Independent tourism and recreation in the city of Urbino Historical information about the city of Urbino The c...
Tasting and gastronomic tours (wine, cheeses, sausages, olive oil, truffles, pasta, sea products). Tours for antiques …
The city of Urbino is one of the most vibrant centers of the Italian Renaissance. Its history is rich in political dramas, cultural ups and architectural achievements that made Urbino a symbol of humanistic thought and art of the XV-XVI centuries.
Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages
Roman period
The first settlements on the territory of the future Urbino date back to pre-Roman times - to the peoples of the Umbro-Sabine group.
Under the Roman Empire, there was a small but strategically important fortified center called Urbinum Mataurense.
Its importance was in controlling the routes through the Apennines and in the vicinity of the important Via Flaminia road.
Empire collapse and invasion
After the fall of Rome, Urbino changed hands several times:
He was attacked by the Goths,
It was then part of the Byzantine Exarchate,
later the Kingdom of Lombard.
By the VIII-IX centuries, the city was under the rule of the Papal State, which determined its further history until almost the XIX century.
Urbino in the era of feudal lords (X-XIV centuries)
In the Middle Ages, Urbino was a small fortified city that experienced:
the infighting of local families,
Trying to make the city an independent community,
intervention of papal legates.
The most important early rulers were representatives of the Montefeltro family, whose history is closely connected with the city.
Blossoming under Montefeltro: the Golden Age of Urbino (XIV-XVI centuries)
1. The Rise of the Montefeltro Family
The family established a strong power in Urbino from about the XIII century.
Their management turned the city into one of the intellectual centers of Europe.
But the real flowering began under Federico da Montefeltro (1444-1482), a duke, military commander, philanthropist and one of the greatest humanists of the Renaissance.
Federico da Montefeltro: Builder of the Ideal City
Military and political role
Federico was one of the strongest condottiers in Italy. Due to military fame and rich practice of recruiting troops:
It strengthened Urbino's economy.
ensure political stability,
He created a brilliant courtyard, competing with the Florentine and Milanese.
Architectural revolution
Federico wanted to make Urbino the “perfect city” of the Renaissance. He invited leading architects - Luciano Lauran and Francesco di Giorgio Martini.
Palazzo Ducale (Palace of the Duke)
This is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture:
harmonious facades,
The famous "Camera degli Sposi" with rare species of wood,
library, one of the largest humanist libraries in Europe,
interior courtyards, which became an example of architectural balance.
Cultural centre
Federico Court became the center:
philosophers,
artists,
architects,
musicians.
There were such masters as:
Piero della Francesca (who painted portraits of Federico and his wife Battista)
Paolo Uccello,
Melozzo da Forli.
The Birth of Raphael
In 1483, Raphael Santi, one of the greatest artists of all time, was born in Urbino. His father, Giovanni Santi, was a court painter under Federico.
Late Renaissance: Duchy of Della Rovere (1508–1631)
After the suppression of the Montefeltro family, power in Urbino passed to the Della Rovere family (the family of Popes Julius II and Sixtus IV).
Francesco Maria I and Guidobaldo II
They supported learning and art.
Federico continued the development of the city,
They attracted new masters.
Federico Ubaldo and the Last Years of Independence
In 1631, the last duke died without heirs. Urbino, according to the treaty, was incorporated into the Papal State, which ended the era of an independent duchy.
Urbino in the Papal States (1631–1860)
Three centuries city:
It has lost its political significance.
maintain the status of a cultural center,
He lived mainly through crafts and the production of majolica.
However, the Palazzo Ducale and artistic traditions continued to attract scholars and Enlightenment travelers.
XIX-XX centuries: the unification of Italy and the revival of interest in the city
Entry into the Kingdom of Italy
In 1860, after Garibaldi’s campaign and the fall of Pope Urbino’s power, he became part of the united Italian state.
XX century
Rehabilitation work has begun.
The University of Urbino was founded (foundation - 1506, active expansion - XX century),
The city became a center for the study of Renaissance and architecture.
