Our top ten towns in Le Marche – a guide to the best places to visit in Italy’s most undiscovered region
Tucked between the stunning peaks of the Apennine Alps and the azure waters of the Adriatic, Le Marche is a magical destination for a holiday in Italy. Rugged mountains, punctuated with magnificent medieval towns and vibrant vineyards lead to picturesque coastal towns and dreamy white-sand beaches. Le Marche has so much to offer travellers looking for an authentic holiday in Italy.
While there is so much to discover, we have narrowed down the top ten towns in Le Marche for you to enjoy. As well as its stunning natural beauty, Le Marche is a hive of cultural and culinary treasures. For this reason we recommend staying in a villa or apartment in Le Marche. This way you can relax and live like a local, feasting on treats you pick-up at local markets and tastings. We hope our top ten towns in Le Marche offers a selection of everything this unsung region has to offer.
1. Urbino
As one of the most important renaissance cities in Europe, Urbino’s perfectly preserved historic centre has earned it the affectionate nickname – ‘the ideal city’. So precious is this hilltop gem, that Urbino was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1998. And you’ll soon see why there was no question as to whether to include it in our top ten towns in Le Marche.
At its centre, the Palazzo Ducale takes centre stage and is home to the city’s finest museums. On the ground floor you will find the Museo Archeologico Urbinate. The second floor hosts the Museo della Ceramica (Ceramics museum). However, nestled in between these floors, you will discover one most important art galleries in Italy – Galleria Nazionale delle Marche. Here visitors can view works by Piero della Francesca, Raphael, Uccello, Titan and many more. Our advice is to join a tour with a local guide to get the most out of these historical gems.
While there is almost an infinite amount of history and culture to immerse yourself in in Urbino, do also make time to wander the charming meze of of alleys, linking the towns pretty piazzas. And don’t miss the abundance of churches, all steeped in history and Italian charm. We recommend joining one of the wonderfully dedicated guides offering walking tours of the city. Click here to book your spot in advance.
Festivals
Unsurprisingly, Urbino also hosts many festivals and it is worth trying to coincide your visit to enjoy one of these. La Festa del Duca takes place on the third Sunday of August. Celebrating the history of the city, it includes a much anticipated jousting tournament. In the first week of September, there is a very different festival – the Festa dell’ Aquilone. Kites are flown from the Cesane hills, creating a stunning show of colour. In addition to these annual festivals, the Urbino Antiquaria is an antique market which takes place on the fourth Sunday of each month and is well worth visiting.
2. Fermo
Perched in the beautiful Le Marche hills, Fermo is a lovely town centred around its main square, Piazza del Popolo. Amongst other events, this is where you’ll find the lively weekly market. This takes place every Thursday morning. During the summer, the fun is extended into the afternoons, when an antiques market also comes to town. Like much of Le Marche, Fermo’s rich history is visible in its majestic architecture. This is notably so in the remains of the Roman amphitheatre and original city walls. Even more can be discovered about Fermo’s history in the Museo Archeologico – home to a number of Roman and Etruscan artefacts.
However, perhaps the most important building dominates the horizon as you approach the town. The Duomo della Madonna is a stunning example of gothic architecture. It’s imposing facade is centred by a rose window dating back to 1348. And wood carvings around the cathedral’s door depict ‘the tree of life’. Like many of the top ten towns in Le Marche, Fermo offers a wonderful journey through artistic history.
That said, our top tip is to head underground to discover some of Fermo’s hidden history in the Cisterne Romane (Roman Cisterns). Visitors can enjoy a tour of these enormous water storage cisterns built between 40 and 60 AD to supply the city with drinking water. A wonderful example of Roman engineering and ingenuity. Back above ground, take your time to meander the lanes and piazzas. Consider joining a guided walking tour so you can discover Fermo with the expertise of a local guide.
3. Offida
History and tradition oozes from every corner of Offida. The town is most famous for its production of lace – it has been produced here since the 1400s. The fascinating age-old lace making tradition using bobbins is still being passed from generation to generation. You can see both women and men sitting in the street or in their homes working the tiny bobbins, creating works of art.
Not only is Offida famous for lace, the town is also famous for its wine production. Wine-makers here exclusively use grapes from the Le Marche region such as the Pecorino, Passerina and Rossa Piceno varieties. If you’re a wine-lover, do take the time to join a tour or tasting – you won’t be disappointed.
