Marche, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Marche, Italy's hidden gem, boasting stunning coastlines, historic hilltop towns, and breathtaking natural wonders.

Marche, located in central Italy, is a region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. The rolling hills, medieval towns, and pristine beaches make it a captivating destination for travelers looking to explore beyond the well-trodden paths of Italy. One of the region's highlights is the stunning coastline along the Adriatic Sea, where you can find charming seaside towns like Sirolo and Numana. These towns are known for their crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. If you love history, Marche won't disappoint. The region is dotted with ancient hilltop towns such as Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its Renaissance architecture and artistic heritage. For nature lovers, the Sibillini Mountains offer breathtaking landscapes and numerous hiking trails. The Frasassi Caves, one of Italy's largest cave systems, are also a must-visit, showcasing spectacular underground formations. Food enthusiasts will be delighted by Marche's culinary offerings, from truffles to seafood, all paired with local wines such as Verdicchio and Rosso Conero.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Marche.

Visit during spring or autumn to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
Rent a car to explore the region's remote areas and hidden gems.
Try the local specialties such as olive all’ascolana and ciauscolo.
Book a guided tour to explore the Frasassi Caves for a deeper understanding of their history and geology.
Stay in an agriturismo for an authentic experience of rural Marche life.

Top City Travel Guides in Marche

The cities of Marche, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Assisi

Perugia

Rimini

Urbino

Destinations in Marche

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Via Francigena

Explore Marche: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Marche

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Rocca Roveresca

Experience the majestic Rocca Roveresca, a historical fortress in Senigallia, where medieval architecture meets breathtaking Adriatic views.

4.5

Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi

Experience the breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and fascinating geological wonders of Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi in Italy.

4.6

Al Foro Annonario

Discover Al Foro Annonario in Senigallia, where history meets vibrant market life, offering local delicacies and authentic Italian experiences.

4.5

Lago di Fiastra

Discover the serene beauty of Lago di Fiastra, a stunning lake in the Province of Macerata, Italy, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.

4.7

Best landmarks in Marche

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Palazzo d'Arcevia

Explore Palazzo d'Arcevia, a historical landmark in the Province of Ancona, rich in culture, architecture, and breathtaking landscapes.

4.5

Walls

Explore the historic Walls of Corinaldo, a breathtaking monument offering stunning views and a journey through Italy's medieval past.

4.7

Balcony of the Marches

Experience breathtaking panoramic views at the Balcony of the Marches, a must-visit scenic vista point in Italy's stunning Macerata region.

Castello di Gradara

Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Castello di Gradara, a captivating medieval fortress in the heart of Italy's Marche region.

Best restaurants in Marche

Top-rated picks

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RISTORANTE La Torre

Experience exquisite seafood dining at Ristorante La Torre in Numana with stunning Adriatic views and exceptional Italian cuisine.

4.5

Clandestino Susci Bar

Experience exquisite sushi made from fresh local seafood at Clandestino Susci Bar in Portonovo, where culinary art meets stunning seaside views.

4.5

Ristorante da Giacchetti dal 1959

Experience exquisite seafood dining at Ristorante da Giacchetti in Ancona - where tradition meets breathtaking coastal views.

4.2

Uliassi

Experience exceptional seafood dining at Uliassi in Senigallia, where culinary innovation meets stunning seaside views.

4.8

Best bars in Marche

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Best Bars

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Bar Luana

Discover the heart of Ancona at Bar Luana, where authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality create a memorable dining experience.

4.4

Donegal Irish Pub

Discover the authentic Irish pub experience at Donegal Irish Pub in Ancona, where tradition meets vibrant nightlife and hearty cuisine.

4.3

The Cavern Pub

Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious American and Irish cuisine at The Cavern Pub in Civitanova Marche, a must-visit for every tourist.

4.5

Bar Caffetteria La Ternana

Discover Bar Caffetteria La Ternana in Civitanova Marche, where authentic Italian coffee meets local charm in a cozy atmosphere.

3.9

Best nightclubs in Marche

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Shada Beach Club Food

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Shada Beach Club, where Mediterranean beauty meets lively entertainment and delicious cuisine in Civitanova Marche.

3.6

Donoma

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Donoma, a unique disco club and restaurant in Civitanova Marche, Italy, perfect for dining and dancing.

3.8

Miami Disco Club

Discover the energetic vibe of Miami Disco Club in Monsano, where vibrant music and unforgettable nights come together to create an exhilarating experience.

3.8

Miss Agency di Marco Marozzi

Discover the vibrant world of entertainment at Miss Agency di Marco Marozzi in Civitanova Marche, where unforgettable experiences await.

4.9

Best shops in Marche

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Il Cuore Adriatico

Explore the vibrant Il Cuore Adriatico shopping mall in Civitanova Marche, offering a blend of local culture, unique shops, and delightful dining options.

4.3

Grotte Center

Discover the Grotte Center: Camerano's top shopping mall with a diverse range of stores, dining options, and family-friendly activities.

3.9

Centro Commerciale Conero

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Centro Commerciale Conero in Ancona, featuring diverse shops, dining, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.1

Outlet Tod's & Hogan

Discover luxury fashion at Outlet Tod's & Hogan in Sant'Elpidio a Mare, featuring a stunning selection of clothing, shoes, and leather goods.

4.2

Explore Marche on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Marche, mapped for you.

