The Ultimate Abruzzo Travel Guide
Whether this is your first time hearing Abruzzo or you’ve visited the Abruzzi region before, in this guide, you’ll find lots of useful information and local insights to discover this destination and help you make your visit to Abruzzo memorable, remarkable & stress-free.
With fewer crowds, Abruzzo offers ample recreational activities along with a regional culture deeply rooted in gastronomy, literature, music, and ancient architecture. You’ll end up wondering why you never thought to visit here before!
(And when you’re ready to see this amazing region for yourself, browse our Abruzzo tours in Italy.)
Above all, here we find the land of mountains, national parks, seascapes, hidden natural gems, enchanting villages, and overall breathtaking views, and not to mention it gifts some of the highest-quality wines and agricultural produce. Thanks to its unique geographical location, the vast and scenic landscapes of Abruzzi will never fail to captivate anyone who visits. Whatever your preference, there is something for everyone!
Short Video Presentation of Abruzzo
Map of the Abruzzi, Italy
The Abruzzo region is bordered by the Marche region to the north, Lazio to the west and southwest, Molise to the southeast, and the Adriatic Sea to the east. The region spans an area of 10,795 square kilometers; within a third of these lands, there are three national parks, nature reserves, and protected areas. Furthermore, it is home to the highest mountains of the Apennines, such as the Gran Sasso, along with the southernmost glacier in Europe and a vast 130 km stretch of beaches.
Abruzzo Population Size
Abruzzo hosts a population of approximately 1,322,247 residents. The region’s population density is well below the Italian average. Here, you have space to breathe and explore at your own pace.
Abruzzo’s Cities
Abruzzo is divided into four provinces, which are also the cities: Teramo, L’Aquila, Pescara and Chieti.
Within our four provinces, there are 305 Municipalities:
- 104 in the province of Chieti;
- 108 in the province of Aquila;
- 46 in the province of Pescara;
- 47 in the province of Teramo.
Abruzzo or Abruzzi? Abruzzy or Abruzzos? Which is the right name?
What is the difference between Abruzzo and Abruzzi? Wonder why there are so many names. So, we did a little digging before writing this blog post. We found that the right word is Abruzzo. The word Abruzzi had been used up until 1963 as Molise and Abruzzo were united under the same region, thus they were called ‘Abruzzi.’ If you would like to learn more about this aspect of the region, please read the blog post about Abruzzo’s Names and History
Abruzzesi, Abruzzo’s Strong and Gentle people
Abruzzese people (better pronounced in Italian Abruzzesi), are the people from Abruzzo. It was Primo Levi, an important writer and journalist who, in 1883, published his book ‘ Abruzzo Forte e Gentile‘ and used for the first time the words “strong and gentle“. He was trying to describe the Abruzzese soul, where strength and kindness are manifested in the locals and in the surrounding environment. Since then, Abruzzo and its people are often referred to as ‘forte e gentile’, strong and gentle.
Abruzzese, the Local Language: Things You Need to Know
The Abruzzese dialect, in fact, is a language, or we would better say many languages. From north to south, Abruzzo, from town to town, you will not only notice different accents but also different words and, as a result, different dialects. We’re not going to go deep into the differences and the history, but know, and trust me! – from village to town you will find different languages. The base can be attached to the same dialect ‘Abruzzese’ but there are many variations.
Don’t be surprised if you speak Italian and can’t understand some of the locals. You can ask any foreigner living here and they will tell you the hard time they have understanding locals. Mostly older people speak dialect, but don’t be surprised if even young kids speak the local language. You have to know that Abruzzese is spoken widely across the region, especially in small towns where traditions are still strong, and dialect is the easiest and best way to understand each other. Lastly, in Abruzzo, very few people speak English!
