Located on Italy's Adriatic coast, this seaside resort has been a popular beach destination since Roman times. Its sandy shores and fishing harbor draw summer visitors.
Cattolica is the southernmost beach town in Emilia Romagna's Adriatic coast, with a 300-foot-wide sandy beach. You can watch sharks and penguins at Le Navi Aquarium, explore the 13th-century Church of San Apollinare with its Byzantine-style frescoes, or stop by the Mermaids Fountain at night when it lights up with a musical water show. In the evenings, local fishing boats dock at the old harbor, bringing fresh catches directly to the waterfront restaurants.
Getting to Cattolica
You can reach Cattolica via the A14 motorway, with regular train connections from major Italian cities stopping at the town's central station. The nearest airport is Federico Fellini International Airport in Rimini, about 20 kilometers away. If you're traveling by boat, you can dock at the tourist harbor.
Beaches and Swimming
The beach stretches along the coast with water temperatures reaching 24°C (75°F) from spring through October. Children can wade safely in the shallow water, as the seabed slopes gradually. You'll find beach clubs every few meters along the shore, where you can rent umbrellas, loungers, and equipment for kayaking or windsurfing.
The Aquarium and Marine Life
Le Navi Aquarium sits in an 1830s marine complex with surrounding gardens. The tanks contain dolphins, sharks, penguins, and Mediterranean fish species. You can join daily feeding sessions, watch training demonstrations, and learn about marine conservation through hands-on activities with some of the sea creatures.
Cultural Events Through the Seasons
Spring begins with Cattolica in Fiore, when local flower growers set up market stalls throughout the streets. During the Pink Night festival in summer, pink lights illuminate the town while street performers entertain crowds and locals swim at midnight. In August, the Stella Maris feast features fishing boats carrying the Virgin Mary's statue across the water.
Local Food Scene
Fishing boats bring their daily catch directly to Cattolica's restaurants, where you can try fresh Adriatic fish prepared in traditional ways. Local specialties include brodetto (fish soup) and grilled sardines. During Christmas, try the traditional Miacetto cake at Staccoli confectioners, made with almonds and honey.
Theater and Entertainment
Teatro della Regina's program includes opera, theater, and contemporary music performances. In summer, musicians perform in Piazza Roosevelt and other town squares. The Snaporaz Cultural Center shows independent films and hosts art exhibitions throughout the year.
Day Trips from Cattolica
Visit the medieval fortress of Gradara, 7 kilometers away, where you can walk the battlements and see the room where, according to legend, Paolo and Francesca's tragic love story took place. Explore the limestone caves of Onferno, 20 kilometers inland, home to six species of bats. The towns of Montefiore Conca and Mondaino, both within 17 kilometers, have preserved their 14th-century towers, walls, and churches.
