There are some towns you definitely need a to-do list for, but others work better without. In Senigallia you don’t need to dash from monument to monument: just start walking and see what happens.
In other words, it’s a stroller’s paradise. It’s a great place for unhurried wandering, taking a curious look at the town and being guided by whims rather than a map.
Start from the sea
The famous Velvet Beach actually consists of fourteen kilometres of fine, soft sand that soaks up the sun gently and makes the sea look closer than it really is.
If this is your first visit to Senigallia, and you’re here in spring, the easiest thing to do is to start walking along the shore, stopping to take a photo from time to time.
You’re almost certain to end up by the Rotonda a Mare, the symbol of the town. Suspended over the sea, it seems tailor-made to be shared on Instagram.
Wander round the old town
It’s only a few minutes from the sea to the old town. Cross the bridge over the River Misa and you’re in a world of Renaissance buildings, piazzas and narrow streets. The heart of the town is the Piazza del Duca, overlooked by the Rocca Roveresca and historic buildings that conserve centuries of history.
With its four towers and bridge to the gateway, this castle is one of Senigallia’s most recognisable monuments. Over the centuries it’s been a fortress, a stately home and even a prison. Nowadays it hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
The hub of life in the town is only a few steps away: the Portici Ercolani arcades have shops, markets and small bars where you can sit and watch the day go by at a leisurely pace.
But don’t just stay in town
Senigallia is actually a great starting-point. Just a few minutes’ drive takes you to gentle hills, vineyards and villages that seem still to live in another age. The Marche hinterland is full of scenic roads, wineries, olive oil mills and small towns where time really goes more slowly.
A lot of people come for the sea but then find the best part of their holiday starts when they decide to explore a little.
This is the best thing about Senigallia. You can do loads or nothing, filling your days with the sea, the old town and the hills or just sitting at one of our tables, watching the beach and letting the town do the rest.
That’s how it works here.
