GemmaIf you’re someone who finds joy in winding cobblestone streets, panoramic views that make your jaw drop, and colorful villages perched on hills that seem pulled straight from a postcard, Le Marche in Italy should be at the top of your travel list. This region, often overlooked in favor of Tuscany or Umbria, is a treasure trove for photographers and travelers alike. From my own personal experience, wandering through these hilltop towns feels like stepping into a dream where every corner is begging for a photo.
Le Marche offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, with less crowd than Italy’s more famous destinations. In this guide, I’ll take you through 15 must-visit hilltop towns, share what you can explore, and highlight the photography moments you’ll truly love. Whether you’re an amateur with a smartphone or a seasoned professional with a DSLR, these towns provide opportunities to capture unforgettable images.
1. Urbino
Urbino is synonymous with Renaissance art and history. The entire town feels like a living museum, with narrow streets leading to impressive architecture.
Must-see:
- Ducal Palace (Palazzo Ducale) – the jewel of Urbino, filled with frescoes and grand halls.
- Raphael’s birthplace – a pilgrimage for art enthusiasts.
- The city walls – perfect for panoramic hilltop shots.
Photography tip: Catch the golden hour near the city walls. The sunset light over the rooftops creates an almost magical scene.
2. Ascoli Piceno
Ascoli Piceno is known for its elegant piazzas and travertine architecture. This hilltop town combines charm and history effortlessly.
Must-see:
- Piazza del Popolo – a lively square surrounded by cafes.
- Ponte di Cecco – a medieval bridge ideal for sunset shots.
- Torre del Popolo – climb for 360-degree views of the town and surrounding hills.
You’ll truly love capturing the medieval streets lit by the soft afternoon light. From my own personal experience, photographing the locals enjoying espresso in the piazza adds life to your shots.
3. Gradara
Gradara is a walled village famous for its medieval fortress and Romeo-and-Juliet vibe.
Must-see:
- Gradara Castle – explore the towers and ramparts for dramatic shots.
- Street alleys – lined with stone houses perfect for golden hour photography.
This town is small but photogenic in every corner. Early mornings are ideal to avoid crowds and capture a serene, timeless look.
4. Offida
Offida is a hidden gem with traditional architecture and artisan workshops.
Must-see:
- Piazza del Popolo – not to be confused with Ascoli Piceno’s, this one has a quaint charm.
- Church of Santa Maria della Rocca – with its striking facade.
- Lace workshops – document local artisans at work.
You’ll truly love exploring the alleyways that open onto quiet squares, ideal for intimate photography.
5. Fermo
Fermo is a blend of Roman history and hilltop elegance.
Must-see:
- Piazza del Popolo – another stunning central square.
- Roman cisterns – a hidden architectural marvel.
- The Cathedral of Fermo – perched above the town for wide cityscape shots.
From my own personal experience, the view from the cathedral terrace at sunrise is unmatched.
6. Sirolo
Sirolo combines hills with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
Must-see:
- Conero Riviera – for cliffside coastal shots.
- Old town alleys – colorful houses climbing the hillside.
- Beach views – for contrasting hilltop and seascape photography.
You’ll truly love capturing the vibrant blend of green hills and blue sea in one frame.
7. Cingoli
Known as the “Balcony of Le Marche,” Cingoli offers sweeping views over the surrounding valleys.
Must-see:
- Piazza del Duomo – quiet, historic square.
- The Cathedral – dramatic architecture set against panoramic landscapes.
- Hilltop terraces – perfect for sunset photography.
The panoramic views make this town a dream for wide-angle photography.
8. Corinaldo
Corinaldo is a fortress town with an authentic medieval vibe.
Must-see:
- The town walls – walk along them for elevated shots of rooftops and valleys.
- Piazza del Terreno – a classic square perfect for lifestyle shots.
- Stairs and alleys – create depth and perspective in your images.
You’ll truly love the harmony of ancient stone streets and scenic overlooks.
