I still can’t get over how incredible Marche, Italy, is. Every time I visit, I’m blown away by this region that most tourists completely miss. Last time I was here, I stood in front of Urbino’s massive Renaissance palace with my jaw on the floor—it’s the kind of place that makes you forget to take photos because you’re too busy staring.
From the mind-blowing Frasassi Caves that made me feel like I was on another planet to the turquoise waters of the Conero Riviera, these are the most beautiful places in Marche that will make you fall in love with Italy all over again. Let me share my 11 favorite spots in this unreal corner of the country.
Top Must-See Places in Marche, Italy
Looking for the coolest things to do in Marche, Italy? Visit the charming town of Ascoli Piceno, explore the historic Castello di Gradara, marvel at the stunning Frasassi Caves, and take in the scenic beauty of Furlo Pass. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, here are the top attractions to visit in Marche.
1. Ascoli Piceno
Ascoli Piceno is seriously one of Italy’s most underrated gems, and honestly, I can’t believe more people don’t know about it. The golden travertine stone literally glows at sunset, making the whole city look like it’s been dipped in honey. Piazza del Popolo is hands down one of the most gorgeous squares in Italy – way better than some of the touristy ones you’ll find in Rome or Florence.
What I love most is how authentic it feels. You’ll find the famous Caffè Meletti right next to the Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo, and it’s been serving locals since forever. The vibe is so relaxed compared to other Italian cities. Don’t even get me started on olive all’ascolana – these stuffed, fried olives are absolutely addictive and you can’t get them anywhere else in Italy quite like this.
I spent hours just wandering around Piazza Arringo and the narrow medieval streets without seeing another tour group. The city earned its nickname “City of 100 Towers” from all the medieval structures scattered around, though honestly, most tourists have no idea this place exists. The best time to visit is spring or fall when the weather’s perfect and you’ll have the cobblestone streets practically to yourself. It’s like discovering Italy’s best-kept secret.
2. Castello di Gradara
Castello di Gradara is open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM, and at €8 for standard entry, it’s actually pretty reasonable for what you get. This isn’t just any medieval castle – it’s where Paolo and Francesca’s tragic love story unfolded, the same one Dante wrote about in the Divine Comedy. Standing in those rooms where history happened gives me chills every time.
The castle’s completely surrounded by two defensive walls, making it one of Italy’s most impressive fortresses. What’s cool is that you can walk along the ancient patrol paths and get incredible panoramic views stretching from the rolling hills to the Adriatic Sea. The village itself feels frozen in time, with cobblestone streets and medieval buildings that look exactly like they did centuries ago.
I always recommend booking a guided tour if you can – the stories about the Malatestas, Sforzas, and Borgias who lived here are way more fascinating than any Game of Thrones plot. The July Castle Siege reenactment is absolutely epic, with hundreds of people in costume, horses, and special effects. Just be aware that it gets pretty crowded during events, so plan accordingly.
3. Frasassi Caves
The Frasassi Caves are open daily except January 10-31, with tours running from 10 AM to 5 PM (March-October) and 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM on weekdays in winter. Tickets are €18 per adult, and that includes parking, the shuttle bus, and access to the museum. These caves are absolutely mind-blowing – like walking through an alien planet that’s been carved by nature over 190 million years.
The Ancona Abyss is so massive that Milan’s cathedral could fit inside it completely. The guided tours last about 90 minutes and take you through five different chambers. I love how the stalactites and stalagmites create these incredible formations that look like castles, animals, and even people. The constant 14°C temperature means you’ll need a jacket even in summer, but it’s perfect for year-round visits.
For thrill-seekers, there are adventure routes: the Blue Route (€35, 2 hours) for beginners and the Red Route (€45, 3 hours) with actual rappelling. These need to be booked at least a week ahead via email. The caves can get pretty crowded, especially with big tour groups, so I’d suggest going first thing in the morning or late afternoon if possible. Don’t miss the Temple of Valadier nearby – it’s this gorgeous neoclassical church built right into a cave opening.
