Marche​

Latest page update: 23 June 2025
By: Dion Protani

Where is

Where is Marche?
​The region of Marche is one of six regions in central Italy, situated north of Abruzzo and south of Emilia Romagna.

​To the east it occupies a long stretch of coastline on the Adriatic Sea while to the west it shares land borders with the regions of Umbria, Tuscany and Lazio.

​Sometimes referred to as "Le Marche" ("The Marches" in English), the region has a total population of around one and a half million, with just over 100,000 living in its capital city of Ancona. 
Regione Marche
​Regional capital: Ancona

Population: 1,484,427 (in 2024 - source)

Size: 9,366 km²

Provinces: 5

Highlights: ​Conero Peninsula, Urbino, Grottammare, Loreto

What People Ask About Marche

Is Marche worth visiting?
Yes—Marche is worth visiting for its varied landscapes, Adriatic beaches, hilltop towns, and cultural heritage. It’s a quieter alternative to more famous regions, offering a mix of coastline, countryside, and Renaissance art and architecture.
What are the main attractions in Marche?
Highlights include Urbino, the Frasassi Caves, Conero Riviera, Ascoli Piceno, and Loreto’s Sanctuary. The region is known for its blue flag beaches, medieval villages, hiking trails in Monti Sibillini, and vibrant local festivals.
How do I get to Marche?
Marche is accessible by train along the Adriatic line, with major stations in Ancona, Pesaro, and Civitanova Marche. The A14 motorway runs along the coast, and Ancona Airport offers domestic and limited international flights.
What is Marche known for?
Marche is known for its Renaissance art, hill towns, and pristine beaches. It’s also recognised for white wines like Verdicchio, local dishes such as vincisgrassi, and the preserved beauty of its mountain parks and coastline.
When is the best time to visit Marche?
The best times to visit are late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September), when the weather is ideal for both beaches and inland towns. Summer is lively along the coast, while winter is quieter with festive events in historic centres.
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Discover

Discover Marche
Exploring Marche's five provinces
As with all of the twenty regions of Italy, Marche is split into a series of provinces of which there are five in total. ​Across the five provinces of Pesaro & Urbino, Ancona, Ascoli Piceno, Fermo and ​Macerata, you'll find a diverse range of sights from endless sandy beaches to rolling hills of vineyards and rugged mountain areas. ​
The Riviera del Conero
​Along its coastline, Marche can boast lots of great seaside towns including the likes of San Benedetto del Tronto, Senigallia and Gabicce Mare, but for me the seaside highlight of the region is the Riviera del Conero.

Whereas most of Marche's coastline follows a long, unbroken stretch of beach, the Conero Peninsula offers something a little different. Here you'll find a group of towns and beach resorts such as Numana, Marcelli and Portonovo.

​The crown jewel here however is the town of Sirolo with numerous beaches including the famous Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle (The Beach of Two Sisters); arguably the most beautiful beach in the region and best reached by boat. 
Pictorial landscapes of Marche's interior
​Head inland of Marche's coastal areas and the landscape changes dramatically. The interior terrain is elevated and characterised by its seemingly endless undulating fields.

These agricultural areas of Marche are punctuated by large tracts of vineyards which provide some of the most memorable images of the region with something a little different in each season.

​In winter you'll find snow covering much of the ground, spring brings it blooming flowers and summer the parched golden fields. It is however during autumn that the vineyards come to life; the patchwork shades of green, brown and orange create an expansive canvas of which Cézanne would be proud. 
Renaissance and medieval towns
Among these rolling hills, the landscape is punctuated by medieval and Renaissance towns such as Urbino and Ascoli Piceno while smaller hill towns like Ripatransone, Corinaldo and Acquaviva-Picena are equally beguiling in their own ways.

​The religious hill town of Loreto close to the Conero Peninsula is not to be missed and neither is the town of Grottammare to its south which is a charming hill town and important summer seaside destination all rolled into one. Just to the north of Marche is the tiny republic of San Marino with its hilltop fortress while lovers of the medieval period will be charmed by the town of Gradara with its castle just a short distance away.
Marche's natural wonders
Away from the towns and cities, Marche offers some unique areas of natural beauty to discover. The area between Marche and neighbouring Umbria is occupied by the rugged landscapes of the Monti Sibillini National Park while smaller areas such as the Furlo Pass and Gola della Rosa e di Frasassi Park offer something quite different with valleys enclosed by rocks and given life by narrow waterways.

