Urbino is one of the jewels of the Italian Renaissance. In the 15th century Duke Federico da Montefeltro turned this hill town into one of the most refined courts in Europe. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is also the birthplace of Raphael.
Why visit Urbino
For art, architecture and atmosphere. Urbino is compact, walkable and still lively thanks to its old university, with world-class paintings, steep brick lanes and views over the green hills of the Montefeltro.
Top things to do in Urbino
The Ducal Palace
The magnificent palace of Federico da Montefeltro, with its twin towers, now houses the National Gallery of the Marche, including Piero della Francesca’s *Flagellation* and the famous *Ideal City*.
Raphael’s house
The house where Raphael was born in 1483, with rooms furnished as in his time and an early fresco attributed to him.
The Oratory of San Giovanni
A small oratory covered with vivid early-15th-century frescoes by the Salimbeni brothers.
The Albornoz fortress
A park on top of the hill with the best panoramic view of the town and its palace.
The Montefeltro hills
Medieval villages, castles and rolling countryside all around, with San Leo and the Furlo gorge within about an hour.
Best time to visit Urbino
Spring and autumn are ideal. In summer the town is quieter as students leave; winter can be cold, as Urbino stands at about 450 metres.
Getting to and around Urbino
Urbino has no railway station: buses connect it with Pesaro (about 35 km), which is on the Adriatic railway line. Rimini airport is about an hour away by car. The centre is pedestrian and hilly.
What to eat in Urbino
Crescia sfogliata (a flaky flatbread filled with cheese and greens), truffles from the nearby Acqualagna, casciotta d’Urbino cheese and Bianchello del Metauro white wine.
Urbino FAQ
How much time do I need in Urbino?
One full day for the palace, Raphael’s house and the old town; two to add the countryside.
Can I reach Urbino by train?
Not directly: take the train to Pesaro, then a bus of about 45 minutes.