L’Aquila Is Definitely Worth a Visit! Abruzzo’s Capital City
L’Aquila literally translates to ‘The Eagle.’ and is the capital city ‘capoluogo’ of Abruzzo and the province of L’Aquila (isn’t correct to write Aquila or l Aquila). Laid out within medieval walls, it sits between four mountain peaks above 2,000 meters (6,600 ft), resting upon a hillside in the center of a narrow valley surrounded by the Apennine Range, with the Gran Sasso d’Italia to the northeast. Besides, in L’Aquila, you’ll find a city of history and heritage complete with cultural institutions such as a fine arts academy, a symphony orchestra, a film institute, a repertory theatre, and a state conservatory. Lined with Renaissance and Baroque buildings and churches, L’Aquila is a fascinating maze of narrow streets, all of which open onto elegant piazzas. Of its cool climate, L’Aquila is said to enjoy 11 cold months and one cool one!
In fact, the mountains shelter the city from warm and humid Mediterranean air currents. Therefore, we find a climate with cooler temperatures compared to other parts of central Italy. A great option in summer if you want to cool down and escape the heat of a typical Italian summer especially from the coast, or even sweltering Italian cities like Rome or Florence!
Finally, speaking of cool, Abruzzo is also a favorable destination for winter sports enthusiasts! The province of L’Aquila is home to several popular ski resorts at Campo Imperatore, Ovindoli, Pescasseroli, Roccaraso, and Scanno. And in case you’re wondering, L’Aquila is approximately 100 kilometers (62 mi) east-northeast of Rome, connected by a highway or ‘autostrada’ through the mountains. It’s quite a scenic drive!
Abruzzo 101: Lessons in Culture, History & Regional Traditions
Whether you are looking for gastronomic scenes, good wine, history, and art, or magical natural places, Abruzzo is a top choice! A land of authenticity, with a welcoming nature and hospitable 365 days a year. The Abruzzese will make you feel at home by sharing their traditions and habits, awakening your sense of ‘slow life’ and even ‘dolce far niente’ the sweetness of doing nothing!
How about taking in a town celebration or festival? ‘Sagre’ and ‘feste’ take place all year round across the region and offer a glimpse into local traditions, music, and authentic cuisine. There are even activities for children, as well. Have a look at month-by-month events in Abruzzo.
Guide to the Best Stays in the Region
Whether you’re looking for a hotel, B&B, apartment rental, or country house in Abruzzo—whether near the mountains or by the seaside—there are plenty of accommodation options available to suit all budgets and styles of travel. If you want to try something a little different, consider staying at an agriturismo, which is a popular choice in the region.
Initially, we compiled a list of some of the best hotels, B&Bs, agriturismi, farmhouses, and luxury stays in Abruzzo. However, we realized it would be impossible to include everyone and meet all expectations, so we’ve decided to remove that list. We apologize for any inconvenience.
If you’ve traveled to other parts of Italy or the world, you likely know how to find suitable accommodation. Most B&Bs and agriturismi are located in the countryside, so having a car is recommended for exploring the area. On the bright side, this allows you to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing holiday.
Abruzzo in the Eyes of the Foreign Press: A Look at the Region’s Growing Popularity Among Tourists
Abruzzo has recently been catching the attention of foreign press. In this article, we will take a closer look at what top international publications have been saying about Abruzzo, from its unspoiled villages and picturesque coast to its stunning natural escapes and excellent cuisine.
Abruzzo’s Most Beautiful Towns: The ‘Borghi più belli d’Italia’
Abruzzo is home to some of the best-preserved medieval and Renaissance hilltop villages and towns in Italy, with 24 of them nominated for the “Borghi più belli d’Italia,” which highlights the most beautiful towns in the country. This is quite an honor!
In Abruzzo’s finest towns, you can explore local history, art, and traditions, admire ancient medieval architecture, and sample delicious cuisine and high-quality local products. Discovering these unique places is a truly exceptional experience.
Towns like Campli, Civitella del Tronto, and Santo Stefano di Sessanio are among the medieval towns that offer stunning scenery and an authentic regional experience. Some of these towns even feature castles. For instance, Rocca Calascio is home to a 10th-century watchtower and remains the highest fort in Italy today.
To discover all the most beautiful towns in Abruzzo, follow this link.
