A romantic weekend is the perfect gift for any occasion. As we're also getting closer to St. Valentine's day, I take this opportunity to give you some tips for a romantic getaway in Le Marche! Seaside towns and small villages hidden by the hills, without the stress of traffic, offering exclusive restaurants and above all, with anti-crisis prices in every season!
Here is my selection of top romantic destinations in Le Marche :) Some of them are more suitable for the summer period, although winter sea still has its charm!
Gradara
It was the background to the love between Paolo and Francesca, also narrated in Dante's Inferno.
Walking through the streets of the village up to the summit of the fortress you'll breath an atmosphere of old times. And what to say about restaurants, you might choose among simple and traditional inns or gourmet dinners by candlelight in exclusive restaurants.
Enjoy the view of the Adriatic Sea and the hills of Montefeltro from the walkways.
To perfectly organize your tour, have a look at this article.
Urbino
Perfect for a couple who love art and history.
Urbino, the hometown of Raffaello, preserves rich treasures among churches, palaces, fortresses and theatres.
Plan your visit to the Ducal Palace, today seat of the National Gallery of Le Marche.
Don't miss a happy hour with the excellent wines from Le Marche region and a taste of the crescia together with the casciotta of Urbino, top food of this city.
For a surprise ending, I suggest a panoramic walk in Parco della Resistenza (Resistance Park), the ideal setting for a marriage proposal ;)
Check out this mini guide!
Ascoli Piceno
This city is well-known to everyone for its square, Piazza del Popolo, considered one of the most beautiful in Italy. And how could you fail to agree with that?
The travertine flooring makes it a unique place. I find it even more beautiful and romantic under the rain, when you have that impressive mirror effect while walking.
Around the city you can admire the badlands, a succession of sharp ridges that create an unforgettable scenery.
Promise your love in front of the typical fried dish of Ascoli, the tender olives will make her fell as happy as when getting a solitaire... or almost :)
Grottammare
This charming village in the province of Ascoli Piceno overlooks the Adriatic coast, among the green of the pine forests, orange groves and palm trees.
The coast has a fine sand and waters are clear and clean. The ancient village perched on the hill offers picturesque views.
You could arrange a romantic dinner on the seafront, in one of the many local restaurants.
Sirolo
Between the green mountains and the blue sea, Sirolo is considered the jewel of the Adriatic.
Here you'll find pristine beaches, such as the beach Due Sorelle (two sisters) or the beach Sassi Neri (black stones) and other more equipped beaches like that one of San Michele. After a sunny day at the beach, you can visit the town and enjoy the view from the terraces. For your special dinner have crustaceans and high quality fish in one of the many local restaurants overlooking the blue sea.
In this article you will find more details on the whole Riviera del Conero.
Senigallia
Coastal city known for its spiaggia di Velluto (Velvet beach) and for the many bars by the sea open until late at night in the summer. In winter you can walk through the streets of the historic centre full of monuments, such as the Rocca Roveresca and the Foro Annonario or alternatively on the riverside near the banks and under the arcade Portici Ercolani. For your romantic dinners, you are really spoiled for choice: from super luxury to more welcoming and familiar contexts, where food is always at its highest quality. Mark the most interesting places to visit that you find in this article.
Pesaro and Monte San Bartolo
The charm of the hills and the sea in one place within the Park of San Bartolo Mount, one of the four reserves in the region.
Perfect for a walk, you should enjoy the sunset from here!
If you've never been to Pesaro, the birthplace of the great composer Rossini, a short tour is a must. In summer you can enjoy the sea, whereas in winter the historic centre with its impressive buildings, shops and luxury boutiques for shopping.
Read here what to visit and mark the stops of your stay!
Macerata
As well as devouring Vincisgrassi, here in Macerata you will have much to do and see!
Get lost in the streets of the city centre, among the brick buildings, staircases, squares and churches.
Visit Palazzo Buonaccorsi with its wonderful Aeneid Room (Sala dell'Eneide) and if you are thinking of coming in the summer, you should attend one of the exciting shows at Sferisterio, a theatrical arena in the city centre.
Loreto
Famous destination of pilgrimage for Christians, I personally find that Loreto is a truly magical place, perfect to spend some time with your better half.
Be enchanted by the beautiful architecture of Piazza della Madonna and enjoy from the top of the Cathedral's walkways the beautiful landscape, stretching from the Adriatic Sea to the Monte Conero, up to the Apennines.
Here are some suggestions for your visit.
Recanati
In the footsteps of Giacomo Leopardi who was born here, Recanati is a delightful little village with narrow streets and rich in history. The trip is worth a visit to the birthplace of the poet.
Food is great and the surrounding landscape is truly wonderful.
From the famous Hill of Infinity, Tabor Mount, you can admire the horizon and the Sibillini Mountains.
