Solo Renaissance Adventure in Urbino

A Day of Discovery in Urbino

Today, Urbino revealed its quieter, more contemplative side, a welcome contrast to the grandeur of yesterday's Ducal Palace visit. I set out to explore some of the city's hidden gems, places where the echoes of history resonate in unexpected ways. It was a day of art, nature, and reflection, a true immersion into the heart of this Renaissance city.

My morning began with a delightful breakfast at Cafe’ Trentatre’. It was a quaint spot, buzzing with locals starting their day. I savored a cappuccino and a flaky pastry, soaking in the lively atmosphere before venturing out to my first destination.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Cafe’ Trentatre’, a must-visit bar in the heart of Urbino, Italy.

Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista: A Gothic Revelation

The Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista was first on my list, and it proved to be an utterly captivating experience. Tucked away beneath the Fortezza Albornoz, this small chapel is a treasure trove of late-Gothic frescoes. Built in the late 14th century, it served as a place of worship for the Confraternity of St. John.


Discover the serene Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista, a hidden gem in Urbino featuring stunning Renaissance art and a peaceful atmosphere.

Stepping inside was like entering another world. The walls are covered in vibrant frescoes painted in 1416 by the brothers Lorenzo and Jacopo Salimbeni. The scenes depict the life of St. John the Baptist, from his birth to his preaching, each rendered with incredible detail and a palpable sense of humanity. The colors are remarkably well-preserved, and the artistry is simply breathtaking. I found myself lost in the stories unfolding on the walls, marveling at the skill of the artists and the devotion of those who commissioned the work.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

What struck me most was the intimacy of the space. Unlike the grand halls of the Ducal Palace, the Oratorio felt personal, a place for quiet contemplation and reflection. The frescoes seemed to draw me in, inviting me to connect with the past in a profound way. I spent a long time simply sitting there, absorbing the atmosphere and letting the artistry speak to my soul. The facade was rebuilt in the early 20th century in a neogothic style.

Chiesa di San Bernardino: A Serene Escape

Next on my itinerary was the Chiesa di San Bernardino, located a bit outside the city walls. The walk to the church was a pleasant one, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. As I approached the church, I was struck by its simple yet elegant facade.


Discover the beauty and history of Chiesa di San Bernardino in Urbino, a captivating Catholic church and iconic tourist attraction.

Commissioned by Federico da Montefeltro as a family mausoleum, the Chiesa di San Bernardino is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Designed by Francesco di Giorgio Martini, it exudes a sense of harmony and balance, a testament to the ideals of the era. The interior is equally impressive, with its clean lines and serene atmosphere. Federico and his son Guidobaldo are buried here.

The church is located on the San Donato hill, offering a beautiful view of the city. It was built between 1482 and 1491. The church’s design is attributed to Donato Bramante, who was a young architect at the time.

I found myself drawn to the peacefulness of the Chiesa di San Bernardino. It was a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and simply be present in the moment. The architecture invited contemplation, and the surrounding landscape offered a sense of connection to the natural world.

Botanical Garden of the University: A Green Oasis

My final stop of the day was the Botanical Garden of the University. After immersing myself in art and history, I was eager to spend some time in nature. The garden proved to be a delightful surprise, a verdant oasis in the heart of Urbino.


Explore the tranquility of the Botanical Garden of the University in Urbino, a haven for plant lovers and a serene escape in the heart of Italy.

As I wandered through the garden's winding paths, I was struck by the diversity of plant life on display. From colorful flowers to towering trees, the garden showcased a wide range of species from around the world. Informative plaques provided insights into the origins and ecological significance of each plant, adding an educational dimension to the experience. The Botanical Garden is open every day from 8:30 am to 8 pm in June.

I enjoyed the tranquility of the Botanical Garden, a place to relax and reconnect with nature. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that surrounds us.

Evening Reflections

For dinner, I chose Ristorante Vecchia Urbino, known for its traditional cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant is set in a 17th-century building that once housed a granary. I savored local specialties, reflecting on the day's adventures over a glass of regional wine. The restaurant is known for its truffles and game in the autumn.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Vecchia Urbino in the heart of Italy's historic city, where tradition meets flavor.

After dinner, I decided to check out the Urbino Jazz Club, hoping to catch some live music. Unfortunately, there weren't any scheduled events for the night, but I made a mental note to visit again during the Urbino Plays Jazz festival in August. Instead, I strolled through the quiet streets of Urbino, enjoying the cool evening air and the soft glow of the streetlights. There are often events held at the Urbino Jazz Club.


Discover the soul of jazz in Urbino at the Urbino Jazz Club, where live music and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable nights.

As I walked, I thought about tomorrow's itinerary. I plan to visit the Fortezza Albornoz, the Urbino viewpoint, and the Parco della Resistenza. It promises to be another day filled with exploration and discovery. I’m particularly excited about the Urbino viewpoint, as I’ve heard it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. It will be the perfect spot to capture some photos and soak in the beauty of this region. I might also check out La Botteguccia Snc Di Mercantini Sara E C., and Art Cafè Urbino.

Urbino continues to surprise and delight me. It's a city that rewards those who take the time to explore its hidden corners, to listen to its whispers, and to appreciate its timeless beauty. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience its magic, to connect with its history, and to share its stories with you.

A UX Designer's Perspective

As a UX designer, I often think about how people interact with spaces and experiences. Today, I was struck by how well Urbino balances its historical legacy with the needs of modern travelers. The city is designed in a way that encourages exploration and discovery, with hidden gems waiting to be found around every corner.

The Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista, for example, is a masterclass in creating an immersive experience. The frescoes envelop visitors, transporting them to another time and place. The Chiesa di San Bernardino, with its serene atmosphere, offers a space for quiet reflection. And the Botanical Garden provides a welcome respite from the urban environment.

These spaces are not just beautiful; they are also thoughtfully designed to enhance the visitor experience. Informative plaques provide context and meaning, while winding paths encourage exploration and discovery. As a UX designer, I am inspired by how Urbino seamlessly blends form and function, creating a city that is both visually stunning and deeply engaging. These elements of design are much like the elements I consider when working on UX design projects back home in Kelowna. I find myself constantly inspired by the blend of practicality and beauty of design that I've found in both Canada and Israel.

Solo Travel Reflections

Traveling solo has its own unique rewards. It allows me to be fully present in the moment, to follow my curiosity wherever it leads, and to connect with people and places in a more authentic way. Today, I appreciated the freedom to linger in the Oratorio, to wander through the Botanical Garden at my own pace, and to savor a quiet dinner at Ristorante Vecchia Urbino.

Solo travel also encourages introspection. As I walked through the streets of Urbino, I found myself reflecting on my life, my goals, and my place in the world. These moments of solitude are invaluable, allowing me to gain clarity and perspective. Perhaps on tomorrow's walk, I will consider how to best blend my love of travel with my career as a UX designer. It seems like a travel-based app might be the perfect fit.

I am grateful for the opportunity to explore Urbino on my own terms, to discover its hidden gems, and to connect with its timeless beauty. It is a journey that I will cherish for years to come.