Emilia-Romagna: a cycling “paradise”. Rimini hosts Velo-city 2026
Emilia-Romagna is a premier destination for cycling enthusiasts, seamlessly combining history and art with nature and an outstanding food and wine tradition boasting no fewer than 45 PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) products. Standout specialties include Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma, alongside the recently recognized Erbazzone Reggiano PGI. The diverse beauty of this region generously reveals itself to sports lovers, especially cyclists. From the sun-drenched Romagna Riviera to rolling hills, from the Po River to the Apennines, Emilia-Romagna offers over 9,000 km of routes suitable for every type of rider, including road cycling, mountain biking, gravel, and e-biking. With more than 20 cycling routes spanning natural landscapes, art cities, and charming villages, and over 500 bike-friendly accommodations, every journey here becomes a unique experience, enriched by delightful gastronomic stops.
In 2026, the spotlight is firmly on Rimini, which is far more than a world-renowned seaside resort. It is one of the gateways to exploring Emilia-Romagna by bike and, from June 16 to 19, will host Velo-city, returning to Italy after more than 30 years. But what is Velo-city? It is the world summit dedicated to cycling mobility and sustainable urban planning – four days of meetings bringing together experts, researchers, and advocacy groups to promote the bicycle as an everyday means of transport. Rimini is ready to welcome Velo-city: with over 130 km of urban cycling paths and an extensive network extending into the hinterland, the city is the ideal starting point for discovering the region by bike. Cyclists can ride along ancient Roman roads before venturing into the hills of the Valmarecchia and Valconca, where medieval fortresses and breathtaking views await. From urban cycle lanes to unpaved trails, Rimini blends coastal charm with the authentic spirit of Italian cycling.