✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Recanati.
Nestled in the tranquil hills of central Italy, Recanati is like a treasure trove — packed with cultural richness and natural wonders waiting to be explored.
Whether you want to wander along ancient cobblestoned streets, bask in the warm Mediterranean sun, or indulge in delicious Italian cuisine, Recanati offers something for every kind of traveler.
Join us on a journey through this charming town, and discover the many wonders that await you in Recanati.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Recanati:
1. Leopardi House
The Leopardi House is a museum dedicated to the life and works of Italian poet and philosopher, Giacomo Leopardi.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the rooms that were once home to Leopardi and his family, including the poet’s personal library, bedroom, and study.
The museum also houses a collection of manuscripts, letters, and other personal belongings that offer insights into Leopardi’s life and work.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the view from the terrace of the Leopardi House, which overlooks the town of Recanati and the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least an hour at the museum to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.
2. Civic Tower
The Civic Tower, also known as the Torre del Orologio, is a 55-meter-high medieval clock tower located in the center of the charming hilltop town of Recanati, in the Marche region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the 193 stairs to the top of the tower and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
From the top, you can see the Adriatic Sea on a clear day.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the clock faces of the tower, as they are some of the largest in Italy and are decorated with exquisite detail.
The bells in the tower still ring every hour.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit the Civic Tower early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Wear comfortable shoes as climbing the stairs can be a bit strenuous.
Admission to the tower is included in the Museo Villa Colloredo Mels ticket.
3. Villa Colloredo Mels Civic Museum
Villa Colloredo Mels Civic Museum is a historic mansion in Recanati, Italy that houses a collection of art and artifacts.
What to see or do: Explore the stunning architecture of the mansion which dates back to the 18th century. Admire the vast collection of artworks, including paintings by Lorenzo Lotto and Andrea Lilli.
Check out the Roman, Greek and Etruscan artifacts. The museum also offers workshops, lectures, and concerts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive Library of Recanati, with its 30,000 volumes, including an original copy of Dante’s Divine Comedy. The library also houses letters, manuscripts, and autographs of famous writers.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning to avoid crowds. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the villa and the collection.
Combine your trip with a visit to Leopardi’s House, which is located nearby.
4. Santa Maria di Varano
Santa Maria di Varano is a small village located in the eastern part of Italy, in the region of Marche. The village is known for its beautiful landscape and historic churches.
What to see or do: Visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Varano, which features impressive frescoes and a beautiful altar. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the village and admire the traditional houses and buildings.
Visit the nearby town of Recanati to see the birthplace of famous Italian poet Giacomo Leopardi.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view from the top of the hill where the Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Varano is located. Try the local cuisine, especially the popular dish of vincisgrassi, a type of lasagna made with chicken livers and truffles.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months to enjoy the village’s lively festivals and events, including the Festa del Vino and the Festa di Sant’Anna.
Rent a car to explore the surrounding countryside, including the town of Loreto, which houses one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in the country.
5. Museum of the Villa Colloredo Mels
Museum of the Villa Colloredo Mels, Recanati is an elegant 18th-century villa that houses a collection of art and historical artifacts.
What to see or do: Explore the museum’s many rooms and admire its impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture, and ceramics. Admire works by famous artists such as Giacomo Leopardi, Francesco Traini, and Federico Barocci.
Don’t miss: The stunning frescoes in the villa’s library, which depict scenes from ancient mythology. Also, don’t miss the beautiful gardens and fountains surrounding the villa.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers guided tours in Italian and English. If you’re a fan of Giacomo Leopardi, be sure to visit his birthplace nearby.
And don’t miss the chance to try some of the delicious local cuisine at one of the restaurants in the area.
6. Civic Art Gallery
Civic Art Gallery is a museum located in the heart of Recanati, Italy. It showcases a vast collection of paintings and sculptures dating back to the 14th century.
What to see or do: The museum features works of art from renowned artists such as Lorenzo Lotto, Girolamo di Giovanni, and Carlo Crivelli. Visitors can explore the vast collection of sculptures, paintings, and artwork portraying the history of the city.
Don’t miss: Make sure not to miss the magnificent artworks of Lorenzo Lotto, including the extraordinary paintings “Polyptych of the Exaltation of the Cross” and “Polyptych of Monte San Giusto”.
Insider travel tips: Head to the museum early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the art in peace. Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Tuesdays, and tickets are reasonably priced.
Don’t forget to check the museum’s opening hours before you visit.
7. Basilica of Saint Flaviano
The Basilica of Saint Flaviano is a Romanesque church located in the town of Recanati in the Marche region of Italy.
It is one of the most important religious buildings in the area.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture and intricate details of the church, which dates back to the 12th century. The interior features stunning frescoes and a unique crypt that contains the remains of Saint Flaviano himself.
Don’t miss: Make sure not to miss the chance to climb up to the bell tower for breathtaking views of the surrounding town and countryside.
Insider travel tips: To experience the church at its best, plan to visit during the annual festival of Saint Flaviano in mid-August.
Also, be aware that the basilica may have limited hours during certain times of the year, so check beforehand to avoid disappointment.
