Comprising the twin settlements of Bellaria and Igea Marina, this laid-back town lies where the Rubicon River meets the Adriatic Sea. It’s known for its beachfront lidos that come to life during the summer months and offers an attractive base for discovering the historic sites of Rimini.
Things to do in Bellaria-Igea Marina
Stretching along the waterfront is Spiaggia di Bellaria, a Blue Flag beach where you can swim and sunbathe in the summer months. Dotting the beach are plenty of lidos that rent beach umbrellas and sun loungers and serve food and drinks throughout the day. Many offer fun-filled activities, such as water aerobics and Latin dance classes.
Bellaria’s main shopping area centres around the Isola dei Platani, a tree-lined avenue home to independent boutiques and souvenir stores. You can watch the world go by from one of the alfresco cafes or feast at the local pizzerias before grabbing a sweet treat from a gelateria. As you explore the street, keep an eye out for the Church of the Blessed Heart and the centuries-old Torre Saracena.
Nestled just behind the beach of Igea Marina is Parco del Gelso, a picturesque green space with a lake and a butterfly garden. You can take advantage of the exercise equipment and enjoy a hit on the tennis courts or simply stroll along the leafy walking trails. In the evening, a small amusement park comes to life in the south-east corner of Parco del Gelso.
Getting around Bellaria-Igea Marina
Bellaria-Igea Marina is around 15 minutes’ drive from Rimini and 20 minutes from Federico Fellini International Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Bellaria and Igea Marina railway stations and buses connect the two settlements.