Modern Urbino
Today, Urbino is a small but extremely important cultural capital.
It's famous for Carlo Bo University.
It is listed by UNESCO as the “City of the Ideal Renaissance”.
It has an outstanding historical centre,
It annually welcomes researchers, students and art connoisseurs from around the world.
Urbino is not just a city. It’s an immersion into the Renaissance, where every stone, every courtyard and every bend of the street breathes history. It stands among the green hills of Marche, almost untouched by time - like a painting that came to life on the pages of Raphael's album.
Open-air city-museum
The main symbol of Urbino is the Palazzo Ducale, one of the greatest palaces in Italy.His harmonious lines, bright courtyards and the famous "Camera degli Sposi" transport the traveler to the era of sophistication and nobility. Today, the National Gallery of Marche is located in the palace, where the masterpieces of Piero della Francesca, Titian, Raphael and other masters are stored.
City of Raphael
The house in which the great artist was born is open to visitors: cozy rooms, the studio of his father Giovanni Santi and an atmospheric courtyard is an ideal place for art connoisseurs.
The Magic of Medieval Streets
A walk through Urbino is:
narrow streets of red brick,
paved stairs,
panoramic views of the hills of Marche,
Ancient arches hiding small cafes and craft workshops.
Each turn opens a new angle - so picturesque that you want to photograph endlessly.
A young and vibrant city
Despite its antiquity, Urbino is very young thanks to the University of Carlo Bo.The students give the city an atmosphere of creativity, freedom and intellectual energy. There are exhibitions, street concerts, book fairs and festivals – so the city lives in the rhythm of culture all year round.
Marche's gastronomic paradise
The Marche region is known for its sincere and rich cuisine, and Urbino is its heart.
Worth a try:
crescia sfogliata - local cake served with cheese and sausages,
Casciotta d'Urbino DOP is a famous cheese, beloved by Michelangelo.
truffle paste,
and local wines Verdicchio or Rosso Piceno.
Atmospheric trattorias are hidden in historic quarters - dinner here turns into a small holiday.
Panoramas that cannot be forgotten
One of the best entertainment is to climb the fortress walls or to the observation deck near the bastion Rampa elicoidale. From here, Urbino reveals itself as a vision: towers, domes, a duke's palace and soft hills stretching into infinity.
Events and festivals
The city is especially beautiful during:
Festival del Duca is a historical festival where the streets are filled with music, costumed processions and medieval games.
Urbino Jazz,
Printing and Calligraphy Festival,
Christmas markets.
1. Comfortable hotels (3-4 stars)
Perfect for those who want convenience, good location and full service.
Albergo Italia (3★)
One of the most popular hotels in the center of Urbino.
Pros:
2-3 minutes to the main attractions,
cozy rooms,
the atmosphere of an old house,
Breakfast is on. Ideal if you want to live in the heart of the old city.
Hotel & Residence Dei Duchi (3 ★)
Cozy option with a good ratio of price and quality.
Pros:
spacious rooms,
Wi-Fi,
near the parking lot,
often profitable rates. Suitable for those who come by car or want a quiet place outside the noisy streets.
2.B&B and small family hotels
The most soulful format of living in Urbino: quiet, cozy, homely.
B&B Villa Paradiso
Very nice family home with great reviews.
Pros:
homemade breakfasts,
purity and silence,
The hosts help with the route,
affordable prices. A great option for couples and travelers who appreciate the atmosphere of comfort.
3. Budget options and economy class
Suitable for students, solo travelers and those who want to save on overnight accommodation.
Apartments and studios
For example: Casa Matilde or similar offers in the old town.
Pros:
low prices,
own kitchen,
convenient for long journeys.
Rooms and simple mini-hotels
In Urbino, there are few hostels, but many small inexpensive rooms: simple, clean, neat - the ideal option if you just need a night, not service.
Urbino is a compact city, and almost all the iconic sites are in the historic center. Therefore, moving between them most often takes place on foot: the distances are short, the streets are pedestrian, and the views are picturesque.
