The best things to do in Cattolica start with the fantastic beaches and build up from there. Cattolica is the quieter alternative to Rimini on the Adriatic Sea. Many prefer this relaxing seaside resort over the other coastal towns, for its smaller summer crowds. Even so, it’s only around 12 minutes’ train ride from the main hub of Rimini on the southernmost end of the Eastern Riviera.

The whole coastal length of Cattolica similarly features a variety of spaggia and bagni (serviced beaches and beach clubs) where the whole family can have a fun time in the Italian sun. Here, we show you all the great things to do in Cattolica in a day or 2, including a mix of leisure and even historical sightseeing in the centre of town. 

What are the best things to do in Cattolica?

  • 1

    Centro Storico di Cattolica

    Great sightseeing in the historical centre

    Centro Storico di Cattolica
    • Budget
    • History
    • Photo

    Discover Cattolica’s historical centre within a 5-minute walk south from Piazza Nettuno. You can stop by the 17th-century Parrochia di San Pio V church and admire its façade and bell tower, and step inside to admire the beautiful frescoes and portrait of the namesake patron saint (entry is free, but proper attire is required). A visit to the Royal Museum of Cattolica, a few minutes’ walk up the road on Via Giovanni Pascoli, can enrich your knowledge of the town’s past through archaeological artefacts and maritime exhibits. 

    Location: Via XX Settembre, 3, Cattolica, Italy

    Open: Daily from 8 am to 12.30 pm and from 4.30 pm to 7 pm

    Phone: +39 (0)541 954043

    Map

    photo by Goletta (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified

  • 2

    Piazzale Primo Maggio

    With the Fountain of Sirens as its central landmark

    Piazzale Primo Maggio
    • Budget
    • Families

    This circular piazza on Cattolica’s main beach road of Lungomare Rasi Spinelli is one of the best spots in town for taking in the summer vibes by the seafront. The pretty fountain at its centre, Fontana delle Sirene (Fountain of Sirens) is a great spot to sit and enjoy the view, and there’s almost always something on during the summer evenings, ranging from street performers to painters propping up their best works. Check out the garden next door, which has another fountain with illuminated jets dancing to waltzes or classic rock.

    Location: Piazzale Primo Maggio, 1, Cattolica, Italy

    Map

    photo by RicciSpeziari (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified

  • 3

    Via Bovio

    A pleasant walk from the beach to the town hub

    Via Bovio
    • Shoppers

    Veer off the southern borders of Piazzale Primo Maggio and you’ll find yourself strolling down the town’s main walking street, Via Bovio. It’s well-paved in the same pattern as the piazza and is pedestrian-only (bikes are also permitted). The street connects the seaboard to Piazza Nettuno in Cattolica’s town centre. It’s lined with a series of bookshops, souvenir stalls, small fashion boutiques, drugstores, cafes and gelaterias, with plenty of tree-shaded benches if you want to take a break.

    Location: Via Bovio, Cattolica, Italy

    Map

    photo by Van Loon (CC BY 3.0) modified

  • 4

    Cattolica Aquarium

    A fun tour through the animal kingdom

    Cattolica Aquarium
    • Families
    • Photo

    As one of Cattolica’s main seaside attractions, the Acquario Di Cattolica (Cattolica Aquarium) is also considered the largest on the Adriatic. It’s on the far western end of Cattolica’s coastline, and comprises a variety of large tanks and enclosures that house the collection of marine and land animals – there’s even a reptile park and penguin enclosure. Colour-coded routes lead you through the different enclosures, such as yellow for otters and caimans, blue for sharks, rays and penguins, and green for snakes and amphibians. Tickets are from €16. 

    Location: Piazzale delle Nazioni, Cattolica, Italy

    Open: Daily from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm

    Phone: +39 (0)541 8371

    Map
  • 5

    Bagni Stella Marina

    Well-serviced and easy to access

    Bagni Stella Marina
    • Families
    • Photo

    Like most of the coastal resorts along the Eastern Riviera, Cattolica’s beaches comprise many different bagni (serviced beaches) where you can enjoy your time on the seafront with great onsite food and beverage services. Stella Marina is considered as among the best bagni in Cattolica. It's easy to find just north of Piazzale Primo Maggio and the Fountain of Sirens. You can swim in its raised pool or chill on the neatly arranged sunbeds under white parasols. They also have a beach volley court and a playground where the kids can run about. 

    Location: Lungomare Rasi Spinelli, 46-47-49-50, Cattolica, Italy

    Open: Daily from 7.30 am to 8.30 pm

    Phone: +39 (0)541 830610

    Map

    photo by koconini (CC BY 3.0) modified

  • 6

    Spaggia Oasis de la Playa

    One of the beast beach clubs in Cattolica

    Spaggia Oasis de la Playa
    • Families

    A well-equipped beach club that’s great for beach-loving families, Oasis de la Playa has a full-fledged pool with a waterslide and a playground for kids on the sand. Each of the many sunbeds feature an overhead flap to shade your eyes from the bright sun, while allowing you to gain some tan. Either splash about in the heated pool (with a soothing Jacuzzi section) or cruise the calm waves in a swan-shaped pedal boat. Jet skis, parasailing and banana boat rides are also available. Sun loungers are around €20 per day. 

    Location: Via Ferrara, Arenile 69, Cattolica, Italy

    Open: Daily from 6 am to 9 pm

    Phone: +39 (0)541 830499

    Map
Ari Gunadi | Compulsive Traveler