A hidden treasure, the Marche is one of the most intriguing and least-visited regions of Italy. Rich in history and natural beauty, it is set along the central Adriatic coast, with Tuscany and Umbria to its west. From seaside towns with pristine beaches to rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, this is a region of diverse pleasures.

At its heart is the well-preserved city of Urbino, birthplace of Raphael and a center of the Renaissance movement. Here, Duke Federico da Montefeltro held court with the era’s greatest artists and scholars, and his palace stands as a testament to the Renaissance ideal. Today, this university town has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Marche is also home to the Grotte di Frasassi, an extensive array of caves that includes Europe’s largest single underground cavern. More than 1.5 kilometers are open to the public, equipped with walkways and theatrical lighting that spotlights a spectacular assortment of stalagmites and stalagtites.

The Marche boasts more opera theaters than any other region in Italy. Every year, opera aficionados flock to the town of Pesaro for two internationally acclaimed events, the Macerata Opera Festival and the Rossini Festival.

Gourmands, too, will find the Marche a veritable treasure trove, with excellent dining and culinary adventures that range from wine tastings to truffle hunts.  

Travelers can book a luxury villa through Home in Italy with settings near Urbino and the Mount Conero region on the Adriatic Coast.