Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino with Family

Urbino's Heights and Hidden Gems

Today was a day of exploration and immersion in the heart of Urbino. Mei-Ling, Lin, and I set out to discover the city's scenic viewpoints, indulge in local cuisine, and explore unique shops. It was a day filled with breathtaking vistas, delightful flavors, and the simple joys of family travel.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Caffe Centrale Urbino. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of locals chatting animatedly filled the air. I ordered a cappuccino and a pastry, while Mei-Ling and Lin opted for some fresh fruit and juice. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere made it a perfect start to our day. I am always reminded of the importance of a good start to the day, especially when travelling. It sets the tone for everything else that follows.

After breakfast, we made our way to Parco della Resistenza. The walk was a bit of a climb, but the promise of panoramic views kept us motivated. As we ascended, the charming streets of Urbino unfolded beneath us, revealing the city's terracotta rooftops and historic architecture. Lin was particularly excited, pointing out the various landmarks we had already visited. It reminded me of our hikes in Kelowna, although the landscape here is steeped in centuries of history.

Reaching the Parco della Resistenza, we were greeted by an awe-inspiring vista. The rolling hills of the Marche region stretched out before us, dotted with quaint villages and lush greenery. The Urbino viewpoint offered an unparalleled perspective of the city, allowing us to appreciate its beauty in its entirety. I took several photos, trying to capture the essence of this breathtaking scene. Lin, ever the curious one, ran around exploring the park, while Mei-Ling and I simply stood in awe, soaking in the beauty.


Discover the stunning Urbino Viewpoint, where breathtaking landscapes meet Renaissance architecture in a serene and picturesque setting.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are not planned, but stumbled upon during a leisurely exploration.

Within the Parco della Resistenza stands the Fortezza Albornoz, an ancient fortress dating back to the 14th century. Although we didn't go inside the museum today, the fortress itself added to the charm of the park. The views from the fortress walls were even more spectacular, providing a unique vantage point of Urbino and the surrounding landscape. I made a mental note to visit the museum on a future trip, perhaps when I have more time to delve into the history of the region.

For lunch, we ventured to Osteria Gula - Urbino. This cozy osteria is known for its traditional Marchigiana cuisine and warm ambiance. We were greeted by the friendly staff and seated at a rustic wooden table. I decided to try the *crescia*, a local flatbread, while Mei-Ling opted for a pasta dish with truffles. Lin, of course, chose her favorite – spaghetti with tomato sauce. The food was simple, yet incredibly flavorful, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients. The aroma of truffles filled the air, reminding me of the rich culinary traditions of this region. Mei-Ling was in heaven. I am always amazed by how food can transport you to a different place and time.

After lunch, we strolled through the streets of Urbino, eventually finding ourselves at Emporio Gamba. This charming shop is a treasure trove of local products and souvenirs. I was immediately drawn to the display of handcrafted ceramics, each piece a unique work of art. Mei-Ling browsed the selection of artisanal soaps and perfumes, while Lin was captivated by the colorful toys and trinkets. I ended up buying a beautiful ceramic bowl, a reminder of our time in Urbino. It's these little mementos that I cherish the most, as they bring back memories of our travels long after we've returned home.

As the afternoon waned, we made our way back to Hotel Raffaello, taking a different route to further explore the city. We passed by quaint shops, historic churches, and charming piazzas, each corner revealing a new facet of Urbino's character. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this opportunity to experience such a unique and culturally rich destination with my family.


Discover the charm of Urbino at Hotel Raffaello, where comfort meets convenience in a centrally located haven for travelers and tourists.

For dinner, we decided to try Ristorante Pizzeria Ragno d'oro Urbino. This restaurant is known for its delicious pizza and traditional Italian dishes. We sat outside on the terrace, enjoying the pleasant evening air and the lively atmosphere. I ordered a pizza with local cheese and prosciutto, while Mei-Ling chose a seafood pasta dish. Lin, as always, stuck with her favorite – margherita pizza. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration and indulgence.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the National Gallery of the Marche - Ducal Palace of Urbino and Republic Square. I'm particularly excited to see the art collection at the Ducal Palace, as I've heard it's one of the finest in Italy. Lin is looking forward to exploring the Republic Square and perhaps finding a gelato shop. And maybe I will try to find some gourment coffee, as I've got a craving for a good cup.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with a sense of contentment and gratitude. Urbino has captured my heart with its beauty, charm, and rich cultural heritage. It's a city that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the simple joys of life. And as we continue our journey through Italy, I know that Urbino will always hold a special place in our memories.

I am also reminded that I forgot to pack my sunglasses. It is summer, after all, and the sun can be quite strong. I will have to make a point of buying a pair tomorrow. And perhaps a portable charger as well, as my phone battery is constantly running low from taking so many photos.

I am glad that I am sharing these experiences with my family. It makes the trip all the more meaningful.