Urbino, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Urbino, a captivating Renaissance city in Italy's Marche region, where history, art, and stunning landscapes come together in perfect harmony.

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Marche region, Urbino is a city steeped in history and brimming with Renaissance charm. As you approach the city, you will be greeted by its impressive skyline, dominated by the majestic Palazzo Ducale. This grand palace, once the residence of Duke Federico da Montefeltro, now houses the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, home to an impressive collection of Renaissance art, including works by Raphael, who was born in Urbino. Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Urbino, you will feel as though you have stepped back in time. The city's well-preserved architecture and historic buildings create an enchanting atmosphere. The Duomo, Urbino's cathedral, is a must-visit for its stunning neoclassical design and beautiful interior. Don't miss the chance to explore the Oratorio di San Giovanni, adorned with breathtaking frescoes by the Salimbeni brothers. Urbino is also a lively university town, home to the University of Urbino, which adds a youthful energy to the city's historic setting. Be sure to visit the birthplace of Raphael, now a museum dedicated to the artist's life and works. For a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside, head to the Albornoz Fortress. This vantage point offers a stunning perspective of Urbino's unique blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes as the city is hilly and its streets are cobblestone.
Visit the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche early to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the art.
Try the local cuisine, especially crescia, a traditional flatbread, and casciotta cheese.
Check the university's calendar for cultural events and festivals that might coincide with your visit.
Plan a day trip to the nearby Furlo Gorge for a taste of the region's natural beauty.

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

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

Best attractions in Urbino

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Best Attractions

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Castello di Gradara

Explore the breathtaking Castello di Gradara, a medieval castle steeped in history, stunning architecture, and enchanting views of the Italian landscape.

4.6

Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo, a coastal haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Pesaro.

4.6

Palazzo Ducale di Urbino

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

4.7

Rocca Roveresca

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

4.5

Best landmarks in Urbino

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Palazzo Ducale di Urbino

Explore the majestic Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, a historical landmark showcasing Renaissance art and architecture in the heart of Italy.

4.7

National Gallery of the Marche - Ducal Palace of Urbino

Explore the National Gallery of the Marche, an art museum in the Ducal Palace of Urbino showcasing Renaissance masterpieces and a rich cultural heritage.

4.7

Casa Natale di Raffaello

Explore the birthplace of Raffaello Sanzio in Urbino, a captivating museum that celebrates the life and legacy of a Renaissance master.

4.3

Parco della Resistenza

Discover tranquility in the heart of Urbino at Parco della Resistenza, a historic city park blending nature and culture.

4.6

Best restaurants in Urbino

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Amici Miei Ristorante Pizzeria

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Amici Miei Ristorante Pizzeria in Urbino – where every dish tells a story.

4.6

Taverna degli Artisti

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Taverna degli Artisti in Urbino – where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.

4.3

Ristorante Pizzeria Ragno d'oro Urbino

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Ragno d'oro in Urbino – where delicious pizzas meet a warm atmosphere.

4.0

La Balestra antica hostaria

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at La Balestra Antica Hostaria in Urbino - where tradition meets flavor.

4.0

Best bars in Urbino

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Lamonaca • since 1967

Discover the authentic Italian café experience at Lamonaca, a beloved bar tabac in the heart of Urbino since 1967, offering quality beverages and local charm.

4.7

MaiSenza Lounge Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of MaiSenza Lounge Bar in Urbino, where delightful drinks and live music create unforgettable memories.

3.9

The Bosom Pub

Experience the charm of Urbino at The Bosom Pub, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await travelers seeking relaxation and good company.

4.2

Camera A Sud

Experience the authentic flavors of Urbino at Camera A Sud, where every sip and bite reflects Italian culinary tradition.

4.8

Best nightclubs in Urbino

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Underground PUB

Discover the charm of Urbino at Underground PUB, where vibrant nightlife meets local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

4.5

Art Cafè Urbino

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Urbino at Art Cafè, where cocktails, art, and culture come together in a lively atmosphere.

4.5

ENJOY Disco Urbino

Experience the vibrant nightlife at ENJOY Disco Urbino, where music and dance create unforgettable memories in a lively atmosphere.

3.2

UBIK Bistrot Urbino

Experience the fusion of nightlife and fine dining at UBIK Bistrot Urbino, a charming bistro and wine bar in the heart of Italy's historic city.

4.2

Best shops in Urbino

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VR46 store

Discover the thrilling world of motocross at the VR46 Store in Tavullia, a paradise for Valentino Rossi fans with exclusive apparel and memorabilia.

4.7

Porta Santa Lucia

Discover Porta Santa Lucia in Urbino: A vibrant shopping mall blending local culture with diverse retail options for an unforgettable experience.

4.0

Piazza Italia

Discover fashionable clothing for the whole family at Piazza Italia in Urbino, where style meets local charm in a vibrant shopping experience.

