Cingoli Named Borgo dei Borghi 2026: History, Views and Slow Travel

Cingoli: Borgo dei Borghi 2026

Cingoli (Marche) has been declared Borgo dei Borghi 2026. Known as the "Balcony of the Marche", the village earned the title for its blend of scenic, historical and cultural assets.

Why Cingoli won

• Scenic outlook: perched on Monte Cingolo, it offers panoramic views that stretch from the Adriatic to the Conero promontory and the Apennines on clear days.
• Historic centre: stone alleys, noble palaces and the collegiate church of Sant'Esuperanzio define its architectural character.
• Outdoor activities: surrounding woods and trails are suitable for hiking and mountain biking, appealing to visitors who want active yet restorative stays.
• Local gastronomy: traditional dishes and regional products highlight Marche culinary culture.

2026 edition podium

The final ranking placed three representative villages at the top:

• 1st place: Cingoli (Marche)
• 2nd place: Arenzano (Liguria)
• 3rd place: Zungoli (Campania)

Regional impact and a note on Sicily

Sicily continued to stand out in the competition: Realmonte, famous for the Scala dei Turchi, finished within the national top ten. Over the years, the region has collected several accolades thanks to its medieval villages, culinary traditions and striking landscapes.

A boost for slow travel

Cingoli’s victory is a reminder of the value of slow travel: walking through village streets, visiting local artisans and tasting traditional products are ways to experience destinations more deeply and sustainably.

Practical tips for visiting Cingoli

• What to see: the collegiate church of Sant'Esuperanzio, the historic centre and multiple lookout points.
• Best time to visit: spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
• Activities: hiking on Monte Cingolo trails, artisan workshops and food-and-wine routes.
• Getting around: the village is best explored on foot; a car or guided bike tours are useful for the surrounding area.

The recognition highlights a small historic centre that successfully combines natural beauty, cultural heritage and food traditions — an emblem of how Italian borghi can be promoted and enjoyed.