1. Palazzo Ducale (Palazzo Ducale)
The main gem of Urbino and one of the greatest Renaissance buildings in Italy.
What to see:
magnificent courtyards and facades,
"Camera Delhi Sposi" - intarsion wooden panels,
National Gallery Marche with works by Raphael, Piero della Francesca, etc.
How to get there:
From any point of the historical center - 5-10 minutes.
From the bus station (Piazza Mercatale): climb the Rampa Elicoidale escalator, then walk for 7 minutes.
By car: Parking is located at Piazza Mercatale - then on foot or on the city elevator.
2. House of Raphael (Casa Natale di Raffaello)
The house where Raphael Santi was born today is a museum with the restored workshop of his father Giovanni Santi.
What's inside:
small rooms of the fifteenth century,
by Giovanni Santi,
Memorable exhibits related to Raphael.
How to get there:
On foot: 7-12 minutes from Palazzo Ducale through narrow streets.
From Piazza Mercatale: about 15 minutes on foot or by bus to Santa Lucia.
3. The Cathedral of Urbino (Duomo di Urbino)
The elegant neoclassical cathedral on the main square is a quiet and bright space with works of art of the XVI-XVIII centuries.
How to get there:
It is located directly opposite the Palazzo Ducale, 2 minutes walk from its doors.
4. Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista (Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista)
Famous for its impressive frescoes of the Salimbeni brothers - some of the best examples of late Gothic painting in Italy.
How to get there:
By foot: 6-8 minutes from Rafael’s house or 10 minutes from Palazzo Ducale.
Located in a quiet residential quarter - very atmospheric.
5. Fortezza Albornoz (Fortezza Albornoz)
Fortress on the top of the hill with the best panorama in Urbino. Perfect for sunset photos.
How to get there:
Walking: 10-15 minutes from the center up the gentle road.
From Piazza Mercatale: you can climb by bus or on foot (20-25 minutes).
By car: there's parking nearby.
6. University of Urbino Botanical Garden
A small cozy garden with rare plants is a favorite place for students.
How to get there:
10 minutes walk from the cathedral, located near the university.
7. University of Urbino (Campus Universitario)
Not just a place of study is a complex of beautiful buildings from the architect Giancaro de Carlo, harmoniously blended into the hills.
How to get there:
Walking from the center - 15-20 minutes.
City buses run regularly, especially during school hours.
8. Place de la Repubblica (Piazza della Repubblica)
The main square with cafes, shops, bars. Great starting point for walks.
How to get there:
In the heart of the city, all routes pass through it.
General transport accessibility in Urbino
On foot.
The main way to get around. The historic center is small but hilly (get ready for the climbs).
Buses.
Connect the lower city (Piazza Mercatale) with the center and the university.
Convenient for those who do not want to walk.
By car.
Entry to the historic centre is restricted (ZTL).
Parking:
Piazza Mercatale (main, large)
Parcheggio del Teatro,
Parcheggio Santa Lucia.
Then – on foot or on the city elevator / escalator.
Taxi.
There are, but are rarely used, as the center is pedestrian.
1. Festa del Duca (Feast of the Duke)
When: Mid-August
Where: The entire historical center
One of the most famous festivals of Urbino is a large-scale historical holiday dedicated to the era of Duke Federico da Montefeltro. What's going on?
Medieval processions in costumes,
fifteenth century music and dance,
craft workshops,
chivalry,
antiques fair.
This is the best time to feel the atmosphere of the Renaissance.
2.Urbino Jazz/Urbino Plays Jazz
When: July
Where: Squares and courtyards of Palazzo Ducale
Every summer, Urbino becomes the stage for jazz concerts. Italian and European musicians perform, and concerts are held in the most beautiful corners of the city, including inside the palaces.
3. FESTA DEI FOLIALE - Festival of Calligraphy, Printing and Graphics
When: May-June
Where: Art centers and museums
Urbino is the historical capital of engraving and hand printing, so exhibitions, master classes and art events are held here annually. It's a very creative festival.
