Le Marche is one of Italy’s most varied regions. Within a 40-minute drive, you can pass from beautiful beaches to medieval towns, to the most relaxing countryside. For anyone considering buying property here, the first decision is where to live.
Should you choose the charm of a hilltop town, the energy of the Adriatic coast, or the quiet life of the countryside? Each option offers a completely different experience, with unique costs, advantages, and challenges.
1. Buying in Hilltop Towns
Hilltop towns are the icons of Le Marche. Places like Offida, Urbino, or Fermo still preserve cobblestone streets, Renaissance palaces, and lively piazzas where life moves at a slower pace.
Pros
• Rich in history and architecture; churches, towers, and small museums.
• Vibrant community life with festivals, local food fairs, and markets.
• Walkability: grocery stores, pharmacies, cafés, and the post office are usually within minutes.
Cons
• Parking can be a challenge; narrow alleys mean you’ll often park outside town walls.
• Older properties often need extensive renovation.
• Steep streets may not suit everyone.
Costs
Hilltop towns tend to be affordable compared to the coast. A small apartment can start from €40,000–€60,000, while a restored townhouse with panoramic views ranges €150,000–€250,000.
Best for
Buyers who want culture, walkability, and authenticity, and who don’t mind limited space or steep streets.
2. Buying on the Coast
From Pesaro in the north to San Benedetto del Tronto in the south, Le Marche’s Adriatic coastline stretches for 180 km. Coastal towns such as Senigallia, Porto Recanati, and Civitanova Marche offer a lively seaside lifestyle.
Pros
• Easy access to sandy beaches and promenade walks.
• Coastal towns are well-connected by train, making travel to Ancona, Rome, or Bologna straightforward.
• Services are abundant—shops, supermarkets, hospitals, and international schools.
Cons
• Prices are significantly higher, especially for sea-view apartments.
• Summers are crowded; traffic and parking can be difficult.
• Winters can feel quieter and less community-driven than small inland towns.
Costs
Apartments with no sea view begin at €120,000–€150,000. Sea-view or beachfront properties range from €250,000 upwards. Luxury villas on the Conero Riviera can exceed €1 million.
Best for
Those who want modern comforts, proximity to transport, and year-round rental potential.
3. Buying in the Countryside
The countryside of Le Marche offers stone farmhouses, olive groves, and vineyards. Areas around Fermo, Macerata, and Urbino are popular for buyers seeking privacy and space.
Pros
• Privacy, peace, and a connection with nature.
• Opportunity for land: gardens, orchards, or even small vineyards.
• Many properties qualify for eco-upgrades like solar panels and geothermal heating.
Cons
• Daily chores: managing land, pruning, gardening, or chopping firewood.
• Dependence on a car; services can be far away.
• Isolated in winter; not ideal for those who want bustling community life.
Costs
A ruin needing full renovation may cost €30,000–€70,000, but renovations can add €900–€1,500 per sqm (see Understanding Italian Property Taxes for hidden costs). Ready-to-move-in farmhouses often list from €250,000–€400,000.
Best for
Buyers seeking tranquility, space, and the dream of a rural retreat—provided they’re ready for the responsibilities.
4. Comparing Lifestyle Factors
| Factor | Hilltop Town | Coast | Countryside |
| Community | Strong, traditional | More transient | Isolated or village-based |
| Transport | Limited bus, car needed | Train + highway access | Car essential |
| Shopping | Small groceries, weekly market | Full services, malls | Nearest town 15/20 min |
| Parking | Often outside walls | Scarce in summer | Private parking/land |
| Property Prices | Affordable | Higher | Wide range, renovation costs |
| Rental Potential | Seasonal, niche | Strong | Limited unless agriturismo |
5. Key Takeaways
• Hilltop towns → affordable, cultural, walkable, but limited space and parking.
• Coast → convenient, connected, good rental income, but higher costs.
• Countryside → peaceful, authentic, with space to dream, but more responsibility.
Where you buy in Le Marche depends not just on your budget, but on how you want to live day-to-day. If possible, spend time in each setting before committing.
For a deeper look at the buying process, see our guides on How to Buy a Property in Le Marche and Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying in Italy.