4. Furlo Pass
Furlo Pass is like Italy’s answer to the Grand Canyon, except it’s got 2,000 years of Roman history thrown in. The emerald Candigliano River cuts through these towering limestone cliffs in a way that honestly looks more like Colorado than typical Italian countryside. What’s incredible is walking through the same Roman tunnel that Emperor Vespasian ordered carved through solid rock back in the day.
The whole area is now a nature reserve, and you’ll often spot golden eagles circling overhead. The hiking trails here aren’t super difficult, but they reward you with some of the most dramatic viewpoints in central Italy. I love how you can still see sections of the ancient Via Flaminia, the Roman road that’s been connecting Rome to the Adriatic coast since 220 BCE.
Spring and fall are definitely the best times to visit – the colors are incredible and the weather’s perfect for hiking. The State Nature Reserve protects all the wildlife here, so it feels completely untouched despite being so accessible. If you’re into Roman history and natural beauty, this place combines both in a way that’s pretty unique, even for Italy.
5. Gradara (Village)
The medieval village of Gradara was named “Italy’s Most Beautiful Village” in 2018, and after visiting, I totally get why. The perfectly preserved defensive walls stretch for almost 800 meters around the entire village, creating this incredible time capsule effect. Walking through the Clock Tower gate feels like stepping directly into the Middle Ages.
What most people don’t realize is that there are underground passages and caves beneath the cobblestone streets. The local restaurants serve traditional specialties like tagliolini con la bomba, which sounds weird but is actually this amazing rustic pasta with lard and onion sauce. During summer, the Castle Siege reenactment brings the whole place to life with hundreds of costumed participants and horses.
I always tell people to walk the wall-top pathway if they can – the panoramic views stretch from the hills all the way to the shimmering Adriatic. The village stays pretty charming even during peak season, though I’d recommend visiting in May, June, or September for the best weather without the summer crowds. It’s one of those places that actually lives up to all the hype.
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6. Lake Fiastra
Lake Fiastra is this stunning turquoise reservoir created in the 1950s, sitting at the heart of the Monti Sibillini National Park. The contrast between the crystal-clear waters and the forest-covered mountains is absolutely breathtaking. What I love about this place is how it offers a perfect mountain beach alternative to Italy’s crowded coastal areas.
The main beach at San Lorenzo al Lago has everything you need – rentable sunbeds, umbrellas, and even a small bar for refreshments. You can swim, rent canoes, or try the pedal boats. There’s also the Adventure Park with zip lines that cross directly over the water – pretty epic for an adrenaline rush. The water stays refreshingly cool even in summer, and there’s usually a mountain breeze that keeps things comfortable.
Between June and July, the lake hosts the Triathlon of the Sibillini Mountains, which includes a 1500-meter swim, 38km bike ride, and 10km run. I’d definitely bring water shoes since the lake bottom has some sharp stones, not typical sea pebbles. There’s even a designated area where dogs can swim and play, which is pretty rare at Italian lakes. The combination with nearby Lame Rosse makes this perfect for a full day of mountain adventures.
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7. Lame Rosse
Lame Rosse brings serious American Southwest vibes to central Italy with these dramatic red rock formations that look like they belong in Utah, not the Marche. The name literally means “red blades,” and once you see these weathered crimson towers rising from the landscape, you’ll understand why locals call them that.
The 7km hike starts at the Lake Fiastra dam and winds through shady oak forests before revealing these geological masterpieces. It’s a moderate trail with about 250 meters of elevation gain, so most people with decent fitness can handle it. What makes this spot really special is the dual experience – you can photograph otherworldly rock formations in the morning, then cool off with a swim in Fiastra’s crystal waters in the afternoon.
I always recommend starting early, especially in summer, since there’s limited shade once you reach the formations. The contrast between the red rocks and the turquoise lake below creates some of the most unique photo opportunities in Italy. Spring and fall offer the best hiking conditions and lighting for photography. It’s definitely one of those hidden gems that feels like you’re discovering something completely off the tourist trail.
