The Marche boasts a varied landscape where the turquoise Adriatic Sea meets the peaks of the Apennines. This combination of mountains and sea creates a unique environment that will enchant both beach lovers and adventurous travellers who love to explore nature.
Seashore and beaches
Along the Marche coast you will find traditional fishing villages and modern resorts. The beaches here are both sandy and pebbly, but always clean and well maintained. The resort of Senigallia is one of the pearls of the region, famous for its "Velvet Beach" (Spiaggia di Velluto), which has rightly earned a blue flag for cleanliness. The beach is also home to the iconic La Rotonda a Mare, an elegant circular structure located on a jetty jutting out into the sea, has in the past served as a venue for entertainment, social events and dance nights. Built in 1933, it has since become a symbol of Senigallia and its beaches. After its renovation, La Rotonda a Mare serves as a cultural centre where exhibitions, concerts, festivals and various social events are held.
Another gem is Conero, a natural park that surrounds dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches with clear water. For nature and sports lovers alike, Conero is the perfect place to go walking or diving.
Historic towns full of art
If you're drawn to history and culture, the Marche will delight you. Historic towns like Urbino are prime examples of Renaissance art and architecture. Urbino, the birthplace of the famous painter Raffaello, is also one of Italy's UNESCO-listed cities. Its Palazzo Ducale is an incredible example of the Italian Renaissance, not to be missed on any visitor's bucket list.
Another fascinating town is Ascoli Piceno, famous for its Piazza del Popolo, one of the most beautiful in all of Italy. Ascoli is also home to the famous local speciality, the fried olive Olive all'ascolana, which is a must-try.
Natural beauty and adventure
The Marche also offers many natural wonders. The Grotte di Frasassi, one of the largest and most beautiful karst caves in Europe, will amaze you with its vastness and magnificent stalactite formations. An unforgettable experience for adventurers and families.
For those who enjoy hiking or cycling, the region is full of trails leading through green hills, villages with stone houses and vineyards. The Apennines that line the Marche region are ideal for excursions, for example in the Monti Sibillini area, where you can discover unique flora and fauna, as well as the fascinating legends of the Oracle Sibylle.
A gastronomic paradise
The Marche is also a paradise for lovers of good food. The local cuisine is based on fresh ingredients that are typical of the region, from seafood to wild game dishes. Don't forget to try the Vincisgrassi, the typical lasagne of the Marche, rich in sauce and meat. In terms of wine, the Marche is home to the Verdicchio variety, a white wine that goes well with local fish specialities.
Why visit the Marche?
The Marche offers the best of Italy without the crowds of tourists that often flood more popular regions. The tranquil atmosphere, natural beauty, history and gastronomy make it the perfect destination for those looking for an authentic experience. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, hike in the mountains, explore historical sites or indulge in exceptional Italian cuisine, the Marche has it all.
If you are looking for an area in Italy that is still untouched by mass tourism, where you can enjoy peace and quiet, Marche is the place to be.
