Pesaro is an easy city to navigate whether you arrive by train, plane, or car. This guide covers practical information from which airport to fly into, to public transport costs, to tipping customs.
Pesaro Travel Tips: Getting There
By Air
The closest airport is Rimini Federico Fellini Airport (RMI), 35km north of Pesaro. It handles seasonal flights from London, Moscow, and other European cities (mainly June-September). The train from Rimini station to Pesaro takes 12 minutes and costs 3 EUR. Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is 150km away and has year-round flights from across Europe and beyond. From Bologna Centrale station, trains to Pesaro run hourly, take 1 hour 15 minutes, and cost 15-22 EUR. Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI) is 60km south with limited domestic and European connections. The train from Ancona to Pesaro takes 30-40 minutes and costs 5-7 EUR.
By Train
Pesaro’s train station (Stazione di Pesaro) is on the Bologna-Ancona main line, served by Frecciabianca, InterCity, and regional trains. Direct connections from Milan (3 hours), Bologna (1 hour 15 minutes), Rome (3.5-4 hours with a change at Bologna or Ancona), and Venice (3 hours). The station is a 10-minute walk from the centro storico and 15 minutes from the beach. Ticket machines accept cards and have English language options. Validate regional train tickets in the green machines on the platform before boarding or risk a 50 EUR fine.
By Car
Pesaro is on the A14 autostrada (Bologna-Taranto), exit Pesaro-Urbino. From the exit, follow signs for ‘Pesaro centro’ or ‘mare’ (about 5km). The centro storico is a ZTL (zona a traffico limitato) with cameras enforcing access. If your hotel is in the ZTL, ask them to register your plate number with the local police to avoid a fine. Parking outside the ZTL: there is a large paid lot at Parcheggio San Decenzio (Via San Decenzio, 0.50 EUR/hour, 3 EUR/day) with a free navetta (shuttle bus) to the center every 15 minutes.
Pesaro Travel Tips: Getting Around
Pesaro’s centro storico and beachfront are flat, compact, and walkable. The pedestrianized core covers about 1.5km from end to end. For longer trips, AMI Spa operates the local bus network. A single ticket costs 1.50 EUR (valid 75 minutes), available from tabaccherie (tobacco shops) and newsstands showing the ‘biglietti bus’ sign. The most useful routes: line 40/41 runs from the station along the lungomare to Baia Flaminia, and line 10 runs from the center to the southern districts. Taxis wait at the station and Piazza del Popolo. A trip from the station to Baia Flaminia costs 12-15 EUR. Pesaro has a bike-sharing scheme (PesaroBike) with stations at the train station, Piazza del Popolo, and along the beach: 1 EUR/day for the first use, then free for rides under 30 minutes. The flat seafront cycle path is one of the best ways to get between the beach and the center.
Pesaro Travel Tips: Money, Safety, and Customs
Italy uses the euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but smaller cafes, markets, and the beach stabilimenti often prefer cash. ATMs (bancomat) are plentiful on Via Branca and near Piazza del Popolo. Pesaro is a safe city with low violent crime rates. Standard precautions apply: do not leave valuables on the beach unattended and watch for pickpockets in crowded market areas. Tap water is safe to drink. Tipping is not expected in Italy, but rounding up a restaurant bill (leaving 2-5 EUR on a 40-50 EUR meal) is appreciated. A ‘coperto’ (cover charge) of 1.50-3 EUR per person appears on most restaurant bills and is not a service charge.
Pesaro Travel Tips: Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Italian? English is spoken at hotels and most restaurants in the tourist areas, but less so in small cafes and shops. Learning ‘buongiorno’ (good morning), ‘grazie’ (thank you), and ‘il conto per favore’ (the bill please) goes a long way.
Is Pesaro good for a day trip? Yes, if you are staying in Rimini, Bologna, or Ancona, Pesaro makes an excellent day trip. The train from each is under 90 minutes. Focus on the centro storico (Piazza del Popolo, Rossini sites, museums) and the beachfront for a 6-8 hour visit.
Can I swim in the sea? Yes, the Adriatic at Pesaro is clean and safe for swimming. Water quality is tested regularly during the summer season and consistently rates ‘excellent’ (Bandiera Blu certification). The shallow entry makes it especially suitable for children. Swimming season runs mid-May to late September.
What is the dress code for churches? Shoulders and knees should be covered when entering Pesaro Cathedral and other churches. Carry a light scarf or shawl in summer for this purpose.
Is Pesaro wheelchair accessible? The lungomare and centro storico have mostly level terrain and curb cuts. The train station has step-free access. Many beach stabilimenti have wheelchair ramps and accessible facilities (look for the ‘spiaggia accessibile’ sign). Older buildings and some museums may have limited elevator access.
Suggested Hotels in Pesaro
Charlie in Pesaro
Seafront boutique hotel on the promenade with panoramic Adriatic views, rooftop terrace, and outdoor pool. Rooms have private balconies and the hotel provides discounted access to a beach concession. Best for couples seeking a stylish base with direct sea access. Check rates and availability
Excelsior Pesaro
Historic Liberty-style hotel at the edge of the centro storico with modern rooms, a spa, and a rooftop bar overlooking the Adriatic. Combines period character with contemporary comfort. Best for travelers who want a hotel with personality and a touch of early-20th-century glamour. Check rates and availability
Hotel Clipper
Family-managed budget hotel 70 meters from the beach with complimentary bike rental and rooms with balcony. Scores consistently high on cleanliness and friendly service. Best for budget-conscious travelers who want beach proximity without extra costs. Check rates and availability
