Gradara
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Latest page update: 21 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Gradara
Gradara offers a small but appealing selection of accommodation, mostly within the historic village or in the nearby countryside. While many properties are boutique in scale, a few established hotels stand out for their facilities and strong guest feedback, both in Gradara and nearby coastal areas of the Province of Pesaro e Urbino.
In Gradara itself, La Loggia Historic Resort provides comfortable rooms within the medieval walls, combining period features with modern amenities and panoramic views over the surrounding hills (€€). A short distance away in Gabicce Mare, Hotel Sans Souci offers a coastal setting with sea views, a wellness centre and two pools, earning consistently positive reviews for service and comfort (€€€). Also nearby, M Glamour Hotel in Gabicce Mare delivers modern style close to the beach, appreciated for its contemporary design, spacious rooms and convenient location (€€).
In Gradara itself, La Loggia Historic Resort provides comfortable rooms within the medieval walls, combining period features with modern amenities and panoramic views over the surrounding hills (€€). A short distance away in Gabicce Mare, Hotel Sans Souci offers a coastal setting with sea views, a wellness centre and two pools, earning consistently positive reviews for service and comfort (€€€). Also nearby, M Glamour Hotel in Gabicce Mare delivers modern style close to the beach, appreciated for its contemporary design, spacious rooms and convenient location (€€).
Where is
Where is Gradara?
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The town of Gradara is situated within the Province of Pesaro and Urbino and has a population of around 5,000 residents.
It stands at an elevation of 142 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Gabicce Mare, Monte San Bartolo Natural Park and Pesaro. |
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Comune di Gradara
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Province: Pesaro and Urbino
Region: Marche Population: 4,889 (in 2024 - source) Size: 18 km² Elevation: 142 metres Close by: Gabicce Mare, Monte San Bartolo Nature Park, Pesaro |
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One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: La Rocca di Paolo e Francesca (The Rock of Paolo and Francesca ) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Listed since: 2004 1 of 19 in Marche listed by Touring Club Italiano |
What People Ask About Gradara
Is Gradara worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Gradara?
How do I get to Gradara?
When is the best time to visit Gradara?
What food is Gradara known for?
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Discover
Discover Gradara
Set on a hill near the border between Marche and Emilia-Romagna, Gradara is a fortified medieval town overlooking the Adriatic coast. Surrounded by olive groves and farmland, its position between Pesaro and Cattolica gives it both coastal and inland character. The imposing double line of walls encircling the town and its hilltop castle dominate the landscape, creating one of the best-preserved examples of medieval military architecture in central Italy.
The Rocca di Gradara, built in the 12th century and later expanded by the Malatesta and Sforza families, is renowned as the setting for the tragic love story of Paolo and Francesca, immortalised by Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy. Within the castle walls, visitors find courtyards, frescoed rooms, and a drawbridge leading to the historic centre below. The Parish Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Museum of Gradara further reflect its long cultural and artistic heritage. With its intact defences and elevated views, Gradara stands as a symbol of the fortified hill towns that define the northern Marche landscape.
The Rocca di Gradara, built in the 12th century and later expanded by the Malatesta and Sforza families, is renowned as the setting for the tragic love story of Paolo and Francesca, immortalised by Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy. Within the castle walls, visitors find courtyards, frescoed rooms, and a drawbridge leading to the historic centre below. The Parish Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Museum of Gradara further reflect its long cultural and artistic heritage. With its intact defences and elevated views, Gradara stands as a symbol of the fortified hill towns that define the northern Marche landscape.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Gradara
- Centro Storico di Gradara is a magnificent hill town where narrow medieval streets twist among stone houses, noble walls, and terracotta rooftops. Brick façades, fortified gates, and sweeping ramparts bring dramatic presence and historical weight to the traditional architecture. The town rises prominently in the northern Marche region, surrounded by rolling hills and views stretching to the Adriatic Sea. Its atmosphere blends lively tourism with noble history and the romantic legends woven into its past.
