Cesenatico

Cesenatico is a vibrant seaside resort on the Romagna coast, renowned for its beautiful beaches and its harbour designed by Leonardo da Vinci.
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An enchanting destination on the Romagna Riviera, Cesenatico is a place where history, maritime tradition, relaxation and entertainment come together. Located in the province of Forlì-Cesena, halfway between Rimini and Ravenna, Cesenatico is famous for its Porto Canale designed by Leonardo da Vinci, stunning golden beaches and its long seafaring heritage. The territory of the Romagna Riviera was a lagoon area more than 10,000 years ago, characterised by salt marshes and wetlands. The Romans were the first to reclaim vast territories and settle here, and after defeating the Celtic and Etruscan populations, they established themselves firmly in the area.

However, Cesenatico gained real importance only in the 1300s thanks to the construction of the port, initially regarded as a major maritime and commercial hub linked to the city of Cesena. Over the centuries, the territory came under the rule of various noble families including the Montefeltro, Malatesta and Borgia, who in 1502 brought the famous architect and engineer Leonardo da Vinci to the city. Leonardo was commissioned to design the Porto Canale, a harbour engineering feat that would become the symbol of the city.

Throughout the centuries, Cesenatico has always maintained a strong bond with the sea, and it was only at the end of the 18th century that the city definitively separated from Cesena and became an independent municipality. During the 19th century, the port was enlarged and the city experienced significant growth thanks to fishing and commerce. In the 20th century, with the arrival of beach tourism in the area, Cesenatico began to develop its tourism vocation and quickly became a very famous and much-visited resort. The city, which has managed to preserve its traditions and historic charm, is now one of the most sought-after seaside destinations not only in Romagna but along the entire Adriatic Riviera.

Cesenatico’s Beaches

The Cesenatico coastline stretches for just over 7 km and, starting from the north, comprises several beaches including Zadina, Ponente, Levante, Valverde and Villamarina. The Zadina area is immersed in nature and is generally better suited to those seeking tranquillity, whilst those of Valverde and Villamarina, thanks to their atmosphere and facilities, are particularly popular with families.

The heart of this seaside resort is undoubtedly the Levante beach, where numerous equipped beach clubs offer a wide range of services, including play areas, hydromassage pools, sports fields and entertainment activities for all ages. Just behind the beach are the “Gardens by the Sea“, a green area stretching over two kilometres with cycle and pedestrian paths, and the seafront promenade along Viale Carducci with many shops.

In general, much of the coastal strip is characterised by fine, golden sand and is perfect for those seeking relaxation and comfort, with numerous beach establishments equipped with parasols, sunbeds and catering services. For those wanting more freedom, there are also free beaches, while pet-friendly beaches are increasingly available for those travelling with animals.

The sea waters are clear and crystalline, having received the Blue Flag award several times, and boast sandy seabeds that slope gently. Among the most popular services are children’s play areas, various entertainment activities and the opportunity to enjoy water sports on the beach as well as aquatic activities such as canoeing, SUP, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Porto Canale Leonardesco

The heart of Cesenatico for centuries has been the Porto Canale Leonardesco, a work designed in the 16th century by Leonardo da Vinci that boasts great engineering and historical value. It was from here that on 2 August 1849 Giuseppe Garibaldi set sail with Anita and two hundred followers to liberate Venice. The canal port now divides the coastline and, more generally, the city territory, into west and east.

From the port runs a canal that crosses the city centre, and along its banks are historic buildings, colourful houses, restaurants and shops. Walking along the port you’ll come across the Museum of Maritime Life, where you can discover the city’s seafaring tradition and part of its history. Here you’ll find displays of ancient fishing boats, historic sailing vessels, models and fishing equipment, as well as artefacts relating to the lives of Cesenatico’s sailors.

Where to Stay in Cesenatico

Cesenatico is a destination rich in accommodation options of various types and price ranges, but as this is a very popular destination in summer, the first piece of advice is to book your stay in advance. Your choice of where to stay in Cesenatico depends on the type of holiday you wish to have.

If you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, the Zadina area is perfect with its pine groves and facilities nestled in greenery; Zadina boasts hotels, campsites, houses and apartments and is ideal for those wanting to enjoy nature and tranquillity, just steps from the sea.

For those who prefer to be in the heart of the nightlife and city buzz, the central area along the Porto Canale is the right choice. Here you’ll find historic hotels, B&Bs and apartments with harbour views, perfect for those wanting to be just steps away from restaurants, bars and cultural attractions.

Valverde and Villamarina, meanwhile, are the southernmost areas and better suited to those seeking well-organised beach facilities and a holiday focused on relaxation and comfort. In this area you’ll find mainly hotels, resorts and holiday villages often equipped with family services including swimming pools, entertainment and children’s play areas.

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Recommended hotels in Cesenatico

We offer a selection of hotels at Cesenatico to suit all categories of travellers. The most booked by tourists are the sea-facing hotels, often right on the beach. If you want to play it safe, choose one of the following: they are among the most booked hotels in Cesenatico, sorted by number of reviews.

