With so much to do and so little time, we’ve compiled the perfect itinerary for your next visit.

One of Le Marche’s  special qualities is its exclusivity. Labelled as Tuscany’s more affordable, lesser-known neighbour, Le Marche manages to boast all the same charm and authenticity, but without the off putting crowds and urbanisation. 

While this seclusion has maintained Le Marche’s natural beauty it also means it can be difficult for new visitors to know how to make the most of their visit. 

With this in mind, we have compiled the perfect itinerary for a week in Le Marche using Palazzo Scarsini in Petritoli as an example location. Keep reading to discover insider knowledge, our personal favourites and must-see destinations. 

Monday:

Use the hour’s drive from Ancona Airport to unwind from your travels, taking in the stunning scenery that can only be Le Marche’s coastline. 

As the turquoise blue of the Adriatic Sea and the lush green of the Sibillini Mountains sweep past your window, you can finally allow yourself to surrender to La Dolce Vita, ready for a week of relaxation and rejuvenation in your luxurious holiday home. 

You will pass by some impressive sights on the way south and you may be tempted to make a couple of detours … one in particular will stand out … visit the hilltop town of Loreto and see the Sanctuary (Basilica) where the Santa Casa della Vergine Maria (Shrine of the Holy House of the Virgin Mary) is preserved and venerated. This is one of the holiest and most visited pilgrimage destinations in Italy because it contains the family home of Mary, mother of Jesus. You may not be religious but according to a fifteenth-century legend, when the Virgin Mary's house in Nazareth came under threat by invading Saracen armies, it was miraculously transported in 1291 from the Holy Land to Loreto, a small town on Italy's Adriatic coast. It certainly has a very spiritual aura and is well worth a visit.

Once you’ve arrived at Palazzo Scarsini, emptied your suitcases and familiarised yourself with your surroundings, it’s time to head out to enjoy the rest of your day. We’d recommend cocktail hour at Caffè Tre Archi, the perfect place to unwind and watch the world go by as you sip your first Aperol Spritz of the evening. 

When the sun begins to set and you can’t ignore your cravings for a hearty Italian meal any longer, take a stroll around the corner to Ristorante Re Squarchio to experience the true taste of Le Marche before heading back to Palazzo Scarsini for a comfortable and satisfied sleep.

Tuesday:

You’ve waited this long for your trip, so why not indulge in something quintessentially Italian? 

Travel for 20 minutes to Porto San Giorgio where you’ll find a fleet of red Vespas ready and waiting for you and your group. With this special tour, you’ll be provided with everything you need to explore the many stunning hilltop towns of Le Marche, complete with a detailed guidebook of places to visit and a remote tour guide for privacy and freedom.

Once you’ve completed your tour, you’re not going to want to venture out too far for your evening meal. Well, luckily for you, the incredible, family-run Osteria de le Cornacchie is right on your doorstep. Made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, a meal here is the best way to complete your day of Italian extravagance.

Wednesday: 

After yesterday’s adventure, you’ve earned yourself a slow morning spent in the Palazzo’s spa area. Situated under the 15th-century vaults sits a two-person whirlpool bath positioned to enjoy the view of Le Marche’s rolling hills and a 4-person sauna: the perfect way to start your day.

To continue your day of relaxation, head to one of our family’s favourite spots along the coast: Shada Beach Club. Spend the day lounging on the sand, cocktail in hand, before sprucing up to partake in one of their many glamorous evening events.

Thursday:

There’s no better way to shake off a wine-induced headache (we’ve all been there) than with a dip in Marmitte dei Giganti. The chilly water will be sure to wake you up in no time… Consider a kayak excursion with Happy River to make the most of your trip and experience something unique and fun with all the family.

To maintain your trip’s air of authenticity and indulgence, why not hire a private chef to come to you? Be treated to an incredibly delicious meal that has been specially made for you and your guests, without having to leave Palazzo Scarsini.

Friday: 

Whether you’re looking for souvenirs for friends and family or just want to treat yourself to something special, venture 30 minutes to the ancient coastal village of Grottammare to wander quaint alleyways filled with lovingly handmade products, and a great market every Thursday. The beach is beautiful, long and sandy, with a multitude of beach chalets and restaurants. The promenade is perfect for a stroll or bike ride, all along the beauty of this adriatic coastline.

You’re on holiday, so for you, everyday is a holiday, but nothing beats joining the locals for a Friday evening out in the town. Book a table at another one of our favourite spots, Cantina Antisociale, and jump headfirst into the La Dolce Vita lifestyle with their mouth watering range of dishes and their huge selection of  wines… Because it would be rude not to, right? 

Saturday: 

Our family has spent many Saturdays making the most of what La Baia Beach Club has to offer. The open beach, comfortable sunbeds and very welcoming bar-restaurant, La Baia is the perfect place to spend a Saturday with friends and family while making wholesome memories and soaking up the sun.

Sunday: 

To end your holiday in the most lavish and relaxing way possible, we recommend making the most of Palazzo Scarsini’s luxurious amenities. Start off with 10 minutes in the sauna to cleanse the body and empty your mind, then treat yourself to a professional massage right in the comfort of your own home. 

Finally, to avoid packing for a little while longer, take a stroll around the corner to Pizzeria il Girasole di Danilo Merlonghi for a final taste of Italy before ending your night with some delicious handmade gelato from Bar Gelateria Tre Archi.

Once you’ve succumbed to the fact that you have to return home, there’s one thing left to do… And that’s book your next visit to Le Marche.