Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino with My Spouse

Echoes of the Past, Whispers of the Sea

Today was a delightful contrast of historical grandeur and coastal serenity. Urbino continues to surprise me with its diverse offerings. Aisha and I ventured out, eager to explore beyond the city walls, and we were not disappointed. It's amazing how much history and natural beauty can be packed into a single day.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Amici Miei Ristorante Pizzeria. The reviews I had read online raved about their innovative cuisine, and they were spot on. Aisha had a delightful gluten-free pasta dish [they have great options for gluten-free according to some reviews], while I opted for a traditional pizza. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.

Stepping Back in Time at Castello di Gradara

After breakfast, we set off to Castello di Gradara. The drive itself was picturesque, with rolling hills and vineyards dotting the landscape. As we approached Gradara, the castle loomed majestically in the distance, a testament to centuries of history. The castle dates back to the 11th and 15th centuries, and its history is intertwined with the feuds between the Malatesta and Montefeltro families.

Walking through the castle walls felt like stepping back in time. The architecture was stunning, and the views from the ramparts were breathtaking. Aisha was particularly fascinated by the love story of Paolo and Francesca, immortalized by Dante in his Divine Comedy. Legend has it that the castle was the scene of their tragic love affair. The castle is protected by two walls, with the outermost extending for almost 800 meters. I could only imagine what life was like during medieval times with constant wars and invasions. I learned that the original building is recognizable in the mighty Torre del Mastio (Tower of the Keep), which still stands today with its impressive size.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

We spent a couple of hours exploring every nook and cranny of the castle, soaking in the atmosphere and imagining the lives of those who once called it home. It was a truly immersive experience, and one that I will cherish for a long time.


Explore the breathtaking Castello di Gradara, a medieval castle steeped in history, stunning architecture, and enchanting views of the Italian landscape.

Coastal Relaxation at Baia di Vallugola

After our historical adventure, we decided to head to the coast for some relaxation. Baia di Vallugola, a hidden gem nestled between the promontories of Gabicce and Casteldimezzo, was the perfect escape. The bay is characterized by a pebble and sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and a small marina.

The drive to Vallugola was equally stunning, with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. As we descended towards the coast, the air grew warmer, and the scent of salt filled our nostrils. It was a welcome change from the historical atmosphere of Gradara.

We spent the afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and swimming in the refreshing sea. Aisha, ever the water enthusiast, enjoyed snorkeling and exploring the underwater world. I simply relaxed on the sand, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The beach wasn't overly crowded, which made for a peaceful experience. I read that the origin of the name of this locality is linked to various hypotheses, and I found the story of the lost city of Valbruna intriguing.

Before leaving, we took a stroll along the marina, admiring the boats and enjoying the lively atmosphere. We saw a few restaurants near the beach like Ristorante Falco Vallugola, Ristorante Posillipo, and Sottovento Osteria di Mare, but we decided to have dinner back in Urbino.


Explore the serene beauty of Baia di Vallugola, a hidden gem on Italy's Adriatic coast, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.

Evening Delights in Urbino

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Urbino, ready for an evening of culinary delights. For dinner, we chose Ristorante San Giovanni Urbino. The restaurant's menu featured traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist. I opted for the coda di rospo (monkfish), while Aisha chose the ravioli. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The prices seemed adequate and the atmosphere was pleasant.

After dinner, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. We strolled along Via Giuseppe Mazzini, browsing the shops and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town. Aisha found a beautiful scarf at Rosita's, a local boutique, while I picked up a few souvenirs for the kids. It's nice to know that Rosita's is open until 8 PM, which gave us plenty of time to shop.

To cap off the evening, we stopped by The Bosom Pub for a nightcap. The pub had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with the locals and sampling some of the local beers. It seems like a popular spot, and I even read about karaoke nights there. It was a perfect way to end a day of exploration and relaxation.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Urbino continues to surprise and delight me with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Tomorrow is our last day in Urbino, and we plan to visit the Urbino viewpoint and Porta Valbona. I'm looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery. I think we'll try Piadineria L'Aquilone for breakfast, Ristorante Pizzeria Ragno d'oro Urbino for lunch, and Il Clemente for dinner. Perhaps we'll also stop by Antonio for some shopping and Art Cafè Urbino for a drink. It's going to be a bittersweet day, as we prepare to bid farewell to this enchanting town. But I know that the memories we've made here will last a lifetime.

This trip has been a wonderful reminder of the importance of taking time to explore the world and connect with different cultures. As a software engineer, I spend most of my days staring at a computer screen. But these past few days in Urbino have allowed me to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the world around me. And I'm grateful for that.

Aisha has been an amazing travel companion, as always. Her enthusiasm and curiosity are infectious, and she always manages to find the best local experiences. I'm so glad that we were able to share this adventure together. I am also thinking of Tunde and Funke back in Ottawa, and I hope they are doing well. Perhaps next time, they will be able to join us on our travels.

As I prepare for our final day in Urbino, I'm filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. I know that tomorrow will be another day of discovery and adventure, and I can't wait to see what Urbino has in store for us. I'm also reminded of how important it is to cherish these moments and to live life to the fullest. After all, as they say, We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.