Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino with Friends

A Renaissance Beginning

After a long journey from Edmonton, with a stopover in Rome and a train ride, I finally arrived in Urbino with my friends. The anticipation had been building for months, and I couldn't wait to immerse myself in the heart of the Renaissance. Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage site, promised a journey back in time, and it certainly delivered on that promise from the very first moment.

The September air was crisp and carried a hint of rain, a refreshing change from the summer heat back home. The temperature was pleasant, around 24°C, perfect for exploring the city on foot. My friends and I checked into our guesthouse, a charming little place with exposed wooden beams and terracotta floors, before setting out to explore the Historic Centre. Our first stop was Caffe Centrale Urbino for a quick breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries filled the air. I ordered a cappuccino and a cornetto, a traditional Italian croissant. The coffee was strong and flavorful, and the pastry was light and flaky, providing the perfect start to our day. While the caffe was quite busy, we managed to find a table and soaked in the atmosphere, feeling the energy of the city awakening around us.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Caffe Centrale Urbino in Piazza della Repubblica - where every meal tells a story.

From there, we wandered through the narrow, winding streets of the Historic Centre, a maze of cobblestone paths and sandstone buildings. The architecture was breathtaking, a seamless blend of medieval and Renaissance styles. Every corner seemed to reveal a new architectural marvel, a hidden courtyard, or a picturesque view. The city felt like a living museum, each stone whispering stories of the past.

Urbino is a place where the past feels incredibly present, where the echoes of the Renaissance resonate in every street and building.

Next on our list was the Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, a magnificent palace that dominates the city's skyline. As we approached the palace, I was struck by its grandeur and imposing presence. The façade was adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, a testament to the artistic genius of the Renaissance. Inside, the palace was equally impressive. The vast halls and chambers were filled with priceless artworks, including masterpieces by Piero della Francesca and Raphael. I was particularly captivated by the Studiolo, Duke Federico da Montefeltro's private study, a small but exquisite room decorated with intricate wood paneling and allegorical paintings. The Palazzo Ducale was more than just a palace; it was a symbol of Urbino's cultural and artistic achievements during the Renaissance.


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

After spending hours exploring the Palazzo Ducale, we decided to grab lunch at Osteria Km 0. This charming restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, offering a true taste of the region. I ordered the tagliatelle al ragu, a classic Italian dish made with fresh pasta and a rich, savory meat sauce. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the ragu was bursting with flavor. It was a hearty and satisfying meal that fueled us for the rest of our afternoon.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria Km 0 in Urbino – where local ingredients meet traditional recipes.

Our final stop for the day was Casa Natale di Raffaello, the birthplace of the legendary Renaissance painter Raphael. The house was a modest but charming building, filled with reproductions of Raphael's early works and artifacts from his life. It was humbling to stand in the very room where one of the greatest artists of all time was born and raised.


Explore the birthplace of Raphael at Casa Natale di Raffaello in Urbino, where art and history come alive in a beautifully preserved museum.

Before dinner, we took some time to explore the local shops. Ceramiche Artistiche Urbino caught my eye with its beautiful display of hand-painted ceramics. I couldn't resist purchasing a small ceramic plate, a memento of my visit to this artistic city. The shopkeeper was a friendly local artisan, who shared stories of Urbino's rich tradition of ceramics, dating back to the Renaissance.


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

As evening approached, we found ourselves at Ristorante Antica Osteria Da La Stella for dinner. The restaurant had a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with candlelit tables and rustic décor. The menu featured traditional Urbino cuisine, and I decided to try the Crescia, a local flatbread filled with cheese and herbs. It was a delicious and comforting dish, perfect for a cool September evening.


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

To end the day, we stopped by L'HOST: wine beer & something else, a cozy bar known for its selection of local wines and craft beers. I sampled a glass of the local red wine, a robust and flavorful blend that perfectly complemented the day's experiences. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring Urbino.


Discover L'HOST in Urbino: A cozy bar offering an exquisite selection of local wines and craft beers in a vibrant atmosphere.

Today was more than just sightseeing; it was about stepping back in time and experiencing the essence of the Renaissance. The city's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture had left an indelible mark on my soul. As I walked back to our guesthouse, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this hidden gem of Italy. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Fortezza Albornoz for panoramic views of the city, explore the Punto Panoramico di Urbino, and take a relaxing stroll through the Botanical Garden of the University. I'm also looking forward to trying out Il Grottino for breakfast, Ristorante Vecchia Urbino for lunch, and Taverna degli Artisti for dinner. And of course, I'll be sure to check out Uniurb Store and The Bosom Pub for some local shopping and drinks. Stay tuned for more adventures in Urbino!
The weather forecast for tomorrow, September 2nd, predicts similar conditions, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C and a chance of rain. I'll make sure to pack my umbrella, a lesson learned from forgetting it back in Edmonton.