GemmaLe Marche, tucked between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains, is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Its rolling hills, historic towns, and breathtaking landscapes offer a blend of serenity, history, and culture that will captivate any traveler. From my own personal experience, exploring Le Marche feels like stepping into a painting: each town perched on a hill offers sweeping views, winding cobblestone streets, and a pace of life that’s refreshingly slower than the bustling cities. If you’re looking for destinations that combine charm, history, and incredible scenery, these 15 hilltop towns should be at the top of your list.
1. Urbino
Urbino is a jewel of Renaissance architecture and culture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this town sits atop a hill overlooking the Metauro Valley. The Ducal Palace is the centerpiece, housing the National Gallery of the Marche with its impressive art collection, including works by Raphael. Strolling through narrow streets, you’ll find hidden gardens, quaint cafés, and artisan shops. Don’t miss climbing to the top of the town walls for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Must-see: Ducal Palace, Raphael’s birthplace, the town walls.
Things to do: Explore museums, enjoy local cuisine, hike nearby trails.
2. Gradara
Famous for its medieval fortress, Gradara is like stepping into a fairy tale. The castle is remarkably preserved and offers an authentic glimpse into Italy’s medieval past. Perched on a hill near the Adriatic, Gradara provides stunning views over the surrounding plains. Wander through the cobblestone streets, peek into artisan workshops, and stop at a local trattoria to taste traditional dishes.
Must-see: Gradara Castle, medieval walls, panoramic viewpoints.
Things to do: Attend medieval reenactments, enjoy regional wine tasting, explore local artisan shops.
3. Offida
Offida is known for its delicate lace-making tradition, charming historic center, and hilltop position overlooking vineyards. Its churches, such as Santa Maria della Rocca, showcase Gothic and Romanesque architecture, while the town’s piazzas are perfect for sitting with a coffee and taking in the views. From my overall experience, Offida combines authentic Italian life with breathtaking scenery, making it a town you’ll truly want to linger in.
Must-see: Santa Maria della Rocca, medieval center, artisan lace shops.
Things to do: Visit local wineries, shop for handcrafted lace, enjoy scenic walks.
4. Ascoli Piceno
Ascoli Piceno sits in the southern part of Le Marche, known for its beautiful travertine architecture and historic piazzas. Piazza del Popolo is one of the most elegant squares in Italy, perfect for a leisurely aperitivo while watching the world go by. The town’s hilltop position allows you to enjoy views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, especially at sunset.
Must-see: Piazza del Popolo, Roman Bridge, Cathedral of Sant’Emidio.
Things to do: Explore museums, try local specialties like olive all’ascolana, hike nearby trails.
5. Sarnano
Sarnano is a medieval town perched on the slopes of Monte San Vicino. Its narrow streets, stone houses, and towers create a picture-perfect hilltop village. The town is a gateway to natural parks, offering trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints. From my own personal experience, visiting Sarnano is a mix of history, nature, and authentic Italian charm.
Must-see: Medieval towers, historic center, nearby natural parks.
Things to do: Hiking, skiing in winter, explore artisanal shops and local gastronomy.
6. Montefalcone Appennino
This small hilltop village in the province of Fermo offers one of the most authentic experiences in Le Marche. Montefalcone Appennino provides panoramic views over valleys and mountains, making it ideal for photography and quiet exploration. The town’s history, evident in its stone houses and old churches, complements the natural beauty.
Must-see: Church of San Michele Arcangelo, ancient town gates, viewpoints.
Things to do: Nature walks, photography, taste local cuisine.
7. Pergola
Pergola is famous for its Gilt Bronzes, a rare archaeological treasure. The town itself is perched on a gentle hill surrounded by rolling landscapes. Its historic center is compact but full of charm, with narrow streets, old palaces, and inviting cafés.
Must-see: Gilt Bronzes of Pergola, Palazzo Comunale, medieval walls.
Things to do: Explore local museums, enjoy regional food, take scenic walks.
8. Cingoli
Cingoli is often called the “Balcony of Le Marche” for its spectacular views over the surrounding valleys. Its historic center features elegant palaces, churches, and fortifications. Walking through the town, you’ll feel immersed in centuries of history while enjoying one of the most scenic vantage points in the region.
Must-see: Rocca di Cingoli, Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, panoramic viewpoints.
Things to do: Hike nearby trails, photograph landscapes, visit local markets.
9. Fossombrone
Fossombrone is nestled along the Metauro River and combines natural beauty with historical intrigue. The hilltop historic center features charming streets, ancient churches, and fortifications. Views of the river valley and surrounding hills are stunning, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.
Must-see: Palazzo Ducale, Roman bridge, medieval churches.
Things to do: Explore historic sites, walk along the river, taste local culinary specialties.
10. Corinaldo
Corinaldo is one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, famous for its perfectly preserved walls and towers. The town’s hilltop location provides sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Its streets are dotted with artisanal shops, cafés, and historic churches, making it a town you can explore leisurely.
Must-see: City walls, Clock Tower, historic churches.
Things to do: Walk the medieval walls, explore artisan boutiques, attend local festivals.
11. Loreto
Loreto is a pilgrimage town, renowned for the Basilica della Santa Casa, which draws visitors from all over the world. Beyond its religious significance, Loreto offers a hilltop perspective over the Adriatic coast and the surrounding valleys. From my overall experience, Loreto’s charm is a mix of spiritual history and scenic beauty.
Must-see: Basilica della Santa Casa, Piazza della Madonna, panoramic terraces.
Things to do: Visit the basilica, stroll through historic streets, enjoy local eateries.
12. Recanati
Recanati is a hilltop town celebrated for its literary history, especially as the birthplace of poet Giacomo Leopardi. Its streets, squares, and historic homes provide a glimpse into Italy’s cultural past. The town’s elevated position gives you spectacular views over the surrounding countryside and the distant Adriatic coast.
Must-see: Leopardi House, Piazza Leopardi, historic churches.
Things to do: Explore museums, enjoy local gastronomy, walk to scenic viewpoints.
13. Treia
Treia is a small town known for its charming historic center, elegant palaces, and hilltop location. The views of rolling hills and the countryside are breathtaking, making it an ideal place for photography and relaxed exploration.
Must-see: Palazzo Comunale, historic churches, scenic town squares.
Things to do: Explore the historic streets, photograph landscapes, attend local cultural events.
14. Montefiore dell’Aso
Montefiore dell’Aso sits atop a hill in the province of Ascoli Piceno, offering panoramic views of vineyards, rolling hills, and the Adriatic coast in the distance. The town’s medieval streets and fortifications are perfect for leisurely exploration.
Must-see: Historic fortifications, old town gates, scenic terraces.
Things to do: Walk through medieval streets, visit local wineries, enjoy sunset views.
15. San Ginesio
San Ginesio is a tranquil hilltop town surrounded by mountains. Its historic center is full of stone houses, churches, and piazzas that reflect centuries of Italian history. From my own personal experience, the town offers a peaceful retreat with panoramic views that stretch for miles, ideal for relaxation and reflection.
Must-see: Rocca dei Varano, Piazza Matteotti, historic churches.
Things to do: Hike nearby trails, explore local history, photograph scenic vistas.
Le Marche’s hilltop towns are more than just picturesque spots; they are living pieces of history that allow you to connect with Italy’s culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Each town offers something unique, from panoramic views to medieval streets, artisan shops, and local gastronomy. Exploring them slowly, taking in the views, and indulging in local flavors is the best way to experience this enchanting region.
From my own personal experience, visiting these towns is not just sightseeing—it’s immersing yourself in Italy’s soul, where every corner tells a story, and every view leaves a lasting impression.
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.