From Venice to Rimini by Rail – A Coastal Escape via Ravenna & Cesenatico

Venice may be all romance and canals, but if you're looking for a change of scene, fresh sea air, and fewer tourists in August, hop a train south to Italy’s Adriatic coast. This itinerary takes you from the lagoon to the sea, with stops for mosaics, beaches, seafood, and retro Riviera charm — no car needed!

Cesenatico

Here’s how to travel from Venice to Rimini by rail, with the best cultural and coastal stops along the way.

🛤️ Route Overview:

Venice → Ravenna → Cesenatico → Rimini

⛪ First Stop: Ravenna – City of Mosaics

🕰️ ~2.5 hours from Venice (1 change, Bologna)

A UNESCO World Heritage gem, Ravenna is packed with glittering Byzantine mosaics, peaceful piazzas, and a relaxed, walkable vibe.

What to do:

• Visit the Basilica di San Vitale and Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

• Wander through Dante’s final resting place

• Try piadina — a flatbread sandwich typical of Romagna

Tip: Everything’s within walking distance of Ravenna’s train station

🛏️ Stay: Palazzo Bezzi – elegant, central, great breakfast

🌊 Second Stop: Cesenatico – Fishing Village Meets Riviera Chic

🕰️ ~40 minutes from Ravenna (direct train)

Cesenatico is a canal-side town with colorful boats, beach clubs, and a maritime museum that floats on water. It’s a peaceful summer escape loved by Italians.

What to do:

• Stroll the Porto Canale, designed by Leonardo da Vinci

• Visit the floating Museo della Marineria

• Enjoy dinner at a seafood trattoria with Adriatic views

Tip: Rent a bike and cycle the seafront or explore the pine forests nearby

🛏️ Stay: Hotel Lalla Beauty & Relax – walkable to everything with spa options

☀️ Final Stop: Rimini – Retro Riviera with Roman Roots

🕰️ 20 minutes from Cesenatico (direct train)

Known for its beach clubs and Fellini nostalgia, Rimini also hides ancient Roman ruins, a charming old town, and a surprisingly rich food scene.

What to do:

• Explore the Tiberius Bridge and Surgeon’s House (Domus del Chirurgo)

• Lounge on the wide beaches with a spritz

• Visit the Fellini Museum for film and culture fans

🛏️ Stay: DuoMo Hotel – futuristic design by Ron Arad, close to the old town

🚆 Train Info:

• All towns are connected by regional trains with frequent service

• Book online via Trenitalia or use kiosks at stations

• Total journey: ~4.5 hrs Venice to Rimini (including stops)

🦞 Bonus: Adriatic Food Must-Trys

• Brodetto (fish stew) in Cesenatico

• Cappelletti in brodo (stuffed pasta) in Rimini

• Seafood piadina in Ravenna

• Freshly grilled sardines or anchovies in beach towns

Why This Route?

✔️ Less touristy in August than Amalfi or Cinque Terre✔️ Mix of culture + coast + cuisine✔️ Affordable stays & authentic seaside vibe✔️ Great for solo or slow travelers without a car

Real Travel Guides helps you explore Italy independently, sustainably, and by train