Rimini

Head to Rimini on your next driving holiday and discover a city with both historic soul and ample opportunity to let loose on one of the many beaches that dot Italy's east coast.

The city of Rimini was formerly under Roman rule and is therefore a city where the Roman references are almost endless. The city was very important during the Roman Empire and there are a wealth of Roman ruins, monuments and buildings that were built during this period and still stand today. For example, go and see the beautiful Tempio Malatestiano, a cathedral whose façade is created in marble. An incredibly beautiful building with Roman history behind it. It is located in the central part of the city near the children's nursery. 

Take a stroll past the Ponte di Tiberio, which is one of the oldest and most seen sights in Rimini. The bridge was built by Emperor Augustus during his reign, but was never completed. When Tiberius subsequently became emperor, he completed the project and renamed the bridge after him. The bridge was therefore created during Roman times and has a unique history behind it. So enjoy the sight of its beautiful architecture and take some time to observe its many details.

Another important building, created during the Roman Empire, is the Augustus Arch, once part of the city wall. It also served as the gateway to ancient Rimini. The arch is centrally located in the city and therefore easy to reach. The arch has many beautiful details engraved into it and is in fact also part of the city's coat of arms. So bring a gelato or a latte and enjoy the sight of one of the city's popular monuments and take a well-deserved rest here on your trip.

An activity for the whole family could be going to the market in Rimini. Piazzo Cavour is where the whole town gathers to shop at the market stalls, shop for souvenirs, drink coffee or relax in one of the cafés and have a nice chat with the locals and other tourists. The square has a wealth of cafés and restaurants just waiting for your visit, so plan to have lunch here after a morning of shopping. You can also sit at the Fontana della Pigna, located by the square, and enjoy the fountain's ripple, letting your mind wander while you enjoy the sight of the many grand palaces popping up around the square like a theatrical backdrop.

If you fancy a beach holiday, you can pack the car and go beach-sightseeing. There's a string of beautiful beaches with azure waters along the east coast of Rimini. The various beaches are also home to a host of bars and restaurants that help to create a festive holiday atmosphere. So enjoy a drink in the warmth of the sun and enjoy your holiday. If the kids need a break from the beach, head to the Italia in Miniatura theme park. Located on the northern coast, you can experience Europe's most famous landmarks in miniature. Something that's fun for the whole family.

For excursions outside the city, head to San Marino, an independent state within Italy. It's about a 30-minute drive, so this is a manageable trip if you want to experience a country within a country. It is the fifth smallest country in the world and is incredibly beautiful.