Cycle-friendly routes through cycle paths, valleys and picturesque villages
Rimini and his inland I am a much-loved destination for cyclists: Professionals looking for a training session and enthusiasts keen to enjoy a trip combining nature and culture will find routes here to suit every level. Cycling in Rimini means riding through picture-postcard landscapes, switch from beach and the seafront at hills e villages medieval, and treat yourself to a few a tasty stop featuring local specialities and the flavours of Romagna.
Cycling routes around Rimini: from the coast to the hills
There are many cycling routes in Rimini, and they are all very different: from the seaside to the hills, passing through the historic centre and the large green spaces. Moving away from the coast, the routes lead easily into the hinterland, through the Conca and Marecchia valleys, as far as the foothills of the Romagna Apennines.
Rimini is a ‘cycle-friendly’ city
Rimini has been recognised by FIAB (Italian Environment and Cycling Federation) as Cycling-Friendly Town, ranking amongst the Italian municipalities considered to be the most ‘bike-friendly’.
With over 130 km of cycle paths and its ‘Bicipolitana’ scheme (a real ‘metro on two wheels’), you can get around the city comfortably on city bikes, road bikes, e-bikes, mountain bikes and gravel bikes, experiencing Rimini in a sustainable and enjoyable way.
Bike Park – Velostazione (station area)
Near the main railway station is the Bike Park cycle park, with useful facilities for cyclists:
- secure parking
- rental
- bike repair workshop
- e-bike charging
Cycling routes to explore the city
Rimini Green Loop (MTB / easy)
A perfect itinerary as an alternative to days at the beach: level, largely based on cycle paths and inside the parks.
The route
We’ll start with Piazzale Kennedy and you head up the Ausa Park, as far as the cycle path that runs alongside the Roman Amphitheatre. You then cross the historic centre, cycling through Cervi Park and arriving at the Arch of Augustus.
Continuing through the countryside, you pass by the Palacongressi, up to John Paul II Park (with the lake frequented by ducks and swans). From there, you can reach the Marecchia Park, up to Tiberius Bridge, the ideal starting point for exploring Roman and Renaissance Rimini: the Surgeon’s House, the Malatesta Temple, the museum and places associated with Fellini.
The walk back towards the sea takes you past the port’s new quays: before heading back, it’s worth a detour in the colourful Borgo San Giuliano, the old fishing village so beloved by Fellini.
Finally, along the southern seafront cycle path, you cycle through the green spaces of Parco del Mare, past fitness stations and ‘pit-stop’ columns for bike maintenance.
Guided cycle tour
Anyone wishing to cycle with people who really know the area can turn to companies specialising in guided tours and bike hire, including e-bikes.
Some of the most popular tours include:
- Roman Rimini: in search of its ancient origins
- Fellini’s Rimini: the places and atmospheres of the great director
12 cycle routes in Rimini: from the coast to the hinterland
Below is a selection of routes much loved by cyclists and cycle tourists, with details of the type of cycling, distance, elevation gain and difficulty.
1) From Rimini to the Malatesta fortresses (BDC)
94 km – elevation gain 1,797 m – difficult
A route for experienced cyclists: challenging climbs (Verucchio and Montefiore), panoramic views and history amongst castles and villages, all the way to the Cattolica area.
2) Off-road from Verucchio to Saint Leo (MTB)
44.1 km – elevation gain 1,096 m – average
From Ponte Verucchio towards Montebello, Pietracuta and Castelnuovo: the arrival at San Leo, perched on a rocky outcrop, is one of the most spectacular. A technical yet enjoyable descent.
3) Along the Marecchia from Santarcangelo (MTB)
45.1 km – elevation gain 116 m – easy
It’s also perfect for families: stops at Mutonia, Parco della Cava and a view of the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Saiano. A very pleasant and relaxing experience.
4) Pennabilli - Sant’Agata Feltria (MTB/Gravel)
46 km – elevation gain 1,320 m – difficult
A scenic loop through villages and back roads, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos.
5) Villages of the Valmarecchia (MTB/Gravel)
18.5 km – elevation gain 542 m – moderate
A loop from Verucchio towards Torriana and Montebello, taking in dirt tracks and steep uphill stretches. It also passes by the Madonna di Saiano and the Marecchia cycle path.
6) Marco Pantani’s climbs (BDC)
44.8 km – elevation gain 1,356 m – difficult
An epic route up Monte Carpegna to the Cippo di Pantani, following the routes of the ‘Pirate’s’ legendary training rides.
7) Torriana and Verucchio (BDC)
29.5 km – elevation gain 600 m – moderate
From Santarcangelo to two picturesque villages, offering stunning views stretching from the Valmarecchia to the sea. Return journey along the river.
8) “Mini 9 Colli” (BDC)
135 km – elevation gain 2,600 m – very difficult
A route for true sports enthusiasts: Bellaria, Sogliano, Mercato Saraceno, Perticara, San Leo, San Marino. A tribute to the legendary Nove Colli.
9) Rimini – Passo del Grillo (BDC)
84.7 km – elevation gain 989 m – difficult
Pure Valmarecchia: the Grillo climb (over 20 km, with some very tough sections) is a legendary challenge for road cycling enthusiasts.
10) The Walls of Conca (BDC)
93.6 km – elevation gain 1,870 m – difficult
Short but challenging climbs between the Marecchia and Conca valleys, around San Marino: Montescudo, Gemmano, Sassofeltrio. Spectacular views guaranteed.
11) Onferno Caves (MTB/Gravel)
15 km – elevation gain 400 m – moderate
The perfect loop for combining a cycle ride with a caving trip: a few climbs, but an accessible and very scenic route.
12) Panoramic view of Mount San Bartolo (road bike/mountain bike)
107 km – elevation gain 650 m – easy
A classic route: a scenic road with sea views through the San Bartolo Park as far as Fano, with a stop off at Fiorenzuola di Focara. Ideal for cycle tourism.
Rimini by bike: the perfect base for active holidays
With its coastline, urban parks, valleys and villages, Rimini is the perfect destination for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to train, go on a gravel ride, enjoy a family-friendly outing or follow a scenic route, you’ll always find a route to suit you here.
