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There are an array of things to do in Italy, with Fano sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled on the Adriatic Sea like a treasure awaiting discovery, Fano beckons with open arms, a tranquil oasis promising a feast for the senses.
Read on and explore the myriad of activities that await in this charming Italian town.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Fano:
1. Piazza XX Settembre
Piazza XX Settembre is a stunning seafront square in Fano, Italy that boasts beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the square and take in the stunning views of the sea. Enjoy a coffee or aperitif in one of the many cafes or restaurants that line the square.
Don’t miss: The beautiful Arco d’Augusto, a majestic Roman arch that is part of the square.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the evening when the square is lit up and the atmosphere is lively. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the beautiful views and architecture.
2. Chiesa di Santa Maria Nuova
Chiesa di Santa Maria Nuova is a beautiful Romanesque church located in the charming town of Fano, in the Marche region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the church, which dates back to the 12th century.
The interior is adorned with frescoes and paintings from various periods, including works by renowned artists such as Giovanni Santi, father of Raphael.
Don’t miss: One notable feature of the church is the Chapel of the Cross, which contains a fragment of the True Cross. Visitors can also see the beautiful rose window, which is one of the largest in Italy.
Insider travel tips: Visit the church during mass to witness the beautiful acoustics and the choir singing. Also, take a stroll through the charming streets of Fano to discover other hidden gems in the town.
3. Arco d’Augusto
Arco d’Augusto is an ancient Roman triumphal arch that dates back to 9 AD.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive structure, which stands at the entrance of Fano’s historic center. The arch is beautifully preserved and features intricate carvings and designs depicting scenes from Roman history.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a close look at the sculptures on the arch, which include images of Jupiter, Apollo, and the goddess Roma.
Also, don’t miss the Latin inscriptions on the arch, which tell the story of the construction of the arch.
Insider travel tips: For the best photo opportunities, head to the arch early in the morning or in the evening to avoid crowds. Also, take some time to explore Fano’s other historic sites, including the Romanesque cathedral and the impressive fortress.
Finally, sample some of the local cuisine in one of Fano’s many restaurants, which serve up delicious seafood dishes and other specialties.
4. Museo Civico
Museo Civico is a historical museum located in the heart of Fano, Italy. It showcases the city’s cultural heritage from prehistoric times to the Renaissance era.
What to see or do: Visitors can expect to see a collection of well-preserved artifacts relating to Fano’s rich history. Exhibits on display include archaeological finds, medieval art, and Renaissance era paintings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the famous bronze statue, known as the “Idolino of Pesaro,” which was discovered in the nearby town of Pesaro.
It is considered one of the most important pieces of Etruscan artwork in Italy.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to bring a guide or pick up an audio guide at the museum as most of the labels are only displayed in Italian.
Also, plan a visit during the off-season for a quieter and more relaxed experience.
5. Fontana della Fortuna
A beautiful and historic fountain located in the heart of Fano, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the intricate sculptural details of the fountain, including the four statues representing the virtues of Prudence, Fortitude, Justice, and Temperance.
Take some time to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Piazza XX Settembre, where the fountain is located.
Don’t miss: The chance to toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish – a tradition believed to bring good luck to those who participate.
Insider travel tips: Visit Fontana della Fortuna during the evening, when it is beautifully illuminated and the surrounding piazza is bustling with locals. Be sure to explore the nearby streets and alleys for hidden gems, such as cozy trattorias serving delicious Italian cuisine.
6. Teatro della Fortuna
Teatro della Fortuna is a historic theater located in the small city of Fano, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can attend live performances of plays, musicals, and concerts at Teatro della Fortuna. The theater also hosts events and festivals throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The impressive frescoes and decorations inside the theater are not to be missed. Be sure to check out the ceiling and walls adorned with intricate designs and beautiful colors.
Insider travel tips: – To fully appreciate the theater’s beauty, consider attending a performance during your visit.
7. Palazzo Malatestiano
Palazzo Malatestiano is a historic palace built during the Malatesta family’s rule in Fano, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the palace’s rich history and admire its stunning architecture. The palace houses several museums with exhibits showcasing the history of Fano, ancient art, and archeology.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the stunning frescoes, statues, and decorations inside the palace. The highlight of the palace is the Malatesta Temple, a beautiful and unique chapel.
Insider travel tips: Buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
8. Biblioteca Federiciana
Biblioteca Federiciana is an ancient library located in the city of Fano, Italy.
What to see or do: As a book lover, get ready to be mesmerized by the library’s vast collection of over 20,000 volumes, including ancient manuscripts and early printed books.
