Mercatale Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the historic village in Marche
Table of Contents
Mercatale
|
Latest page update: 21 May 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
 Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Mercatale
Accommodation options in Mercatale are limited, with most properties consisting of small agriturismi and guesthouses. Travellers looking for established hotels with strong guest reviews and full facilities will find the best selection within the Province of Pesaro e Urbino, particularly in Urbino and Pesaro.
In Urbino, Hotel San Domenico offers a central position opposite the Ducal Palace, combining a restored convent setting with modern amenities and a reputation for attentive service (€€). Also in Urbino, Hotel Bonconte provides elegant accommodation in a historic villa overlooking the old town, praised for its comfort, quiet location and excellent breakfast (€€). For those preferring a coastal setting, Hotel Excelsior in Pesaro delivers a five-star experience with a spa, private beach and seafront restaurant, consistently earning high ratings for quality and service (€€€).
In Urbino, Hotel San Domenico offers a central position opposite the Ducal Palace, combining a restored convent setting with modern amenities and a reputation for attentive service (€€). Also in Urbino, Hotel Bonconte provides elegant accommodation in a historic villa overlooking the old town, praised for its comfort, quiet location and excellent breakfast (€€). For those preferring a coastal setting, Hotel Excelsior in Pesaro delivers a five-star experience with a spa, private beach and seafront restaurant, consistently earning high ratings for quality and service (€€€).
Where is
Where is Mercatale?
|
The village of Mercatale is situated within the Pesaro and Urbino Province. It belongs to the Comune of Sassocorvaro and stands at an elevation of 230 metres above sea level.
Places of interest nearby include Macerata Feltria, Urbino, Frontino and Monte Carpegna, while the recommended accommodation for Mercatale is the Albergo Italia hotel in Urbino. |
|
Mercatale - frazione di Sassocorvaro
|
Comune: Sassocorvaro
Province: Pesaro and Urbino Region: Marche Elevation: 230 metres Close by: Macerata Feltria, Urbino, Frontino, Monte Carpegna Recommended hotel: Albergo Italia (28 km) |
What People Ask About Mercatale
Is Mercatale worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Mercatale?
How do I get to Mercatale?
When is the best time to visit Mercatale?
What food is Mercatale known for?
Related links
Discover
Discover Mercatale
Nestled in a valley surrounded by the hills of the Montefeltro area, Mercatale is a small town in the northern Marche region, known for its peaceful rural setting and close ties to nearby Urbino. The settlement lies near the course of the Foglia River, in a landscape characterised by farmland, wooded slopes, and winding roads connecting the villages of the upper valley. Its location near the border with Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna has long made it a point of passage between regions.
The town developed as a market centre for the surrounding countryside, and traces of its historical layout remain visible in the central square and traditional stone buildings. The nearby Lake Mercatale, a reservoir framed by wooded hills, adds to the area’s natural appeal and provides space for walking and outdoor activities. Local churches and rural sanctuaries illustrate the town’s connection to the broader religious and artistic traditions of the Montefeltro. Positioned between Macerata Feltria and Sassocorvaro, Mercatale reflects the agricultural and historical character of the northern Marche uplands.
The town developed as a market centre for the surrounding countryside, and traces of its historical layout remain visible in the central square and traditional stone buildings. The nearby Lake Mercatale, a reservoir framed by wooded hills, adds to the area’s natural appeal and provides space for walking and outdoor activities. Local churches and rural sanctuaries illustrate the town’s connection to the broader religious and artistic traditions of the Montefeltro. Positioned between Macerata Feltria and Sassocorvaro, Mercatale reflects the agricultural and historical character of the northern Marche uplands.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Mercatale
- Centro Storico di Mercatale is a modest hill village where narrow stone streets wind among simple houses, small piazzas, and tiled rooftops. Brick and stone façades, arched passages, and intimate squares bring rustic warmth and historical simplicity to the traditional architecture. The village sits amid gentle hills in the northern Marche region, surrounded by farmland, woodlands, and distant mountain views. Its atmosphere blends peaceful rural life with quiet history and natural charm.
- Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Michele Arcangelo stands quietly in Mercatale, with a plain stone façade and a serene, softly lit interior. Inside are wooden altars, devotional paintings, and simple decorative details reflecting local faith across the centuries. The church remains central to village religious life and traditions. It’s a calm and inspiring place to visit while exploring Mercatale’s streets.
- Piazza di Mercatale serves as the social heart of the village, edged with stone buildings, small cafés, and inviting benches. Locals gather here for conversations, small markets, and local festivals. Outdoor seating offers views of rustic façades and the rolling countryside beyond. The square reflects the gentle, authentic rhythm of life in this Marche village.
- Antiche Mura di Mercatale are fragments of medieval walls that once formed the village’s defensive ring. Walking near these remains offers glimpses into the village’s strategic past and scenic views of the surrounding fields. They provide a simple yet fascinating highlight for visitors interested in local history and quiet panoramic spots.
- Guided historical and nature tours in Mercatale explore medieval alleys, small churches, and scenic trails weaving through nearby woodlands and farmland. Local guides share stories about ancient settlements, rural crafts, and local traditions. Tours often include tastings of local wines, honey, and Marche specialities. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the cultural richness and gentle landscapes of this region.
Tours and Activities
Mercatale Tours and Activities
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 Mercatale
By Rail: The nearest train station to Mercatale is in Pesaro, approximately 45 kilometres away. The station lies on the Adriatic line connecting Bologna and Lecce, operated by Trenitalia, with frequent regional and intercity services. Trains from Pesaro reach Rimini in about 35 minutes and Ancona in roughly 1 hour. Buses and taxis provide connections from Pesaro to the inland towns of the Montefeltro area, including Mercatale.
By Road: Mercatale is located in the province of Pesaro e Urbino, Marche, near the border with Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. From Pesaro, the drive is around 45 kilometres and takes about 1 hour via the SS423 and SP2. From Urbino, it is approximately 25 kilometres and takes roughly 30 minutes by car. Parking is available near the town centre and along the main approach roads.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Mercatale is located in the province of Pesaro e Urbino, Marche, near the border with Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. From Pesaro, the drive is around 45 kilometres and takes about 1 hour via the SS423 and SP2. From Urbino, it is approximately 25 kilometres and takes roughly 30 minutes by car. Parking is available near the town centre and along the main approach roads.
Nearest International Airports:
- Federico Fellini International Airport (Rimini): Approximately 55 kilometres from Mercatale, with a driving time of around 1 hour via the SS16 and SP2. It is the nearest airport, offering domestic and European routes.
- Ancona Falconara Airport: Located about 120 kilometres south, taking roughly 1 hour and 50 minutes by car via the SS73bis and SS76. A good option for travellers arriving from central Italy.
- Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport: Around 160 kilometres north, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. Suitable for visitors seeking long-haul and wider European connections.
Private Transfers
Mercatale Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and practical way to reach Mercatale or continue your journey from the town to other destinations in the Marche region and nearby areas of central Italy. You’ll be collected directly from your chosen location and driven by a professional local driver, ensuring a smooth journey without the need for car hire or public transport.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Ancona Falconara Airport, offering a convenient option for both arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Mercatale generally takes around 1 hour 20 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Urbino, Fermignano, and Cagli, or to nearby destinations such as Gubbio, Fano, and Pesaro.
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, offering a convenient option for both arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Mercatale generally takes around 1 hour 20 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Urbino, Fermignano, and Cagli, or to nearby destinations such as Gubbio, Fano, and Pesaro.
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.