National Parks & BioDiversity in Abruzzo
Bring your binoculars! Abruzzo, a relatively small region in Italy, is known as “the greenest region in Europe.” Believe it or not, it is home to 75% of all European plant and animal species. In fact, nearly half of Abruzzo’s territory consists of nature reserves, which include three national parks, regional parks, and marine areas. Additionally, the national parks of Abruzzo are home to rare and endangered animals, such as the Abruzzo Brown Bear and the Apennine Wolf, among others.
Abruzzo Beaches and the Adriatic Coast
Please refrain from calling it an ocean; Italy has no oceans—refer to it as a sea. The Abruzzese Adriatic coast features long sandy beaches to the north and pebbly beaches to the south, stretching a total of 130 km (about 80 miles). It’s an ideal location for soaking up the sun and spending leisurely days basking in the warm weather, followed by a refreshing dip in the sea. You can also marvel at stunning sunsets, enjoy a refreshing aperitivo, or indulge in fine dining at beachside establishments. For those who love cycling, there are extensive bike paths that offer breathtaking views of the seaside panorama.
Abruzzo’s North Coast
The North Coast of Abruzzo is known for its long stretches of sandy beaches, which are lined with vibrant beach clubs featuring colorful umbrellas, deckchairs, and family-friendly play areas. There are also beachside restaurants that serve fresh seafood and refreshing drinks daily. In the picture above, I’m enjoying an espresso at a seafront bar in Roseto degli Abruzzi.
South Coast & the Trabocchi Coast
The 70-kilometer stretch of coastline along the southern coast, from Ortona to San Salvo Marina, primarily features pebbly beaches, most of which are wild and untouched. The beachside establishment shown in the picture above is located in Ortona and is one of the few establishments available in that southern area.
Visit the Trabocchi Coast and its Ancient Fisherman Huts
In the south, in the province of Chieti, you can find the historic and iconic Trabocchi Coast, known for its Trabocchi — ancient wooden fishing huts built over the water on stilts. As you drive along the scenic beachfront route, you will see these unique trabocchi connected to the shoreline by small boardwalks.
Many trabocchi have long antennas that support a large net stretching out into the water, similar to the one in the picture above. As if trabocchi weren’t fascinating enough already, several have been converted into seafood restaurants. Would you fancy dining above the sea, enjoying the embrace of the Adriatic breeze?
Hiking: Some Abruzzo Destinations
Nature lovers can find a wide variety of accessible routes that cater to all fitness levels. These trails offer opportunities to discover beautiful springs, waterfalls, and streams, as well as some of the most remote hermitages in Italy. Additionally, visitors can explore several picturesque lakes, including Campotosto Lake, Lake Sinizzo, Lake San Domenico, Lake Penne, Lake Scanno, and Lake Bomba.
To find hiking, country walking, trail running, and cycling trails in Abruzzo, here are some great online resources for trails and itineraries:
- Our hike on the Gran Sasso
- Hike the Salinello Natural Gorges
- WikiLoc Abruzzo
- Parco Abruzzo
- Good Trekking (in Italian)
- More on the monthly guide of Abruzzo
Adventure Parks, Rafting, and Canoeing in Abruzzo
For adventure seekers, Abruzzo offers a variety of adventure parks featuring ziplines, canoeing, rafting, and bungee jumping to get your heart racing.
Cycling in Abruzzo
Bicycle rental outlets can be found in the main cities of Abruzzo, particularly during the summer months. If you’re in Pescara and want to explore the city, you can rent bicycles and scooters from various locations using the Helbiz app. In other coastal areas, if you’re interested in riding along the seaside bike paths, look for signs that say “Noleggio Cicli” to find rental options. And remember to wear a helmet for your safety!
World-Class Wine Is Produced in Abruzzo
Italian wines are renowned for their exceptional quality, and Abruzzo is one of the most fascinating wine-growing regions in the world. Until recently, it was a closely guarded secret. The region’s climate and geography are ideal for producing some of the finest wines in Italy. Historically, Abruzzo has always had a reputation for its wine, although only a select few were aware of it. Over the past 20 years, the quality of wines in Abruzzo has increased dramatically, earning it a prominent place among the favorites of wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts.