Take a walk around the library to appreciate the beauty of its intricate architecture and the carefully preserved books.
Don’t miss: The highlight of this library is its most cherished treasure – the 14th-century illuminated manuscript of Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy, which has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Insider travel tips: – The library is located inside a historic building, Palazzo della Ragione, which is also worth a visit.
9. Porta Maggiore
Porta Maggiore is an ancient gate dating back to Roman times that marked the entrance to the city of Fano.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive structure of Porta Maggiore, which is made of large blocks of white and pink limestone. Take a walk around the gate, and you’ll find the remains of medieval fortifications and a lovely park nearby.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the gate and enjoy a panoramic view of Fano. You’ll get a fantastic view of the city’s historic center and the surrounding countryside from up there.
Insider travel tips: If you are interested in Roman history, you can also visit the nearby archaeological museum, which houses a collection of Roman artifacts found in the area.
To avoid the crowds, visit Porta Maggiore early in the morning or during the week. And definitely bring your camera with you because you won’t want to miss the photo opportunities.
10. Loggia dei Mercanti
A historical building located in the heart of Fano, Italy, built in the 18th century as a trading hub.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful Baroque-style architecture of the building, take a stroll around the main square Piazza XX Settembre, and visit the nearby Romanesque Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Don’t miss: The chance to see the annual Carnival of Fano, one of the oldest and most traditional carnivals in Italy, which typically takes place in February or March.
Insider travel tips: Check out the unique boutique shops and local cafes situated in the charming streets around the Loggia dei Mercanti, and take a walk to the nearby seaside promenade, which offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
11. Oratory of the Immaculate Conception
Oratory of the Immaculate Conception is a charming 16th-century religious building located in Fano, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the stunning Renaissance architecture and beautifully adorned interior.
The oratory is home to numerous exquisite works of art, including intricate frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Christ and a stunning altarpiece carved by Francesco di Giorgio Martini.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a close look at the meticulously crafted wooden choir stalls and be sure to take a stroll around the surrounding gardens.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit to coincide with one of the regular choral performances to fully experience the beauty of this wonderful building.
Also, be aware that the oratory is only open at specific times, so it’s worth checking ahead to avoid disappointment.
12. Church of Saint Augustine
A Catholic church located in Fano, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful Baroque-style architecture and art inside. The church features stunning frescoes on the ceiling and walls, intricate marble altars, and sculptures by renowned artists.
Don’t miss: The Chapel of the Holy Thorn (Cappella della Santa Spina), which houses a fragment of what is believed to be the Crown of Thorns that was worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to dress appropriately when visiting churches in Italy, with covered shoulders and knees. Check the church’s website for opening hours and any events that may be happening during your visit.
The church is located in the historic center of Fano, so take some time to explore the charming streets and local shops nearby.
13. Church of San Michele in Bosco
The Church of San Michele in Bosco is a stunning medieval church located in the town of Fano, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive architecture and intricate decorations both inside and outside of the church. The interior boasts beautiful frescoes and stunning artwork.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea from the church’s hilltop location.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, go early in the morning to avoid crowds and take some time to explore the surrounding gardens and landscapes.
Additionally, be respectful of the church’s religious significance and dress appropriately.
14. Marina dei Cesari
Picturesque marina located in the city of Fano, on the Adriatic coast of central Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning views of the sea and boats while sipping a coffee or grabbing a bite at one of the many cafes and restaurants lining the marina.
Take a stroll along the pier and admire the beautiful sunset. You can also rent a boat to explore the Adriatic sea.
Don’t miss: The “Pescheria di Cesare” is a historic fish market located at the end of the marina which is definitely worth a visit.
The market is filled with fresh fish and seafood caught locally.
Insider travel tips: While the marina can get quite busy during the summer months, it’s still a great spot to spend an afternoon if you can get there early.
Try to avoid visiting during the peak times of the day. The best way to explore the marina and its surroundings is on foot.
It’s also a great base to explore nearby towns such as Pesaro and Senigallia.
15. Spiaggia di Sassonia
Spiaggia di Sassonia is a stunning beach located in the town of Fano, in the Marche region of central Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the soft sandy beach or try out water sports like surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.
The clear turquoise water is perfect for a refreshing swim.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to go for a walk along the long promenade that runs parallel to the beach. Admire the views of the Adriatic Sea and the beautiful landscape of rolling hills covered in olive groves and vineyards.
Insider travel tips: – The beach can get crowded during the peak season, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a good spot.
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