Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino with Family

Day 1: Urbino's Renaissance Embrace

Our family's journey through Italy has officially begun, and what better place to start than Urbino, a city that breathes Renaissance history and artistic wonder? Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of this charming town, exploring its most iconic landmarks and savoring the local flavors. The warm June sun added an extra layer of magic to our explorations, making every corner of Urbino feel like a scene from a Renaissance painting.

Our day started with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Raffaello. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of local pastries filled the air as we settled into a cozy corner of the café. Lin was particularly excited about trying a *crescia*, a local flatbread, while Mei-Ling opted for a classic cappuccino. I enjoyed a strong espresso, reminiscing about the tea plantations back home in Taiwan and appreciating the different nuances of Italian coffee culture. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.


Discover the essence of Italian wine culture at Caffè Raffaello, a cozy wine bar in the heart of Urbino, offering exquisite wines and delightful local dishes.

Next on our itinerary was the magnificent Palazzo Ducale. As we approached the palace, its imposing façade and intricate details immediately captured our attention. The palace, once home to Federico da Montefeltro, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, and stepping inside felt like stepping back in time. We wandered through its grand halls and courtyards, marveling at the stunning artwork and the sheer scale of the building. Lin was fascinated by the *Flagellation of Christ* by Piero della Francesca, while Mei-Ling was captivated by Raphael's *Madonna of the Chair*. I found myself drawn to the palace's architecture, admiring the harmonious blend of form and function that epitomized the Renaissance spirit. The views from the palace windows were breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the rolling hills and picturesque landscape surrounding Urbino.


Explore the Renaissance grandeur of Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with art, history, and breathtaking architecture.

Urbino is not just a city; it's a living testament to the enduring power of art and culture, a place where the past and present intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.

After spending several hours exploring the Palazzo Ducale, we were ready for lunch. We chose Ristorante Antica Osteria Da La Stella, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Urbino cuisine. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made us feel right at home. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by handmade *cappelletti* in broth, a regional specialty. Lin devoured her *gnocchi* with duck ragu, while Mei-Ling savored a delicate veal carpaccio with mustard ice cream. I opted for the *costata di manzo*, a perfectly grilled rib-eye steak that was cooked to perfection. The meal was a true culinary delight, showcasing the region's rich gastronomic heritage. The quality of the food and service justified the slightly higher prices, making it a worthwhile experience.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Urbino at Ristorante Antica Osteria Da La Stella, where tradition meets culinary excellence.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to explore the Casa Natale di Raffaello, the birthplace of the legendary Renaissance painter. The house, now a museum, offered a glimpse into Raphael's early life and artistic development. We saw the room where he was born and the workshop where his father, Giovanni Santi, also a painter, taught him the fundamentals of art. It was inspiring to stand in the very place where one of the greatest artists of all time began his journey. Lin seemed particularly moved by the visit, expressing a newfound appreciation for Raphael's work.


Explore the birthplace of Raffaello Sanzio in Urbino, a captivating museum that celebrates the life and legacy of a Renaissance master.

Before dinner, we took some time to wander through the streets of Urbino, soaking in the atmosphere and browsing the local shops. We stumbled upon Ceramiche Artistiche Urbino, a ceramics shop that caught our eye with its vibrant displays of handcrafted pottery. We admired the intricate designs and the skill of the artisans, and Lin picked out a small hand-painted bowl as a souvenir. It was a lovely reminder of our time in Urbino, a tangible piece of the city's artistic heritage.


Explore the rich heritage of ceramics at Ceramiche Artistiche Urbino, where every piece tells a story of Italian artistry.

As evening approached, we made our way to Taverna degli Artisti for dinner. The restaurant's lively atmosphere and reputation for delicious pizzas drew us in. We shared a few different pizzas, each topped with fresh, local ingredients. Lin declared it the best pizza she had ever tasted, a testament to the restaurant's culinary prowess. Mei-Ling and I enjoyed the pasta dishes, savoring the rich flavors and the comforting warmth of the food. The service was excellent, and the staff made us feel like part of the family.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Taverna degli Artisti in Urbino – where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.

The weather in Urbino today was perfect for exploring. The temperature hovered around a comfortable 24 degrees Celsius, with clear skies and a gentle breeze. It was warm enough to enjoy the sunshine but not so hot as to be uncomfortable. We were grateful for the pleasant weather, which made our explorations all the more enjoyable.

As we walked back to Hotel Raffaello, we reflected on our first day in Urbino. It had been a day filled with art, history, and delicious food, a true immersion into the Renaissance spirit of this charming city. We felt grateful for the opportunity to experience this cultural gem as a family, creating memories that we would cherish for years to come.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Urbino's historical center, including the Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista. We're also looking forward to trying out La Casa Del Pane for breakfast, Osteria Km 0 for lunch and Ristorante Osteria L'Angolo Divino for dinner. And perhaps a relaxing evening at Art Café Urbino. I am curious to see what other treasures Urbino holds, and I'm excited to share our discoveries with you !

I almost forgot my sunglasses today, thankfully Mei-Ling reminded me. I also realized I left my portable charger back in Kelowna, a minor inconvenience, but something I'll need to replace soon.

Urbino is a city that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. It's a place where art, history, and culture come alive, offering a truly unforgettable experience. If you're looking for a destination that will inspire and enrich you, look no further than Urbino.