Marche Essentials

Marche is well-connected by both air and land. The nearest major airport is Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI), situated approximately 18 kilometers from Ancona, the region's capital. Alternatively, you can fly into Rome's Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) or Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) and then take a train or bus to Marche. Italy's extensive rail network also offers direct train services to major cities in Marche, including Ancona, Pesaro, and Ascoli Piceno.
Public transportation in Marche is reliable and includes trains, buses, and ferries. Trenitalia operates frequent regional trains connecting major towns and cities. Local buses are available for intra-city travel, and tickets can be purchased at newsstands or bus stations. For a more flexible option, consider renting a car to explore the picturesque countryside and coastal areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also accessible in urban areas.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but smaller establishments may prefer cash. ATMs are plentiful in cities and towns, so withdrawing cash as needed is convenient. It's advisable to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Marche is generally a safe region for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, exercise standard precautions. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists are rare, but it’s wise to stay vigilant in busy tourist spots and transport hubs. Always lock your car and avoid leaving valuables inside.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire services, and medical emergencies. Major cities like Ancona and Pesaro have hospitals and clinics for medical issues. Pharmacies are available for minor health concerns and over-the-counter medications. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies to avoid unexpected costs.
Fashion: Do dress smartly, especially when dining out or visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, and cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don’t speak loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'buongiorno' (good morning) or 'buonasera' (good evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don’t rush through meals; dining is considered a leisurely and social activity.
To experience Marche like a local, visit the weekly farmers' markets in towns like Fermo and Macerata to buy fresh produce and artisanal goods. Take part in local festivals such as the Sagra della Polenta in San Ginesio. Engage with locals in small cafes and trattorias to learn about the region's rich culinary traditions. Don’t miss exploring the less touristy inland villages, where you can experience authentic Italian life and hospitality.

When is the best time to visit Marche?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Marche

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Marche. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-DER-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [per fah-VOR-eh/PRAY-go]
- Thank youGrazie
  [GRAHT-see-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusami/Mi dispiace
  [SKOO-zah-mee/Mee dis-PYAH-che]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [KOH-meh stai]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [BEH-neh. Eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [PAR-lee een-GLEH-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [nohn kah-PEE-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vor-RAY veh-DEH-reh eel meh-NOO, per fah-VOR-eh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [nohn MAHN-joh KAR-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-LOO-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vor-RAY pah-GAH-reh, per fah-VOR-eh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-YOO-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vy VEE-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [KYAH-mah lah poh-lee-TSEE-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [KYAH-mah oon doh-TOH-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee SOH-noh PER-soh]
- I'm illSono malato
  [SOH-noh mah-LAH-toh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vor-RAY kom-PRAH-reh...]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [sto SOH-loh gwar-DAN-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [KWAN-toh KOH-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo costoso
  [eh TROH-poh koh-STOH-zoh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoy ahb-BAH-sah-reh eel PRET-soh]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [keh OH-reh SOH-noh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh LOO-nah]
- Half past (10)Dieci e mezzo
  [DYEH-cheh eh MEH-tsoh]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-TEE-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-REEJ-joh]
- EveningSera
  [SEH-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [YEH-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [OH-gee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-MAH-nee]
- 1Uno
  [OO-noh]
- 2Due
  [DOO-eh]
- 3Tre
  [TREH]
- 4Quattro
  [KWAHT-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [CHEEN-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [SAY]
- 7Sette
  [SEHT-teh]
- 8Otto
  [OHT-toh]
- 9Nove
  [NOH-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [DYEH-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dove si trova...?
  [DOH-veh see TROH-vah...?]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-REET-soh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoy mo-STRAHR-mee (SOOL-lah MAHP-pah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [KWAHN-doh PAH-sah eel PROHS-see-mo (OW-toh-boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-LYEHT-toh (per ....)]

History of Marche

The roots of Marche trace back to the ancient Piceni people, who settled in the region around the 9th century BCE. These early inhabitants were known for their distinctive pottery and intricate jewelry. They established trade links with the Etruscans and Greeks, which significantly influenced their culture and economy. Archaeological sites like the necropolis of Novilara provide valuable insights into this early civilization.
In the 3rd century BCE, the Roman Republic brought the Piceni territory under its control. The Roman influence transformed Marche, leading to the development of infrastructure such as roads, aqueducts, and theaters. The town of Helvia Recina, near modern-day Macerata, is a testament to this era, with its well-preserved amphitheater and other Roman ruins.
During the Middle Ages, Marche was characterized by the rise of independent city-states and communes. Cities like Ancona, Ascoli Piceno, and Urbino flourished, becoming centers of trade, art, and learning. The architectural and artistic heritage from this period is exemplified by the Ducal Palace in Urbino, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture commissioned by Duke Federico da Montefeltro.
From the 15th century onwards, much of Marche fell under the control of the Papal States. This period saw a flourishing of art and culture, with the patronage of the Catholic Church playing a significant role. Artists like Raphael, born in Urbino, and Lorenzo Lotto, who worked extensively in the region, left an indelible mark on Marche's cultural landscape.
The late 18th and early 19th centuries were a period of upheaval for Marche, as it was swept into the Napoleonic Wars. Following Napoleon's defeat, the region was returned to the Papal States until the unification of Italy in the mid-19th century. Marche played a part in the Risorgimento, with notable figures such as Count Camillo Benso di Cavour advocating for Italian unity.
In the 20th century, Marche underwent significant industrial and economic development. However, World War II brought destruction and hardship, with battles and bombings affecting many of its towns and cities. The region has since rebuilt and prospered, maintaining its rich historical heritage while embracing modernity.