4. Gradara
This is certainly one of the most romantic destinations in our list of top ten towns in Le Marche. As the setting of a tragic love story that could rival even that of Romeo and Juliet, Gradara has no shortage of romance in the air! So the story goes, Francesca da Polenta married by proxy to Giancotto – a vile and ugly man. When he was sent to Pesaro as governor, he imprisoned her in the fortress at Gradara. Here, his brother, the handsome Paolo, kept her company and the two fell in love. Without warning, one night, Giancotto returned and caught the two lovers. Tragically, he stabbed them both to death.
Sadly, castle was almost completely destroyed in an earthquake in 1916. However, it was subsequently bought as a private home in 1920 by a wealthy engineer. He then devoted his life to its restoration. Upon his death, and later his widow, the family donated it to the Italian government. If you visit at night, when there is a full moon, people will tell you that it is sometimes possible to see the ghost of Francesca da Polenta walking along the castle’s battlements.
As well as visiting the castle, a visit to the Church of San Giovanni Battista is also recommended. Interestingly, this is home to a 15th century wooden crucifix. What’s more, Gradara also has a wonderful selection of artisan shops where you can buy some beautiful local crafts and produce.
5. Grottamare
Grottamare is a popular seaside resort in the south of Le Marche. However, it’s mostly known as home to the annual Festival of Liszt. This takes place in the last two weeks of August and the festival brings together pianists from all over the world. Along the sea front, there are some beautiful Art Nouveau style villas. Interestingly, one of these is home to the Museo dell’ Illustrazione Comica: a collection of comic cartoons.
Like many Le Marche beach towns, Grottamare has almost a ‘second centre’ on the cliff above the sea. In this case it even has another name, Grottamare Alta. A highlight here is the Piazza Peretti, where you’ll find the Teatro dell’ Arancio. In the summer, part of this square also becomes the al fresco eating area for Osteria dell’Arancio – a very good Italian restaurant. Nearby, the Church of Sant’ Agostino, which only has half a bell tower remaining is also worthy of a visit.
6. Monteforitno
Now for a tiny town. But, one not to miss and we had to include in this top ten towns in Le Marche. When you first see Montefortino you’d be forgiven if you assumed the town had actually been carved out of the mountainside. This tiny little gem literally clings to the unspoiled slopes of the mountains. What’s more this vantage point allows for some of the most stunning views of the rugged Le Marche monti sibillini which you can enjoy as a 360 degree panorama.
The town itself is perfectly formed and many of the streets follow the medieval tradition of homes being built in semi-circles around a common meeting point. Unsurprisingly, churches take centre stage. The beautiful 17th century chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie is near the historic entrance to the town at the Porta Santa Lucia. This is the historic archway which is believed to date back to the 14th Century. Further up the hill, you will find another church in the oldest area of Montefortino. Chiesa di San Francesco is famous for its magnificent brickwork. The site was once home to a fortress which was destroyed during the 15th Century. Interestingly, the materials from the fortress were then used to build the church which stands on the site today.
7. Loreto
Loreto is a popular pilgrimage site in Europe. Second only in visitor numbers only to Lourdes. The Basilica della Santa Casa is an impressive spectacle, however most pilgrims come to visit what’s inside – the simple house of Mary and Joseph, believed to have been brought from Nazareth in the 1290s. Some storytellers relay how the house was brought there by angels. Others claim it was brought by crusaders. Either way, Loreto is a magical place full of stories of faith and devotion.
As a hilltop town, Loreto also boasts stunning views of both the glistening Adriatic sea and the almost imposing Apennine mountains. The atmosphere in the Piazza della Madonna is often described as electric as the energy pilgrims, art lovers and historians ignite to celebrate this very special place.
8. Ancona
As the regions busiest city, and home to its only major airport, Ancona is often the fist stop on a Le Marche itinerary. Since Roman times and even today, is a bustling port and main departure point for ferries heading to Croatia, Greece and Turkey. Much of the town is modern and industrial – but don’t let this put you off! Sadly, it was heavily attached in both World Wars. However, even the main harbour can have some charm with its impressive array of ships and the adjacent marina with a plethora of sailing boats and yachts.
