1. Where Italy still feels like Italy

Le Marche is a region where life moves at a gentle pace. No mass tourism, no hustle – just sun-drenched hills, peaceful villages, and genuine hospitality. Enjoy your morning espresso alongside the locals, drive through cypress-lined country roads and vineyards, and unwind without sacrificing beauty or comfort.

 

2. Urbino – A renaissance gem

In the north of the region lies Urbino, a charming university town with a grand past. A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, it is rightly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A short climb brings you to the impressive Palazzo Ducale, home to the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, where works by Piero della Francesca and Raphael await.

 

3. The Jewels of the Adriatic Coast

With a coastline stretching over 180 kilometres, Le Marche offers golden beaches, clear coves, and lively seaside towns. Grottammare, known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, enchants with its palm-lined promenade and historic centre. From here, stroll on to San Benedetto del Tronto, a beloved summer retreat for Italians – always a good sign.

 

4. Truffle Hunting in Acqualagna

If you’re a truffle enthusiast, Acqualagna is a must. Known as Italy’s truffle capital, this town invites you to join a local trifolau and his dog on a hunt for the elusive ‘white gold’. End the day with a plate of tagliatelle al tartufo and a glass of local wine. It doesn’t get more authentic than this.

 

5. Riviera del Conero – Untouched Coastal Beauty

South of Ancona, the dramatic limestone cliffs of Monte Conero plunge into the Adriatic Sea. This is the Riviera del Conero: a stretch of coastline dotted with azure bays, hidden beaches, and unspoiled nature. Discover the charming villages of Sirolo, Numana, and Portonovo, where you can feast on freshly caught fish and enjoy walks with breathtaking sea views. This area is a designated national park for good reason.

 

6. The Frasassi Caves – An Underground Wonder

In the heart of Le Marche, near the village of Genga, lies the extraordinary Frasassi Caves. Discovered in 1971, these vast limestone caverns rank among Europe’s most spectacular. Wander past soaring stalactites and cathedral-like chambers – an almost otherworldly experience you won’t soon forget.

 

7. Ascoli Piceno – A city of charm and flavour

In the southern part of the region, Ascoli Piceno awaits – a city older than Rome and rich in character. Stroll through cobbled streets, past stately towers and elegant piazzas. Settle into a seat on Piazza del Popolo, the city’s heart, and sip an aniseed liqueur at the historic Caffè Meletti. Don’t leave without trying the local delicacy: Olive all’Ascolana – large green olives, stuffed and lightly fried, from the hills surrounding the town.

 

8. Monte Sibillini – for nature lovers and adventurers

If you’re seeking nature and adventure, head to the Monti Sibillini National Park in Le Marche’s rugged interior. With over fifty peaks rising above 2,000 metres, it’s ideal for hiking, cycling, horse riding – and even skiing in winter. In spring, the high plateau of Castelluccio di Norcia bursts into colour with a sea of wildflowers – a truly spectacular sight.

 

Le Marche is elegant, diverse, and blissfully undiscovered. Whether you seek peace, nature, culture or cuisine – this region has it all, and delivers it with understated, effortless charm.

A destination not simply to visit, but to experience.

Would you like to discover Le Marche at its finest? Explore our carefully curated collection of unique holiday homes, boutique hotels and design apartments in the region via the Nice2stay collection.