- Castello di Gradara dominates the town with its imposing fortress walls, tall towers, and elegant courtyards. The castle interiors reveal frescoed halls, antique furnishings, and rooms tied to the legend of Paolo and Francesca, immortalised by Dante. Walking along the ramparts offers panoramic views over the countryside. It’s an unforgettable highlight for lovers of history and medieval architecture.
- Piazza V Novembre serves as the vibrant social heart of Gradara, edged with medieval buildings, cafés, and artisan shops. Locals and visitors gather here for festivals, music, and bustling market days. Outdoor seating offers views of the castle walls and the colourful energy of village life. The square reflects the lively yet authentic rhythm of this historic town.
- Camminamenti di Ronda are the fortress walkways that run atop the defensive walls, offering breathtaking vistas over tiled rooftops, wooded hills, and distant sea. Walking these ancient paths provides a powerful sense of medieval defence and spectacular perspectives of the castle and town below. It’s a highlight for photographers and history enthusiasts.
- Guided historical and cultural tours in Gradara explore fortress walls, romantic legends, and hidden corners of the medieval town. Local guides share stories about noble families, battles, and the famous love story of Paolo and Francesca. Tours often include tastings of local wines, truffles, and Marche specialities. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the cultural richness and legendary atmosphere of this region.
Tours and Activities
Gradara Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Gradara Photo Gallery
Marche Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Marche
1. Urbino
2. Conero Peninsula
3. Ascoli Piceno
4. Fano
5. Gradara
6. Frasassi Caves
7. Senigallia
8. Corinaldo
9. San Benedetto del Tronto
10. Ripatransone
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Marche
1. Urbino
2. Conero Peninsula
3. Ascoli Piceno
4. Fano
5. Gradara
6. Frasassi Caves
7. Senigallia
8. Corinaldo
9. San Benedetto del Tronto
10. Ripatransone
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Marche
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Gradara
By Rail: The nearest train station to Gradara is in Cattolica–Gabicce, approximately 4 kilometres away. The station lies on the Adriatic line connecting Bologna with Lecce, operated by Trenitalia, with frequent regional and intercity services. Trains from Cattolica reach Rimini in about 15 minutes and Ancona in roughly 1 hour. Local buses and taxis provide regular connections between the station and Gradara.
By Road: Gradara is located in the province of Pesaro e Urbino, Marche, close to the Emilia-Romagna border and the Adriatic coast. From Pesaro, the drive is around 20 kilometres and takes about 25 minutes via the SS16 and SP39. From Rimini, it is approximately 25 kilometres and takes roughly 30 minutes by car. Parking is available near the castle and along the approach roads to the town.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Gradara is located in the province of Pesaro e Urbino, Marche, close to the Emilia-Romagna border and the Adriatic coast. From Pesaro, the drive is around 20 kilometres and takes about 25 minutes via the SS16 and SP39. From Rimini, it is approximately 25 kilometres and takes roughly 30 minutes by car. Parking is available near the castle and along the approach roads to the town.
Nearest International Airports:
- Federico Fellini International Airport (Rimini): Approximately 20 kilometres from Gradara, with a driving time of around 25 minutes via the SS16. It is the closest airport, offering domestic and European routes.
- Ancona Falconara Airport: Located about 75 kilometres south, taking roughly 1 hour by car via the A14 motorway. A convenient option for visitors arriving from central Italy.
- Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport: Around 140 kilometres north, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. Suitable for travellers seeking a wider range of international connections.
Private Transfers
Gradara Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a convenient and comfortable way to reach Gradara or continue your journey from the town to other destinations in the Marche region and along the Adriatic coast. You’ll be collected directly from your chosen location and driven by a professional local driver, ensuring a relaxed and straightforward journey without the need for car hire or public transport.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Ancona Falconara Airport, providing a reliable option for both arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Gradara typically takes around 1 hour by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Pesaro, Fano, and Gabicce Mare, or to nearby destinations such as Cattolica, Rimini, and Urbino.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Ancona Falconara Airport, providing a reliable option for both arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Gradara typically takes around 1 hour by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Pesaro, Fano, and Gabicce Mare, or to nearby destinations such as Cattolica, Rimini, and Urbino.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
