Things To Do
in Savignano sul Rubicone
Savignano sul Rubicone is a picturesque town in Emilia-Romagna perched along the Rubicon River. Its pastel facades, medieval lanes, and riverside promenades invite relaxed exploration. The town serves as a convenient base for exploring Cesena, Rimini, and the Adriatic coast while preserving a distinctly local character.
Expect warm Romagna hospitality, hearty pasta dishes, and easy day trips through rolling hills and river valleys.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Bologna Airport and take a scenic drive to Savignano sul Rubicone, soaking in the picturesque Emilia-Romagna countryside. Check into your charming bed and breakfast, and settle in with a typical Italian espresso. Wander through the quaint streets and admire local architecture before lunch.
Explore the historical center, visiting the Basilica di San Giovanni Battista, which showcases stunning frescoes and intricate designs. Stop by local artisan shops and discover unique handmade crafts. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria, indulging in regional delicacies like tortelli and piadina.
As twilight descends, stroll along the Rubicone River, taking in the serene surroundings. Dine at a cozy restaurant where you can taste local wines and traditional dishes. Wrap up your evening with a gelato from a nearby gelateria as you stroll back to your accommodation.
Start your day with a visit to the Museo della Città, where you'll learn about the rich history of Savignano sul Rubicone. Enjoy a guided tour through exhibitions that date back to Roman times. Afterward, head to a nearby café to savor a cappuccino and pastry.
Visit the medieval fortress of Montefiore Conca, located just a short drive away, and explore its well-preserved walls and breathtaking views. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, immersing in the stunning landscapes of the Romagna region. Consider hiking trails in the area that lead you through lush vineyards and olive groves.
Return to Savignano sul Rubicone for an authentic cooking class, where you'll learn to make regional dishes from scratch. Share your meals with fellow food lovers, savoring the fruits of your labor. End the night with a wine tasting featuring local vintages at a nearby wine cellar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room | $70-120 per night |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🧀Grocery meal for two | $25-40 |
| 🎟️Museum or site entry | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming authentic Romagna atmosphere
- Excellent food and wine
- Compact walkable town with easy day trips to the coast and countryside
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Few major international transport hubs in town
- Some seasonal services may be limited in winter
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Il conto, per favore" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Savignano sul Rubicone
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively square framed by pastel facades, the town church, and a clock tower; great for golden-hour portraits.
Wide banks, bridges, and olive trees along the Rubicone; ideal for sunrise and sunset shots.
Remnants of the old crossing over the Rubicone with textures of stone and water reflections.
Elevated view over the town and river valley; best at sunset.
Food in Savignano sul Rubicone
Savignano sul Rubicone Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin flatbread filled with creamy squacquerone cheese and delicate prosciutto, best enjoyed hot from a piadina stand.
Must-Try!
Hand-cut ribbons tossed with a rich meat ragù, a staple of Emilia-Romagna.
Fried bread (crescentine) served with local cured meats and cheese.
Soft fried dumplings paired with cured ham or other salumi.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, bread, and olive oil; typical market days in the mornings.
Portable piadina stands offering quick, tasty bites along the riverfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera; say please and thank you (per favore, grazie) in daily interactions.
Don't start eating until everyone is served; speak in moderate tones in public spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats indoors and in sacred spaces.
Ask before taking photos of people; be polite with shop staff and avoid loud behavior in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Savignano sul Rubicone
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated in restaurants and bars.
Cash and cards (POS) are widely accepted; some small stalls or bars may prefer cash; carry a bit of euro coins for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with plenty of sunshine; coastal breezes help keep temperatures comfortable. Expect lively outdoor dining, festivals, and long evenings on the riverfront.
Harvest season brings colorful countryside and wine-tasting opportunities; milder days and cooler evenings; occasional rain.
Cool but usually mild climate for a quieter visit; some shops and restaurants close earlier after the holidays. Cozy cafes and seasonal markets are common.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hiking and cycling with light rainfall possible.
Savignano sul Rubicone at Night
Hiking in Savignano sul Rubicone
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic countryside routes through rolling hills with viewpoints over valleys and vineyards.
Flat, scenic riverside trails that are easy for beginners and great for day hikes.
Short day hikes to hilltop viewpoints and rural landscapes within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Savignano sul Rubicone by plane.
Closest international gateway with regular domestic and European connections; about 40-60 minutes by car/train depending on connections.
Smaller regional airport near Cesena; convenient for domestic and some seasonal international flights.
Major international hub about 100-140 km away; connects to many destinations and well-served by rail and road links.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Safe, quiet surroundings with parks, schools, and family-friendly activities.
A relaxed pace of life with local markets and cultural events.
Many residents travel to Cesena or Rimini for work and study.
Small communities of residents from Eastern Europe and other regions contribute to local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A central part of community life with local clubs and weekend matches.
Rolling Romagna roads and scenic hills attract cyclists of all levels.
Public courts and clubs available in surrounding towns; seasonal play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Savignano sul Rubicone.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Romagna you can enjoy piadina with vegetables and cheese, tomato-based pastas, grilled vegetables, and cheese plates. Ask for no lardo or meat-based stocks and ask for sauces to be prepared without meat.