3.7

COINCASA

Explore COINCASA in Urbino for exquisite gifts, home decor, and unique furniture options that embody Italian craftsmanship and style.

4.0

Explore Urbino on the Map

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

Urbino Essentials

Urbino is located in the Marche region of Italy. The nearest major airport is Federico Fellini International Airport in Rimini, about 55 kilometers away. From Rimini, you can take a bus or a train to Pesaro, and then a local bus to Urbino. Alternatively, Ancona Falconara Airport is approximately 90 kilometers from Urbino. There are also bus services from Rome, Florence, and Bologna that connect to Urbino.
Urbino is a small city, and its historic center is best explored on foot. For longer distances, local buses are available and connect various parts of the city. Taxis are also an option, but they can be more expensive. If you plan to explore the surrounding countryside, renting a car is a convenient option. However, be aware that parking in Urbino, especially in the historic center, can be challenging.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, so withdrawing cash is convenient.
Urbino is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in deserted areas and be vigilant about your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying aware and keeping your valuables secure is always a good practice.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Urbino. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the city for minor health issues where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress smartly and modestly. Italians take pride in their appearance, and overly casual or revealing clothing may be frowned upon, especially in religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches. Cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do validate your bus ticket once you board. Don’t forget to do this, as fines can be issued for unvalidated tickets. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera'. A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don’t rush your meals; dining is a leisurely activity in Italy.
To experience Urbino like a local, take a stroll through the winding streets of the historic center and enjoy a coffee at one of the local cafes. Visit the Mercatino del Mercoledì (Wednesday Market) to buy fresh produce and local products. Engage with the locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's rich history and culture. Don't miss the chance to visit the Palazzo Ducale and the Orto Botanico. For a unique experience, attend a local festival or event, such as the Festa del Duca, which celebrates the Renaissance heritage of Urbino.

When is the best time to visit Urbino?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Urbino

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 Urbino. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-dehr-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pair fah-voh-ray/preh-goh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsyeh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusi/Mi dispiace
  [skoo-zee/mee dees-pyah-cheh]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh sty]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [pahr-lee een-gleh-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [nohn kah-pee-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vohr-ray veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, pair fah-voh-ray]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [nohn mahn-joh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-ray pah-gah-reh, pair fah-voh-ray]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vah-ee vee-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kee-ah-mah lah poh-lee-tsyah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kee-ah-mah oon doh-toh-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-noh pehr-soh]
- I'm illMi sento male
  [mee sehn-toh mah-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-ray kohm-prah-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwar-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?Può abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoh ahb-bahs-sah-reh eel preh-tsoh]
- What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
- Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [soh-noh leh dyeh-chee eh meh-tzah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Due
  [doo-eh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [say]
- 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
- 8Otto
  [oh-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dyeh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dov'è un/il...?
  [doh-veh oon/eel]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-reet-zoh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwah-ee moh-streh-ar-mee (soo-lah mahp-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohss-see-moh (ow-toh-boo-s)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-lyeh-toh (pair)]

History of Urbino

Urbino, located in the Marche region of Italy, traces its origins back to ancient times. It was initially a Roman municipium known as Urvinum Mataurense. The city’s strategic location atop a high sloping hillside made it a significant military stronghold during the Roman era.
During the early Middle Ages, Urbino was under the control of various feudal lords and experienced a period of turmoil and strife. It wasn't until the 13th century that the city began to stabilize under the Montefeltro family, who played a pivotal role in Urbino’s development.
The Renaissance period marked Urbino's golden age, largely due to the influence of Duke Federico da Montefeltro, who ruled from 1444 to 1482. A patron of the arts and a shrewd military leader, Federico transformed Urbino into a cultural and intellectual hub. He commissioned the construction of the Palazzo Ducale, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, and attracted artists, scholars, and philosophers to his court.
The Palazzo Ducale, commissioned by Federico da Montefeltro, stands as a testament to Urbino’s Renaissance grandeur. Designed by architect Luciano Laurana and later completed by Francesco di Giorgio Martini, the palace is renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate courtyards, and the famous Studiolo—an exquisite study adorned with intarsia woodwork.
Urbino is celebrated as the birthplace of the illustrious painter and architect Raphael Sanzio. Born in 1483, Raphael spent his early years in Urbino, where he was profoundly influenced by the artistic environment fostered by Federico da Montefeltro’s court. His childhood home, Casa Natale di Raffaello, is now a museum dedicated to his life and works.
In 1631, Urbino was incorporated into the Papal States following the death of the last Duke of Urbino, Francesco Maria II della Rovere. This integration marked the end of the city’s independence but also ushered in a period of religious and cultural consolidation under papal rule.
Today, Urbino is a vibrant city that harmonizes its rich historical legacy with modern life. In 1998, its historic center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture and significant contributions to art and culture. The University of Urbino, established in 1506, continues to be a center of academic excellence.

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