8. Palazzo Persichetti
Palazzo Persichetti is a historic palace located in the charming town of Recanati, in the Marche region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors to Palazzo Persichetti can explore the stunning frescoes and paintings that adorn the interior of the palace, as well as marvel at the impressive architecture of the building itself.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Palazzo Persichetti is the beautiful frescoed room, which features artwork by the renowned 18th-century painter, Giuseppe Valeriani.
Insider travel tips: – It’s worth hiring a guide to fully appreciate the history and artistry of the palace.
9. San Vito di Recanati
A charming and picturesque hilltop town located in the Marche region of Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town’s narrow streets and admire the beautiful architecture of its historic buildings, including the 18th century Palazzo Comunale and the Church of San Vito.
Visit the Santuario della Santa Casa, a sanctuary and pilgrimage site that is said to house the Virgin Mary’s original home.
Take a hike in the Monti Sibillini National Park, which is located nearby.
Don’t miss: The annual Festival of San Vito, held in June, which celebrates the town’s patron saint with parades, processions and traditional food.
Insider travel tips: Try the local specialty, vincisgrassi, a delicious lasagna-like dish made with egg pasta and béchamel sauce.
Stay in one of the many charming bed and breakfasts that are scattered throughout the town for an authentic Italian experience.
10. Church of Saint Augustine
The Church of Saint Augustine is a historic Catholic church located in the town of Recanati, Italy.
It was built in the 14th century and underwent multiple renovations and additions until it became the Baroque-style church it is today.
What to see or do: The church is filled with beautiful artwork and architecture, including frescoes by Lorenzo Lotto and Francesco da Milano, an altar designed by Giuliano da Maiano, and a stunning organ built by Giacomo and Donato Fedeli.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the tomb of famous poet Giacomo Leopardi, who is buried in the church’s crypt. Also, take some time to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and ornate details inside the church.
Insider travel tips: Visit the church during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the artwork and architecture. Additionally, the nearby town of Recanati is home to many other cultural and historical sights worth exploring.
11. Oratorio di Sant’ Anna
Oratorio di Sant’ Anna is a small church located in the town of Recanati in Italy.
What to see or do: While small in size, the Oratorio di Sant’ Anna is admired for its impressive Baroque architecture and beautiful frescoes.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of the dome, which is decorated with gilt stucco work and frescoes depicting stories from the life of Saint Anne.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the stunning ceiling fresco, which showcases vibrant colors and intricate details that are sure to captivate visitors.
Insider travel tips: Visitors to the Oratorio di Sant’ Anna should note that the church is only open on a limited schedule, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
It’s also recommended to take a guided tour of the church to appreciate the intricate details and history behind the building.
12. Church of Santa Maria in Potenza
The Church of Santa Maria in Potenza is a beautiful religious building located in the charming town of Recanati, in the Marche region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive Renaissance architecture of the church and its stunning frescoes and artworks inside. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, perfect for some quiet contemplation and spiritual reflection.
Don’t miss: Make sure you don’t miss the majestic altarpiece by Lorenzo Lotto, featuring the Madonna and Child with Saints. It’s a true masterpiece of Italian art and a highlight of the church.
Insider travel tips: – The church is free to enter and is always open during the daytime.
13. Church of San Domenico
The Church of San Domenico is a striking religious edifice located in the charming town of Recanati, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful stonework and medieval architecture of the church, which dates back to the 14th century. The interior is equally impressive, with an ornate altar and frescoed ceilings.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the tomb of Count Giacomo Leopardi, one of Italy’s greatest poets and a native of Recanati.
The tomb is located in a side chapel of the church.
Insider travel tips: If you have time, climb the bell tower for incredible views of the surrounding countryside. And keep in mind that the church is open to visitors during limited hours, so plan your visit accordingly.
14. Church of Santa Maria di Castelnuovo
Church of Santa Maria di Castelnuovo is a beautiful church located in the town of Recanati, in the Marche region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the church, which was built in the 16th century in the Renaissance style. Inside, there are many works of art to see, including frescoes by the famous Italian artist Lorenzo Lotto.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the church is the stunning painting by Lorenzo Lotto, the “Madonna and Child with Saints Peter and Sebastian”.
It is considered one of his masterpieces, and is definitely worth seeing in person.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should be sure to check the opening hours of the church before planning a trip, as they may vary depending on the season.
It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as the church is located on a hill and there is some uphill walking involved.
Additionally, photography may not be allowed inside the church, so visitors should be sure to check before taking any pictures.
15. Piazza Leopardi
Piazza Leopardi is a charming and historic square located in the heart of the picturesque town of Recanati in central Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings, which include the Leopardi Museum, the Civic Tower, and the beautiful Palazzo Venieri.
Walk in the footsteps of the great Italian poet Giacomo Leopardi, whose birthplace is located just off the square.
Don’t miss: The chance to have a coffee or aperitivo in one of the cozy outdoor cafes on the square, and take in the lively atmosphere of this popular meeting spot for locals and visitors alike.
Insider travel tips: -Visit the Leopardi Museum to learn more about the life and works of the famous poet.