Weekend in Porto Recanati

Long, clean sandy beach with clear Adriatic waters. Free public sections run alongside paid lidos.

Tip: Go early in the morning during summer to claim a spot before the crowds arrive. The central beach near the Rotonda has good shade from pine trees.

17th-century church in the old town centre with a simple stone facade, ornate wooden altar and a small bell tower.

Tip: Look for the faded fresco on the left wall inside, it's hard to spot but dates from the 1700s. Ring the bell at the sacristy and the custodian may show you the crypt.

Small municipal museum dedicated to local fishing and seafaring traditions, with model boats, nets and photographs.

Tip: Ask at the desk if you can see the rare 1950s hand-drawn charts of the local coast. The museum is quiet on weekday afternoons. It's in the library building, follow the signs upstairs.

Sprawling public park with mature trees, pathways and a small amphitheatre. Used for local festivals and quiet picnics.

Tip: Bring your own snacks and water, there are no kiosks. The best shade is under the giant plane trees near the amphitheatre steps.

Old stone watchtower dating to the 16th century, now a small museum of maritime history. Low admission fee.

Tip: The tower is closed for lunch from 13:00 to 15:30. Visit just before closing at 18:00 for almost no other visitors. The view from the top is worth the 3 euro entry.