9. Montefiore dell’Aso
Montefiore dell’Aso sits on a hilltop with the Adriatic plains stretching below.
Must-see:
- Historic center – with arches and terracotta rooftops.
- Civic Tower – for panoramic views.
- Local vineyards – add natural charm to your shots.
From my own personal experience, visiting during harvest season gives a rich palette of colors that enhance your photography.
10. Treia
Treia is an underrated hilltop town with both medieval and Renaissance charm.
Must-see:
- Piazza della Repubblica – elegant central square.
- Porta Sant’Antonio – an ancient gate perfect for framing shots.
- Surrounding countryside – golden light illuminates the rolling hills.
You’ll truly love capturing the balance between historic structures and natural landscapes.
11. Pergola
Pergola offers unique photo opportunities, especially with its antique artifacts and hillside location.
Must-see:
- Museo dei Bronzi Dorati – golden statues that contrast beautifully with stone streets.
- Medieval streets – perfect for black-and-white photography.
- Hillside viewpoints – for classic Le Marche panoramas.
The quiet streets allow you to take your time capturing the town’s character without distractions.
12. Macerata
Macerata blends cultural vibrancy with scenic hilltop views.
Must-see:
- Sferisterio – an open-air opera venue with stunning architecture.
- Piazza della Libertà – central square lined with cafes.
- Old town streets – ideal for lifestyle and architectural photography.
You’ll truly love photographing the town from above as the sun sets over the surrounding hills.
13. Jesi
Jesi is known for its Renaissance streets and charming squares.
Must-see:
- Piazza Federico II – elegant and lively.
- Jesi Cathedral – detailed architecture and hilltop location.
- Vineyards – surrounding hills provide a lush backdrop.
From my own personal experience, early morning light in Jesi makes the streets glow warmly, perfect for a soft, inviting photo series.
14. Recanati
Recanati is famously the home of poet Giacomo Leopardi. Its quiet streets and poetic ambiance are perfect for reflective photography.
Must-see:
- Leopardi Square – where the poet once wandered.
- Church of San Domenico – historic architecture.
- Hillside views – overlooking the Marche countryside.
You’ll truly love capturing the serene atmosphere that inspired one of Italy’s greatest poets.
15. Gradoli (Le Marche variant – small village)
Gradoli may be smaller, but it’s packed with charm for photographers.
Must-see:
- Ancient town walls – a peek into the past.
- Hilltop terraces – wide-angle shots of rolling landscapes.
- Local squares – capture life as it unfolds naturally.
Every corner offers a new perspective, from cobblestones to sunlit hills.
Tips for Photographing Hilltop Towns in Le Marche
- Timing is everything: Early mornings and late afternoons provide soft, golden light.
- Walk everywhere: Cars rarely fit in these narrow streets. Walking allows for spontaneous, authentic shots.
- Look for symmetry: Doorways, arches, and cobbled streets often create perfect framing opportunities.
- Blend landscapes with architecture: Include surrounding hills in your composition for a sense of place.
- Capture local life: Cafes, markets, and artisans add story and warmth to your photos.
Why Le Marche Should Be on Your Photography Map
Le Marche isn’t just about scenery; it’s about experiences. You can spend a morning wandering a quiet alley, an afternoon perched above rolling vineyards, and an evening enjoying the sunset over terracotta rooftops. These towns provide depth, texture, and authenticity that are increasingly rare in more tourist-heavy regions. From my own personal experience, every visit to these hilltop towns left me with both cherished memories and a camera roll full of images I couldn’t wait to share.
Whether you’re exploring the art-filled streets of Urbino, the coastal beauty of Sirolo, or the medieval walls of Corinaldo, Le Marche offers a unique palette for photographers and travelers alike. The magic lies in the combination of history, landscape, and daily life, making every shot feel alive and personal.
So pack your camera, bring comfortable shoes, and set out to explore these 15 charming hilltop towns. You’ll find corners to photograph that you never knew existed, streets that invite storytelling, and landscapes that make you pause and truly appreciate Italy’s quiet beauty.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.