inland to discover charming hilltop towns. The EuroVelo 8 cycling route runs along much of the Adriatic Coast, offering an easy ride through scenic landscapes.

   • Explore the Countryside: The rolling hills of Le Marche and Emilia-Romagna are perfect for hiking, wine tasting, and visiting charming villages like San Leo, Sassocorvaro, and Gradara.

   • Visit a Winery: The Adriatic coast is home to some excellent wines, especially in the regions of Marche and Emilia-Romagna. Visit local wineries for tastings of wines like Sangiovese, Montepulciano, and Verdicchio.

   • Attend a Festival: Depending on the season, the Adriatic Riviera hosts a variety of festivals, including the Rimini Film Festival, the Ravenna Festival (celebrating music and theater), and the Pesaro Opera Festival.

   • Try Local Cuisine: The Adriatic coast is known for its seafood, so enjoy fresh fish dishes like brodetto (fish stew), ravioli filled with seafood, and sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines). Don’t forget to try the regional piadina flatbread in Emilia-Romagna.

   • Visit Historical Sites: The Adriatic Coast is rich in history. Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Gradara, and the stunning early Christian mosaics in Ravenna.
 
   • Enjoy Water Sports: The Adriatic Sea is perfect for water activities, including kayaking, windsurfing, and kite surfing, especially around Riccione and Cesenatico.
 
The Riviera Adriatica is perfect for those seeking a mix of beautiful beaches, historical exploration, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture.