Rent a Campervan in Rimini & Explore Emilia-Romagna

Welcome to Rimini: Your Gateway to the Adriatic

Welcome to Rimini, the vibrant heart of the Italian Riviera and the perfect starting point for your unforgettable road trip. When you rent a campervan Rimini, you're not just hiring a vehicle; you're unlocking a world of freedom, culture, and la dolce vita. Nestled in the Emilia-Romagna region, on the sun-kissed shores of the Adriatic Sea, Rimini is a city of two fascinating faces. On one hand, it's a legendary seaside resort, famous for its 15 kilometers of fine sandy beaches, bustling nightlife, and holiday atmosphere. On the other, it's a city steeped in over 2,000 years of history, from its Roman origins to its Renaissance splendors.

Geographically, Rimini lies at a strategic crossroads. It was founded by the Romans in 268 BC as 'Ariminum' at the intersection of two major ancient roads: the Via Flaminia, which connected it to Rome, and the Via Aemilia, which stretched northwest across the Po Valley. This legacy is still visible today in the city's layout and magnificent monuments. The Marecchia River flows through the city, meeting the Adriatic Sea and shaping its landscape. With a population of around 150,000, Rimini is a lively city year-round, but it truly comes alive during the travel season.

The city's history is rich and layered. After the Romans, it was ruled by the Goths, Byzantines, and eventually, the powerful Malatesta family during the Renaissance. They were ambitious rulers and patrons of the arts, leaving behind an indelible mark on the city's architecture and culture. In more modern times, Rimini became the birthplace and lifelong inspiration for one of the world's greatest film directors, Federico Fellini. His films often capture the dreamlike, nostalgic, and sometimes chaotic spirit of his hometown. To truly understand this city, you have to experience both its ancient stones and its modern-day energy, something made easy when you rent a motorhome Rimini. Your mobile base allows you to explore the historic center in the morning and relax by the sea in the afternoon.

So, when is the best time for your adventure? The weather in Rimini is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. July and August are the peak months, with soaring temperatures, packed beaches, and a vibrant party scene. If that's your vibe, then summer is perfect! However, for a more relaxed exploration, the shoulder seasons of May-June and September are ideal. The weather is comfortably warm, the sea is pleasant for swimming, and the crowds are thinner. This is the perfect time to rent a campervan Rimini and enjoy the sights without the rush. Even a winter trip has its charms, with a tranquil atmosphere and the city's historic sites all to yourself. If you are looking to explore rugged terrain, you might even consider to rent a 4x4 camper Rimini for added versatility on your journey through the Italian countryside. No matter when you come, Rimini offers a unique blend of relaxation and discovery. It is the quintessential Italian destination, offering a perfect launchpad for exploring the wonders of Emilia-Romagna and beyond.

What to See and Do Around Rimini

Once you've settled into your campervan, Rimini and its surroundings offer a treasure trove of sights and activities. The freedom of your own vehicle means you can mix and match historical exploration with seaside relaxation effortlessly. When you rent a campervan Rimini, the entire region becomes your backyard.

The Roman Legacy:
Start your journey back in time at the Arco d'Augusto (Arch of Augustus), the oldest surviving Roman arch in northern Italy, built in 27 BC to mark the end of the Via Flaminia. From there, stroll down the main street, Corso d'Augusto, to the heart of the old town. You'll eventually reach the magnificent Ponte di Tiberio (Tiberius Bridge). Started under Emperor Augustus and completed under Tiberius in 20 AD, this stunning five-arched bridge is still in use today and is a masterpiece of Roman engineering.

Renaissance and Culture:
Don't miss the Tempio Malatestiano, the city's cathedral. Originally a 13th-century Gothic church, it was transformed in the 15th century by the ruler Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta into a Renaissance mausoleum to celebrate himself and his mistress. It houses a crucifix by Giotto and a fresco by Piero della Francesca. For a deeper dive into local history, visit the Museo della Città (City Museum), which showcases archaeological finds and art from the region.

Fellini's Rimini:
Step into the colorful, dreamlike world of Federico Fellini in the Borgo San Giuliano. This old fishing village, with its narrow cobbled streets and brightly painted houses, is now an open-air gallery of murals depicting scenes and characters from Fellini's famous films. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric place to get lost for an afternoon.

Beach Life and Fun:
Of course, no trip to Rimini is complete without enjoying its legendary beaches. The long stretch of golden sand is divided into hundreds of 'bagni' (beach clubs) where you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds. They offer everything from beach volleyball to kids' play areas. Further afield, for a day of family fun, drive your campervan to Italia in Miniatura, a theme park where you can tour over 270 scale models of Italian and European landmarks. Having a motorhome makes visiting these attractions simple and stress-free. With a rent a motorhome Rimini plan, you have the flexibility to chase the sun and fun wherever it leads.

Your Road Trip Itineraries from Rimini

With the keys to your campervan, Rimini is not just a destination but a starting point for incredible journeys. The Emilia-Romagna region and its neighbours are packed with history, flavour, and stunning landscapes. Here are a few tour ideas to get you started.

🗺️ The Heart of Emilia-Romagna: A Foodie's Dream (4-5 Days)

🏰 Republics & Fortresses: A Hilltop Quest (2-3 Days)

Returning Your Campervan Spotless in Rimini

After a fantastic road trip, it's time to think about returning your vehicle. Part of your rental agreement is to return your campervan clean, both inside and out. While cleaning the interior is straightforward, washing the exterior of a large motorhome can be a challenge. Standard car washes are often too low to accommodate the height of a campervan.

You need to find a self-service jet wash ('autolavaggio a gettoni') or a truck wash that has the necessary height clearance and equipment, like platforms or long-handled brushes, to let you clean the roof and upper sides properly. Neglecting the roof is a common mistake that can lead to cleaning fees. Planning this small step ensures a smooth and fee-free return process after you rent a campervan Rimini.

Here are a few suitable washing stations in and around Rimini that can handle high vehicles:

1. Autolavaggio Elefante Blu
These are a well-known chain with high-pressure lances and open-air bays that are often suitable for campers. Look for locations with dedicated high-vehicle or truck bays.
Address: Via Circonvallazione Nuova, 57, 47923 Rimini RN, Italy

2. L'Oasi del Lavaggio Self Service
A typical self-service station that provides the space and tools you need to give your motorhome a thorough wash from top to bottom.
Address: Via Popilia, 320, 47922 Rimini RN, Italy

3. Autolavaggio Self-Service H24
Open 24/7, these stations are perfect if you need to wash your vehicle at odd hours before an early drop-off. Check for bays without a low roof.
Address: Viale XXIII Settembre 1845, 122, 47921 Rimini RN, Italy

A quick tip: It's always a good idea to have some 1 and 2 Euro coins handy for these self-service machines. Taking 30 minutes for this final task will ensure your rent a motorhome Rimini experience ends on a high note!

How to Get to Your Rimini Campervan Adventure

Your journey to rent a campervan Rimini starts with getting here! Rimini is well-connected, especially to its larger neighbour, Bologna. Here’s how you can reach us from major English-speaking countries.

Flying to Rimini:
Rimini has its own airport, Federico Fellini International Airport (RMI). It's smaller and mainly serviced by seasonal and budget airlines. A larger, more connected alternative is Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ), which is about a 1.5-hour train ride or drive from Rimini and offers a much wider range of international flights.

From the UK & Ireland:
You'll find seasonal direct flights to Rimini (RMI) from airports like London Stansted (Ryanair). For year-round travel, it's often easier to fly to Bologna (BLQ). British Airways, Ryanair, and easyJet offer numerous flights from London (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted), Manchester, Edinburgh, and Dublin to Bologna. From BLQ, you can take a direct shuttle bus or a train to Rimini's central station.

From the USA & Canada:
There are no direct flights to either Rimini or Bologna from North America. The most common route is to book a flight to a major European hub like Rome (FCO), Frankfurt (FRA), Amsterdam (AMS), or Paris (CDG). From there, you can catch a connecting flight to Bologna (BLQ). Major airlines like Delta, United, Air Canada, and American Airlines all offer one-stop routes. Once in Bologna, the train is an efficient way to reach Rimini.

From Australia, New Zealand & South Africa:
Your journey will involve at least one stop, typically in the Middle East or Asia. Airlines like Emirates (via Dubai), Qatar Airways (via Doha), and Singapore Airlines (via Singapore) offer excellent connections to major Italian gateways like Rome (FCO) or Milan (MXP), and some fly directly to Bologna (BLQ). From Rome or Milan, you can take a high-speed train to Rimini, which is a scenic journey in itself. From South Africa, flights with a stop in a European hub are also a common option.

Once you arrive in Rimini, picking up your campervan is the final, exciting step. Having your own transport from the get-go means your Italian adventure begins the moment you're ready to hit the road. This is the ultimate convenience when you rent a motorhome Rimini.