Loreto
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Latest page update: 22 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Loreto
Loreto offers a good range of established hotels, reflecting its importance as a pilgrimage destination and its proximity to both Recanati and the Adriatic coast. Many of the best-rated properties combine convenient locations with comfortable facilities and reliable guest feedback.
San Francesco Hotel is a top choice, set close to the Basilica della Santa Casa and offering modern rooms, a panoramic terrace and professional service, earning consistently strong reviews (€€). Hotel San Gabriele provides comfortable accommodation within walking distance of the sanctuary, appreciated for its cleanliness, welcoming atmosphere and convenient parking (€€). For those seeking more amenities, La Vecchia Fattoria on the outskirts of Loreto offers hotel-style comfort in a rural setting, featuring a restaurant, pool and excellent value for money (€€€).
San Francesco Hotel is a top choice, set close to the Basilica della Santa Casa and offering modern rooms, a panoramic terrace and professional service, earning consistently strong reviews (€€). Hotel San Gabriele provides comfortable accommodation within walking distance of the sanctuary, appreciated for its cleanliness, welcoming atmosphere and convenient parking (€€). For those seeking more amenities, La Vecchia Fattoria on the outskirts of Loreto offers hotel-style comfort in a rural setting, featuring a restaurant, pool and excellent value for money (€€€).
Where is
Where is Loreto?
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The hill town of Loreto is situated in the Province of Ancona. It has a population of around 13,000 inhabitants and stands at an elevation of 127 metres above sea level.
Places of interest nearby include Recanati, Osimo, Montecassiano, Sirolo and Macerata, while the recommended accommodation for Loreto is the San Francesco Hotel. |
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Comune di Loreto
What People Ask About Loreto
Is Loreto worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Loreto?
How do I get to Loreto?
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Discover
Discover Loreto
Set on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Loreto is one of the most important pilgrimage towns in the Marche region. Its elevated position near the coast offers wide views across the surrounding countryside, where farmland and olive groves stretch towards the shoreline. The old town is compact and enclosed by Renaissance walls, with streets that converge on the central square, creating a setting that reflects both religious devotion and architectural grandeur.
At the heart of Loreto stands the Basilica della Santa Casa, one of Italy’s major sanctuaries, which houses the Holy House of Nazareth, said to have been brought here by angels in the 13th century. The basilica’s richly decorated interior and domed silhouette dominate the skyline, while the Palazzo Apostolico and the Museum of the Holy House display artworks by masters such as Lotto and Pomarancio. Located between Recanati and Castelfidardo, Loreto has for centuries drawn pilgrims from across Europe, combining artistic splendour with enduring spiritual significance.
At the heart of Loreto stands the Basilica della Santa Casa, one of Italy’s major sanctuaries, which houses the Holy House of Nazareth, said to have been brought here by angels in the 13th century. The basilica’s richly decorated interior and domed silhouette dominate the skyline, while the Palazzo Apostolico and the Museum of the Holy House display artworks by masters such as Lotto and Pomarancio. Located between Recanati and Castelfidardo, Loreto has for centuries drawn pilgrims from across Europe, combining artistic splendour with enduring spiritual significance.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Loreto
- Centro Storico di Loreto is a distinguished hill town where narrow streets curve among elegant houses, noble palaces, and terracotta rooftops. Brick façades, grand arcades, and spacious piazzas bring grace and solemnity to the traditional architecture. The town sits prominently on a ridge in the Marche region, overlooking the Adriatic Sea and gentle inland hills. Its atmosphere blends lively town life with deep religious significance and noble heritage.
- Basilica della Santa Casa stands as Loreto’s spiritual and architectural jewel, with a magnificent façade and an interior rich in marble, frescoes, and sculptural masterpieces. The basilica shelters the Holy House, believed to be the home of the Virgin Mary, drawing pilgrims from around the world. It remains central to religious devotion and artistic heritage. Visiting the basilica is an inspiring experience for art lovers and spiritual travellers alike.
- Piazza della Madonna serves as the heart of Loreto, edged with grand Renaissance buildings, elegant arcades, and bustling cafés. Pilgrims and visitors gather here to admire the basilica and enjoy the vibrant yet contemplative atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers views of ornate façades and the lively flow of people coming and going from the sanctuary. The square reflects the unique rhythm of spiritual devotion and town life.
- Palazzo Apostolico stands beside the basilica, an imposing Renaissance palace housing the Museo Pontificio Santa Casa. Its harmonious architecture and grand staircases echo the town’s religious and artistic prominence. Inside are paintings, sculptures, and precious objects linked to the basilica’s history. Touring the palace offers insights into Loreto’s cultural and spiritual legacy. It’s a highlight for history enthusiasts and art lovers.
- Guided religious and cultural tours in Loreto explore sacred spaces, Renaissance architecture, and scenic routes overlooking the sea and Marche countryside. Local guides share stories about miraculous legends, noble patrons, and the town’s vital role in Catholic pilgrimage. Tours often include tastings of local wines, olive oil, and Marche specialities. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the spiritual richness and cultural splendour of this remarkable town.
Tours and Activities
Loreto Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Loreto Photo Gallery
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9. San Benedetto del Tronto
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How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Loreto
By Rail: Loreto has its own train station on the Adriatic line between Ancona and Pescara, operated by Trenitalia. Regional trains connect Loreto with Ancona in around 20 minutes and with Pescara in approximately 2 hours. The station is located about 2 kilometres from the Basilica della Santa Casa and the historic centre, with local buses and taxis providing frequent transfers.
By Road: Loreto is located in the province of Ancona, Marche, a few kilometres inland from the Adriatic coast. From Ancona, the drive is about 25 kilometres and takes roughly 30 minutes via the SS16 Adriatica. From Bologna, it is around 215 kilometres and takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes via the A14 motorway. Parking is available close to the sanctuary area and at several points around the town.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Loreto is located in the province of Ancona, Marche, a few kilometres inland from the Adriatic coast. From Ancona, the drive is about 25 kilometres and takes roughly 30 minutes via the SS16 Adriatica. From Bologna, it is around 215 kilometres and takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes via the A14 motorway. Parking is available close to the sanctuary area and at several points around the town.
Nearest International Airports:
- Ancona Falconara Airport: Approximately 40 kilometres from Loreto, with a driving time of around 35 minutes via the SS16 Adriatica. It is the nearest airport, offering both domestic and limited international services.
- Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport: Located about 135 kilometres west, taking roughly 1 hour and 50 minutes by car via the SS76. A suitable alternative for travellers from central Italy.
- Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport: Around 230 kilometres north, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. A major airport providing a wide range of European and intercontinental connections.
Private Transfers
Loreto Private Transfers
A private transfer is a comfortable and convenient way to reach Loreto or continue your journey from the town to other destinations in the Marche region. You’ll be collected directly from your chosen location and driven by a professional local driver, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey without the need for public transport or car hire.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Ancona Falconara Airport, providing the most direct and efficient option for arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Loreto generally takes around 30 to 40 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Ancona, Osimo, and Macerata, or to nearby coastal resorts such as Numana, Sirolo, and Porto Recanati. Longer journeys to Perugia, Assisi, or Bologna can also be arranged on request.
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 the most direct and efficient option for arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Loreto generally takes around 30 to 40 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Ancona, Osimo, and Macerata, or to nearby coastal resorts such as Numana, Sirolo, and Porto Recanati. Longer journeys to Perugia, Assisi, or Bologna can also be arranged on request.
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.
