If you think a holiday in Romagna is all about the beach, parasols and the promenade, this summer there’s one more reason to change your perspective. Introducing A SPASS – Discover Romagna by bus, the new tourism initiative that links the Riviera to the hinterland through organised, sustainable experiences designed to help visitors discover the lesser-known – and often more surprising – side of the region.
From 3 June to 10 September 2026, Italian and foreign tourists will be able to board a dedicated shuttle bus and set off to explore villages, valleys, castles, nature reserves, food tastings and local traditions without having to worry about their car or transport arrangements.
A concept that offers a new way to experience a holiday in Romagna: at a slower pace, more focused on experiences and increasingly centred on discovery.
From the sea to the hills: the Romagna you wouldn’t expect
The idea behind A SPASS is as simple as it is interesting: to create a direct link between the coast and inland areas, enabling those staying along the Riviera to easily reach places that are often off the beaten track.
This is not just a simple shuttle service.
With a single pass – with fares starting from 25 euros per person and discounted rates for families – these include:
- bus journey;
- guided tours;
- cultural experiences;
- tastings of local specialities;
- entertainment activities and immersive experiences in the local area.
The aim is to remove all organisational barriers and allow visitors to focus solely on the experience.
How A SPASS works
The excursions will be running every Wednesday and Thursday, with a range of subscription lengths:
- half a day (9.00 am–1.00 pm);
- afternoon/evening session (18:00–23:00);
- evening event (8.30 pm–12.30 am);
- full day (9.00 am–6.30 pm).
Departures will be spread out along the entire Romagna coast.
The planned collection points include:
- The Comacchio Beaches
- Ravenna Lidos
- Cervia
- Cesenatico
- Bellaria Igea Marina
- North Rimini
- South Rimini
- Riccione
- Cattolica
- Misano Adriatico
A network designed to enable anyone staying on the Riviera to take part in these experiences with ease.
Ten valleys, forty destinations and over a hundred experiences
The project involves 10 areas in the Romagna hinterland and beyond 40 destinations spread throughout the region.
The valleys featured will be:
- Valconca
- Valmarecchia
- Rubicone Valley
- Savio Valley
- Montone Valley
- Lower Romagna
- Lamone Valley
- Bidente Valley
- Senio Valley
- Po Delta Park
The result is a mosaic of experiences spanning history, nature, culture and food and wine.
The planned destinations include some much-loved locations such as:
- Saint Leo
- Pennabilli
- Verucchio
- Santarcangelo di Romagna
- Montefiore Conca
- Brisighella
- Ferrara
- Bagno di Romagna
- Comacchio
- Ridracoli Dam
Valmarecchia takes centre stage: poetry, mysteries and castles
Among the most fascinating itineraries, those dedicated to the Valmarecchia stand out.
One of the most interesting events will be “The poetic soul of Montefeltro”, a day-long experience between San Leo and Pennabilli, scheduled for July, designed to explore the connection between the landscape, art and the identity of the region.
Also very evocative “The dual nature of Verucchio”, which will take visitors on a journey through Villanovan archaeology and medieval history, exploring the village’s history through its connection with the Malatesta family.
For those who prefer a more mysterious atmosphere, there is, on the other hand, “Mysteries and Delights”, an evening tour between Poggio Torriana and Montebello, including a visit to the famous fortress linked to the legend of Azzurrina, as well as ancient mills and the rural traditions of the valley.
Why A SPASS tells the story of the future of tourism
Tourism has been changing in recent years.
More and more travellers are arriving on the Riviera by train or plane and are looking for ways to get around without a car. There is also a growing desire to enjoy authentic experiences, connect with local communities and venture off the beaten track.
SPASS captures precisely this transformation.
It doesn’t just offer excursions; it creates a model for an integrated holiday in which the seaside and the inland areas are not alternatives, but parts of the same journey. It’s a way of extending visitors’ stays, spreading out tourist flows and showcasing a side of Romagna that goes far beyond the beach.
For those who want to see a bit more than just the Riviera this summer, this could be one of the most interesting new events to add to your diary.
