The Riviera del Conero is a short stretch of Adriatic coastline south of Ancona in the Marche region, where Monte Conero drops steeply into the sea. It is one of the most scenic sections of Italy's east coast — a welcome contrast to the flat, developed beaches that line most of the Adriatic.
The main towns are Sirolo and Numana, both perched on cliffs above the water, with narrow streets and views across the bay. The beaches below are rocky and dramatic, especially the Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle (Beach of the Two Sisters), named after twin rock stacks that rise from the water. You can only reach it by boat or a steep trail, which keeps it relatively uncrowded. Inland, the hill town of Castelfidardo is known for its accordion-making tradition.