Senigallia is a seaside town on the Adriatic coast of Marche, known for a long beach of fine, soft sand that locals call the Spiaggia di Velluto, the velvet beach. It is also, quite unusually for a town of its size, one of the great food destinations of Italy.
This guide covers what to see in Senigallia, where to eat, which events to plan around and how to combine it with the rest of Marche.
Where is Senigallia, Italy?
Senigallia is in the province of Ancona, on the coast north of the city of Ancona and south of Fano and Pesaro. It sits on the Adriatic railway line, which makes it one of the easiest Marche towns to reach.
What to see in Senigallia
The velvet beach
The Spiaggia di Velluto stretches for kilometers along the town, with shallow water and fine sand that make it popular with families. Beach clubs offer loungers, umbrellas and restaurants, with free stretches in between.
Rocca Roveresca
This square fortress with four round towers was rebuilt by the della Rovere family in the late 15th century. It stands in the heart of town and hosts exhibitions.
Foro Annonario
A neoclassical semicircle of columns built in the 19th century as the town market. Fish and produce are still sold here in the mornings.
Rotonda a Mare
A round building standing on a pier over the sea, the symbol of Senigallia’s seaside. It is used for exhibitions and events and is beautiful at sunset.
The Misa river and the old town
The canal-side Portici Ercolani and the streets of the historic center are perfect for an evening passeggiata and an aperitivo.
Senigallia for food lovers
Two of Italy’s most celebrated chefs work on this short stretch of coast. Uliassi, run by chef Mauro Uliassi on the beach in Senigallia, holds three Michelin stars, and Madonnina del Pescatore by chef Moreno Cedroni, a little south at Marzocca, holds two. Book well ahead, especially in summer.
You do not need a tasting menu to eat well here: trattorias and beach restaurants serve excellent Adriatic seafood, brodetto and fried fish. If food is the heart of your trip, see our private food and wine tours in Italy.
Events in Senigallia
- Summer Jamboree: a large international festival of 1940s and 1950s music and culture, held in summer.
- Mario Giacomelli: Senigallia was home to the celebrated photographer, born in 1925, whose images of the town and its people are part of its identity.
Day trips from Senigallia
- Corinaldo: a walled medieval town a short drive inland.
- Ancona and the Conero Riviera: see our guides to Ancona and Sirolo and Portonovo.
- Urbino: the Renaissance city of Raphael. Read our Urbino guide.
How to get to Senigallia
Senigallia has a railway station on the Adriatic line, with direct trains to Ancona, Pesaro and Bologna. The nearest airport is Ancona Falconara. With a private driver you can combine the beach with inland hill towns in the same day.
Senigallia, Italy: frequently asked questions
Is Senigallia good for a beach holiday?
Yes. The long sandy beach and calm, shallow water make it one of the best family beaches in Marche.
Is Senigallia worth visiting outside summer?
Yes, for the food above all, and for quiet walks along the sea and the old town.
How many Michelin-starred restaurants are in Senigallia?
At the time of writing, Uliassi holds three Michelin stars and Madonnina del Pescatore holds two.
Plan your trip to Senigallia and Marche
We are a Marche-based tour operator and plan private trips with our own chauffeur. Explore our private Marche tours and book a free video call.
