The Best Towns in Abruzzo, Italy Worth Discovering

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Deciding on which towns in Abruzzo to visit? We’ve got it covered in this guide! Find out the best towns, villages and cities in Abruzzo worth visiting.

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Abruzzo is a vastly underrated destination in Italy with much to be discovered and admired. Not only is it undeniably beautiful, it is also equipped with everything you could want in one place – medieval ruins, national parks, vibrant cities, the sea, castles, valleys, and rivers.

Among the region’s best features are the towns of Abruzzo, Italy. Some are built into mountains while others sit perfectly on hilltops. The range of marvellously historic villages and towns in Abruzzo is abundant.

Each a little different and extraordinary in their own way, these are the best towns in Abruzzo, Italy worth visiting.

Quick List: Best Towns (& Cities) in Abruzzo

• Villa Santa Maria
• Atessa
• Colledimezzo
• Fara San Martino
• Pescocostanzo
• Pacentro
• Roccacasale
• Castel di Sangro
• Santo Stefano di Sessanio
• Castel del Monte
• Ortona
• Vasto
• Marina di San Vito
• Fossacesia
• Sulmona
• L’Aquila
• Pescara
• Lanciano
• Chieti

Where Is Abruzzo in Italy?

Geographically speaking, the Abruzzo region is located in central Italy. Although, if you were to divide Italy into north and south, Abruzzo falls in the southern half of the country.

The Abruzzo region is east of Rome and consists of an Adriatic Sea coastline along with the Apennines mountain range.

Abruzzo is situated just north of the ever so popular summer destination of the Puglia region. Far, far in the distance from Abruzzo’s shoreline and across the Adriatic, is the Balkan country of Croatia.

Based on surface area alone, it is the 13th largest region out of Italy’s 20 and has a population count of just over 1.3 million.

Furthermore, the region is divided into four provinces – Teramo, Chieti, Pescara, and L’Aquila. The best towns in Abruzzo, Italy are dispersed among the various corners of the region, but some may prefer a particular province over another.

What Is the Abruzzo Region Like?

Although it feels like Italy has been seen and done by the masses, there are still so many regions and areas of the country that are considered to be off the beaten path. At the top of lesser known places in Italy is the entire region of Abruzzo.

The towns and villages of Abruzzo are nowhere near as celebrated as ones you’d find in Tuscany, but they are equally as historic and picturesque.

Abruzzo’s region is in fact comprised of many communities that aren’t vastly developed, which honestly make it near impossible to choose the most extraordinary ones to visit. Ancient hilltop towns and medieval villages (known as borghi in Italian) are in abundance in Abruzzo.

The region boasts an incredible shoreline of the Adriatic Sea with no shortage of beautiful beaches to enjoy in the summer. Abruzzo is also notably one of the most famous regions in Italy for its national parks.

Whether or not it is winter, the national parks are sure to please any outdoor lovers, sports enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers. Among its landscape, you’ll uncover gorges, waterfalls, rivers, and panoramic views of mountain peaks.

🏖 Read More: Best Beaches and Restaurants on The Trabocchi Coast

We have yet to visit another region in Italy that feels as authentic as Abruzzo does. Since it is not touristy, the region is left in a beautifully unbothered state where travelers have the opportunity to experience what Italy looks and feels like without crowds and souvenir shops.

Naturally, it’s proud of its own distinct cuisine, cultural events, and century-old traditions that still live on among everyday life with much of the older population.

Frankly, the best towns of Abruzzo, Italy are those that are unspoiled.

Map of the Best Towns in Abruzzo, Italy

The Most Beautiful Towns in Abruzzo, Italy

1. Villa Santa Maria

The town of Villa Santa Maria is located in the Chieti province and within the foothills of the Maiella mountains. It is notable for a couple of reasons but still remains as a destination that many people touring Abruzzo will overlook.

First, it is prominently known for its Hotel Institute, widely known as the “School of Chefs.” Culinary tradition and cooking workshops are said to have formed as early as the 13th century in Villa Santa Maria.

For decades, a multi-day long event is held in Villa Santa Maria to celebrate its culinary roots along with gastronomy experts. For anybody who appreciates good food, this is among the best towns in Abruzzo, Italy for you.

