Forlì Without a Car: The Complete Guide to Exploring Romagna in Total Freedom
Let’s be honest: the idea of getting stuck in traffic, hunting for a parking spot under the scorching sun, or trying to decipher "ZTL" (restricted traffic zone) signs isn't exactly the definition of a "relaxing vacation." Our guests often ask us: "If I come by train, will I still be able to see the beauty of Romagna?"
The answer is a resounding yes.
Forlì is a strategic hub: we are located on the historic railway line that cuts across Italy, and we have a bus network that climbs all the way to the most hidden villages. Here is your complete guide—written with care and passion—to discovering our territory using only trains, buses, and your own two feet.
1. Forlimpopoli: At the Home of Pellegrino Artusi
Just a 5-minute train ride (or 15 minutes on the 92 Bus Line) from Forlì lies Forlimpopoli. It is a mandatory stop for anyone who wants to understand why we eat so well in Romagna.
What to do: Visit Casa Artusi, the first center of gastronomic culture dedicated to Italian home cooking. You can admire the library or even participate in a hands-on pasta-making class. Don't miss the Albornoz Fortress (Rocca Albornoziana) overlooking the main square.
How to get there: The regional train is near-instant. If you prefer the bus, Line 92 runs regularly from Via della Libertà or the Forlì Train Station and drops you off right in the heart of town.
Local Tip: If you visit in late June, the Festa Artusiana transforms the village into a massive open-air restaurant. Without a car, you can enjoy an extra glass of Sangiovese without a second thought.
2. Cesenatico: The Charm of the Canal Harbor
Cesenatico is arguably the most poetic seaside town on the coast, thanks to its harbor designed by Leonardo da Vinci.
What to do: Stroll along the Porto Canale, visit the Maritime Museum (with its colorful traditional sails floating in the water), and grab a "cartoccio" of fried fish in the old fishermen’s quarter.
How to get there: 1. By Train: Take the regional train toward Rimini and get off at Cesena. From there, right in front of the station, take Bus Line 94 (a 20-minute ride to the sea). 2. By Bus (Summer) : During the summer season, StartRomagna often operates direct lines from Forlì to Cesenatico (approx. 45 minutes).
Advice: Go at sunset. The sky’s colors reflecting on the canal are a memory you will keep forever.
3. Ravenna: Mosaics and Poetry
A UNESCO World Heritage site and the final resting place of Dante Alighieri, Ravenna is a magical city that deserves a full day.
What to do: The Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia are unmissable. The mosaics here aren't just decorations; they are pure light. Visit Dante’s Tomb and the Basilica of San Francesco with its famous submerged crypt.
How to get there: You have two easy options. The most comfortable is the train with a quick change at Castelbolognese or Faenza (approx. 50-60 min total). Alternatively, take the direct Bus Line 156 which connects Forlì to Ravenna in about an hour, crossing the beautiful Romagna countryside.
On foot: Once you arrive at Ravenna station, the entire historic center is pedestrian-friendly, and the main monuments are just a few minutes apart.
4. Mirabilandia: Adrenaline Within Reach
If you’re traveling with kids (or you just love rollercoasters), Italy’s largest amusement park is closer than you think.
How to get there: Take the train from Forlì toward Ravenna and get off at Lido di Savio / Lido di Classe station. From there, a free shuttle bus timed with the main train arrivals will take you directly to the park entrance.
The "No Car" Advantage: You’ll save on the parking fee (which isn’t cheap at Mirabilandia) and, more importantly, you’ll avoid the massive traffic jams when the park closes.
5. Cesena: The City of Culture and Views
Cesena is our elegant "cousin, " just a 10-minute train ride away.
What to do: The Malatestiana Library is a 1452 jewel, perfectly preserved and still lit only by natural light. After your visit, challenge yourself to the walk up to the Malatestiana Fortress (Rocca) : the view over the city is worth every bit of effort.
How to get there: Trains run every 20-30 minutes. From Cesena station, it’s a pleasant 10-15 minute walk to the historic center along tree-lined avenues.
Lunch break: Find a "chiosco" (kiosk) and try a Piadina—the Cesena version is thinner than the one in Forlì. Enjoy it while sitting on the old city walls.
6. Faenza: Ceramics and Neoclassical Elegance
Just 8-10 minutes by train from Forlì, Faenza is a city where art drips from every corner.
What to do: The top destination is the MIC (International Museum of Ceramics) , one of the most important in the world. From the station, it’s a 5-minute walk. Then, head to Piazza del Popolo to find historic workshops where ceramics are still painted by hand.
A "Romagna Mia" Recommendation: If you have time, visit Palazzo Milzetti. It is one of the finest Neoclassical palaces in Italy; its frescoed ceilings are breathtaking.
How to get there: Almost every train heading toward Bologna stops in Faenza. It’s as easy as taking a subway.
7. Cervia: "Sweet Salt" and Ancient Pine Forests
Cervia is not your typical beach resort; it is a "foundation city" built around white gold: salt.
What to do: Visit MUSA (The Salt Museum) inside the old canal warehouses. Walk through the pine forest of Milano Marittima or visit the Salt Pans (Saline) for some birdwatching—keep an eye out for the pink flamingos!
How to get there: During summer, direct StartRomagna buses leave from the Forlì Bus Point. Otherwise, take the train to Ravenna and switch for the short ride to Cervia-Milano Marittima.
Pro Tip: Before heading back, stop at one of the fish shops along the canal for a "cono di frittura mista" (fried seafood cone).
Technical Info: The "Slow Traveler" Toolkit
Moving around Romagna is easy, but you need the right tools on your smartphone:
Essential Apps:
MooneyGo or Roger: These are the official transport apps for Emilia-Romagna. You can plan your route and buy bus or train tickets in seconds. No more hunting for an open tobacco shop!
Trenitalia: Essential for checking departure platforms and real-time delays.
Google Maps: Works perfectly for Forlì’s urban bus schedules.
Tickets:
Romagna SmartPass: If you plan on exploring intensely for 3 or 7 days, this pass allows you to use all StartRomagna buses (Forlì, Cesena, Rimini, Ravenna) with a single ticket. Very cost-effective!
Final Thoughts
Traveling without a car grants you something driving does not: observation. Watching the hills flatten into the sea from a train window, hearing the local dialect on the bus, and enjoying the shade of the porticos without worrying about a parking meter.
We at Romagna Mia are here to help: ask us for updated schedules, a map, or simply advice on the best connections. Romagna is beautiful because everything is close—you just have to wait for the next train.
WHERE TO STAY IN FORLÌ AND ROMAGNA
Fully Equipped Tourist Apartment:
2 Bedrooms;
5 Beds + 1 Cot;
Free indoor parking + free street parking in a safe, quiet area;
Fully equipped kitchen;
Large living room;
Bathroom with window;
Terrace.
Located near the city center but outside the ZTL, close to the station, airport, university, hospitals, and private clinics. Just minutes away from Cesenatico, Cesena, Faenza, Ravenna, Rimini, Bologna, the sea, and the hills.