Collect your rental car at Rimini (F. Fellini Airport or Rimini city stations) and prepare for a scenic inland drive; rental and parking logistics handled here.
Drive inland (~1–1h15) on SS258/SP routes through rolling hills and small villages to reach historic Pennabilli; enjoy the changing landscape as you climb toward the Apennine foothills.
Stroll the compact medieval streets, visit the civic tower and panoramic viewpoints over the Marecchia valley — great for photos and a relaxed introduction to the town (public spaces are always open).
Visit local cultural spots and any Tonino Guerra installations near town; some museums have limited hours, so check opening times in advance (typical small museum fee applies).
Dine at a family-run trattoria serving local specialties (wild boar, seasonal mushrooms, handmade pasta); many restaurants open for dinner from about 19:00–22:30.
Drive through scenic Apennine roads toward the Sanctuary of La Verna; expect roughly 1h–1h30 depending on route and stops (use daylight for best views).
Explore the Franciscan sanctuary, chapels (including the Stimmate chapel) and forested paths; the sanctuary grounds are generally open in summer (commonly ~7:00–19:00), though guided-convent museum areas may have limited hours.
Enjoy hearty mountain fare (polenta, porcini, local game) at a nearby rifugio or simple trattoria; many serve a lunch service 12:00–14:30 — good for refueling before the afternoon drive.
Walk Piazza Grande, visit the Arezzo Cathedral (Duomo — usually open mid-morning to late afternoon; times vary) and the Church of San Francesco (home of famed Piero della Francesca frescoes — check museum hours as access can be limited).
Dine on Tuscan specialties (ribollita, bistecca alla fiorentina, local pecorino) near the historic center — many restaurants open from ~19:00 and require reservation at busy times.
Tour the UNESCO-listed Biblioteca Malatestiana (historic public library) — usually open from mid-morning to late afternoon (check the current opening times and guided tour slots).
Wander Piazza del Popolo, visit the Rocca Malatestiana fortress and enjoy riverside or market strolls; fortress opening times vary (commonly 9:00–18:00), so check locally.
If your trip ends in Rimini, drive back along the coast (approx 45–60 minutes). If departing from Cesena, allocate time to reach your train station or airport.
If you return to Rimini, finish with a seaside dinner of fresh Adriatic seafood on the lungomare; many restaurants open evenings from about 19:00–23:00.