​The most famous natural site of Marche are the Frasassi Caves with their haunting displays of stalagmites and stalactites, while just a short distance away is the unusual and perhaps confusing sight of a churched placed into the mouth of a cave: the Santuario Madonna di Frasassi. 

Things to Do

Things to Do in Marche
  • Urbino and the Ducal Palace form one of Italy’s most important Renaissance centres, birthplace of the painter Raphael. The Palazzo Ducale houses the National Gallery of the Marche with works by Piero della Francesca and Raphael, while the surrounding old town includes churches, towers, and views over rolling hills.
  • Ascoli Piceno and Piazza del Popolo offer one of the most elegant squares in Italy, surrounded by arcades, travertine buildings, and cafés such as the historic Caffè Meletti. The town’s highlights include Roman ruins, medieval towers, and the Gothic Church of San Francesco at the square’s edge.
  • Loreto and the Basilica della Santa Casa are a major pilgrimage destination, believed to house the Virgin Mary’s Nazareth home. The basilica dominates the town skyline and includes artworks by Luca Signorelli and Lorenzo Lotto. Loreto also offers views across the Marche hills to the Adriatic Sea.
  • Frasassi Caves and the Temple of Valadier reveal one of Europe’s largest karst cave systems, with guided tours through chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Nearby, the Temple of Valadier is set in a cave mouth on a cliff above the Gorge of Frasassi and is reached by a walking path.
  • Ancona and the Cathedral of San Ciriaco stand on a headland above the Adriatic, with a port city that blends ancient and modern influences. The cathedral offers views across the sea, while the city includes Roman arches, museums, and the Passetto Monument overlooking a beachside promenade.
  • Macerata and the Sferisterio Arena combine a hilltop setting with cultural heritage. The neoclassical arena hosts the annual Macerata Opera Festival, and the town’s streets include churches, palazzi, and the 18th-century University of Macerata, one of the oldest in Italy.
  • Gradara and the Castle of Paolo and Francesca lie near the Romagna border, with a well-preserved medieval castle linked to the tragic lovers in Dante’s Inferno. The town is encircled by walls and towers, and the fortress interiors include frescoed halls and ramparts with countryside views.
  • Fermo and the Roman Cisterns sit inland from the Adriatic and preserve an extensive underground network of Roman water storage chambers. Above ground, Fermo features a Renaissance piazza, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and the 18th-century Teatro dell’Aquila.
  • Conero Riviera and Sirolo showcase white cliffs, pine-covered hills, and clear waters just south of Ancona. Sirolo is a small town with panoramic terraces, medieval alleys, and access to beaches such as San Michele and Due Sorelle, reachable by footpaths or boat.
  • Recanati and the Leopardi House are closely associated with the poet Giacomo Leopardi, whose childhood home is now a literary museum. The town’s hilltop position offers views across the Marche countryside, and sites such as the Torre del Passero Solitario and Church of Santa Maria di Montemorello are linked to his poetry.
Marche Tours and Activities

