Marche, in Italy’s central-east, offers a surprising variety of experiences beyond its rolling hills and charming villages. Its wineries, medieval castles, outdoor adventures, and culinary traditions make it a haven for those seeking authentic, hands-on travel. We especially love how some tours—like the Tasting of Rosso Piceno DOC Superiore at Villa Pigna—offer a chance to learn about local wine-making from specialists with over 50 years of experience. Others, like the 3-hour Vespa tour of Arcevia, give you a fun way to explore castles and countryside at a relaxed pace, blending culture and scenery. For outdoor lovers, the Canoe Adventure at Marmitte dei Giganti offers a rare chance to see natural formations from inside — quite a thrill. And for foodies, the Truffle Hunting and Handmade Pasta in Ascoli Piceno combines a forest truffle hunt with a pasta-making class, topped off with local wine. These experiences showcase Marche’s versatility beyond the usual tourist tracks, making it a region worth exploring with purpose.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best tours in Marche, covering everything from wine tastings and outdoor adventures to cultural explorations and gastronomic delights. Whether you’re after a quick tasting, a scenic ride, or an active day in nature, there’s something here for you.
1. Tasting of Rosso Piceno DOC Superiore – Villa Pigna winery
At number one, this winery tasting offers a deep dive into Rosso Piceno DOC Superiore, a local red with a complex character. Guided by specialists who’ve worked this denomination for over 50 years, your roughly one-hour experience includes tasting various interpretations of this regional wine. What makes this tour stand out is the expert-led explanation of the production process and cultural significance behind the wines. The reviews praise Giorgio’s storytelling and the chance to learn about vineyard work firsthand. The cost of around $35.57 per person makes it a fantastic value for those eager to expand their wine knowledge or enjoy a relaxed afternoon in Italy’s wine country. The small group size and attentive guide ensure a personal experience that suits both wine connoisseurs and curious travelers.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine lovers who want an authentic, informative tasting in a scenic setting.
2. 3 Hour Vespa Tour – The Charming Castles of Arcevia
For around $86.73 per person, this Vespa adventure combines fun riding with discovering stunning castles and landscapes. The tour visits the Castello di Piticchio, where you can stroll through narrow alleys and admire valley views, then continues to the Castello di Palazzo, set among dense woods perfect for relaxing. The final stop at Loretello showcases one of Marche’s best examples of medieval architecture. The highlight is riding through scenic roads that connect these historic sites, giving a real sense of the region’s unspoiled beauty. The reviews note how the guided narration enhances the experience and how the Vespa ride adds a memorable, playful element. This tour is ideal for those who want a bit of history, scenery, and adventure in one package.
Bottom line: A lively, fun way to see Marche’s castles and countryside, suitable for all riding levels.
3. Canoe Adventure at the Marmitte dei Giganti – Private Tour
This four-hour canoeing experience is a rare chance to get inside the Marmitte dei Giganti, the striking natural rock formations, for a truly immersive view. After paddling through the waters, you’ll trek into the Gola del Furlo, one of Marche’s most scenic Natural State Reserves. The tour combines adventure with natural beauty, giving you a close-up look at some of the region’s most impressive geological features. The private aspect allows for more personalized guidance, making it suitable for families or groups seeking a memorable outdoor activity. The reviews mention how the show of the formations is even more spectacular when experienced from inside the water. The price is higher at $237.17 per person, reflecting the exclusive, guided nature of the trip.
Bottom line: Great for active travelers who want an unforgettable adventure in Marche’s wild side.
4. Truffle Hunting and Handmade Pasta in Ascoli Piceno
This tour, costing about $162.06 per person, combines culinary education with a nature adventure. You’ll start by learning how to hunt for truffles with a professional and his two dogs — a chance to see how these elusive fungi are found. Afterward, you’ll gather eggs from chickens and learn to make fresh handmade pasta, specifically tagliatelle. The experience ends with a delicious lunch of pasta, appetizers, dessert, and local organic sparkling wine. The guide Paolo’s personable approach and the small group setting make this a special, intimate experience. Reviewers love how the blend of nature and cuisine feels authentic and engaging, even for families with children. This tour offers a great way to connect with Marche’s agricultural traditions without needing any prior experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies and nature lovers who want hands-on participation and a memorable meal.
