What to see in Abruzzo: 20 places and things to do at least once

Abruzzo, what is there to see? Trying to draw up a list of things to see and do in Abruzzo is almost impossible. There are so many things to do in this region. Abruzzo is history, nature, culture, traditions and gastronomy.

From the coast to the hinterland, you can visit national parks, imposing peaks, medieval towns and villages, beaches, castles and taste the typical cuisine, which changes depending on whether you are at the seaside or in the mountains.

A voyage of discovery in the region cannot fail to take you to the most beautiful peaks, lakes, caves, beaches of the Costa dei Trabocchi or to one of the region's most beautiful paths or trails. We have put together a guide to what to do and see in Abruzzo between the sea and the mountains.

What to see in Abruzzo: 20 attractions and things to do at least once

• Trabocchi Coast

• L'Aquila

• Rocca calascio

• Santo Stefano di Sessanio

• Stiffe Caves

• Hermitage of San Bartolomeo in Legio

• Campo Imperatore

• Lake Scanno

• Sagittario Gorge

• Roccascalegna

• Alba Fucens

• Vasto

• Barrea

• Caves of Celano

• Gran Sasso National Park

• Sulmona

• Ortona

• Calanchi of Atri

• Majella National Park

Abruzzo what to see and do

Wonderful villages where time seems to stand still, silent nature, imposing peaks to climb or to reach for winter sports. And then there are castles and fortresses, hermitages, lakes and unique coastlines. It is no coincidence that CNN has named it the 'hottest' destination in Italy.

But Abruzzo is also cuisine, which varies considerably from the coast, where fish dishes are famous, to the hinterland where you will find dishes based on legumes and meat: famous are the arrosticini. Famous throughout the region is also the art of pasta making; there are numerous historic pasta factories that you can visit.

If you are a wine lover, you can visit the region's vineyards that produce the most famous whites and reds, first and foremost Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, which is produced in the provinces of Chieti, L'Aquila, Pescara and Teramo.

Trabocchi Coast

A must-see on your trip to discover Abruzzo is the Costa dei Trabocchi, the stretch of coastline in the province of Chieti characterised by the presence of trabocchi, old fishing machines on stilts. The coast runs from Francavilla al Mare to San Salvo, passing through Ortona, Fossacesia, San Vito Chietino and Vasto.

Rocca Calascio

In the province of L'Aquila, inside the Gran Sasso Park, there is a ruined castle, it is Rocca Calascio, a fortress at an altitude of 1,464 metres that can be reached by following a path made up of narrow streets that climb up to the fortress.

It is the place where the film Lady Hawke was set. On the path leading to the fortress is the church of Santa Maria della Pietà built on the site where, according to legend, the inhabitants defeated a group of brigands.

Santo Stefano di Sessanio

Not too far from Rocca Calascio, pay a visit to one of the most beautiful villages in the region, Santo Stefano di Sessanio built entirely of stone. Here you will find an albergo diffuso, a project to restore the village, its culture and traditions. It is called Sextantio and sleeping here is like stepping back in time, in an atmosphere of yesteryear.

Stiffe Caves

In the municipality of San Demetrio ne' Vestini, in the province of L'Aquila, don't miss a visit to the Grotte di Stiffe, a complex of karstic caves formed more than 600,000 years ago. A spectacular underground world of lakes, water, rocks, stalactites and stalagmites that you can discover as you walk through the heart of the earth.

On the Grotte di Stiffe website you will find all useful information on visits.

Not far from the centre of San Demetrio ne' Vestini there is an emerald green lake that you must reach: it is Lake Sinizzo surrounded by woods and willows with a picnic area.

(Photo: M. Di Martino)

Hermitage of San Bartolomeo in Legio

If you feel like walking in the luxuriant nature of the Majella woods, head for the Hermitage of San Bartolomeo in Legio, set in the rock at an altitude of 700 metres.

It is located in the municipality of Roccamorice, in the province of Pescara, on the side of the Vallone di S. Spirito. If you need to reach a place far from chaos and modernity, you can find all the information you need to reach it at this link. If you love walking, here you will find useful information for walking the Sentiero dello Spirito.