4. Festival del Rinascimento (Renaissance Festival)
When: May
Where: Museo della Città, Palazzo Ducale
Exhibitions, reconstructions, theatrical performances and lectures are all connected with the history of art and scientific ideas of the Renaissance.
FAI Spring Days (Giornate FAI di Primavera)
When: March
Italian open days. In Urbino these days usually open access to parts closed to tourists: secret passages, courtyards, private historic houses.
6. Christmas markets and events (Mercatini di Natale)
When: early December - early January
Pretty little fairs, lights, hot wine, handicrafts. In the historical center there is a fabulous atmosphere.
7. Open-air Summer Films
When: July to August
In the squares of Urbino put a screen and show films (usually Italian cinema and world classics). Great evenings after a hot day.
8. Festivals of Urbino University
When: spring and autumn
There are many young people in the city, so there are:
literary evenings,
science festivals,
exhibitions of art students,
Modern concerts.
It adds life and dynamism even outside the tourist season.
Spring (March-May)
Spring in Urbino is mild, sunny, perfect for hill walks and sightseeing.
Air temperature:
March: +8... +13°C
April: +10... +17° C.
May: +14... +22°C
Nights can be cool because of the hills.
Water temperature (Adriatic):
March: +12° C.
April: +14° C.
May: +18–20 °C (the first daredevils are already bathing)
Summer (June-August)
Summer is warm, sometimes hot, but in Urbino is easier to tolerate than on the coast - the height gives a pleasant breeze.
Air temperature:
June: +18... +26°C
July: +20... +30°C
August: +20...+30°C (+32–34°C on rare hot days)
Water temperature:
June: +22°C
July: +25-26° C.
August: +26-27° C.
Best time to travel by sea (20-35 minutes by car/bus).
Autumn (September-November)
Soft, warm and very picturesque – the hills of Marche turn golden.
Air temperature:
September: +18... +25° C.
October: +13... +19°C
November: +8... +14°C
The weather is stable until the end of October.
Water temperature:
September: +23-24° C.
October: +20–21°C
November: +17° C.
Winter (December-February)
Winter in Urbino is cool, sometimes with light snow - but very atmospheric in the historic center.
Air temperature:
December: +4... +9 °C
January: +3... +7°C
February: +4... +9 °C
The night can drop to 0°C and below.
Water temperature:
winter: +11... +13°C
Language of communication in Urbino
Main language: Italian
In Urbino, as in all of Italy, Italian is spoken.
In tourist destinations, museums and hotels, many employees know English at a basic level.
In cafes, shops and street shops, the level of English may be lower, but people are friendly and try to help.
Useful phrases:
Buongiorno - Good afternoon
Per favore - Please
Grazie - Thank you
Mi scusi - Excuse me
Parla inglese? - Do you speak English?
In a small and traditional town such as Urbino, a couple of Italian phrases evoke a large local disposition.
Traditions and cultural characteristics worth considering
1. Daytime and "pause"
Italy lives in its own rhythm.
Siesta (pausa)
Between 13:00 and 16:00 many shops, some cafes and small shops close.
Museums and large objects are more stable, but it is better to check the schedule in advance.
Dinner.
It begins later, often at 19:30-20:30.
At 18:00 the kitchen in the restaurant may be closed.
2. Politeness and form of communication
Italians appreciate polite treatment and friendliness.
Entering a store or cafe, it is customary to say hello: Buongiorno / Buonasera.
It is also a good farewell to Arrivederci.
Address Lei (polite "you"), especially the elderly.
A smile and a calm tone are an important part of communication.
3. Clothing: Respect for Temples
There are many churches and religious sites in Urbino.
For entry:
closed shoulders,
No shorts/skirts too short.
If you violate, you may be asked to put on a cape or not to let.
4. Food traditions
In Italy, it is not customary to ask for a latte, if you want coffee - order a caffè latte, otherwise they will bring a glass of milk.