Abruzzo is primarily known for its standout wine: the red Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, which is crafted from Montepulciano grapes. This wine has garnered numerous awards in recent years. It’s important to note that it should not be confused with ‘Vino Nobile di Montepulciano’ from Tuscany, which is produced from Sangiovese grapes.
Using the same Montepulciano d’Abruzzo grapes vinified in white (with little to no skin maceration), we produce one of the best rosés in Italy, known as Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo (please refer to it as Cerasuolo, not rosé). I encourage you to see and taste some of our rosé versions, which will appear more like red wines.
The Trebbiano d’Abruzzo is another highly consumed and significant wine, made from Trebbiano d’Abruzzo grapes. It offers a range of expressions, from very old and aged bottles to young and fresh vintages.
In addition to Trebbiano, other grape varieties used in the region include Pecorino (which is not the cheese), Cococciola, Montonico (primarily used for sparkling wines), Passerina, Pergolone, and Moscatello di Castiglione.
Abruzzo’s Wine Tourism Has Been Booming in Recent Years
Abruzzo, one of Italy’s oldest wine-growing regions, has been gaining attention among wine enthusiasts worldwide as an off-the-beaten-track destination for wine tourism. Located just two hours east of Rome, the region’s unique microclimates, ranging from optimal ventilation to rainfall and sunshine, make it one of Italy’s greatest wine-producing areas. Abruzzo has received numerous accolades for its wines, including the prestigious Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Star Awards: Region of the Year 2022. This article explores why Abruzzo was selected and highlights the region’s stunning landscapes and ancient villages.
Wine Tours in Abruzzo
Wine tourism has increased, too; you will mostly find small family-owned wineries whose production is very limited, and the only way to taste their wine is to go there.
Experience BellaVita offers bespoke wine tours for wine lovers who are interested in discovering Abruzzo’s regional wines or a particular winemaker’s unique offerings. With a team of sommeliers who are also experienced in producing their own exceptional natural wine, we provide a personalized and off-the-radar wine-tasting experience. Join us for a day of touring wineries and sampling the best Abruzzo wines. Contact us today to schedule an unforgettable wine tour! Do you want to tour wineries by yourself and see what we recommend? Have a look at our favorite wineries or take our Guided Winery Visit in Abruzzo.
Abruzzo Offers Unique Traditional Food
Italy is famous around the world for its delicious cuisine. While many people are familiar with Neapolitan pizza, lasagna, tiramisu, and other popular dishes, these are just a glimpse of what the country has to offer. Each region and province in Italy boasts diverse and unique culinary delights that are often less well-known. To explore some of Italy’s hidden culinary gems, you need to venture beyond the tourist hotspots. For a rich variety of flavors, stunning landscapes, and cultural traditions without the large crowds, consider visiting Abruzzo, one of the most fascinating and gastronomically rich regions in Italy.
Foodies will not want to miss our Cheesemaking Experience in Abruzzo!
The geographic diversity of Abruzzo contributes to its rich culinary traditions, where seafood and mountain cuisine come together. The best part is that the region focuses on using just a few high-quality ingredients, prepared with care, allowing you to truly appreciate the genuine simplicity of local dishes. Chefs in Abruzzo, particularly the Nonnas, are skilled at transforming these basic ingredients into delicious meals.
You find the best truffles, saffron, extra virgin olive oil and Pecorino cheeses here. But that’s not all, we recommend trying some of our favourite regional food like:
- Spaghetti/Maccheroni alla chitarra: Abruzzo’s favourite fresh pasta, thin squared spaghetti pasta.
- Scrippelle Mbusse: abruzzos’ crispelle/crepes in broth
- Timballo: when you try it, you will never go back to Lasagna! You will fall in love with the abundant layers of crepes, fried artichokes and cheese.