8. Monte Vettore
At 2,476 meters, Monte Vettore is the highest peak in the Sibillini Mountains, and the views from the summit are absolutely incredible. The most popular route starts from Forca di Presta (1,534m) and passes by Monte Vettoretto before the final push to the summit. It’s definitely a challenging hike that requires good fitness, but the payoff is worth every step.
From the summit, you can see the mysterious Lago di Pilato (Pilate’s Lake) at 1,941 meters – it’s the only natural lake in the Marche region and home to an endemic species of fairy shrimp called Chirocephalus marchesonii. The legend says Pontius Pilate’s body ended up in these waters, which adds to the mystical atmosphere up there.
The hiking season runs from March to November, though you’ll need proper mountain gear in winter due to snow and those fierce winds the peak is famous for. I always tell people the Umbrian side looks completely different from the Marche side – from Castelluccio, it rises like this dramatic bare wall almost 1,000 meters from the Piano Grande. There’s an unguarded hut, Rifugio Zilioli (2,240m), near the summit for serious mountaineers. The morning light on the surrounding peaks is absolutely magical for photography.
9. Parco San Bartolo
Parco San Bartolo creates this incredible coastal drama where limestone cliffs meet the Adriatic – something you rarely see on Italy’s eastern shores. The 10-kilometer stretch from Pesaro to Gabicce Mare marks where central Italy’s hill country literally drops into the sea. Ancient villages like Fiorenzuola di Focara are perched impossibly on clifftops with views that’ll make your jaw drop.
The scenic 12-mile coastal route between Baia Flaminia and Fiorenzuola di Focara is perfect for cycling or hiking, with elevation gains reaching 1,000 feet. The trails reward you with glimpses of hidden coves and sweeping sea views that honestly rival anything on the Amalfi Coast. What I love is how the park transforms into a birdwatcher’s paradise during migration seasons – golden eagles and falcons pass overhead regularly.
The best time to visit is May through October for outdoor activities, though spring is especially beautiful for wildflowers and bird migration. Unlike the crowded beaches further south, you can actually find quiet spots here even in summer. The combination of dramatic coastline, charming clifftop villages, and excellent hiking trails makes this one of Italy’s most underrated coastal destinations.
10. Sarnano Waterfalls
Three hidden waterfalls await just minutes from Sarnano‘s medieval walls, connected by the enchanting “Via delle Cascate Perdute” (Path of the Lost Waterfalls). This 6km loop trail connects the Antico Molino, lu Vagnatò, and Cascatelle waterfalls through peaceful forest paths with minimal elevation gain.
What makes this adventure special is how accessible it is for families. Even kids can complete the circuit easily, and the trail is well-marked from the Largo Bozzoni parking lot. Summer visitors can cool off in crystal-clear pools beneath each waterfall, which is incredibly refreshing after exploring the medieval town.
I recommend starting early from the parking area, then spending the afternoon exploring Sarnano’s historic center afterward. The combination makes for a perfect day mixing nature and culture. Spring offers the best water flow for the waterfalls, while summer provides ideal swimming conditions. The whole area feels like a local secret that most tourists haven’t discovered yet, so you’ll likely have the trails mostly to yourself.
11. Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle
Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle is hands down one of the most Instagram-worthy beaches in Italy, with those iconic twin limestone stacks rising from turquoise waters. The catch? It’s only accessible by boat, which honestly makes it even more special. Traghettatori del Conero runs daily ferry service for €30 adults (€20 for kids under 10), departing from Numana port with the trip taking about 20 minutes.
The beach itself is a combination of white pebbles and light sand in a picturesque cove bordered by the imposing Two Sisters rocks to the north and Grotta della Marchesina cave to the south. You can also reach the beach by kayak from Spiaggia dei Sassi Neri – it takes about 30 minutes for experienced paddlers, and they rent single, double, or triple kayaks at Stabilimento Da Silvio.
The water here is absolutely crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. I always suggest arriving on the early morning boats to avoid the crowds and stay until late afternoon when most day-trippers leave. For a more luxurious experience, several operators offer panoramic boat tours with aperitifs on board (around €45) that include stops at multiple beaches along the Conero Riviera. May, June, and September offer the best combination of pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
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