Family guide
Day trip from Pesaro: Gradara and Urbino with the family
Updated 22 October 2026. Pesaro is a good base for two classic day trips: Gradara, very close, and Urbino, about thirty kilometres away. This guide suggests how to organise them without tiring the children.
Gradara: the fortress and the story of Paolo and Francesca
Gradara is the closest destination: just outside Pesaro, with a well-preserved medieval fortress. It is tied to the tale of Paolo and Francesca in Dante's Divine Comedy, one more reason for a guided visit with older children. Check opening hours and tickets on the official channels before you go.
Urbino: the Ducal Palace
Urbino is about thirty kilometres from Pesaro according to the travel guides consulted, as also reported by this itinerary combining culture and sea (in Italian). The Ducal Palace houses the National Gallery of the Marche. The drive has uphill stretches: with children it is wise to allow extra time and plan breaks.
How to build the day
- Morning: a single destination (Gradara or Urbino), without rushing.
- An unhurried lunch at the place you visited or back in Pesaro.
- Free afternoon: the sea, a park or a bike ride near home.
With younger children the rule is simple: one trip at a time, alternated with a beach day. For ideas in Pesaro read Pesaro with children, the beaches guide and Cycling in Pesaro.
Staying in Pesaro with a comfortable base
Nuovo Fiore, at Via Barignani 60, has two bedrooms and two bathrooms and sleeps up to three guests plus a cot. The bikes and the private garage help you organise trips and day excursions without stress.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Urbino from Pesaro?
According to the travel guides consulted, Urbino is about thirty kilometres from Pesaro and can be reached by car as a day trip.
Is Gradara close to Pesaro?
Yes, Gradara is just outside Pesaro and is described as a short excursion. The medieval fortress is well preserved and linked to the story of Paolo and Francesca told by Dante.
What is there to see in Urbino?
The Ducal Palace, which houses the National Gallery of the Marche. Opening hours and tickets should be checked on the official sites.
Is it a good idea to do Gradara and Urbino on the same day with children?
It depends on the children's age: with younger ones it is better to choose a single destination and keep the rest of the day for the sea or the park.
Where to stay in Pesaro for these trips?
Nuovo Fiore, at Via Barignani 60, has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, sleeps up to three guests plus a cot, and offers bikes and a private garage.
Read also: Nuovo Fiore · Pesaro with children · Cycling in Pesaro · San Bartolo Park · Fano with children