Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino with Family

Urbino's Green Heart and Sacred Spaces

Today, Urbino unveiled its quieter treasures, offering moments of reflection and natural beauty away from the bustling city center. It was a day of gentle exploration, perfect for the family, as we delved into the serene embrace of the Botanical Garden of the University. These experiences reminded me of the simple joys and profound connections that travel can bring, a sentiment I always cherish sharing with Mei-Ling and Lin.


Explore the tranquility of the Botanical Garden of the University in Urbino, a haven for plant lovers and a serene escape in the heart of Italy.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Centrale Urbino. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of Lin enjoying her pastry set the tone for a relaxed and pleasant day. It’s these small, shared moments that I find so precious when traveling with family. Fuelled and ready, we set off to explore the Botanical Garden of the University, a place I was particularly excited about given my background in agricultural science. The garden, also known as the Orto Botanico Pierina Scaramella, is a short walk from our hotel, and the morning air was crisp and inviting.

As we entered the Botanical Garden, I was immediately struck by its tranquil atmosphere. Established in 1806, the garden is divided into three inclined terraces along the hillside where Urbino stands. The layout was thoughtfully designed, creating a sense of discovery as we moved from one section to another. Lin was particularly fascinated by the small tank in the first terrace, which featured aquatic species like the Nymphaea alba L. and Menta aquatica L.. I appreciated the Hortus simplicium, an area dedicated to medicinal plants arranged in flowerbeds bordered by boxwood. Each plant was meticulously labeled, and I found myself explaining their properties and uses to Mei-Ling and Lin. It was a wonderful opportunity to share my knowledge of agriculture and botany with my family, bridging my professional life with our travel experiences.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

Wandering through the garden, we admired the diverse collection of trees, including the Ginkgo biloba L. and Cedrus deodara. The garden, though not vast at 2,200 square meters, felt like a world of its own, a microcosm of global flora. The greenhouse, built in 1813, housed plants that couldn't withstand the winter cold, adding another layer of interest to our visit. I was impressed by the garden's commitment to botanical education and conservation, a mission that resonates deeply with my own values of sustainable living. Lin enjoyed spotting colorful butterflies flitting among the flowers, while Mei-Ling appreciated the peaceful ambiance, a welcome respite from the busier tourist spots. The entrance fee was only 1 euro, making it an affordable and enriching experience for the whole family.

After immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the Botanical Garden, we walked towards the heart of Urbino to visit the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta. As we approached the cathedral, its imposing façade, constructed from Furlo stone, commanded our attention. The statues of the theological virtues—Faith, Hope, and Charity—adorning the frontispiece, added a sense of grandeur and spiritual significance. The cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, has a history dating back to the early medieval period, though it was rebuilt in the 15th century and later renovated in the neoclassical style by Giuseppe Valadier after earthquake damage.


Discover the exquisite beauty and rich history of the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Urbino, a must-visit destination for culture and architecture lovers.

Inside, the cathedral was a study in neoclassical elegance. The refined interior, with its white nave covered by a barrel vault and crowned by a majestic coffered dome, evoked a sense of awe and reverence. We walked through the three naves, admiring the altars and the artwork they housed. The weight of history was palpable, a testament to the enduring power of faith and art. We saw the painting of San Carlo Borromeo kneeling before the Virgin and Child by Claudio Ridolfi and the Annunciation by Raffaello Motta da Reggio. It was interesting to see how different artists interpreted religious themes, each adding their unique perspective and style. Although I am not a religious person myself, I could feel the weight of history within those walls.

Leaving the cathedral, we were ready for lunch. We chose Ristorante Vecchia Urbino, known for its traditional cuisine. The restaurant was cozy, and the aroma of Italian herbs and spices filled the air. We ordered a selection of local specialties, including handmade pasta and grilled vegetables. The meal was hearty and satisfying, providing a taste of the region's culinary heritage. Lin especially enjoyed the pasta, while Mei-Ling appreciated the fresh, flavorful vegetables. I savored a glass of local wine, reflecting on the day's experiences.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Vecchia Urbino in the heart of Italy's historic city, where tradition meets flavor.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip, we decided to explore Urbino's local scene. We ventured into The Bosom Pub, a quirky spot I had read about, drawn in by its intriguing name. Despite the name suggesting something mischievous, it turned out to be a charming place. Located on a narrow street high in Urbino, it offered a relaxed atmosphere. We enjoyed a rich aperitivo, a delightful assortment of snacks that were substantial enough to be a meal. Lin enjoyed her juice, while Mei-Ling and I sampled some local beer. It was a fun, casual way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, and a reminder that travel is also about embracing the unexpected and enjoying the simple pleasures.


Experience the charm of Urbino at The Bosom Pub, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await travelers seeking relaxation and good company.

As the evening drew to a close, we made our way to La Balestra antica hostaria for dinner. This restaurant, nestled in a splendid Renaissance palace in the historic center of Urbino, exuded an atmosphere of old-world charm. The interior, adorned with antique weapons and ceramics, transported us back in time. We savored dishes rooted in the region's culinary traditions, from game-based medieval recipes to truffle-infused delicacies. The restaurant's commitment to using organic vegetables from their family farm was evident in the freshness and flavor of each dish. I particularly enjoyed the pizza, cooked in a wood-fired oven, while Mei-Ling appreciated the extensive wine list featuring regional labels. It was a fitting end to a day that had been a journey through Urbino's cultural and natural landscape.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at La Balestra Antica Hostaria in Urbino - where tradition meets flavor.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo and the Chiesa di San Bernardino, venturing a bit further from the city center to embrace more of the region's natural and architectural wonders. I'm particularly looking forward to the park, and I hope we will have better luck with the weather than we did in the Botanical Garden. Before that, we will have breakfast at Piadineria L'Aquilone, and for dinner we are booked at La Terrazza del Duca Urbino. We also plan to visit Old Garage Vintage, a shop that I am sure Lin will enjoy. Each day here unfolds with new discoveries and cherished moments, deepening our connection to this enchanting corner of Italy.

Reflecting on today, I am reminded of the importance of balance in travel. Amidst the grand palaces and historical landmarks, it is the quiet moments of reflection in a botanical garden or a serene cathedral that truly resonate. These experiences, shared with family, create memories that last a lifetime. As we continue our journey through Urbino, I am grateful for the opportunity to explore, learn, and connect with the world around us, one day at a time.