Its natural landscape is another fascinating reason to visit Villa Santa Maria. A portion of the town is built into the side of the cliff, and you can see actual houses that have been constructed around the stone of the mountainside. It is somewhat of a marvel to witness!

Furthermore, the Sangro River runs just beneath the town and is one of the most beautiful places to hang around during the summer.

2. Atessa

Rather than a town, Atessa is more of a small city. Like any settlement situated on a hilltop, Atessa is steeped in ancient history and heritage.

Most famously, it is known for its legend of Saint Leucius of Alexandria, a patron saint that killed a dragon who was terrorising the medieval hamlet. To this day, the dragon is a mythologic symbol of Atessa and little homages can be found throughout the city.

Today, Atessa is a charming combination of both old and new world, comprised of a neighborhood with new development that is still tied to the historic center.

Instead of large commercial shops, you’ll find locally owned businesses and boutique storefronts throughout its streets. It’s one of the best towns in Abruzzo, Italy with a bigger city feel rather than a sleepy energy.

Atessa is particularly fond of festivals, events, and celebrations so the list of things to do is never in short supply.

We’ve attended an Oktoberfest beer festival, Carnival parade, outdoor ice rink in the winter and even a go-karting race built into the town’s streets.

3. Colledimezzo

Colledimezzo is nestled in the Val Sangro community of mountain towns in the Chieti province. It balances perfectly on a sharp rock on the side of a mountain and overlooks the Bomba Lake below.

At first glance, one would think the whole town will topple down at any moment, but centuries have gone by and Colledimezzo lives to tell the tales. With a view of the Maiella mountains in the background, this town is truly one of the most picture-perfect there is, perhaps in all of Italy.

A majority of Colledimezzo’s historic centre is only accessible on foot. Additionally, there are a ton of stairs to conquer, a handful of ancient churches to visit and beautiful panoramic views to experience.

To wander through the maze of cobblestone streets and stone houses is one of the closest experiences you can have to stepping back in time.

4. Fara San Martino

The small comune of Fara San Martino is located directly at the base of the Maiella mountain range. The town’s most famous characteristic is that it’s known as the “pasta capital of the world.”

Fara San Martino is blessed with natural spring water, also known as the green river (fiume verde), which is directly used to produce pasta by some of the world’s most renowned companies like Delverde and De Cecco. The proof is most definitely in the water!

Fara San Martino is also a beloved destination for outdoor lovers, given its location within the Majella National Park. Among the town’s backdrop is the canyon of Gorges of S. Martino which includes a hiking trail leading to the ruins of the ancient Monastery of St. Martin.

In the heart of the village is where you’ll stumble across Terra Vecchia, the oldest section of Fara San Martino and the only area to survive the destruction from World War II.

5. Pescocostanzo

With just over 1,000 residents, it’s surprising how many visitors the town of Pescocostanzo draws in every year. Pescocostanzo is known throughout Abruzzo as one of the most beautiful villages because of its well-maintained facades, street decor, and, for lack of a better word, “cuteness.”

Astoundingly enough, it’s equally an admired destination in the winter as it is in the summer.

Located in the heart of the national park and within an alpine-like environment, the village of Pescocostanzo is favored for relaxing getaways in a quaint and traditional atmosphere. Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding are popular activities for tourists visiting in the summer.

Additionally, the village is a stop along the Trans-Siberian Railway, an iconic journey that runs with historic trains.

In the winter, Pescocostanzo is frequented by skiers who either visit the slopes directly near the town or in nearby Aremogna.

6. Pacentro

There is an official club of the “most beautiful villages in Italy” and Pacentro is a rightful member. It is one of the most historic towns in Abruzzo with evidence suggesting it has been around since the 8th century AD.

The beautifully preserved medieval centre and its fairytale-like location are what set it apart from many other villages in the area.

The castle of Castello Caldora was originally erected in the 10th century but has since been wonderfully conserved in an effort to boost tourism and celebrate the community’s history and heritage.

Throughout the village, you’ll find works of art and information panels, a couple of things that are certainly not found in every town.

Although the big city of Sulmona is within close proximity, the village of Pacentro feels like you’re centuries away.

7. Roccacasale

From certain angles, the town of Roccacasale appears to be built completely vertical, in typical medieval fashion and surrounded by a forest. Its landscape is defined by the ruins of Castello De Sanctis, a stone fortress which you can hike to for panoramic views of the valley below.