- Virtù: 3 days of preparation to make this tasty Minestra from Teramo’s, only the 1st of May
- Cheese & Egg Balls or ‘Pallotte Cacio e Ove’, fried cheese balls soaked in tomato sauce.
- Porchetta: Abruzzo’s juicy slow-roasted pork. You can’t miss the weekly panino with porchetta.
- Arrosticini: the legendary grille mutton/sheep skewers that are considered the best street food in Abruzzo.
- Confetti: delicious sugar-coated almonds from Sulmona used mainly for weddings in Italy.
These are only some of our favorite food of Abruzzo, and if you fancy cooking, we’ve put together a series of Abruzzo’s best traditional recipes from our grandma’s cookbook, and they’re right here! Try to make some of Nonna Amina’s favourite recipes at home!
How to get to Abruzzo
Abruzzo conveniently has its own airport based in the vibrant seaside city of Pescara. The region is also easily accessible by car, train or bus from Rome, Ancona or Naples (the closest cities). We couldn’t fit everything in this guide, so if you’re looking at getting into Abruzzo, you can check this useful travel guide.
Transportation in Abruzzo – How to move in the Region
Navigating public transport can be quite challenging. Buses typically run regularly only between major cities, and it can be frustrating when you miss a bus because it arrives 15 minutes late, departs early, or simply doesn’t stop at your location. Unfortunately, these situations do happen!
To make things easier, it’s a good idea to download a transit app that can help you find various routes and also includes an e-commerce platform for purchasing any necessary tickets. We recommend the Cicero app, which allows you to plan and buy bus and train tickets from point A to point B across the country. While the app is useful for getting around, it’s crucial to check public transit schedules in advance for your return trips. Keep in mind that Abruzzo Transit does not usually operate late at night to and from many locations.
Renting a car in Abruzzo
Car rental companies can be a convenient solution for exploring throughout Abruzzo. We advise that visitors stick to booking directly from well-known companies themselves and their respective websites instead of big second-party sub-contractors that give you the impression you’re fully covered when you book online (sorry, bad experience!). Know exactly what insurance you need so you’ll find no surprises in the way of compulsory ‘additional insurance’ and extra costs when you try and pick up your car.
Private Transfer in Abruzzo and beyond
If you don’t fancy public transport and are looking at a more complex itinerary, the best option for you is to hire a private driver for your tour within the region or for trips to cities like Rome, Venice, Naples, and other parts of Italy. Don’t worry, we’ve selected them for you, and they also speak English! Easily request a transfer.
Abruzzo Weather: What to wear & what to pack
Given its contrasting geography, Abruzzo has two distinct climates, one being along the coastline and the other in the mountainous interior. Essentially, depending on your location and the season, weather in Abruzzo will differ somewhat, but here are some recommendations for essentials while traveling!
First, sensible and comfortable footwear is a must, whether it be for hiking in the National Parks or simply exploring cities and villages in their old historical centres over cobblestone streets and pathways.
Spring in Abruzzo (March, April & May)
In the spring in Abruzzo, you might occasionally see cloudy skies, but generally, it’s mostly sunny and the temperatures are comfortable and warm. This season is a great time to travel in the region, especially if you prefer to avoid the hot weather of peak season. Consider bringing a compact umbrella in case of unexpected showers, and keep a light jacket or sweater handy for cooler evening temperatures.
Summer in Abruzzo (June, July & August)
Feeling HOT, HOT, HOT!
Along the coastline, you can expect humid, mostly sunny days with temperatures ranging from 82°F to 104°F (28°C to 38°C). However, at higher elevations between 2,700 and 3,200 feet (820 to 975 meters), you will experience a drier breeze during the day. At night, temperatures drop to around 71°F (22°C).
During the peak of summer, it’s advisable to wear light and breathable clothing, along with comfortable sandals or walking shoes, especially if you plan to hike in the mountains or visit national parks. It may also be a good idea to bring a windbreaker for the cooler temperatures at higher altitudes. And for beach lovers, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit!
