How to Get from Rimini Airport
Rimini Airport transfers are among the easiest in Italy thanks to the airport’s location between Rimini, Riccione, and the transport links of the wider Emilia-Romagna region. Unlike many regional airports that require lengthy shuttle journeys, Federico Fellini Airport (RMI) sits just a few kilometres from the coast and benefits from direct access to the Metromare rapid transit system, local buses, taxis, and private transfers.
The airport is located in Miramare, approximately 6 km from Rimini city centre, 5 km from Riccione, and around 25 km from San Marino. Most visitors are heading either to the beaches of Rimini, the resort hotels of Riccione, or the historic streets of San Marino, making transfer planning relatively straightforward.
Because the airport is compact, passengers can usually reach transport connections within minutes of leaving arrivals. Taxi ranks are located directly outside the terminal, while public transport stops are within easy walking distance. During the summer season, when visitor numbers increase significantly, pre-booking transport can help avoid queues and provide a smoother arrival experience.
Whether you are visiting the Adriatic coast for a beach holiday, travelling to San Marino, or connecting with Italy’s rail network, this guide explains the most practical and cost-effective ways to continue your journey.
Rimini Federico Fellini Airport Overview
Federico Fellini Airport (RMI) is the main international gateway to Rimini, Riccione, and the wider Romagna Riviera. Named after the famous Italian film director who was born in Rimini, the airport may be smaller than major regional airports such as Bologna Airport or Milan Bergamo Airport, but its compact size is actually one of its greatest advantages for travellers.
Located between Rimini and Riccione, the airport is ideally positioned for visitors heading to Italy’s Adriatic coast. Many hotels in both resorts can be reached within 10 to 20 minutes of landing, making it one of the most convenient holiday airports in the country. The nearby Metromare rapid transit system, local bus network, taxi services, and access to Rimini Railway Station provide multiple onward transport options without the need to hire a car.
The airport operates both scheduled and seasonal flights, with passenger numbers increasing significantly during the summer months when the beaches, resorts, and attractions of the Adriatic coast attract visitors from across Europe. Despite this seasonal demand, the terminal remains relatively easy to navigate compared with larger Italian airports.
Inside the terminal, passengers will find a selection of cafés, bars, shops, ATM facilities, free Wi-Fi, car hire desks, taxi services, and tourist information services. The airport also provides facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, baby-changing facilities for families, and comfortable waiting areas throughout the terminal.
One of the biggest benefits of Federico Fellini Airport is its simple layout. Arrivals, transport connections, car hire desks, and taxi ranks are all located within a short walk of one another, allowing most visitors to move from the aircraft to their onward transport in just a few minutes. For travellers heading to Rimini, Riccione, or even San Marino, this makes the airport one of the most straightforward arrival points on Italy’s Adriatic coast.
Taking Public Transport from Rimini Airport to Rimini City Centre
For most visitors, public transport is the best way to travel from Rimini Airport to Rimini city centre, combining low costs with relatively quick journey times. The airport is served by the modern Metromare system, a dedicated rapid transit route linking Rimini Railway Station with Riccione Railway Station. Unlike conventional buses, much of the route operates on its own corridor, helping services avoid the traffic congestion that can build up along the Adriatic coast during the busy summer season.
After leaving the arrivals hall, follow signs towards the Metromare station, located a short walk from the terminal. The walk is straightforward and generally takes around 3 to 5 minutes. Ticket machines are available at the station, allowing passengers to purchase tickets before boarding. Services operate frequently throughout the day, making it rare to have a long wait for the next departure.
The journey to Rimini Railway Station typically takes around 15 minutes. This station is the city’s main transport hub and sits within walking distance of parts of the historic centre while also offering easy connections to local buses, taxis, and national rail services. Travellers staying around Marina Centro, the beachfront district, may find they can either walk from the station or complete the final part of their journey using local transport.
Local bus services also operate in the airport area and can be useful for certain destinations not directly served by the Metromare. However, buses are generally slower, can be affected by road traffic, and may be less straightforward for first-time visitors. For the majority of travellers heading into central Rimini, the Metromare remains the easiest and most reliable public transport option.
