Visit Urbino Italy: Discover Italy’s Renaissance Jewel

Set in the rolling hills of Le Marche, Urbino is a hill town you’ll never forget. Famous as the “ideal city” of the Italian Renaissance, this UNESCO World Heritage Site mixes grand history with a lively, welcoming vibe that makes it a must on any Italy itinerary. When you visit Urbino, you’re stepping into Raphael’s birthplace, exploring the mighty Ducal Palace, and soaking up views that stretch endlessly across the countryside. Add in rustic trattorias, the flavors of local cuisine, and tastings from nearby Marche wineries, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a trip that blends culture with pure Italian pleasure. Urbino turns a simple day out into an unforgettable memory.

Visit Urbino: Best things to do in town

Wander through the Ducal Palace

The Ducal Palace is Urbino’s star attraction. Built for Duke Federico da Montefeltro, it’s a place where art and history mix in the grandest way. Step inside and you’ll bump into works by Raphael, Titian, and Piero della Francesca, but honestly, just walking through its courtyards and staircases is an experience on its own.

Explore the Cathedral of Urbino

Right on Urbino’s main square, the neoclassical Cathedral catches your eye with its 18th-century design, rebuilt after an earthquake. Step inside and you’ll spot elegant details and paintings by Federico Barocci that give the place its quiet charm.

Take in views from the Albornoz Fortress

Head up to the Albornoz Fortress in Parco della Resistenza for sweeping views over Urbino and the rolling Marche hills. It’s a quiet green escape just outside the old town, perfect for catching the sunset or snapping your best photos of the trip.

Discover Piazza della Repubblica

Piazza della Repubblica is where Urbino comes alive. Cafés spill onto the square, locals swap stories over coffee, and visitors grab a warm slice of crescia before wandering off again. It’s the perfect spot to pause, people-watch, and take in the city’s Renaissance backdrop without rushing.

Explore the Church of San Bernardino

A short walk from Urbino’s historic core brings you to the Church of San Bernardino, set quietly in the countryside. This early Renaissance gem is home to the tombs of Federico da Montefeltro and his family, but it’s just as much about the calm setting as the history. Come for a moment of peace, admire the clean lines of its architecture, and enjoy a pause away from the busier streets of town.

Wander the old streets

Get lost in Urbino’s maze of cobblestone alleys, where Renaissance façades frame tiny ateliers, quirky boutiques, and cafés buzzing with students and locals. Every turn brings a new corner to explore, making a simple walk through the town one of its best experiences.

Visit Urbino: Best things to do around

Discover Fossombrone

Just 20 minutes from Urbino, Fossombrone stretches along the Metauro River with a mix of Roman ruins, Renaissance touches, and laid-back charm. You can stroll past remnants of the ancient Forum Sempronii, pop into the Corte Alta palace turned civic museum, or simply wander its cobbled lanes lined with cafés and little boutiques. With its riverside walks, terracotta rooftops, and slower pace, Fossombrone is the perfect side trip from Urbino when you want history and scenery without the crowds.

Wander at Gradara Castle

About 45 minutes from Urbino, the hilltop fortress of Gradara rises above the Marche countryside like something out of a medieval tale. Its massive walls and towers are among the best-preserved in Italy, making it a favorite for history buffs and curious travelers alike. Step inside and you’ll hear the whispers of Paolo and Francesca’s tragic love story, made famous by Dante. Beyond the romance and drama, Gradara also connects you to nearby wine routes where Sangiovese and Trebbiano grapes are turned into unforgettable pours, the perfect excuse to pair your castle visit with a glass or two.

Visit Pesaro

Just 45 minutes northeast of Urbino, Pesaro brings together seaside energy and Renaissance charm in one easy day trip. Known as the hometown of composer Gioachino Rossini, the city hums with culture, but it’s also perfect for lazy walks along the Adriatic promenade or a seafood lunch with a view. Wine lovers can follow the nearby Bianchello del Metauro route, where light, aromatic whites and sparkling pours are served right at the estates. Pair a tasting with fresh fish straight from the coast and you’ve got the best of Marche in one stop, the sea, the wine, and a lively dash of culture.

Good to Know before visiting Urbino