1, How is it March already? And 2, When can we start filling up our wardrobe with all things spring? Fortunately, as SS19 has just landed, we know the answer to the second question. Which brings us nicely to our next city guide: Urbino, Tuscany. Because who wants to wear cute blouses and dresses and keep them hidden under several layers when you could be strolling through the streets of one of Italy’s best-kept secrets? As equally as charming as Florence or Rome, Urbino too boasts pretty streets, cafe culture and outdoor markets, but the walled city (so small we’d almost label it a ‘town’) doesn’t attract tourists en masse – or have the hefty price tag either – well, yet.
One of the first things to do in Urbino is take in the panoramic views of the hilly city. We recommend walking up the trail of the Parco Della Resistenze for the best view, which is dominated by one of the most important monuments in Italy, the Palazzo Ducale. The palace – a breathtaking example of Renaissance architecture – is also home to Marche National Gallery, which hosts some of the best Renaissance art the country has to offer. The Rivka Cotton Canvas Jacket is the perfect lightweight option that looks super chic layered with the Tara Cashmere Sweater if it’s a little chilly!
Art lovers should also pay a visit to Raphael’s House. The Renaissance painter was born in the city in 1483 and the house has now been transformed into a museum. Along with Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, he is one of the great masters of that period.
Despite being a university town, Urbino offers a slower pace of life than most Italian cities and is the perfect place to take in a glass of wine or cappuccino and watch the world go by. The centre of the city is formed of Piazza della Republica, Piazza Rinascimento and Piazza Duca Federico, which are filled with plenty of cafes and shops. The Orto Botanico garden, maintained by the University of Urbino, where you can take in some ornamental plants (and soak up the sunshine), is also top of our to-do list. The Glimmer Tiered Dress is our go-to chic piece that will take you from daytime exploration in boots and an oversize knit to dinner and drinks via a classic pair of kitten keels with ease.
If you’re in Urbino on the weekend, make sure to drop by the local markets along the Viale Buozzi on Saturday morning where you’ll discover everything from clothing and bedding to seafood and meat. And if you’re lucky enough to be visiting on the first Sunday of the month, it’s antique market day.
And if that’s not enough, there’s also plenty of serene villages and towns you can visit nearby. Just make sure you have a car. Also, don’t forget your phone charger – you’ll need it for the all the Insta snaps you’ll be taking. Oh, and Google Maps.
