A Romantic Renaissance Getaway in Urbino

Urbino's Embrace: A Day of Simple Pleasures

Today in Urbino was a delightful mix of historical exploration and simple, everyday pleasures. It’s funny how sometimes the most memorable moments aren't the grand sights, but the little discoveries and quiet moments in between. Hans-Peter and I set out without a rigid plan, ready to let the city guide us, and Urbino certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with a leisurely breakfast at Cafe’ Trentatre’. It's a charming spot, and we secured a table outside to enjoy the morning air. The cafe was bustling, filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day. I opted for a simple cappuccino and a pastry, while Hans-Peter, ever the traditionalist, chose an espresso and a croissant. There’s something about Italian coffee that just sets the tone for the day, a rich, robust flavor that seems to capture the essence of the country itself. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel like regulars even on our first visit. It was the perfect way to ease into our Urbino explorations.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Cafe’ Trentatre’, a must-visit bar in the heart of Urbino, Italy.
After breakfast, we strolled towards Piazza della Repubblica. This central square is the heart of Urbino, a gathering place where the pulse of the city is palpable. Today, the piazza was particularly lively. As it happens, the Career Day Uniurb - Spring Edition 2025 was taking place. Students were milling about, dressed smartly and eager to network with potential employers. It was lovely to see such youthful energy buzzing in this historic setting. Hans-Peter, ever the people-watcher, was thoroughly entertained by the scene, while I enjoyed observing the architecture surrounding the square. The buildings here are a testament to Urbino's rich history, each with its own story to tell. The atmosphere was vibrant, with snippets of conversations in Italian mixing with the excited chatter of the students. We paused for a while, simply soaking it all in, before deciding to move on.


Explore the bustling charm of Piazza della Repubblica, the vibrant heart of Urbino, where history meets modern-day Italian culture.

Sometimes, the most profound discoveries are made not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of everyday life.

Next on our list was Casa dei Barocci. I must admit, I was particularly excited about this visit. As someone who appreciates art and history, I was eager to learn more about the Barocci family and their contributions to Urbino's cultural heritage. Unfortunately, when we arrived, we discovered that the Casa dei Barocci was not the ancestral home of the famous painter Federico Barocci as I had initially thought, but rather a building named in honor of the family. It was a bit of a letdown, but we decided to make the most of it and explore the area. The building itself was beautiful, showcasing the architectural style of the region. We took some photos and admired the craftsmanship before moving on.


Discover the artistic legacy of Federico Barocci at Casa dei Barocci, a Renaissance gem in the heart of Urbino.
For lunch, we chose Posta Vecchia, a restaurant recommended by several locals. It was a delightful experience from start to finish. The restaurant has a charming ambiance, with rustic décor and a cozy atmosphere. We were seated at a table near the window, which offered a lovely view of the street outside. Hans-Peter ordered the pasta with truffles, while I opted for the seafood risotto. Both dishes were exquisite, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The service was attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home. We lingered over our meal, savoring each bite and enjoying the relaxed pace of Italian dining. It was the perfect midday treat.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Posta Vecchia in Urbino – a culinary gem perfect for every food lover.
After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. We stumbled upon Old Garage Vintage, a quirky little shop that caught my eye. I’ve always loved vintage clothing and unique finds, and this place was a treasure trove. The shop was filled with racks of clothing, accessories, and curiosities from decades past. I spent ages browsing through the collection, trying on different items and imagining the stories behind them. Hans-Peter, though not as enthusiastic about vintage fashion as I am, patiently waited for me, occasionally offering his opinion on my choices. I ended up buying a beautiful silk scarf and a vintage brooch, both of which I know I’ll cherish for years to come. It was a fun and spontaneous detour that added a touch of whimsy to our day.


Explore Old Garage Vintage in Urbino for a unique selection of retro and contemporary fashion that embodies local style and creativity.
As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back towards the hotel, stopping along the way to admire the views and soak in the atmosphere. Urbino is a city that rewards slow exploration, with hidden gems waiting to be discovered around every corner. We paused to watch a street performer playing the accordion, his music filling the air with a sense of joy and nostalgia. We also stopped at a local gelateria for a scoop of gelato, a perfect way to cool down on a warm day.

For dinner, we had reservations at Ristorante Vecchia Urbino. This restaurant is known for its traditional cuisine and cozy atmosphere, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by homemade pasta dishes. Hans-Peter chose the wild boar ragu, while I opted for the pumpkin ravioli. Both were delicious, showcasing the flavors of the region. The restaurant itself is steeped in history, and the building dates back centuries. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls and candlelight creating a romantic atmosphere. The service was impeccable, and we felt like we were dining in someone’s home. It was the perfect way to end our day in Urbino.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Vecchia Urbino in the heart of Italy's historic city, where tradition meets flavor.
As we walked back to Hotel Raffaello, hand in hand, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Urbino had charmed us with its beauty, its history, and its simple pleasures. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Chiesa di San Bernardino and Fortezza Albornoz. I am looking forward to more adventures in this enchanting city. And perhaps, after a day of exploration, we’ll treat ourselves to a drink at Art Café Urbino.


Discover the charm of Urbino at Hotel Raffaello, where comfort meets convenience in a centrally located haven for travelers and tourists.
“Travel is not about escaping life, but for life not to escape us.” It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply with me, and one that I try to live by every day. Urbino has been a reminder of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the moment, and finding joy in the simple things. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I can’t help but smile, knowing that tomorrow will bring even more adventures in this beautiful corner of Italy.