Taking a Taxi from Rimini Airport to Rimini City Centre
Taxis offer the most direct route between Federico Fellini Airport and Rimini city centre. The official taxi rank is located immediately outside the arrivals terminal, making it easy to find transport shortly after collecting your luggage. There is normally no need to pre-book for standard daytime arrivals, although demand can increase significantly during the summer holiday season.
The journey to central Rimini covers approximately 6 kilometres and usually takes between 10 and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the location of your hotel. During peak summer weekends or major events, journey times can be slightly longer due to increased traffic along the coast.
A taxi is often the most convenient option for travellers carrying heavy luggage, families with young children, groups sharing costs, or passengers arriving on late-evening flights when public transport services may be less frequent. Door-to-door transport can also be particularly useful if your accommodation is some distance from a Metromare stop or Rimini Railway Station.
Although a taxi costs more than public transport, the relatively short distance between the airport and the city means fares are generally reasonable compared with transfers from many larger European airports. Visitors should always use the official taxi rank outside the terminal and confirm that the vehicle is licensed before beginning their journey.
Private Transfers from Rimini Airport
For travellers seeking the smoothest possible arrival experience, a private transfer provides a pre-arranged door-to-door service from the airport directly to your accommodation. This is often the most comfortable option, particularly for first-time visitors unfamiliar with the local transport network.
After landing, drivers typically monitor flight arrivals and adjust collection times if flights are delayed. Most services include a meet-and-greet inside or immediately outside the arrivals area, allowing passengers to avoid queues and proceed directly to their waiting vehicle. Assistance with luggage is normally included, making private transfers especially popular with families, cruise passengers, older travellers, and visitors carrying sports equipment or multiple suitcases.
Journey times are similar to those of a taxi, with most transfers reaching central Rimini in around 10 to 15 minutes. The main advantage is certainty. The price is agreed in advance, there is no need to queue for a vehicle, and travellers know exactly how they will reach their destination before departure.
Private transfers can also represent good value for larger groups. When the cost is divided between several passengers, the difference compared with a taxi is often relatively small, while providing additional convenience and peace of mind.
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Rimini Airport to Riccione
Riccione is one of the easiest destinations to reach from Federico Fellini Airport, with the resort located just a few kilometres south of the terminal. In fact, many visitors are surprised to discover that Riccione is actually closer to the airport than central Rimini. Known for its long sandy beaches, lively nightlife, family-friendly atmosphere, stylish shopping streets, and popular seafront promenade, Riccione is one of the Adriatic coast’s most visited holiday resorts and attracts millions of visitors each year.
For most travellers, the easiest and most economical way to reach the resort is via the Metromare. After leaving the arrivals hall, follow signs towards the nearby Metromare stop, which can be reached on foot in approximately 3 to 5 minutes. The service operates throughout the day and provides a direct connection towards Riccione, avoiding much of the seasonal traffic congestion that can affect coastal roads during the summer months. Journey times are typically around 10 minutes, making it both the fastest and cheapest option for many visitors. Depending on where you are staying, you may be able to walk directly from your chosen Metromare stop to your hotel. Many of Riccione’s largest beachfront hotels and holiday apartments are located within easy reach of the route.
Travellers seeking the convenience of door-to-door transport may prefer a taxi. The official taxi rank is located immediately outside the terminal building, allowing passengers to continue their journey shortly after collecting luggage. Because the distance between the airport and Riccione is relatively short, journey times are usually around 10 minutes, although this can increase slightly during peak holiday periods. Many visitors find taxi fares surprisingly reasonable given the short distance involved, particularly when the cost is shared between two or more passengers.
A private transfer offers the most seamless arrival experience. Drivers normally monitor incoming flights and meet passengers after arrival before providing direct transport to their accommodation. This option is particularly popular with families travelling with young children, visitors carrying significant luggage, larger groups, and travellers arriving on late evening flights who prefer to avoid waiting for transport. Journey times are similar to those of a taxi, with most transfers reaching central Riccione in around 10 minutes.
