The “Roccambolesca” city of Romagna, a small treasure at the foot of an ancient castle

Not far from the sea and the more famous Rimini, is the city of Cesena, suggestive and characteristic above all for its beautiful fortress which takes us back in time. Our itinerary to reach the city starts from further north and passes through other very particular villages for a complete and fascinating travel experience.

Cesena by motorbike. The itinerary

Map

Path

Our journey to Cesena starts from Faenza. From the city in the province of Ravenna, famous throughout the world for its connection with motorsport, we head south-west in the direction of Via Rio Bolzanino. A varied landscape, between hills and cultivated fields, until reaching Castrocaro Terme. Here, you will enjoy the first stop of your tour, exploring the famous thermal baths and the medieval fort. The route is pleasant and smooth, ideal for finding a corner of peace immersed in the nature of Romagna.

Leaving Castrocaro Terme, take the SP%/ in the direction of Via G. Mazzini to finally reach Predappio. This part of the journey allows you to completely immerse yourself in the green valleys of Romagna, with roads that meander through vineyards and olive groves. Passing through small villages, you will arrive at Predappio, a city steeped in history and tradition, where you can explore the sites linked to Mussolini, his birthplace, or simply enjoy a coffee in the square. The journey continues towards Meldola for a stretch of road that offers gentle curves and an increasingly fascinating landscape. Meldola welcomes you with its imposing castle and the streets of the historic center, perfect for a relaxing walk after a ride on your motorbike.

After Meldola, head towards Bertinoro, one of the most picturesque villages in the area. Take it SP4 and then there SP37, roads that gently climb the hills, offering you spectacular views. Bertinoro, known as the “Balcony of Romagna”, is the ideal place for a stop: here, between local wine tastings and breathtaking views, you can truly savor the essence of this land. For the final stretch, from the top of Bertinoro you descend towards Cesena through the SP65. This last segment of the journey takes you through fertile countryside to the heart of Cesena, a city rich in culture, with its magnificent Malatestiana Library and the charming historic center.

What to see in Cesena

Cesena is the capital of the province of Forlì-Cesena together with Forlì. Located almost in the center of Romagna between the sea and the hills, it is a city of almost 100 thousand inhabitants which embodies a history rich in charm and traditions. As you arrive in Cesena, the city reveals itself like an open-air history book, a perfect blend of past and present.

Among the many attractions of the city, a beautiful and silent walk through the halls cannot be missed Malatestiana Library, where every book and manuscript has a story to tell. This place, recognized by UNESCO, is like a time machine that takes you back to the Middle Ages. Here, under wooden ceilings and between ancient benches, you can almost hear the whispers of the scholars of the past.

Then, let yourself be guided by the narrow streets up to the majestic Malatesta Fortress. As you explore this castle, with its towers reaching to the sky, he imagines the knights who once patrolled its walls. The view from the top is spectacular, with Cesena and the Romagna hills extending as far as the eye can see. Every stone here has a story of battles and legends to tell.

Go down towards the center and reach the Piazza del Popolo, the beating heart of the city. This square is a living stage, where people meet, chat and live their daily lives. In front of you stands theMasini Fountaina dance of marble and water, while the porticoes of Town Hall they offer a perfect refuge for a walk or a coffee. Here, life flows slowly and pleasantly, with laughter and conversations.

A few steps away, you will find the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Upon entering, you are surrounded by a soft light that filters through the windows. The frescoes and sculptures tell you about faith and art, with Giunta Pisano’s Crucifix dominating the main altar. It is a place of peace, where every prayer and song seems to echo through the centuries.