Do as locals do and enjoy an evening stroll along Via Dante, an atmospheric street that cuts through the heart of this busy coastal town. With abundant shopping, drinking and dining options and an energetic vibe, Via Dante is often called ‘il bazar di Cattolica’ (the bazaar of Cattolica). Browse for boutique fashion, stock up on souvenirs and dine on authentic Italian cuisine.
Trees and flowerpots line the street and create a picturesque setting. The area is notably lively on a summer evenings, when temperatures are cooler and locals and vacationers alike make their way here after a day at the beach. Peruse fashion and accessory stores for clothing, footwear, jewelry and leather bags. Purchase children’s toys, sports apparel games and equipment for the beach.
A range of casual and stylish restaurants cater to most tastes and budgets. Several have outdoor seating areas that allow you to while away hours people watching and drinking in the cool ambience. Dine on seafood caught along the Adriatic coast and visit a traditional trattoria. Take the opportunity to try an Italian gelato and grab snacks to eat on the move at bakeries and grocery stores.
For entertainment, children can have fun playing on video games at an amusement center. Cocktail and wine bars ensure that the nightlife action continues into the early hours.
The street is just a 5-minute walk from the beach and less than 15 minutes on foot from Cattolica’s train station. Public buses travel between the train station and town center. Rooms at hotels and guesthouses are available if you want to stay overnight on the street.
Make the short walk from Via Dante to the vast cobblestone square Piazzale I Maggio. It features a fountain decorated with mermaid sculptures, ornamental gardens and pools with water jets. A water, light and sound show takes place here every night. Le Navi Aquarium is another town attraction worth visiting, where you can meet thousands of fascinating sea creatures.