For the vast majority of visitors, the Metromare offers the best combination of speed, value, frequency, and simplicity, making it the recommended transfer option from Rimini Airport to Riccione. However, given the very short distance involved, a taxi can also represent excellent value and may be worth considering if you are travelling with luggage or staying some distance from the nearest Metromare stop.
Rimini Airport to San Marino
Although San Marino is an independent country, it is one of the most popular destinations served by Federico Fellini Airport. Located approximately 25 km from the airport, the tiny republic sits dramatically atop Monte Titano and is famous for its medieval streets, historic towers, spectacular viewpoints, tax-free shopping, and status as the world’s oldest surviving republic. Many visitors choose to visit as a day trip from the Adriatic coast, while others stay overnight within the historic centre itself.
Reaching San Marino by public transport is perfectly possible, although it requires a connection in Rimini. Most travellers begin by taking the Metromare from the airport to Rimini Railway Station, a journey that typically takes around 15 minutes. From the railway station, passengers can transfer to the dedicated Rimini–San Marino bus service, which operates direct services between the city and the republic throughout much of the year. The bus departs from the area around the railway station and climbs steadily into the mountains before arriving near the historic centre of San Marino City. The bus journey usually takes around 50 minutes, although travel times can vary depending on traffic and seasonal demand. While this is the cheapest option, visitors should check timetables carefully, particularly during the winter months when services may be less frequent.
A taxi provides the quickest direct route from the airport to San Marino. Vehicles are available from the official taxi rank outside the terminal, and the journey normally takes between 35 and 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the exact location of your accommodation. This option removes the need to change transport in Rimini and can be particularly attractive for visitors travelling with luggage, families with children, or anyone wishing to maximise their time exploring the republic rather than navigating transport connections.
Many visitors choose to book a private transfer, particularly if arriving on international flights or travelling in a group. Drivers normally monitor incoming flights and meet passengers inside or immediately outside the terminal before providing direct transport to their hotel or accommodation in San Marino. This is the most convenient option available and eliminates the need to navigate public transport, transfer between services, or carry luggage through stations. For families and larger groups, the additional cost is often justified by the comfort and simplicity it provides.
Travellers intending to explore both San Marino and the wider Emilia-Romagna region may also wish to consider car hire. Rental vehicles are available at the airport, and the drive to San Marino normally takes around 35 to 45 minutes. A car provides the greatest flexibility for visiting attractions throughout the surrounding countryside, although visitors should note that vehicle access within parts of the historic centre is restricted and parking is generally located outside the oldest sections of the city.
For most budget-conscious travellers, the combination of the Metromare and the Rimini–San Marino bus offers the best value. However, for overall convenience, comfort, and simplicity, a private transfer is usually the recommended option, especially for first-time visitors, families, and travellers carrying luggage. Those seeking a balance between convenience and cost may find that a taxi provides an excellent compromise, particularly when the fare is shared between several passengers.
Car Hire at Rimini Airport
For travellers planning to explore beyond Rimini, Riccione, and San Marino, hiring a car at Federico Fellini Airport can provide a level of flexibility that public transport cannot always match. While the coastal resorts are well connected by buses, trains, and the Metromare, many of the region’s most rewarding destinations are easier to reach by road.
Several car hire companies operate from the airport, allowing visitors to collect a vehicle shortly after arrival. Once on the road, drivers can easily access destinations throughout Emilia-Romagna, Marche, and San Marino. Popular day trips include the UNESCO-listed mosaics of Ravenna, the historic streets of Urbino, the motor heritage attractions around Modena, and the picturesque hill towns scattered throughout the surrounding countryside.
For visitors staying exclusively in Rimini or Riccione, a rental car is often unnecessary. Parking can be limited and expensive during the summer season, while public transport is generally sufficient for moving around the coast. However, travellers planning a wider Italian road trip or exploring multiple destinations during their stay may find car hire provides the greatest convenience.