Emperor's Field

If you are fond of trekking and hiking, you cannot miss a trekking tour on the Gran Sasso, to discover the wonderful National Park.

Here, nature is wild and unspoilt. Do not miss a night on the Corno Grande and reach Campo Imperatore, a plateau that will surprise you with its extreme beauty and silence. From here, there are numerous CAI trails to discover the Gran Sasso massif.

Lake Scanno

There is a heart-shaped lake in Abruzzo, it is Lake Scanno, a natural wonder created by a landslide. It is located in the south-western part of the Sagittario valley, and is an unspoilt paradise. Visit the small village of Scanno, included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy, and lose yourself in its narrow streets.

Villalago and the Sagittario Gorge

Not far from here, do not miss a visit to the village of Villalago in the Sagittario Valley; here you can admire the underwater nativity scene in the lake every year.

It is the perfect starting point for discovering the spectacular Sagittario Gorge, a wonderful natural area covering some 400 hectares and winding between high cliffs, springs and the incessant flow of the river. The area is located in the municipality of Anversa degli Abruzzi and includes the valley through which the river flows, stretching from the San Domenico dam at Villalago to Cocullo.

Cocullo

In the village of Cocullo, the traditional feast of the Serpari is held every first of May to mark the celebrations of San Domenico, the town's patron saint. In the days leading up to the festival, the villagers search for snakes in the surrounding countryside to use them during the procession.

Castle of Roccascalegna

One of the most beautiful castles in Abruzzo is located on a rocky spur that dominates the medieval village of Roccascalegna, the Rio Secco valley and the Sangro valley. It is the Castle of Roccascalegna and from the top of its towers you can enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains.

Alba Fucens

At the foot of Monte Velino, don't miss a visit to the remains of the ancient Roman city, Alba Fucens. On the official website you will find all the information you need to visit the archaeological complex in Abruzzo.

Calanchi of Atri

In the province of Teramo, there is a place that seems to belong to another planet: these are the Calanchi di Atri, sharp and well-defined geological formations. Cliffs alternate with ditches and ponds, woods and cultivated fields, creating a unique scenario.

Here you will find information for visiting the Calanchi di Atri Nature Reserve.

Barrea

Don't miss a visit to Barrea, the village overlooking a beautiful lake, surrounded by the Greco and Sterpi d'Alto mountains. You can walk along one of the many paths in this area.

Capo d'Acqua Lake

In the hamlet of Capo d'Acqua there is a lake that hides ancient mills. You can take part in a dive among the submerged mills under the lake, information can be found here. The Capo d'Acqua lake is an artificial basin, created following the construction of a dam to dam the course of the Tirino river, which literally swallowed up two mills dating back to the Middle Ages and a colour mill (still visible on the surface).

Celano Gorge

If you love trails and trekking, don't miss the hiking trail that will take you to the Gole di Celano, one of the most beautiful canyons in Italy. You can walk among high cliffs, past fountains and the ruins of an old monastery, until you reach the Valle D'Arano.

Basilica of Collemaggio

In L'Aquila, don't miss a visit to the Basilica di Collemaggio, which has just reopened its doors to the public after post-earthquake works. It is one of the greatest architectural examples in Abruzzo and is located just outside the city walls.

Punta Aderci

Not too far from Vasto is one of the most incredible reserves in the entire region. It is the Punta Aderci reserve, a sea-view paradise of beaches, dunes and forests. The reserve is an incredible combination of mountain and sea. The beaches of Punta Penna, Mottagrossa and Libertini beach are part of the reserve.

Aielli

In the province of L'Aquila, there is a small medieval jewel perched on a rocky outcrop that will leave you breathless: it is called Aielli and it lives again thanks to Street Art.

Every year a festival is held here, Borgo Universo, a festival of street art, music, performance and astronomy that uses the language of art and astronomy to investigate and enhance the views, panoramas and history of the medieval village of Aielli.

