If you're planning a trip to Italy, be sure to visit the Le Marche region. Located in central Italy, Le Marche is often overlooked by tourists, but it's a hidden gem that offers plenty to see and do. From picturesque towns and beautiful beaches to stunning natural landscapes and delicious local cuisine, Le Marche has something for everyone. In this article, we'll explore the top things to do in Le Marche region of Italy, so you can make the most of your trip.
Explore the Historic Towns
One of the main attractions of Le Marche is its many beautiful historic towns. Urbino, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the famous Palazzo Ducale, which houses some of the most important works of the Italian Renaissance. Ascoli Piceno is another must-see town, with its stunning Piazza del Popolo, medieval architecture, and delicious local food. Other historic towns worth visiting include Ancona, Jesi, Osimo and Loreto in the central part of the region, and Macerata and Sarnano in the south.
Visit the Beaches
Le Marche has over 100 miles of beautiful coastline, with crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches. The beaches of Marche are often less crowded than other popular tourist destinations in Italy, making it a great place to relax and soak up the sun. Some of the most popular and family-friendly beaches include Senigallia, Porto San Giorgio, and Porto Recanati, but there are plenty of hidden coves and secluded beaches to discover as well, particularly in the Riviera del Conero, the most stunning part of the entire Adriatic coastline. Numana and Sirolo in particular are a great spot for families, with shallow waters and plenty of beachside amenities. Whether you want to relax on the beach or enjoy water sports like swimming, surfing or sailing, Le Marche have something for everyone, and a tour on the DonMar will allow you to enjoy the most breath-taking sights of the Conero Riviera.
Discover the Natural Landscapes
Le Marche is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Italy. The Sibillini Mountains offer stunning views and excellent hiking opportunities, especially on its highest peaks, the Monte Vettore (2476m) and the Monte Sibilla (2173m) while the Conero Regional Park is a paradise for nature lovers, with its cliffs, beaches, and Mediterranean vegetation. Other natural attractions include the Frasassi Caves, the Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi Regional Park, and the Monte Catria area.
Taste the Local Cuisine
No trip to Italy is complete without sampling the local cuisine, and Le Marche has some of the best food in the country. Seafood is a particular highlight, with dishes like brodetto (a fish stew) and moscioli (a type of mussel) being local specialties, but the region has also a strong tradition of meat and vegetables dishes from the countriside, like vincisgrassi (a type of lasagna), tagliatelle, and verdure ripassate (greens sir-fried along with potatoes). Other must-try specialties include pecorino cheese (sheep milk cheese), olive ascolane (stuffed deep-fried olives), and ciauscolo (a type of soft, almost spreadable salami), perfect to be washed down with a glass of local Verdicchio wine — which is indeed what you'll eat and drink during your trip on the DonMar!
Experience the Local Festivals
Le Marche is home to many festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from food and wine to music and culture. Some of the most popular festivals include the Festa della Madonna of Loreto (in honor of the patron saint of aviation), the Quintana di Ascoli Piceno (a medieval jousting tournament), the Medieval Festivals of Offagna and Sarnano, and the Rossini Opera Festival (celebrating the works of composer Gioachino Rossini). And my personal favourite: the lesser-known "Festa Bella" in Spelonga di Arquata del Tronto, celebrating the victory in the Lepanto Battle of 1571. Attending a local festival is a great way to experience the culture and traditions of Le Marche.
Le Marche region of Italy is a hidden gem that offers plenty to see and do. From historic towns and beautiful beaches to stunning natural landscapes and delicious local cuisine, Le Marche has something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this beautiful part of Italy. So why not add Le Marche to your next Italian itinerary and discover all that this region has to offer?
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