Autumn in Abruzzo (September, October & November)
September and early October are ideal times to enjoy outdoor activities in Abruzzo. If the weather permits, you can swim in the morning and then spend the afternoon in the mountains. Expect daytime temperatures to be around 78°F (26°C) along the coastline, and cooler at night in the hinterland, dropping to about 57°F (14°C). While there is a slight chance of rain in September, it averages only about 9 days of rainfall, so the odds are in your favor! Autumn is also the season for harvesting grapes, olives, and saffron.
Winter in Abruzzo (December, January & February)
The weather in Abruzzo during the winter months is typically moderately cold, characterized by some humidity and strong winds, especially near the coast. This chill can really penetrate your body! In February 2021, we were fortunate to experience a few bright, sunny days with temperatures around 16°C (60.8°F), but then the temperatures dropped below zero, bringing snow! In some coastal areas, the snow lingered for a few days.
As you travel inland, you’ll encounter colder winter conditions that are better suited for winter sports. If you’re heading to the mountains, make sure to dress warmly and comfortably, and don’t forget to wear good, warm footwear. While a swimsuit is unnecessary close to the coast, it’s wise to bring a well-insulated jacket and consider layering your clothing.
In Abruzzo, not only can you rent skis, snowboards, or snowshoes to enjoy the winter activities, but you can also participate in unique winter fire festivals.
A Must-Read Month-By-Month Guide to Abruzzo
Once you’ve decided the month you’re visiting Abruzzo, we’ve put together a month-by-month guide of the region for you to read before traveling. Here, you will find weather, packing, itineraries, events, and other useful recommendations.
Which Is the Busiest Month in Abruzzo?
The first two weeks of August are the busiest time in Abruzzo, and indeed across all of Italy! This period is filled with fun and festivities, as most Italians take their summer holidays, especially during the week of the 15th for ‘Ferragosto,’ Italy’s national holiday. This holiday is akin to Labor Day, as families and friends come together to celebrate with plenty of food.
The entire week surrounding this festive day is typically celebrated as well. On Ferragosto, many shops remain closed, and during this time, beaches, restaurants, hotels, and bed-and-breakfasts are often crowded and fully booked months in advance.
August Ferragosto in Abruzzo
August marks the peak of tourist season, resulting in hotel prices soaring to three or even four times their usual rates. Restaurants are often booked months in advance, and transit services tend to be limited during this time. Depending on your travel plans, you may find that the trains and buses operating at reduced service levels can be quite crowded.
On the positive side, August offers a wealth of concerts, events, and outdoor festivals to enjoy. Many spirited locals gather in their lively small towns, with some returning from other parts of Italy to reunite with family during their summer holidays and partake in the celebrations.
If you’re planning to visit in August, don’t worry! Consider searching for accommodation in inland towns in Abruzzo, such as Campli, Teramo, and Civitella. For more information and tips, be sure to check out the guide for traveling in Abruzzo during August.
Abruzzo Folk Music
This is one of the most representative folk music from Abruzzo, and it’s called ‘Vola Vola Vola‘ literally Fly Fly Fly from the Orchestra Popolare del Saltarello Abruzzese. If you enjoy Abruzzo’s folk songs, then you might like this Spotify playlist we’ve put together with the most popular traditional songs from Abruzzi.
Tour Abruzzo with a Local Expert
The amount of time we invested to put together this guide to Abruzzo is enormous. We’ve been promoting our Region because we love it, we live here, and we want to be advocates of our traditions. Like our grandparents have done with us, we want our cultural and culinary traditions to be handed over! The only way we can do it, is to keep living in the small villages, attract back the young people, and inspire international visitors to travel responsibly to this authentic and surprising Italian travel destination.
With all the information provided in this guide, along with the additional links, you now have enough resources to plan your stay and explore Abruzzo on your own!
However, if you’re looking for the trip of a lifetime and want to travel responsibly and stress-free with the help of friendly local experts, we can assist you. Just get in touch with us, and let’s make your dream vacation in Abruzzo a reality! Be sure to also check out our Abruzzo Day Tours.