Italians drink cappuccino only in the morning (after lunch it is considered strange, but tourists will not be banned).
Pizza is often eaten with a knife and fork, but fast food pieces are eaten with hands.
It is not necessary to leave a tip, but it is pleasant: 5-10% or just round the bill.
Laws and regulations that are important to follow
1. ZTL - restricted traffic zones n
The historic center of Urbino is a pedestrian zone with entry control.
Entry by car is allowed only to residents and official transport.
Fines are automatic, come by number. Therefore, tourists are better off parking in the Piazza Mercatale and walking.
2. Smoking
Forbidden:
inside all cafes, bars, restaurants,
inside the train stations,
transport.
You can smoke outside, away from the entrances.
3. Alcohol
Drinking alcohol on the street is allowed, but it is forbidden to disturb public order.
Drinking in public places is a reason for a fine.
The age to buy alcohol is 18.
4. Cleanliness and ecology
Italy is very strict about waste disposal.
Garbage should be placed in bins or containers.
Penalties for dumping garbage on the street can be tangible.
In historical centers, this is particularly strict.
5. You cannot touch monuments and exhibits.
In museums and near historical sites:
It is forbidden to lean back,
It is forbidden to paint or write on walls.
It is forbidden to photograph with a flash (in some museums).
This is related to the protection of cultural heritage.
6. Purchases and checks
When buying expensive goods:
The seller must issue a check,
The check must be saved before the exit - the police have the right to check (rarely, but the law is).
1. Basic words and greetings
Greetings
Buongiorno - [Buonggiorno] - Good afternoon
Buonasera - [buonasera] - Good evening
Ciao - [Ciao] - Hello / Bye (informally)
Arrivederci - [arrivederci] - Goodbye
Per favore -- [per favore] -- Please.
Grazie - [grazier] - Thank you.
Prego - [Prego] - Nothing/Please (in response)
Politeness
Mi scusi - [mi scuzi] - Sorry.
Scusa - [Booth] - Sorry (informally)
Permesso? - Can I come in?
2. Phrases for communication in the city
General phrases
Parla inglese? - Do you speak English?
Non parlo italiano. - I don't speak Italian.
Ho bisogno di aiuto. - I need help.
Dove sono? - Dove Sono? - Where am I?
Quanto costa? - How much is it?
3. Phrases in Restaurant/Café
Reservation and table
Un tavolo per due, per favore. - [un tawolo per due, per favore] - Table for two, please.
Avete un tavolo libero? - Is there a table available?
Order.
Vorrei questo. - I want this.
Per me... - [per me] - Me...
Cosa mi consiglia? - What do you recommend?
Drinks.
Un caffè, per favore. - One coffee, please.
Un cappuccino. - [un cappuccino] - Cappuccino.
Acqua naturale / frizzante. Water without gas / with gas.
Account.
Il conto, per favore. - [El konto, per favore] - The bill, please.
Possiamo pagare? - Can we pay?
4. Phrases in the store
Posso vedere? - Can I see it?
Ha una taglia più grande / più piccola? -
[Do I drink grande/piccola?] - Is there a bigger or smaller size?
Accettate carta? - Do you accept the card?
Solo contanti. - Cash only.
5. Hotel phrases
But una prenotazione. - [Ouna Prenotozzañe] - I have a reservation.
A che ora è il check-in? - What time is the check-in?
A che ora dobbiamo lasciare la camera? -
[What about the dobbiamo laschare la Camera?] - What time do I need to vacate the room?
C'è il Wi-Fi? - Is there Wi-Fi?
La chiave, per favore. - The key, please.
6. Phrases in transport
By bus.
Dove si trova la fermata? -
[Do you know what you're doing?] - Where's the stop?
Un biglietto per favore. -
One ticket, please.
Quanto dura il viaggio? -
[quanto dura il viagio?] - How long is the trip?
In a cab.
Portami qui, per favore. -
[Portami Coui, Per Favoré] - Take me here, please.