Further up into the hills is where you’ll also find the fascinating cave church of Grotta San Michele Arcangelo.

Roccacasale has a unique reputation which has naturally evolved over hundreds of years of legends and stories. It is famously known as the town of magicians, sorcerers and even fairies.

Whether or not you’re one for imagination, it is a fact that Roccacasale boasts no shortage of magic.

8. Castel di Sangro

Castel di Sangro is a bustling town with antique shops, local boutiques and no shortage of restaurants and bars. Given its location along the Gustav Line during World War II, much of the city has been reconstructed, which has left the town with an intriguing mix of architecture from various time periods.

Located 800 metres above sea level and by the border between Abruzzo and Molise, Castel di Sangro is frequently known as the Gateway to Abruzzo.

It is within close reach of Abruzzo’s most frequented ski resort of Roccaraso but also a popular place to visit the Sangro River in the summer.

At the highest peak of Castel di Sangro, you’ll find the remnants of the medieval castle which also holds the best panoramic view of the city below.

The town square of Piazza Plebiscito is among the most picturesque meeting points for drinks or coffee that we’ve come across in Abruzzo.

9. Santo Stefano di Sessanio

The ancient village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio is found over 1,200 metres above sea level and in the middle of two national parks – Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga. It is a member of the “most beautiful villages in Italy” club and upon visiting, it’s very apparent why.

Although there are many medieval villages in Abruzzo, Santo Stefano di Sessanio truly embraces its heritage and historic architecture throughout the town centre. In other words, there is a lot of care and pride put into maintaining the community.

A number of high-end hotels and restaurants have made a home in the small village along with shops that have established themselves in the arched alleyways.

Santo Stefano di Sessanio may be ancient but what sets it apart from many other villages is the apparent presence of intention to celebrate its history.

The town had endured its fair share of ups and downs and continues to persevere and prove itself as one of the most delightfully traditional places to visit in Italy.

The hamlet of Santo Stefano di Sessanio is well known for its tower homes, the Torre Medicea landmark and its distinct cultivation of lentils.

10. Castel del Monte

Castel del Monte is situated on the slope of Mount Bolza, which belongs to the Gran Sasso National Park in the L’Aquila province. The village is small but has been deemed beautiful enough to even be featured in films of both local and worldwide productions.

With an altitude of 1,346 meters, it is magnificently located among nature and surrounded by mountain peaks, rolling hills, and valleys.

Before World War II, the village was a thriving center for the production of wool but since, has experienced a large wave of emigration. Today, Castel del Monte is rather silent but beautiful by all means.

You must tour the historic centre exclusively on foot, which is filled with stunning stone buildings and whimsical features around each corner.

Among one of the top reasons to visit Castel del Monte is because it is located just down the street from Abruzzo’s most famous landmark, the hilltop castle of Rocca Calascio.

🏰 Read More: How to Get to Rocca Calascio

The Best Coastal Towns in Abruzzo, Italy

11. Ortona

Location: Chieti Province

Known For:

• The cliffside castle of Castello Aragonese
• Beginning point of the Trabocchi Coast and its countless gorgeous beaches
• The historic WWII site of the Battle of Ortona
• The Musical Museum of Abruzzo

12. Vasto

Location: Chieti Province

Known For:

• The Caldoresco Castle
• Church of Santa Maria Maggiore with the crypt of San Cesario
• Giardino Napoletano D’Avalos Vasto – Neapolitan-style garden built on Ancient Roman ruins
• Palazzo d’Avalos art museum
• Numerous beaches and the breathtaking Punta Aderci Nature Reserve

13. Marina di San Vito / San Vito Chietino

Location: Chieti Province

Known For:

• Cycling and walking along the Green Path, a paved trail that runs along the Trabocchi Coast
• Beach clubs, water sports and waterfront accommodation
• Clear, shallow and calm water with sandy beaches that are ideal for families
• Historic trabucco fishing structures that are used as high-end resturants for regional Abruzzese cuisine.

