Le Marche - Italy's Undiscovered Jewel

Itinerary
Day 1 : UK/Bologna
Fly in to Bologna and transfer south to Le Marche and the Renaissance town of Urbino, your beautiful base for the first four nights.

Day 2 : Urbino
The picturesque medieval city of Urbino came to prominence in the 15th century under Frederico di Montefeltro. Your day begins in an exploration of some of Urbino’s most attractive sights on foot in the company of your Tour Guide. These include the magnificent Palazzo Ducale, arguably Italy’s most beautiful Renaissance palace. The palace was built in the 15th century by some of the finest artists and craftsmen of the time and typifies the city’s legacy of beautiful Renaissance architecture. Towering over above the rooftops of Urbino, the palace’s spacious rooms feature carved marble fireplaces, stuccoed ceilings and heavy wooden doors. It’s the perfect backdrop for many beautiful paintings including Piero della Francesca’s famous The Flagellation of Christ.

After visiting the palace, enjoy some free time to explore Urbino at your own pace. Perhaps visit the house where Urbino’s most famous son, Raphael, was born; or wander round the church of San Bernardino, the last resting place of the Montefeltro family. Or simply recharge with a bite to eat at one of the local cafés.

Day 3 : Gubbio, Umbria
Journey through the beautiful countryside of Le Marche over the regional border to Gubbio in Umbria for a half-day visit to this ancient town, home to yet more remarkable architecture. Gubbio clings to the rugged slopes of Mount Ingino and features many beautiful, honey-coloured buildings crowded along narrow, meandering streets. You can also explore the 17th century Church of San Francesco della Pace and a fascinating 1st century amphitheatre. Or how about strolling around the Palazzo dei Consoli? The 14th century palace dominates the skyline and houses a museum that displays some of the town’s finest Roman and Etruscan treasures.

Return to Urbino in the afternoon for some you time. The delightful terrace in your hotel offers some really beautiful views across Urbino and is a great place to unwind. Or if you want to continue your discovery of Urbino, visit the Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista. The interior of this historic building is adorned with stunning 15th century frescoes.

Day 4 : Gradara & San Leo
Visit some of Le Marche’s prettiest hilltowns with a trip to Gradara and San Leo. The walled town of Gradara is dominated by an impressive 14th century castle. It has beautiful interiors as well as a harrowing torture chamber to explore if you’re feeling a little more gutsy. The journey continues to San Leo, an enchanting town first fortified by the Romans. San Leo features a 12th century cathedral, an 11th century basilica and the town’s charismatic streets make it the ideal place to stop and enjoy a drink. Cheers!

Day 5 : San Sepolcro
Leave Urbino for the unspoilt beauty of Tuscany, taking in some beautiful countryside en route. Your base for the final three days of your holiday is the medieval town of San Sepolcro, famous for its lace and pasta. It was also the birthplace of the great Renaissance artist, Piero della Francesca. The afternoon is free for you to explore this charming Tuscan gem and perhaps visit the museum containing some of the Francesca’s beautiful works.

Day 6 : Arezzo
Take a trip to Arezzo and discover one of Tuscany’s wealthiest towns. Built on the riches of its jewellery industry, Arezzo is particularly known for the Church of San Francesco – its relatively simple brick facade concealing a magnificent interior frescoed by the aforementioned Piero della Francesca. The artwork intricately depicts the history of the cross used to crucify Christ. It’s regarded as one of the greatest fresco cycles in Italy.

Immerse yourself in Arezzo’s history with a walking tour of the town before taking some free time to yourself.

Day 7 : Monterchi & Citta di Castello
Explore the traditional orchards and vineyards of Monterchi on a three-quarter-day excursion to this attractive little village. You can also visit the famous fresco Madonna del Parto, believed to be a homage to Piero della Francesca’s mother. Then there’s just time to travel to Citta di Castello, the beautiful16th century town built along the Tiber valley, before returning to the hotel.

Day 8 : Bologna/UK
We’ll drop you back to Bologna airport for your homeward flight back to the UK.