Ravenna to Urbino: Road Trip Guide Through Italy's Heartlands

The route from Ravenna to Urbino covers approximately 150 km (93 miles) along the SS3bis and SS73, winding from the Adriatic coast into the Marche hinterland. Driving time is typically 2 to 2.5 hours without stops, but the real value lies in the journey itself.

This road trip crosses the ancient Roman Via Flaminia, connecting Ravenna's Byzantine mosaics to Urbino's Renaissance splendor. The SS3bis, also known as the E78, offers smooth asphalt and moderate traffic, while the final stretch on the SS73 ascends through lush hills.

For tips on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, read our guide.

The route is safe overall, with good lighting and emergency phones every 2 km on the SS3bis. Speed limits: 90 km/h on highways, 50 km/h in towns. Beware of wildlife (deer and wild boar) on the SS73 at dawn/dusk, particularly near the Monte Carpegna forest.

• Family-friendly stop: Parco Avventura del Montefeltro in Sassocorvaro (zip-lining and treetop trails, open daily 10-18, €12 adult/€8 child).
• Pet-friendly pitstop: Agriturismo La Corte di Fano in Pergola (has a fenced dog area and offers water bowls).
• Fatigue management: Recommended rest areas at Sarsina (Autogrill) and Urbania (Bar Centrale with outdoor tables).

Hidden gems: The Romanesque abbey of San Pietro in Ciel d'Oro in Ravenna is often overlooked; the tiny medieval hamlet of Pennabilli, just 15 km off-route, offers stunning views and a sculpture park by Tonino Guerra.

Local commerce tip: On Tuesdays, the market in Urbania sells local crafts, cheese, and truffle products. The Fiera di San Crescentino in Urbino (first Sunday of September) features local wines and produce.

Leaving Ravenna, the flat agricultural plains of Emilia-Romagna stretch south. Near Cesena, the hills of the Savio Valley begin to rise, covered in vineyards and cherry orchards. The SS73 traverses the Monti della Cesana, a lesser-known Apennine spur with panoramic views of Monte Carpegna.

• Key viewpoint: Belvedere di Montefiore Conca (turnoff SS3bis km 48).
• Local product stop: Azienda Agricola Fiorini in Mercato Saraceno (truffles, honey, and wine).
• UNESCO sites en route: Ravenna's early Christian monuments (inscribed 1996) and Urbino's historic centre (inscribed 1998).

Climate wise, the best months are May-June and September-October, when temperatures range 18-25°C and the hills are green. Winter brings fog in the plains and occasional snow above 600m, while summer can be hot (32°C) with afternoon thunderstorms.

Culinary stops: Trattoria da Carla in Sarsina serves handmade tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms. In Urbania, try the local pecorino cheese and ciauscolo (spreadable salami).

Fuel stations are abundant along the SS3bis, with major brands like Eni, Q8, and IP. Prices near Ravenna average €1.80/litre, dropping slightly inland. Toll roads are absent on this route, but some tunnels require a vignette for heavy vehicles.

• Best fuel stop: Autogrill Cesena (SS3bis km 15) – open 24h, with clean bathrooms and a bar.
• Parking in Urbino: Recommended Parcheggio di Piazza del Mercatale (€1.50/hour, 500 spaces, free on Sundays).
• Road quality: Excellent on SS3bis, good on SS73 with occasional tight curves near Urbania.