Things To Do
in Urbino
Urbino is a hilltop Renaissance city in Marche, Italy, renowned for its university and ornate Ducal Palace. It sits within the Montefeltro hills, offering sweeping views over the surrounding valleys. Its compact center preserves medieval lanes, palaces, and a human-scale pace that invites slow exploration.
The city is a living museum where art, history, and academia converge in a remarkably cohesive way.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Palazzo Ducale, where you can marvel at the intricate architecture and expansive art collection. Stroll through the charming streets of Urbino, filled with artisan shops and cafes, as you soak in the rich Renaissance atmosphere. Don’t forget to pause for a traditional Italian breakfast at a local pastry shop, enjoying a cornetto and cappuccino.
After lunch, head to the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche to experience some of the finest works of art from the Renaissance period. Explore the historic walls of the city and take in the breathtaking views from the fortress. As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot in one of the scenic plazas to unwind.
As night falls, indulge in a dinner at a local trattoria, sampling the regional specialties such as torta di patate or ‘crescia’. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, where you can enjoy the alluring ambiance of this historic town. Cap off your evening with a gelato from a popular local gelateria, savoring the delightful flavors under the twinkling stars.
Start the day with a refreshing hike in the nearby hills surrounding Urbino, where rolling landscapes and wildflowers captivate your senses. Stop by a local cafe for a delicious breakfast picnic to enjoy amid nature’s tranquility. Breathe the fresh air as you take in panoramic views of the picturesque countryside.
After your morning adventure, return to Urbino and visit the Orto Botanico dell'Università di Urbino to explore its diverse flora and peaceful gardens. Enjoy lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, where fresh, local ingredients are celebrated. Spend your afternoon savoring outdoor leisure activities or visiting artisan workshops.
As the sun sets, head to a vibrant piazza to experience the lively atmosphere of Urbino's evening social scene. Dine at a pizzeria where you can indulge in delicious wood-fired pizza with fresh toppings. Wind down the night with a drink at a local bar, mingling with friendly locals and soaking up the Italian nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏠Rent in city centre (1 BR) | $800-1200 |
| 💡Utilities (per month) | $120-200 |
| 🚌Public transport pass (monthly) | $30-45 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Renaissance architecture and a compact historic center
- Rich cultural heritage and a vibrant university town atmosphere
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Hilly terrain can be tiring for long walks or strollers
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning / Hello
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove si trova…?" - Where is…?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Urbino
Visit one of these nice places.
Frontage of palaces and the elegant urban rhythm of Urbino's heart.
Impressive Renaissance architecture with ornate façades and courtyards.
Birthplace of Raphael with historical interiors and street views.
Romanesque-Gothic facade and tranquil interior shots.
Panoramic scenes of the hilltop city and surrounding countryside.
Historic fortress with defense towers and city silhouettes.
Food in Urbino
Urbino Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stuffed pasta in capon broth or light ragù, a Marche specialty.
Must-Try!
A rich lasagna with béchamel, meat ragù, and mushrooms.
Bread-crumb and cheese noodles in clear broth, a comforting starter.
Cheese-stuffed flatbread baked in the hills; a popular regional snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market in Piazza della Repubblica with seasonal produce and local cheeses.
Seasonal farmers' markets offering olive oil, honey, and handmade pasta.
Simple panini, focaccia, and gelato from local stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera; politeness is valued in all interactions.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; silence in sacred spaces.
People may speak in a calm, measured tone; avoid loud conversations in narrow streets.
Safety
Tipping in Urbino
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included; leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted, but cards are now common in most restaurants, shops, and accommodations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming squares, ideal for walking and garden visits.
Warm days; expect heat in the afternoons; plan early morning or late evening sightseeing; some hillside trails can be sunny.
Cooler weather; harvest season with chestnut and mushroom options; vibrant fall colors in the hills.
Chilly but often clear days; fewer crowds; good for museum visits and cozy meals; occasional snowfall in the hills.
Urbino at Night
Hiking in Urbino
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking route with panoramic views over the Marche countryside.
Forest trails and castle overlook near Frontone.
Long scenic routes and canyon viewpoints near Genga.
Airports
How to reach Urbino by plane.
Closest major airport, about 1.5 to 2 hours by road or train to Urbino.
Coastal airport with frequent flights; drive or train to Urbino in about 2 hours.
Larger international hub; longer transfer to Urbino but possible by train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Home to the University of Urbino Carlo Bo, with a sizable student population contributing to a lively social scene.
Families and artisans sustaining traditional crafts and local markets.
Domestic and international travelers attracted by Renaissance architecture and hilltop views.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals and students; matches in regional leagues.
Local teams play in community facilities; rec leagues for visitors.
Hilly terrain and scenic routes attract road cyclists and enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Urbino.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pasta dishes can be prepared without meat; ask for ricotta-filled tortellini or crescenza cheese bread; vegetables and legumes are widely available.