What to do in Abruzzo in summer and winter

What to see in Abruzzo in 3 days

Depending on your tastes, you will be spoilt for choice on things to do between the sea and the mountains. If you love the coast, stop and discover the seaside villages along the Adriatic coast. If, on the other hand, you are a lover of unspoilt nature and mountains, you can dedicate your three days to a visit to the Gran Sasso National Park, a paradise dense with forests, woods and mountains.

Another beautiful itinerary you can follow is the one that will take you to discover the Gole di San Martino, the gateway to one of the longest Apennine valleys, the vallone di Santo Spirito, which from Fara San Martino climbs to the roof of Majella.

If you are a wine lover, you can visit wineries and vineyards that produce the best wines in Italy, including Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. On Movimento turismo del vino you will find all the information on the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo route.

In the province of Teramo, pay a visit to the Fortress of Civitella del Tronto, an immense defensive fortress that dominates the village of Civitella. Stroll through the alleys of the town to reach the smallest alleyway in Italy.

Little-known places in Abruzzo

Off the beaten track, there are secret gems worth discovering. Here is a list of little-known places to discover in Abruzzo.

• 1. Castle of Roccascalegna

• 2. Lake Scanno

• 3. Gran Sasso National Park

• 4. Rocca Calascio

• 5. Ruins of Alba Fucens

• 6. Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio

• 7. Santo Stefano di Sessanio

• 8. Church of San Donato, Castelli

• 9. Trabocchi Coast

• 10. Confetti in Sulmona

What to see in Abruzzo in winter and at Christmas

Christmas in Abruzzo is snow, but not only. If you love mountain sports, the mountains of Roccaraso, Ovindoli or Pescasseroli await you with slopes and winter sports.

At this link you will find all the most important ski resorts in the region.

The surreal, snow-covered landscape of the village of Scanno is worth a visit, and not far from there at Christmas time you can reach Villalago where the underwater nativity scene is held. Also during the Christmas period, you can visit the papier-mâché nativity scene in the streets of the village of Civitella Alfedena.

One of the most beautiful things to do in winter is to travel on the Transiberiana d'Italia, the historic train from the 1920s that runs from Sulmona to Isernia through national parks and state reserves, passing snow-covered landscapes full of charm. At the Rivisondoli-Pescocostanzo station, the line rises over 1,200 metres above sea level, making it the second highest station in Italy after the Brenner Pass.

Holiday ideas in Abruzzo

• Discovering the Gran Sasso peaks

• Trekking in the Majella Park

• Reaching the Hermitage of San Bartolomeo in Legio

• Attending the John Fante Festival in Torricella Peligna

• Reaching the sulphurous springs of Lavino

• Dine on a Trabocco

• Reaching Rocca Calascio

• Sleeping in the Albergo Diffuso Sextantio

• Skiing at Ovindoli

• Hiking along the Tirino river

• Going to Pescara Jazz

• Visiting Anversa degli Abruzzi and the Literary Park dedicated to D'Annunzio

• Hiking in the Fondillo Valley

• Rafting in Civitella Messer Raimondo

• Seeing Lake Scanno in the shape of a heart

What to see in the Province of Chieti

When thinking of Chieti and its province, the first thing that comes to mind is the Trabocchi coast. Discover it slowly by stopping in the seaside villages that characterise it. Visit Ortona and, before you leave, do not forget to detour to Villa Caldari and reach the Fontana del Vino, here you will find information on how to get there. Make a stop in San Vito Chietino, one of the villages on the Trabocchi coast.

The town stands on a rocky hill that stretches down to the sea, from here you can see the landscape from the Maiella to the Gran Sasso as far as Vasto, and continue on to Rocca San Giovanni until you reach Vasto.

In the province of Chieti is the Castle of Roccascalegna, one of the most beautiful fortresses in Abruzzo. It stands on a rocky spur overlooking the village of the same name, the Rio Secco valley and the Sangro Valley.

(Gabbiere / Shutterstock)

Don't miss a visit to the Borgo di Gessopalena, the village that stands on a rocky spur. The medieval village has been abandoned since the 19th century and its buildings have all been destroyed, so much so that the ancient village has been turned into an archaeological area with buildings made entirely of chalk.

In August, reach Torricella Peligna to attend the festival dedicated to the writer John Fante, here you will find all the information.