5. Campofilone: Tasting Extra Virgin Olive Oil among 8,500 Olive Trees
A 1.5-hour olive oil tasting among 8,500 trees, this experience is a sensory journey into Marche’s oil-making heritage. It includes a guided tasting of three organic extra-virgin olive oils, with options for single-varietal oils and explanations of production methods. Visitors also explore the Ecomuseum of the Aso Valley, understanding the rural history of the region. The relaxed setting offers stunning views of the sea and hills, making it ideal for those wanting a peaceful, educational experience. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Marche’s olive traditions and the ability to buy high-quality oil to take home. The review emphasizes the family atmosphere and the opportunity to taste local flavors directly from the source.
Bottom line: A must-do for culinary enthusiasts or anyone interested in olive oil quality and regional heritage.
6. Excursion Lame Rosse, Fiastra
For lovers of mountain walks, this 4.5-hour excursion takes you to see the Lame Rosse, a stunning area known for its red rock formations. Perfect for those who enjoy moderate hiking in scenic environments, this tour offers spectacular views and a chance to experience Marche’s less-visited natural sites. While fewer reviews are available, the reputation of the area as a mountain treasure makes it suitable for active travelers with some hiking experience. The cost is around $29.09 per person, making it accessible for a half-day outdoor activity.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts wanting to explore Marche’s rugged side.
7. Guided E-Bike Tour with Food and Wine Tasting
For about $98.33 per person, this e-bike tour offers a mix of light exercise and culinary delights. Starting from Marcelli, you’ll ascend to panoramic vistas on Mount Conero, passing through the villages of Numana and Sirolo. You’ll visit a winery for a tasting of regional wines and local food, then continue riding along Conero’s scenic routes for around two hours. The reviews mention the enriching knowledge of the guide and the ease of riding the electric bike, making it suitable for those of varying fitness levels. The tour combines history, nature, and gastronomy in a relaxed, manageable way.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want a balanced day of sightseeing and tasting.
8. Vespa Tour with Written Guide of Marche in Valdaso
This Vespa journey covers about 80 km across Marche’s hills and villages for groups up to 12, at roughly $115.76 per group. The route includes eight medieval villages, allowing you to explore less-visited spots with a local guide’s insights. The tour features stops in Montefiore dell’Aso, where you’ll sample local foods and wines, and in Moresco for its medieval charm. The roadbooks guide you through areas normally off the tourist radar, making it perfect for travelers wanting a self-paced, intimate experience. Some reviews mention the friendly guide and the opportunity to taste regional specialties along the way. The flexible length of 4-8 hours makes it adaptable for full or half-day plans.
Bottom line: A great way to combine cultural exploration with driving fun, suited for groups and those craving authentic local flavors.
9. Le Marche: Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch and Pick-Up
This full-day tour offers the chance to visit family-run wineries and olive oil producers, with guided tastings and a traditional local lunch. The tour includes scenic vineyard visits and stops at charming villages, providing a comprehensive picture of Marche’s agricultural heritage. The pick-up from your accommodation makes it very convenient, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a hassle-free experience. Although the review data is limited, the combination of wine, oil, and local cuisine makes this tour a top pick for food lovers or those wanting a relaxed, all-inclusive day.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a guided, all-in-one cultural and culinary experience with convenience.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Marche
When selecting from these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and time available. For example, if you love wine and learning about production, the Tasting of Rosso Piceno offers a relaxed, expert-led experience. For active outdoor days, the Canoe Adventure and Lame Rosse hike are excellent choices.
Those wanting to combine gastronomy and scenic drives might prefer the E-Bike tour, while history and culture lovers will appreciate the Vespa tours. Budget-conscious travelers should note the difference in price points, from the affordable Lame Rosse hike to the more exclusive Canoe trip.
Booking early is advisable, especially for tours with limited spaces or high demand, like the wine tastings or Vespa adventures. Seasonal timing also makes a difference: spring and early fall offer the best weather for outdoor activities and vineyard visits.
Marche’s variety of tours makes it a region where every traveler can find a meaningful, enjoyable experience. Whether you want to learn about local wines, explore castles on a Vespa, or hunt for truffles, Marche welcomes you with authentic charm and a wealth of opportunities. Consider your interests and plan ahead — these experiences are well worth the effort.