Quanto costa fino al centro? -
[Quanto Costa fino al centro?] - How much does it cost to the center?
7. In an emergency.
Aiuto! - Help me!
Chiami un'ambulanza! - Call an ambulance!
Ho perso i documenti. - I lost my papers.
Mi sono perso. - I'm lost.
Food and drink
1. Traditional dishes of Urbino and Marche region
Crescia is a local type of bread or cake, similar to a pie, often with cheese, meat or vegetables.
Olive all’ascolana – stuffed and roasted olives, a real classic of the region.
Vincisgrassi is a local variety of lasagna with meat sauce, sometimes with mushrooms and cheese, a very hearty and tasty dish.
Brodetto is a fish soup from the Marche coast (try it better in Pesaro, 30 km from Urbino).
2. Cheese and sausages
Formaggio di fossa is a unique cheese that ripens in special pits, with a slightly sharp taste.
Salame di Fabriano or Salame di Urbino are excellent meat delicacies.
3. Drinks.
Marquet's wines are Verdicchio (white) and Rosso Conero (red).
Liqueurs and grappa - many family manufacturers sell bottles in small batches.
Olio extravergine di oliva is a high-quality locally produced olive oil.
Tip: you can buy small packages so that it is not difficult to carry on the plane.
Medical and health products
Honey Marche (Miele delle colline marchigiane) - different varieties, especially useful linden and acacia.
Herbal fees and teas - to improve digestion, sleep, general tone.
Products with olive oil - skin creams, balms.
Soap with olive oil and aromas of herbs - soft and natural, convenient for gifts.
These items are safe to transport and are unique local products.
Souvenirs and handicrafts
1. Urbino crafts
Intarsia is the famous technique of wooden mosaics, which was revived by the famous master Urbino.
Handmade wood products - boxes, frames, miniature panels.
2. Ceramics
Hand ceramics and dishes from Marche: bowls, plates with traditional ornamentation.
3. Textiles
Local fabrics and scarves with folk patterns, small handbags, kitchen towels.
4. Books and paper
Handmade stationery - notebooks, postcards with prints and drawings.
Reproductions and books about Urbino, especially on Renaissance art and Raphael.
Required documents for the tourist
Passport
For EU citizens, a passport or national identity card is sufficient.
Citizens of other countries need a passport valid at least 3-6 months after the date of entry.
Visa
Citizens of Schengen countries can stay in Italy without a visa.
Tourists from other countries - check the need for a Schengen visa (type C).
Insurance
Travel health insurance is recommended to cover illness, injury and emergency evacuation.
An EHIC/Green Card is sufficient for EU tourists, but additional insurance provides more protection.
Documents for transport and accommodation
Tickets (air, bus, train)
Confirmation of hotel or apartment reservation
Driving license (if you rent a car – an international license may be required)
Emergency services phones
Council: Keep these numbers on your phone, especially if you travel to small areas outside the city.
Mobile and Internet
Network connection
Main operators: TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, Iliad.
All cover Urbino and Marche region, internet and 4G are available almost everywhere.
Free Wi-Fi is often available in cafes, hotels and municipal areas.
SIM card for tourists
Travel packages include internet, calls and SMS.
SIM can be bought at the airport or in the city (TIM, Vodafone, Wind stores).
roaming
For EU citizens, calls and internet at standard EU tariffs.
For other countries, clarify the conditions with the operator.
General security in Urbino
Urbino is a very safe city, small tourist flow, low crime rate.
Petty theft is possible in touristic places (pockets), especially in markets and squares.
Recommendations:
Don't leave things unattended.
Keep your passport and money separate from your wallet.
Avoid low-lighted streets at night.
Duration of stay without leaving the country
For citizens of Schengen countries: no restrictions, as in the whole EU.
For tourists from other countries (Schengen):
The maximum period without a visa is 90 days within 180 days.
This means that after 90 days of stay, you must leave the Schengen area for at least 90 days.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