Driving conditions are generally straightforward, with modern roads connecting the airport to the wider region. Visitors heading to San Marino should be aware that vehicle access within parts of the historic centre is restricted, meaning parking is usually required outside the oldest sections of the city before continuing on foot.
Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips
Flying into Rimini? Here are a few useful tips to make your arrival smoother:
- Use the Metromare whenever possible: It is usually the quickest and cheapest way to travel from Rimini Airport to both Rimini city centre and Riccione.
- Heading to San Marino? Check the timetable for the Rimini–San Marino bus before travelling, particularly outside the summer season when services may be less frequent.
- Don’t look for an airport railway station: Rimini Airport does not have its own train station. Use the Metromare to reach Rimini Railway Station for onward rail connections.
- Allow extra time in summer: The Adriatic coast becomes extremely busy during July and August, and road traffic can significantly affect taxi and transfer journey times.
- Staying in Riccione? Many hotels are within walking distance of a Metromare stop, making public transport a practical alternative to a taxi.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Rimini Airport Transfers
How far is Rimini Airport from Rimini city centre?
Federico Fellini Airport is located approximately 6 km from central Rimini. Most journeys take between 10 and 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the transport option chosen.
What is the cheapest way to get from Rimini Airport to Rimini?
The Metromare is usually the cheapest and most practical option. It provides a direct connection between the airport area and Rimini Railway Station, with regular departures throughout the day.
How long does it take to get from Rimini Airport to Riccione?
Most journeys take around 10 minutes. Riccione is actually closer to the airport than central Rimini, making it one of the quickest destinations to reach after landing.
Can you travel from Rimini Airport to San Marino by public transport?
Yes. Most travellers take the Metromare to Rimini Railway Station and then transfer to the dedicated Rimini–San Marino bus service. Total journey times are usually between one hour and ninety minutes, depending on connection times.
Are taxis available at Rimini Airport?
Yes. Official taxis operate from the rank immediately outside the arrivals terminal whenever flights are operating.
Is there a train station at Rimini Airport?
No. Rimini Airport does not have its own railway station. Travellers should use the Metromare, local buses, taxis, or private transfers to reach Rimini Railway Station.
Should I book a private transfer in advance?
For journeys to San Marino, late-night arrivals, family holidays, or travellers carrying significant luggage, pre-booking a private transfer can provide additional convenience and peace of mind.
What is the best transfer option from Rimini Airport?
For most visitors travelling to Rimini or Riccione, the Metromare offers the best combination of cost, speed, and convenience. Travellers heading to San Marino may find a taxi or private transfer more convenient, particularly if travelling with luggage.
Can I use contactless payment on public transport from Rimini Airport?
Ticketing options can vary depending on the service used. It is always worth carrying a bank card and a small amount of cash, particularly during busy summer periods or when using regional transport services.
Is Rimini Airport open year-round?
Yes. Federico Fellini Airport operates throughout the year, although flight schedules and destination choices increase significantly during the summer holiday season when demand for Adriatic coast resorts is at its highest.
Further Reading & Related Guides
If your trip doesn’t end in Rimini, there are several related guides that can help you plan the next stage of your journey. Travellers exploring the country by rail should start with our Italy Interrail Pass Guide, which explains how rail passes work in Italy and whether they offer value for your itinerary. If you are continuing your journey beyond the Adriatic coast, our Trenitalia Pass Guide provides a detailed look at Italy’s national rail pass and how it compares with point-to-point tickets.
Visitors planning to explore the nearby republic should also read our Rimini to San Marino Route Guide, which explains the journey in greater detail and covers transport options, timings, and practical travel advice. Once you arrive, our Discover San Marino Guide highlights the best attractions, viewpoints, historic sites, and experiences within one of Europe’s most unique destinations.
Before travelling, it is also worth ensuring you have reliable mobile data for tickets, maps, and transport apps. Our Best eSIMs compares the leading providers and explains how to stay connected throughout your trip without relying on expensive roaming charges. Together, these guides will help you make the most of both Rimini and the wider region.
Last Updated
June 2026
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