Villages in Abruzzo

Which are the most beautiful villages in Abruzzo? Here is the list of places not to be missed

• Abbateggio, Pescara

• Tagliacozzo, L'Aquila

• Rocca San Giovanni, Chieti

• Bugnara, L'Aquila

• Castelli, Teramo

• Città Sant'Angelo, Pescara

• Santo Stefano di Sessanio, L'Aquila

• Navelli, L'Aquila

• Introdacqua, L'Aquila

• Pietracamela, Teramo

• Caramanico Terme, Pescara

Places to visit and children's playgrounds

If you are on holiday with children, don't miss the Majella Adventure Park in Guardiagrele. The largest acrobatic park in Italy where you will find more than 250 games suspended in the trees. You can walk on catwalks, Tibetan bridges and Tyrolean tunnels. There are numerous activities for children such as creative workshops in the forest. For information and bookings, visit the park website.

Don't miss a visit to the Calanchi di Atri, the very special and interesting WWF oasis. After your visit, lose yourself in the narrow streets of Atri, known as the town of liquorice, where you can buy plenty of it in the historic Bottega della Liquirizia.

Mountain resorts

• Abruzzo Lazio and Molise National Park

• Gran Sasso

• Majella

• Mount Velino

• Mount Sirente

• Plain of Navelli

• Mount Cornacchia

• Simbruini Mountains

• Mount Mozzano

• Mount Bertona

• Mount Jupiter

Sea and beaches in Abruzzo

The coast of Abruzzo is rich and varied, you will find sandy beaches, hidden and wild coves and wide coastlines perfect for going to the beach with the little ones.

If you are thinking of going to the seaside in Abruzzo, do not miss the Costa dei Trabocchi, a unique stretch of coastline characterised by old fishing machines on stilts. If you want to know the blue flags and the cleanest sea in Abruzzo, here is the guide.

Wild beaches in Abruzzo

• Turchino beach, San Vito Chietino

• Fuggitella beach, Fossacesia

• Punta Ferruccio, Ortona

• Torre del Cerrano, Pineto

• Cologna Beach, Roseto degli Abruzzi

• Punta Penna, Vasto

• Punta Le Morge, Torino di Sangro

Abruzzo Trails and Itineraries

Here you will find a selection of the most beautiful Abruzzo Paths that will lead you to discover the region slowly.

• Cammino dei Briganti between Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise

• Way of Saint Thomas

• Tratturo Magno / Transhumance Routes

• Path of the Spirit

• Freedom Trail, Majella

• Green Trail of the Abruzzo Parks

• Valley of the Abbeys Trail

Abruzzo Walk: walking among the wonders of the region

A 660-km-long circular route will take you through the wonders of the Abruzzo region. There are 33 stages and 69 municipalities that make up the Cammino d'Abruzzo, the path that will take you to discover the greenest region in Italy.

You will travel through breathtaking landscapes, castles, villages, parks, mountains and sea between the provinces of L'Aquila, Chieti, Teramo and Pescara.

Most beautiful castles in Abruzzo

• Ortona Castle

• Bominaco Castle

• Rocca Calascio

• Roccascalegna

• Caldora Castle

• Civitella del Tronto

• Manfrino Castle

• Cantelmo Castle

• Caldoresco Castle

• Monica Castle

Abruzzo in autumn

It is the season of foliage, when the small villages are coloured in completely new shades and the kitchens offer typical specialities worth tasting. Among the destinations we recommend the Bosco di Sant'Antonio, Pescocostanzo, the Majella Park and Tagliacozzo.

Spring in Abruzzo: what to do?

• Taste a glass of Montepulciano

• Visit Penne

• Infiorate of: Roccascalegna, Perano, Carunchio, Pescasseroli, Torricella Sicura

• Cammino di Celestino or Sentiero dello Spirito - Majella National Park

• Trabocchi Coast

• Ciclovia: Bike to Coast

• Transiberian Railway of Italy (or Parks Railway)

• Ortona

• Scanno

Map and Map

Here is a map with attractions not to be missed in Abruzzo.

• Italy

• Abruzzo