A Romantic Renaissance Getaway in Urbino

A Day of Discovery in Urbino

Today was a day for wandering and soaking in the beauty of Urbino, a city that continues to surprise and enchant me at every turn. Hans-Peter and I set out with no particular agenda, just a desire to see where the day would take us. It turned out to be a journey filled with breathtaking views, artistic discoveries, and, of course, delicious food.

Our morning began, as it often does, with a quest for the perfect coffee. We strolled to Bar Il Caffe' Degli Amici for breakfast. This charming spot, with its friendly atmosphere, was the ideal place to start our day. I savored a creamy cappuccino while Hans-Peter enjoyed a strong espresso, and we shared a couple of delightful pastries. It's these simple moments, watching the town slowly wake up, that I cherish the most.


Experience the heart of Urbino at Bar Il Caffe' Degli Amici, where exquisite coffee meets a charming atmosphere.
With caffeine levels suitably elevated, we decided to head towards the Punto Panoramico di Urbino. The walk itself was a treat, winding through the narrow, cobbled streets that are so characteristic of this Renaissance town. I always find myself stopping to admire the architecture, the way the light plays on the ancient stones, and the vibrant flowers spilling from window boxes. It’s a feast for the senses at every corner.


Experience stunning panoramic views of Urbino at Punto Panoramico, a must-visit attraction for breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable memories.
Reaching the Punto Panoramico, we were rewarded with a view that truly took our breath away. From this vantage point, Urbino unfolded before us in all its glory – the Ducal Palace standing proud, the terracotta rooftops cascading down the hillside, and the rolling countryside stretching out towards the horizon. It was a moment to simply stand in awe, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such beauty. Hans-Peter, ever the architect, was particularly captivated by the way the city blended seamlessly with the landscape. I made a mental note to find a good print of Urbino to hang in our Berlin flat; it would be a lovely reminder of this trip.

Sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones that aren't planned, the ones where you simply allow yourself to get lost and discover hidden treasures along the way.

After spending a good while at the viewpoint, we decided to seek out another of Urbino's hidden gems: the Presepe di Urbino. I had read about this nativity scene, created by Federico Brandani in the 16th century, and was intrigued to see it for myself. Tucked away in the Oratorio di San Giuseppe, the Presepe is a stunning work of art, featuring life-sized stucco figures depicting the birth of Christ.


Discover the enchanting Presepe di Urbino, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing exquisite nativity scenes in the heart of historic Urbino, Italy.
The atmosphere inside the Oratorio was hushed and reverent, adding to the sense of wonder. The craftsmanship of the figures was remarkable, each one imbued with a sense of realism and emotion. It felt like stepping back in time, witnessing a scene that has been celebrated for centuries. I was particularly struck by the detail in the faces of Mary and Joseph, their expressions conveying a mix of awe, tenderness, and quiet strength. It’s amazing to think this masterpiece has been in place for so long, continuing to inspire and move visitors from all over the world.

By this point, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we made our way to La Terrazza del Duca Urbino for lunch. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering a delightful terrace with views overlooking the Ducal Palace. We shared a delicious meal of handmade pasta with fresh seafood, accompanied by a crisp local white wine. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was relaxed and convivial. It was the perfect spot to soak in the ambiance of Urbino while enjoying some of the region's finest cuisine. I must admit, the cover charge seemed a bit much, but the food and service were worth it.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Terrazza del Duca Urbino - where delicious pizzas meet fresh seafood amidst stunning views.
In the late afternoon, feeling pleasantly full and content, we decided to explore some of the less-traveled streets of Urbino. We stumbled upon a charming little shop selling local crafts and souvenirs, where I picked up a hand-painted ceramic plate as a memento of our trip. It’s these small, unique finds that I love to bring back home, as they always evoke such vivid memories.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we found ourselves drawn to The Bosom Pub, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. Despite not being vegan, I had read about its commitment to sustainability and locally-sourced ingredients, which piqued my interest. We enjoyed a couple of Aperol spritzes while watching the locals gather for their evening drinks. The pub had a cozy, welcoming vibe, and it was fun to observe the interactions and conversations around us. Hans-Peter even struck up a conversation with a group of students from the local university, discussing everything from Italian politics to the best places to find gelato in town.


Experience the charm of Urbino at The Bosom Pub, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await travelers seeking relaxation and good company.
For dinner, we had made a reservation at Ristorante Nenè, a restaurant known for its traditional Urbino cuisine. Located a little outside the city center, the restaurant offered a peaceful setting and a menu filled with local specialties. We started with a selection of antipasti, featuring cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables, all bursting with flavor. For our main courses, I opted for the *crescia*, a type of flatbread filled with sausage and cheese, while Hans-Peter chose the *vincisgrassi*, a rich and hearty lasagna. Everything was cooked to perfection, and the portions were generous. We finished off the meal with a shared *tiramisu*, which was heavenly. It was a truly authentic dining experience, and we left feeling completely satisfied.


Discover Ristorante Nenè in Urbino for authentic Italian cuisine amid stunning Renaissance architecture.
As we walked back to Hotel Raffaello under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but reflect on what a wonderful day it had been. Urbino has a way of captivating you with its beauty, its history, and its charm. It's a city that invites you to slow down, to savor the moment, and to appreciate the simple things in life. I feel so fortunate to be able to share this experience with Hans-Peter, my partner in life and travel.


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 visit the Church of the Dead and Piazza Mercatale, which I am very excited about. I’ve heard wonderful things about both, and I’m eager to explore more of Urbino’s hidden corners. I am also hoping to get a few gifts at Maroccini - Articoli da Regalo & Liste Nozze.

Good night from Urbino! I can’t wait to tell you all about tomorrow’s adventures!