Evening drive northwest into the Apennine foothills via SS258/SP roads; typical driving time is about 1h–1h20 — expect narrower roads and reduced daylight after sunset, so drive carefully.
Eat at a local trattoria or osteria—ask your host to recommend a place open late (some close by 9:30–10:00); seek regional dishes like handmade pasta or local game.
If you’re up for it, take a short post-dinner stroll to a nearby overlook for nighttime valley views; public viewpoints are accessible any time but watch footing in low light.
Quick Italian breakfast at a bar or your B&B—many bars open early (7:00–8:00); if you prefer a later start after the late arrival, confirm breakfast availability with your host.
Explore the Franciscan sanctuary complex, including the Chapel of the Stigmata and the cloisters, and learn about St. Francis's history here — grounds are generally open in daylight but check current opening hours and guided-tour times.
Take peaceful trails around the sanctuary to visit small hermitages and viewpoints overlooking the Casentino forest; trails are open year-round but confirm any seasonal closures.
Check into a convent guesthouse, mountain hotel or agriturismo near the sanctuary — staying close gives tranquil evenings and possible early-access advantages; confirm check-in times in advance.
Attend evening prayers or quietly visit the sanctuary grounds—check the sanctuary schedule for service times, which vary seasonally and by day of week.
Dine at your guesthouse or a nearby restaurant offering regional Tuscan-Appennine dishes—expect simple, hearty fare; mountain restaurants often close earlier (around 21:00), so reserve or arrive early.
Drive southwest into Tuscany toward Arezzo; travel time is roughly 1h–1h20 on scenic regional roads — arrive mid-morning for lighter crowds at major sites.
Stroll the atmospheric Piazza Grande, browse artisan shops, and visit the Duomo and San Francesco (home to Piero della Francesca frescoes) — cathedral and museums typically open mid-morning (around 9:30–10:00) and close mid-to-late afternoon.
Savor Tuscan specialties such as ribollita, pappardelle with wild boar or local pecorino; most restaurants serve lunch 12:00–14:30 — reservations recommended for popular spots.
Head northeast toward Cesena via A1 and E45/A14 highways; expect about 2h–2h30 depending on traffic — plan a short coffee stop en route to stretch legs.
Check into a hotel in Cesena's historic center so you can walk to major sights like the Biblioteca Malatestiana and Rocca; confirm desk hours in case of late arrival.
Tour the UNESCO-listed Biblioteca Malatestiana, one of the few intact medieval public libraries — opening hours normally include mid-afternoon but verify current times and booking requirements.
Walk the lively Piazza del Popolo and view the Rocca fortress from outside, then enjoy riverside walks for photos and local atmosphere; internal opening hours vary, so check seasonal times if you want to enter the fortress museum.
Try Romagna cuisine—fresh piadina, seafood or meat specialties—at a centrally located trattoria; dinner typically begins around 19:00, and reservations are advised on busy nights.
If the local market is operating (check day) enjoy a short visit, or visit San Domenico church for art and quiet; many small museums and churches open mid-morning—confirm hours in advance.
Short drive back to the coast (about 40–60 minutes depending on start point and traffic); plan to arrive mid-afternoon to enjoy Rimini's seaside promenades and sights.
Stroll the lively Lungomare, visit the historic Tiberius Bridge and, if time permits, the Malatesta Temple exterior; many coastal open-air attractions are accessible throughout the day.
Return your rental car and proceed to the Rimini airport or train station—allow at least 60–90 minutes for car return and check-in procedures for flights; for trains, aim to arrive 30–45 minutes before departure.
Depart Rimini by your planned flight or train; confirm itinerary and follow recommended check-in times (flights: 90–120 minutes before departure; trains: arrive 20–30 minutes early).