Cities
RENAISSANCE, FOOD & WINE
Le Marche is home to stunning hilltop cities rich in history, culture, and gastronomy. From the Renaissance splendor of Macerata and Urbino, the Roman heritage of Fermo and Ancona, to the culinary delights of Ascoli Piceno and Jesi’s renowned Verdicchio wine, each city offers a unique blend of charm, breathtaking views, and authentic Italian experiences.
Fermo
Historic Charm on a Hill Near the Coast
Just a 35-minute drive away lies Fermo, the capital of the province of the same name. This beautifully walled city, perched atop a hill, blends centuries-old history with spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea.
Parking is easy at the entrance to the old town (note: parking meters), from where you can stroll through charming streets to reach the historic heart. A must-see is the impressive Roman Cisterns, a remarkable feat of ancient Roman engineering. Tickets can be purchased at the atmospheric central square, surrounded by cozy cafés and historic buildings.
Combine your visit to Fermo with a relaxing afternoon by the sea; the city is close to the beaches of Porto San Giorgio and Lido di Fermo, perfect for a refreshing swim or a scenic beach walk.
Macerata
Renaissance Splendor and Culture on a Hilltop
A 45-minute drive brings you to Macerata, the charming capital of the province of the same name. This walled city, built on a hill, exudes Renaissance elegance and offers a rich mix of history, culture, and vibrancy.
Parking is convenient along the city walls (note: parking meters), from where you can stroll into town. Macerata is a lively university city full of young people and is famous for its iconic Sferisterio—an impressive oval-shaped open-air theater that hosts a renowned opera festival every August. For more information and tickets, visit sferisterio.it.
Complete your visit with dinner at the atmospheric Osteria dei Fiori, located near the Sferisterio. Macerata also offers charming boutiques for shopping, a stunning astronomical clock on the central square, and a bustling market in the heart of the city on Wednesday mornings.
Macerata is the perfect blend of culture, gastronomy, and Italian charm—an experience you won’t want to miss!
LORETO
THE HOLY HOUSE OF MARY
A 1 hour drive brings you to Loreto, perched on a hill in Le Marche, is a hidden gem with stunning views of the Adriatic. Its majestic basilica, home to the legendary Holy House of Mary, draws pilgrims and history lovers alike.
Ancona
A Vibrant Capital on the Adriatic Coast
Ancona, the bustling capital of Le Marche, is just an hour and 15 minutes away. This Adriatic port city is not only a major gateway for ferries to Croatia and Greece but also a treasure trove of culture, history, and shopping.
In the historic upper part of the city, you’ll find impressive Roman ruins, a testament to Ancona’s rich past. Perched atop a hill is the stunning Cattedrale di San Ciriaco, an architectural marvel that also offers panoramic views of the city and sea.
Beyond its historical attractions, Ancona is also a shopper’s paradise, with a mix of boutiques and major brands lining its lively streets. Ancona blends historic charm with modern allure, making it a must-visit destination.
Ascoli Piceno
Historic Charm and Culinary Indulgence
An hour and 15 minutes away lies Ascoli Piceno, the stunning capital of its province. This city, steeped in history and elegance, is famous for its Olive Ascolane—stuffed and fried olives that you can enjoy as a delicious appetizer in restaurants or even buy on the street.
A must-do is an aperitif at the grand central square, Piazza del Popolo, at Caffè Meletti (www.caffemeletti.it). This iconic café, with its beautifully preserved interior, is the perfect place to enjoy a Caffè Corretto—an espresso with a splash of Anisetta liqueur, a local specialty and a delightful pick-me-up.
Ascoli Piceno offers a refined mix of gastronomy, historic architecture, and a lively atmosphere—a day trip filled with culture and indulgence you won’t soon forget!
Jesi
Historic Charm and the Wine Capital of Verdicchio
An hour and a half away, Jesi is a stunning walled town that proudly stretches across a hilltop. This medieval gem offers breathtaking views over the rolling countryside of Le Marche.
Jesi is best known as the epicenter of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, one of Italy’s most renowned white wines. Here, you can not only wander through charming streets and admire historic architecture but also savor a glass of this exquisite wine, ideally paired with local cuisine at one of the town’s cozy trattorias.
Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking to experience a town rich in history and character, Jesi promises an authentic and unforgettable visit.
Urbino
The Jewel of the Renaissance
A two-hour drive brings you to Urbino, a spectacular Renaissance city in the northern part of Le Marche. A cultural and historical gem, Urbino is a must-visit for lovers of art, history, and architecture.
The city’s crown jewel is the Palazzo Ducale, once the seat of the powerful Dukes of Urbino. This magnificent palace now houses the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, featuring masterpieces by Renaissance greats such as Piero della Francesca and Raphael, who was born in Urbino.
With its winding streets, charming squares, and breathtaking views over the surrounding hills, Urbino offers a unique blend of historical grandeur and lively ambiance—a truly unforgettable destination for a day of culture and beauty.
The mentioned travel times refer to the driving time from Casa Giulietta.