14. Fossacesia

Location: Chieti Province

Known For:

• The wonderfully restored church of Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere
• Dreamy beaches like Spiaggia della Fuggitella
• An exceptional winery experience at Frentana Cantina
• In the heart of Abruzzo’s best seafood restaurants like Trabocco Punta Punciosa Restaurant

The Best Cities in Abruzzo, Italy

15. Sulmona

Location: L’Aquila Province

Known For:

• The production of Sulmona’s confectionery specialty – the sugared almond
• An aqueduct from 1256 which still stands in the main town square
• The birthplace of the famous Latin poet Ovid
• A departure point on the scenic Trans-Siberian Railway journey
• The Cathedral of San Panfilo and complex of the Santissima Annunziata

16. L’Aquila

Location: L’Aquila Province

Known For:

• The main town square of Piazza Duomo
• Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, known to be an architectural masterpiece in Abruzzo
• The wall of fountains with 99 spouts
• A combination of archaeological, religious and historic exhibits at The National Museum of Abruzzo (MUNDA)
• An impressive rooftop fresco painting inside Chiesa di San Silvestro

17. Pescara

Location: Pescara Province

Known For:

• The pedestrian and bicycle only bridge of Ponte di Mare
• The oldest quarter of the city (Pescara Vecchia) is believed to have originated in the 1st millennium BC.
• Lungomare di Pescara – the boardwalk which runs along the sea and numerous beaches
• The birthplace of the famous Italian poet and novelist Gabriele D’Annunzio which has been turned into an art collection
• The Pineta Nature Reserve – a pine forest park

18. Lanciano

Location: Chieti Province

Known For:

• The Eucharistic Miracle that is said to have taken place in the 8th century
• Church of San Biagio – the oldest church in Lanciano dating back to 1059 that is built on a Roman temple
• Impeccably preserved medieval workshop storefronts from the 15th century
• The restored Lanciano Cathedral
• A cultural hub which regularly hosts artistic events and festivals

19. Chieti

Location: Chieti Province

Known For:

• A melting pot of architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance
• Marrucino Theatre – a lavish theatre built in the early 1800s.
• According to legend, Chieti was originally founded by Achilles
• The Chieti Good Friday procession is known to be one of the oldest in Italy
• Ruins from the 3rd century and an underground passageway from the Roman era

What Is the Main City in Abruzzo?

Based on technical status, L’Aquila is the capital of the Abruzzo region. However, it is not the region’s largest city by population. Pescara, located on the coast, is the biggest city in Abruzzo and also acts as the region’s major port.

Pescara is also a larger commercial hub, meaning you will find more shopping centres, large warehouses, and big-name brands known worldwide. The Abruzzo International Airport is the region’s only international air hub and conveniently located in Pescara.

L’Aquila is located in the middle of Italy, and you can conveniently reach Rome in just 1.5 hours by car or bus!

Where Do Expats Live in Abruzzo, Italy?

Unfortunately, there is no clear answer to this question for those looking to purchase property or retire in Abruzzo. After traveling throughout and living in Abruzzo, we have bumped into expats everywhere from small villages, big cities to remote countryside.

Ultimately, expats choose to live in specific areas of Abruzzo that most meet their preferences – we’re all a little different!

Even so, there are a couple of trends that we have noticed. First, many expats tend to like the close proximity of being near Rome, so in the Province of L’Aquila.

Even if you do not want to live in the big city of L’Aquila, there are numerous small towns and quaint villages in the province that still keep you within under two hours of Rome.

Based on our own observation and statistics from real estate agents in Abruzzo, many British expats prefer to live near the sea along the Adriatic coast.

Villages and bigger towns found in the Chieti province are a great option for those who want to live precisely on the coast in Abruzzo or in the middle of mountains with a short distance to the sea.

Final Thoughts on the Best Towns in Abruzzo, Italy

• If you’re keen on being by the sea, Vasto is the best coastal town in Abruzzo that provides something of interest for everyone.
• The L’Aquila province is where you’ll find the most number of hilltop villages with medieval town centres and remarkable backdrops of mountain peaks.
• For the most low-key and less traveled towns in Abruzzo, visit the Chieti province and the villages of Val Sangro.
• While L’Aquila is the official capital of Abruzzo, there is more to do from a commercial standpoint in Pescara.
• The best beaches are found along the Trabocchi Coast which begins in Ortona and ends in Vasto.

Travel Resources for Visiting Towns in Abruzzo, Italy

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