However, most of the buildings of note can be found in Acona’s historic centre though which is quieter and prettier. The central point of interest in the old town is the Piazza del Plebiscito. Here you’ll find several key buildings, including the Chiesa di San Domenico, the Prefettura di Ancona and the Museo della Citta. What’s more, this area is also home to a number of lovely cafes and restaurants.
Also take the time to visit the 11th century Romanesque cathedral of Saint Ciriaco. Located on the top of Monte Guasco, you can see it from some distance away and is reached via a winding uphill pathway. Head to the cathedral courtyard to drink in some superb views of Ancona’s old town and port. On the slopes of the Monte Guasco and not far from the cathedral are the remains of a Roman amphitheatre and gladiatorial school whose heyday was during the rule of the Emperor Augustus.
Ancona also boasts some excellent beaches. Head slightly out of town to Portonovo Bay where you will find a spectacular stretch of coastline and some of Le Marche’s most beautiful white sandy beaches.
9. Ascoli Piceno
Known as the city of one hundred towers, since in Medieval times Ascoli Piceno has contained a huge number of towers. And, some of these are so well preserved that visitors can see them today. At the centre of Ascoli Piceno lies Piazza del Popolo. Arguably, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. While the town’s second piazza – Piazza Arringo – is less attractive, it is home to the Pinacoteca, the town’s excellent art museum. Head to the museum to see a number of works dating from the 16th and 17th centuries. Interestingly, there is display of Ascoli with its towers in tact. This gives a feel for how this beautiful city once looked.
The centre of the town has a lively buzz. Our tip is to visit in the evening when the piazzas fill with locals meeting up for a stroll or a drink. What’s more, there are plenty of good shops to browse, as well as several interesting churches. If you visit in July and August, you will be lucky enough to experience the Quintana: a Medieval jousting tournament – they’re popular in Le Marche! Earlier in the year, the town comes alive as residents enjoy celebrating Mardi Gras to the full.
Nature lovers can also enjoy some time at the stunning Monti Sibillini National Park. Found to the west of Ascoli Piceno, this is a magnificent mountain range punctuated by magical valleys, forests and gorges. While there are almost infinite hiking opportunities, there are also some wonderful culinary experiences to discover in the park’s protected villages. Locals have worked tirelessly to preserve ancient recipes and techniques, unique to the area, and you will be sure to taste some magnificent local fayre.
10. Sirolo
Perched above the azure waters, Sirolo is often called ‘the most beautiful village of the Adriatic’. So there was no doubt that it would be included in our top ten towns in Le Marche. With pretty pastel coloured terraced houses lining its traffic-free streets, Sirolo really is a magical place to relax and soak-up authentic Italian culture. What’s more, the town also boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in Le Marche – Spiaggia del Frate. This is accessed from the cliff top by a series of steep steps and pathways or alternatively via a shuttle bus from the main piazza (Piazza Vittorio Veneto).
The centre of Sirolo is a maze of enchanting alleys filled with charming boutiques and lively cafes and restaurants. From this vantage point, there are also some majestic views of the coastline below. Do take time to stop at the Chiesa San Nicola di Bari and be sure to look up! This stunning 18th century church has a really stunning painted ceiling and is decorated with some seriously decedent glass chandeliers.
Where to stay in Le Marche
We think Fermo and the surrounding countryside make an excellent base from which to explore the region and many of these top ten towns in Le Marche. Apartment Contessa offers a real luxury experience right in the historic centre of Fermo. As part of a 15th century palace, this is a real chance to feel like a king or queen while also indulging in some modern luxuries. Explore Apartment Contessa here.
In the same region but closer to Montefortino, Villa Rocca is pretty much villa perfection! Stay in an incredible, ancient 11th century watchtower – set within the most enchanting landscape between Mount Sibillia, the Infernaccio Gorge and the village of Montefortino. Villa Rocca is a truly unique Le Marche villa. The owners have spent years renovating the property, transforming it from its original use to the luxury retreat you see today. Explore Villa Rocca here.
Or consider Maison Oliveto, just north of Fermo in Civitanova Alta – its own little piece of paradise. With private pool, yoga studio, gym and flood-lit tennis court on site, along with table tennis and table football. There is something for everyone to enjoy in this family friendly Le Marche villa. Explore Maison Oliveto here.
Here at Bookings For You we have decades of experience in planning holidays to Italy and are always happy to help you plan your next Italian adventure. Click here to see our full portfolio of villas and apartments in Italy or contact us for advice on where to visit next.