Pesaro
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The city of Pesaro (pronounced with the stress on the first syllable) is the capital city of the Province of Pesaro and Urbino with a population of 94,969 inhabitants.
Located on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, it lies 93 kilometres north west of Ancona, the regional capital of Marche. There are two quite different halves to the city; it's one of the most important seaside towns in the region with lots of hotels but it also has an historic centre with impressive monuments such as the Rocca Costanza castle and the Palazzo Ducale. |
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You can almost think of Pesaro as two towns in one; the long, straight beach is lined with dozens of bars and restaurants, a popular place for the evening passeggiata. A 10 minute walk inland from the beach gets you to Piazza del Popolo which is the centre of the city. Here you'll fine the aforementioned Palazzo Ducale as well as the majority of shops and places to eat.
Pesaro was the birthplace of Italian composer Giaochino Rossini (1792 - 1868) and there are various references to this around the city including his former house which is now a museum (Casa Rossini) and also the Rossini Opera Festival which takes place every August.
Pesaro was the birthplace of Italian composer Giaochino Rossini (1792 - 1868) and there are various references to this around the city including his former house which is now a museum (Casa Rossini) and also the Rossini Opera Festival which takes place every August.
Related links
Pesaro • Marche • Historic Coastal Town and Provincial Capital
Pesaro is a vibrant coastal town located in the province of Pesaro and Urbino, in the northern part of the Marche region, along the Adriatic Sea. Known for its beautiful beaches and pleasant climate, Pesaro is a popular destination for both beachgoers and cultural enthusiasts. The town is renowned for its rich history, dating back to Roman times, and its status as the birthplace of the famous composer Gioachino Rossini, which adds a cultural depth to its appeal.
The town's historic centre boasts a range of architectural styles, from Roman to Renaissance, with landmarks such as the Palazzo Ducale and the Rossini Theatre, where music and opera enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of performances. Pesaro’s seaside promenade offers stunning views of the Adriatic, while its parks and green spaces provide a relaxing environment for visitors. The town is also home to several museums, galleries, and art spaces, reflecting its artistic heritage.
Nearby, the seaside town of Fano is just to the south, offering a blend of Roman history, beaches, and a lively town centre. To the north, the town of Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its Renaissance architecture and is home to the Palazzo Ducale and the birthplace of Raphael. With its combination of coastal beauty, cultural landmarks, and proximity to other historical sites, Pesaro offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for visitors to the Marche region.
The town's historic centre boasts a range of architectural styles, from Roman to Renaissance, with landmarks such as the Palazzo Ducale and the Rossini Theatre, where music and opera enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of performances. Pesaro’s seaside promenade offers stunning views of the Adriatic, while its parks and green spaces provide a relaxing environment for visitors. The town is also home to several museums, galleries, and art spaces, reflecting its artistic heritage.
Nearby, the seaside town of Fano is just to the south, offering a blend of Roman history, beaches, and a lively town centre. To the north, the town of Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its Renaissance architecture and is home to the Palazzo Ducale and the birthplace of Raphael. With its combination of coastal beauty, cultural landmarks, and proximity to other historical sites, Pesaro offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for visitors to the Marche region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Ducal Palace: The town's most prominent attraction is the Ducal Palace (Palazzo Ducale), built in the 15th century by the Della Rovere family. It is an elegant Renaissance palace with stunning frescoes and artworks, including the "Madonna di Senigallia" by Raphael.
- Rossini's Birth House: Pesaro is the birthplace of the famous composer Gioachino Rossini. His birth house has been transformed into a museum that houses memorabilia and documents related to the composer's life and works.
- Piazza del Popolo: This lively square is the heart of Pesaro and is surrounded by charming cafes, shops, and historic buildings. It is a great place to experience the town's vibrant atmosphere.
- Pesaro Beaches: The town's coastline offers beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters, making it a popular destination for sunbathing and water sports. The Lungomare (seafront promenade) is perfect for strolling and enjoying the sea views.
- Teatro Rossini: This historic theater is dedicated to the composer Rossini and hosts concerts, operas, and cultural events.
- Museo Diocesano: The Diocesan Museum houses an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts from different periods.
- Festa Rossini: Each August, Pesaro hosts the Rossini Opera Festival, celebrating the works of Gioachino Rossini. This festival attracts music enthusiasts from all over the world.
- Local Cuisine: Pesaro offers a delectable array of traditional Marche cuisine, including seafood dishes, olives, and wines.
- Natural Beauty: The surrounding Marche region offers beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, and nature reserves for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
Comune di Pesaro
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Province: capital of Pesaro and Urbino
Region: Marche Population: 95,580 (in 2024 - source) Size: 127 km² Highlights: beach, Rocca Costanza (castle), Palazzo Ducale Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025 Close by: Fano, Monte San Bartolo Nature Park, Gradara |
My recommended accommodation options for Pesaro:
- Hotel Excelsior This 5-star hotel is situated along Pesaro's seafront, offering luxurious rooms with modern decor and private balconies overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Guests appreciate the on-site spa, indoor pool, and gourmet restaurant. The hotel's central location provides easy access to the historic city centre and local attractions. €€€ (high-end)
- Villa Cattani Stuart XVII secolo Located approximately 6 kilometres from Pesaro's centre, this historic villa offers elegant rooms surrounded by Italian gardens. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting, outdoor swimming pool, and proximity to the Adriatic coast. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Alexander Museum Palace This unique hotel, designed by renowned architects, is located directly on the seafront. Each room is individually decorated with contemporary art, and guests can enjoy the infinity pool and on-site Michelin-recognised restaurant. The hotel is also a short distance from Pesaro's city centre. €€€ (high-end)
- Grand Hotel Vittoria Set in a Belle Époque villa overlooking the Adriatic Sea, this hotel offers rooms with classic decor and modern amenities. Guests appreciate the manicured gardens, outdoor pool, and proximity to Pesaro's historic sites, including the birthplace of composer Gioachino Rossini. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Clipper Located just 70 metres from the beach, this family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms with balconies. Guests value the friendly service, on-site restaurant serving local cuisine, and the short walk to Pesaro's main shopping streets and cultural attractions. €€ (mid-range)
Pesaro Gallery
Pesaro Travel
Transport facilities in Pesaro include its train station, (10 minute walk from Piazza del Popolo) which forms part of the Bologna to Ancona railway line. You can reach Ancona in 43 minutes without having to change train, stopping along the way at the seaside towns of Fano and Senigallia. Pesaro is also an important hub for the local buses with the town of Urbino being a favourite destination, 37 kilometres away and a bus ride of around an hour.
The most convenient airport for Pesaro is Marche Airport which is situated close to Ancona. By car it takes around 45 minutes with a distance of roughly 65 kilometres depending on which route you take.
The most convenient airport for Pesaro is Marche Airport which is situated close to Ancona. By car it takes around 45 minutes with a distance of roughly 65 kilometres depending on which route you take.
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Public transport: train station 750 metres from centre, local buses
By train: Fano - 7 mins, Senigallia - 21 mins, Ancona - 43 mins |
By car: Urbino- 39 mins (37 km), Ancona - 1 hour 2 mins (94 km)
Fly to: Marche Airport - 47 minutes by car (68 km) |
