Urbino Uncovered: A Renaissance Escape on a Budget

Discover Urbino, Italy's hidden gem, on a shoestring budget and create memories that will last a lifetime.

28 August 2023

Urbino, Italy offers an enriching experience for budget travelers. Steeped in Renaissance history, this charming hilltop town boasts free attractions such as the Ducal Palace and the historic city center, where you can wander through cobbled streets and discover local markets. Additionally, affordable accommodation options like guesthouses and budget-friendly eateries make Urbino an ideal destination for those seeking culture and history on a limited budget.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Unleash Your Inner Renaissance Lover

  • Start your day with a cappuccino, served by a barista straight out of an Italian soap opera, at Café La Raffaella.
  • Visit the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche and soak up the art of Raphael, who not only hails from Urbino but can be considered the Leonardo DiCaprio of the Renaissance.
  • Get lost in the mesmerizing halls of the Ducal Palace. Don't worry if you get disoriented, that's part of the fun – it's a maze of intricate rooms and secret passageways.
  • Take a rejuvenating stroll through the Parco della Resistenza for some greenery therapy. It's a perfect place to unwind and practice your "relaxing like a true Italian" skills.
  • Savor a mouthwatering dinner at Trattoria del Borgo. Their homemade pasta will bring tears to your eyes and make even Lady and the Tramp jealous of your romance with food.
  • End the day with a glass of wine at La Tana del Gufo. With its cozy atmosphere and live music, it's the perfect spot to imagine yourself as a poet from a Beat Generation novel.
Day 2

Urbino: A City of Noble Secrets

  • Begin your day with a croissant so flaky, it could win an award, from Pasticceria del Duca. It's hard to resist a bite (or ten) before you even leave the bakery.
  • Unlock the secrets of Urbino's past with a guided tour of the Oratory of St. John the Baptist. Prepare to be amazed by the intricate frescoes that have witnessed centuries of whispers and prayers.
  • Climb up to the Fortezza Albornoz to capture the best panoramic view of the city. Chances are, you'll feel like the king or queen of Urbino, with the picturesque landscape as your kingdom.
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Osteria delle Storie Perdute, where the food is so good, you'll lose track of your own story. Their dishes burst with flavors, reminding you why eating is a form of art.
  • Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Museo Civico. It's like stepping into a time machine that catapults you from the Renaissance to the edgier and more rebellious spirit of modern creators.
  • End your Urbino adventure on a sweet note at Gelateria Sotto la Torre. Their gelato will transport you to a realm where everything is dipped in velvety joy – a perfect finale to your Italian escapade.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Urbino by plane is to fly into Federico Fellini International Airport in Rimini, Italy. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-arranged transfer to Urbino, which is approximately 85 kilometers away.

Car

Driving by car is a convenient option to reach Urbino. You can take the A14 motorway and exit at Fano, then continue on the SS73bis road to Urbino. The journey takes approximately one hour depending on traffic conditions.

Train

Although there is no direct train station in Urbino, the nearest train station is Pesaro Railway Station. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach Urbino, which is around 34 kilometers away.

Boat

As Urbino is an inland city, there are no direct boat routes available. However, you can reach nearby coastal cities such as Rimini, Fano, or Pesaro by boat and then use other modes of transport to reach Urbino.

Bus

To get to Urbino by bus, you can take a regional bus from nearby cities such as Pesaro, Rimini, or Fano. There are regular bus services available that directly connect these cities to Urbino.

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Urbino Uncovered: A 3-Day Budget Adventure

Urbino, Italy, is a hidden gem for budget travelers looking to explore a picturesque Renaissance city without breaking the bank. The city offers affordable accommodations, such as guesthouses and B&Bs, along with budget-friendly local eateries serving delicious Italian cuisine. With its rich history, breathtaking architecture, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, Urbino promises a memorable experience that won't strain your wallet.