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Marche
  • Sina Centurion Palace (Located in Ancona, 1 km from the town centre.)
    Set along the Adriatic coast, this luxurious hotel offers a refined stay with stunning sea views. The hotel features elegant rooms, a wellness centre, and a restaurant serving regional cuisine. Guests appreciate the excellent service, the beautiful location, and the tranquil atmosphere. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Casale (Located in Urbino, 2 km from the town centre.)
    Set in the hills surrounding Urbino, this charming hotel offers a peaceful retreat with views of the Renaissance city. The hotel features spacious rooms, a wellness centre, and a restaurant offering local dishes. Guests enjoy the serene setting, the friendly service, and the proximity to historical sites. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Excelsior (Located in Pesaro, 0.5 km from the town centre.)
    Situated on the beachfront, this elegant hotel offers a relaxing stay with easy access to the Adriatic coast. The hotel features modern rooms, a private beach, and a restaurant with sea views. Guests appreciate the beautiful surroundings, the excellent amenities, and the convenient location. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end)
  • La Locanda del Duca (Located in Ascoli Piceno, 1 km from the town centre.)
    This boutique hotel offers a comfortable and intimate stay in the heart of Ascoli Piceno, set in a historic building. The hotel features well-decorated rooms, a bar, and a charming atmosphere. Guests enjoy the central location, the historical charm, and the personal service. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel Palazzo della Fonte (Located in Fiuggi, 4 km from the town centre.)
    Set in a restored palace, this five-star hotel offers a luxurious stay surrounded by lush gardens. The hotel features spacious rooms, a wellness centre, and a restaurant serving Italian cuisine. Guests appreciate the historical charm, the tranquil setting, and the high-quality service. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Villa Cattani Stuart (Located in Pesaro, 10 km from the town centre.)
    This elegant hotel is set in a historic villa surrounded by beautiful gardens. The hotel features stylish rooms, a spa, and a restaurant serving traditional Marche dishes. Guests enjoy the peaceful surroundings, the luxurious atmosphere, and the excellent facilities. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Fiera (Located in Ancona, 3 km from the town centre.)
    This modern hotel offers a comfortable stay with easy access to the city centre and the port. The hotel features contemporary rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests appreciate the friendly service, the convenient location, and the high-quality amenities. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel Raffaello (Located in Macerata, 1 km from the town centre.)
    This charming hotel offers a welcoming stay with easy access to Macerata’s cultural landmarks. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local dishes, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, the personal service, and the relaxed atmosphere. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
  • Meliá Milano (Located in Ancona, 0.8 km from the town centre.)
    Offering a luxury experience near the port and city centre, this hotel features spacious rooms, a spa, and an on-site restaurant. Guests rave about the stylish design, the modern amenities, and the excellent location. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Il Parco (Located in Portonovo, 2 km from the town centre.)
    Set in the natural beauty of the Conero Regional Park, this hotel offers a relaxing stay with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a private beach, and a restaurant offering regional cuisine. Guests enjoy the peaceful environment, the stunning views, and the excellent service. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)

What to Eat

What to Eat in Marche
  • Olive all’ascolana – Large green olives from Ascoli Piceno, stuffed with a spiced meat filling, breaded, and deep-fried until golden. Traditionally made for festivals and special occasions, they are now widely served as antipasti or aperitivo snacks throughout the region.
  • Vincisgrassi – A rich baked pasta dish similar to lasagne, layered with meat ragù, béchamel, and sometimes offal or mushrooms. This traditional Sunday meal is believed to date back to the 18th century and is especially popular in Macerata and the central Marche.
  • Brodetto di pesce – A fish stew made with a variety of Adriatic seafood, tomatoes, vinegar, garlic, and herbs, served with bread. The recipe differs between coastal towns—Ancona, Fano, and Porto Recanati each have their own distinct versions using local catch.
  • Crescia – A rustic flatbread made with flour, water, and lard or oil, cooked on a hot plate or in the oven, often served with cured meats or cheese. It varies by province, with a flaky, layered version in Urbino and a thicker, grilled version in Ancona.
  • Coniglio in porchetta – Rabbit cooked with fennel, garlic, rosemary, and white wine, echoing the flavours of traditional porchetta. This dish is a rural favourite, especially in inland villages, where wild herbs and white meat feature strongly in local cooking.
  • Polenta con le costarelle – A dish of soft polenta served with grilled pork ribs and tomato sauce, sometimes with sausages or vegetables. Eaten particularly in mountain areas during colder months, it is a filling and communal dish rooted in Marche’s peasant food culture.
  • Passatelli in brodo – Delicate pasta made with breadcrumbs, eggs, and grated cheese, pressed into short strands and cooked in meat broth. Originally from the Apennine areas of northern Marche, it is a comforting first course often prepared at home.
  • Ciauscolo – A soft, spreadable salami made with finely ground pork, garlic, and wine, lightly smoked and cured until creamy. Usually eaten on bread or crostini, it is typical of the central and southern Marche and enjoys protected IGP status.
  • Frustingo (or Fristingo) – A dense, dark fruitcake made with dried figs, nuts, cocoa, and spices, sweetened with cooked must or honey. Prepared mainly during the Christmas period, it has ancient roots and varies slightly between villages and family traditions.
  • Calcioni di ricotta – Sweet pastries filled with ricotta cheese, sugar, lemon zest, and sometimes cinnamon, then baked until golden. Found mainly in the inland areas, they are eaten during Easter and other festive times, sometimes dusted with icing sugar.