Hotel
Hotel Favorita Easy Stay B&B
Cesenatico - Viale Venezia 22
7.7Good 1.452 reviews
Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a TV are standard in all rooms at Hotel Favorita Easy Stay B&B.
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Hotel
Hotel Atlas
Cesenatico - Via Venezia 42
7.7Good 1.164 reviews
Hotel Atlas in Cesenatico offers direct beachfront access and a lush garden.
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Hotel
Lido Hotel Residence
Cesenatico - Viale Carducci 51
7.5Good 693 reviews
Lido Hotel Residence is located on the sea front in Cesenatico.
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Apartments and vacation homes in Cesenatico

If you prefer space, privacy and the ability to prepare your own meals to a hotel holiday, book a holiday home at Cesenatico. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Cesenatico are in high demand.

Residence
Residence Riva Blu
Cesenatico - Via Anita Garibaldi N.25
8.1Very good 620 reviews
Residence Riva Blu is in front of the beach, a 3-minute walk from the centre of Cesenatico.
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Residence
labotanica_casalounge
Cesenatico - 23 Viale A. Vespucci
9.6Exceptional 280 reviews
labotanica_casalounge in Cesenatico offers family rooms with garden views, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms.
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Residence
Stalegro Residence
Cesenatico - 102 Viale dei Mille
9.2Superb 279 reviews
Stalegro Residence in Cesenatico offers aparthotel-style accommodations with free WiFi, air-conditioning, and sea views.
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What to See in Cesenatico

Although known as a beach resort that attracts tourists from both Italy and abroad, Cesenatico is a small town that also preserves a historic heritage of great interest.

A place of great charm near the Porto Canale is Piazza delle Conserve, where you’ll find ancient ice houses once used to preserve the catch. These cylindrical structures, called “conserve”, were essential to the daily lives of fishermen as they served to keep fish fresh in a cool environment. Not far away you can find Casa Moretti, a house-museum that was the home of poet and writer Marino Moretti, born in Cesenatico in 1885. Inside it houses personal objects, manuscripts and works by an important figure in 20th-century Italian literature.

A visit to the Parish Church of San Giacomo Apostolo is a must, first built in 1324 but later renovated in the mid-18th century to a design by Pietro Bastoni. Inside it features a single nave and contains some frescoes of great interest, such as those created in the 17th century by painter Guido Cagnacci. Another building of great merit is Cesenatico’s Teatro Comunale (Town Theatre), considered an architectural gem built in the 19th century. The building, constructed in neoclassical style, stands out for the elegance and refinement, particularly of its interiors. The theatre is an important cultural centre for the city, hosting theatrical performances, concerts and events throughout the year.

A symbol of modern Cesenatico, meanwhile, is the Cesenatico Skyscraper, which at 118 metres tall is considered one of the tallest buildings on the Adriatic coast and offers breathtaking views over the city and sea. Built in the 1950s, it’s a testament to the city’s economic boom and tourism growth. For those seeking a break from the sea and city life, Levante Park is a beautiful green oasis offering walking trails, cycling routes and open-air picnics. Surrounded by nature and the blue of small lakes, this is the ideal place to relax, enjoy outdoor sports or spend time with loved ones.

Evening Entertainment in Cesenatico

Cesenatico offers a lively nightlife and numerous opportunities for evening entertainment, which intensify especially during summer thanks to festivals and popular celebrations. The city also hosts concerts, theatrical performances and open-air cultural events that appeal to both adults and children.

The liveliest area in the evening is undoubtedly around the Porto Canale where you’ll find restaurants serving fresh fish dishes, bars and shops. The city is also famous for its nightclubs and late-night venues where you can dance until late, often accompanied by live music from famous DJs.

How to Reach Cesenatico

Reaching Cesenatico is very straightforward thanks to its strategic location on the Adriatic coast and excellent transport links connecting it to the region’s major cities. Cesenatico sits along the SS16, known as the Adriatic Road, Italy’s longest state highway connecting Padua (in Veneto) to Otranto (in Puglia) and touching various Adriatic coastal locations. From southern Italy, you can travel by car along the A14 motorway towards Bologna, take the exit for Rimini Nord or the Valle del Rubicone exit and then continue along the SS16 towards Ravenna. From major cities in northern Italy, take the A14 but heading towards Ancona, then always use the SS16. Other connections include the E45, which leads to Rome, and the SS 309 Romea for those arriving from Venice.

Those preferring public transport can use Cesenatico’s train station on the Rimini-Ravenna railway line, or alternatively take buses connecting the city to other locations in Romagna. The nearest airport to Cesenatico is Rimini’s “Federico Fellini” airport, 25 km away; alternatively, Forlì’s Luigi Ridolfi Airport is 40 km away and Bologna’s Guglielmo Marconi Airport is 80 km away.

Cesenatico Weather

What's the weather at Cesenatico? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Cesenatico for the next few days.

Thursday 3
24°
32°
Friday 4
23°
31°
Saturday 5
24°
33°
Sunday 6
24°
28°
Monday 7
23°
29°
Tuesday 8
22°
29°

Where is located Cesenatico

Cesenatico is a renowned coastal resort on the Adriatic, located in the province of Forlì-Cesena between the celebrated towns of Ravenna and Rimini. The town sits on the Adriatic coastline in an easily accessible location, just 20 km from Rimini, 30 km from Ravenna and 100 km from Bologna.

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