Strolling among the art nouveau villas in Riccione a walk through time and history
Riccione does not only tell sea stories.
Between its tree-lined avenues and hidden gardens lives an architectural heritage that smells of elegance and of the early 20th century: the Art Nouveau villas, residences that marked the birth of the city as a holiday destination for the Italian bourgeoisie.
This walk takes you on a journey to rediscover the charm of a time when art and nature were intertwined in a unique form of beauty.
The sinuous lines, floral decorations and pastel colours of Art Nouveau still tell the story of a refined, luminous, poetic Riccione.
First stop Villa Franceschi and Villa Lodi Fé: the elegance and nature of Art Nouveau
Begin at Villa Franceschi (via Gorizia, 2): a simple but refined building, embellished with floral decorations, a semi-hexagonal terrace and a turret-viewpoint. Today it houses a rich collection of 20th century paintings, sculptures and graphics, as well as temporary exhibitions.
A few steps further on, in the heart of John Paul II Park, is Villa Lodi Fé. With its chalet shape, archivolted windows and geometric patterns on the exterior plasterwork, it is a perfect example of Art Nouveau architecture immersed in greenery.
Second stop Viale Milano: between history and grand residences
Continue towards Viale Milano, where you will find Villa Mussolini (no. 31): two floors, a turret overlooking the garden and a new life as a space for exhibitions and cultural events.
Further on, at number 79, stands Villa Antolini, designed by architect Vucetich in 1923, refined and harmonious in its proportions.
On the corner with Via Baracca you will find Villa Bella, with its bright colours and Art Nouveau decorative motifs that catch the eye.
Third stop Viale Gramsci: the symbols of riccionese hospitality
Here stand the ornate façades of the Hotel Des Bains (1908) and the Grand Hotel (1928), two authentic icons of turn-of-the-century elegance.
Next door, the 19th-century turret of Villa Martinelli Soleri (1877) adds a romantic, fairytale-like touch to the boulevard.
Fourth stop Between the sea and the centre: pensions and mansions of bygone days
On viale Trento Trieste stands the former Pensione Florenza, one of the earliest accommodation establishments of the 1900s, which still retains the simple charm of summers in those days.
Nearby, on Via Spalato, the Hotel de la Ville recounts the elegance of the 1930s, with classic forms and refined details.
Fifth stop Beyond the railway: hidden villas and gardens
Superata la ferrovia, su viale Diaz si trova Villa Pullè, un altro gioiello del liberty locale.
Mentre su viale Ceccarini meritano una sosta Villino Graziosi (1932) e Villa Serafini (anni ’20), due esempi diversi ma complementari dello stile riccionese, dove le linee curve del liberty incontrano l’eleganza sobria del gusto razionalista.
Tips for true professionals
- Get an early start in the morning: the golden light among the trees is perfect for taking postcard photos.
- Take a leisurely stroll: the Art Nouveau villas are best enjoyed slowly, like a coffee in the sunshine.
- Look up: the real beauty is in the details — balconies, friezes and turrets that tell stories of sea and elegance.