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How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Marche
By Rail: Marche is served by Trenitalia regional, Intercity, and high-speed trains, with major stations in Ancona, Pesaro, Civitanova Marche, and San Benedetto del Tronto. The Adriatic railway line runs along the coast, connecting the region with Bologna, Pescara, and Bari. Inland routes connect smaller towns like Macerata, Fabriano, and Ascoli Piceno. Journey times are around 2 hours from Bologna to Ancona and 1 hour from Pescara to Civitanova Marche.

By Road: Marche is accessible via the A14 motorway, which runs the length of the Adriatic coast, and via inland routes such as the SS76 (Ancona–Perugia) and SS77 (Civitanova–Foligno). The drive from Bologna to Ancona takes about 2 hours, from Rome to Ascoli Piceno around 2 hours and 45 minutes, and from Florence to Pesaro approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Public parking is available in coastal towns, city centres, and hilltop villages.

Nearest International Airports:

  • Ancona Airport (Aeroporto di Ancona-Falconara): Located about 18 kilometres west of Ancona, the drive takes around 20 minutes. The airport offers domestic and selected European flights.
  • Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi): Approximately 220 kilometres north of Ancona, reachable in about 2 hours and 30 minutes. It provides extensive international and national connections.
  • Rome Fiumicino Airport (Aeroporto di Roma Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci): About 300 kilometres south-west of Ancona, with a driving time of roughly 3 hours and 45 minutes.

Ferry Connections:
​
  • International ferry services operate from the port of Ancona, connecting Marche with Croatia, Greece, and Albania.
  • Routes include ferries to Split, Zadar, Igoumenitsa, Patras, and Durrës, served by operators such as SNAV, Minoan Lines, Jadrolinija, and Adria Ferries.
  • Crossings range from 8 to 22 hours depending on the destination, with higher frequency during summer.
  • The ferry terminal is located close to Ancona Centrale station and offers services for foot passengers and vehicles.
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

Ancona  Province

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The Lazzaretto, Ancona

Ascoli  Piceno  Province

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Ripatransone, Ascoli Piceno Province

Fermo  Province

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Porto San Giorgio, Fermo Province

Macerata  Province

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Treia, Macerata Province

Pesaro  and  Urbino

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Fossombrone, Pesaro and Urbino
Marche by Category
Beach Resorts of Marche
​Hill Towns of Marche
​Major Cities and Towns of Marche
Marche's Borghi Piu Belli d'Italia
​Natural Sights of Marche
Orange Flag Towns of Marche
​Parks of Marche
​Religious Sites of Marche
​Scenic Towns of Marche
Seaside Towns of Marche
​Things to see in Marche
​Top 10 Places to Visit in Marche
Marche Destinations A-Z
Abbadia Fiastra Nature Reserve 
Acqualagna 
Acquaviva Picena
Amandola
Ancona
Ascoli Piceno
Cagli
Camerano
Camerino
Castelfidardo
Cerreto d'Esi
Cingoli
Civitanova Marche
Conero Peninsula
Corinaldo
Cupra Marittima
Esanatoglia
Fabriano
Falconara Marittima
Fano
Fermo
Fossombrone
​Frasassi Caves
Frontino
Furlo Pass
Gabicce Mare
Genga
Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi Park
Gradara
Grottammare
Iesi
Lido San Tommaso
Lido di Fermo
Loreto
Macerata Feltria
Macerata
Marcelli
Marina Palmense
Mercatale Lake
Mercatale
Mercatello sul Metauro
Mezzavalle Beach
Mondavio
Mondolfo
Monte Grimano Terme
Monte San Bartolo Nature Park
Montecassiano
Montecosaro
Montefabbri
Montefiore dell'Aso
Montelupone
Monterubbiano
Moresco
Numana
Offagna
Offida
Osimo
Ostra
Parco Regionale di Sasso Simone
Pedaso
Pergola
Pesaro
Piazza del Plebiscito
Pievebovigliana
Porto Potenza Picena
Porto Recanati
Porto San Giorgio
Porto Sant'Elpidio
Portonovo 
Recanati
Ripatransone
San Benedetto del Tronto
San Ginesio
Sant'Angelo in Vado
Sarnano
Sassocorvaro
Sassoferrato
Senigallia
Serra San Quirico
Servigliano
Sirolo 
Tolentino
Torre di Palme 
Treia
Urbania
​​Urbino
Urbisaglia
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