While

While
Puglia, Amalfi and Sicily might be swarming with
holidaymakers on the hunt for beaches and burrata, the capital of
the Marche region on the
Adriatic Coast is an untapped source for those scouting out
summer days all’italiana.

While it may be a bit rough around the edges, Ancona offers a
truly Italian experience. Much like some of the country’s
southernmost cities, it’s a traditional port town where you’ll see
Italian mammas hanging out their laundry each morning, days are
spent exploring treasure-trove churches or lounging on the beach,
and evenings are about hearty meals washed down with rich local
reds.

Don’t miss

The burnt-orange facades in Piazza del Plebiscito – linger over
a cappuccino here before exploring one of the city’s many gothic
palazzos. Next, spend the afternoon flipping through Elena Ferrante‘s My Brilliant
Friend on the shore at Numana beach.

The tiny republic of San Marino is also located just an hour and
a half’s drive away from Ancona’s city centre, so travellers hoping
to check another state off their list can make the pilgrimage to
this pocket-sized mountain nation.

Who to bring with you

A friend who’s up for a little more grit than glamour.

When to go

August through September – you won’t want to
miss the Marche’s powdery beaches.

Most likely to bump into

Nonnas gossiping at the market.

Essentials to bring with you

Marni and Joie midi-skirts so you can wander in and out of the
city’s churches worry-free.

How to get there

Fly direct from London
Stansted to Marche Airport (12km outside of Ancona’s city centre)
for ultra-low fares. Snag them before this becomes the new Naples.