Things To Do
in Ancona
Ancona is a historic Adriatic port city in the Marche region of central Italy, known for its mix of classical ruins, Baroque churches and lively harbor. Perched on a series of hills, it offers sweeping sea views, a compact medieval center and easy access to the dramatic Conero coastline. The city blends working-port energy with pleasant promenades, seafood restaurants and cultural attractions such as the Mole Vanvitelliana and the Cathedral of San Ciriaco.
Ancona is a convenient base for ferry connections to Croatia and for exploring natural attractions, including Monte Conero and nearby caves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a cappuccino at a local café, savoring the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets of the historic center, taking in the beautiful Renaissance architecture that surrounds you. Visit the stunning Cathedral of San Ciriaco, perched high on the Guasco Hill, and admire its breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
Grab a traditional Anconitan lunch at a trattoria, indulging in local dishes like brodetto and vincisgrassi. Afterward, explore the National Archaeological Museum of the Marche Region to discover artifacts that tell the story of this coastal city's ancient past. Spend some time wandering the lively Piazza del Plebiscito, where you can shop for unique souvenirs or simply watch the world go by.
As dusk falls, head to the waterfront for a scenic sunset view over the harbor. Choose from one of the many seafood restaurants lining the coast for dinner, enjoying the catch of the day while listening to the gentle lapping of waves. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll along the marina, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere as locals and tourists come together.
After a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, make your way to the popular Passetto Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters. Spend your morning sunbathing on the sandy shores or swimming in the inviting sea, feeling the warmth of the Italian sun on your skin. For the adventurous, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the coastline from a different perspective.
Enjoy a beachside lunch at a charming beach bar, sampling local seafood dishes while enjoying the stunning sea views. In the afternoon, join a guided snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant underwater life of the Adriatic Sea. Alternatively, relax on the beach with a good book, letting the gentle sea breeze carry your worries away.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beach barbecue experience, trying your hand at grilling local delicacies with the sound of waves crashing nearby. After dinner, take part in a beach volleyball game with locals and fellow travelers, embracing the lively beach culture. Finish the night at a nearby beach club, dancing under the stars to the sounds of local DJs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (espresso) | $1.50-3 |
| 🚌Local transport single ticket | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🚕Taxi start (day) | $4-6 |
| 🍷Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $50-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Adriatic coastline and access to Monte Conero
- Fresh seafood and authentic Marche cuisine
- Compact historic center with panoramic viewpoints
- Good ferry connections to Croatia and other Adriatic ports
- Limited international flight options — few direct connections
- Beaches and attractions can be very crowded in peak summer
- Hilly streets may be difficult for travelers with mobility issues
- Some tourist services close or scale down in the off-season
- "Ciao / Buongiorno / Buonasera" - Hi / Good morning / Good evening
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore / Per piacere" - Please
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Il conto, per favore" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Ancona
Visit one of these nice places.
Perched on the highest hill, it offers sweeping panoramas of the port and city — ideal at golden hour.
Cliffside viewpoint and stairway down to the sea with dramatic views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
The pentagonal 18th-century mole and its surrounding water provide striking architectural and reflective shots, especially from the quay.
Wild coastline with turquoise coves, cliffs and pine trees — great for landscape and drone photography (where allowed).
Ancient monument and nearby archaeological remains in the heart of the city for historical close-ups and wide angles.
Food in Ancona
Ancona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich local fish stew made with several types of fish, tomatoes and sometimes vinegar or wine — best at waterfront trattorie and fish restaurants.
Must-Try!
A baked lasagna-like pasta layered with a slow-cooked meat ragù and béchamel, a Marche specialty often found on menus in family-run restaurants.
Fried stuffed olives from the Marche region, commonly served as an antipasto or street snack at markets and bars.
Marche-style roast or braised rabbit seasoned with herbs and garlic, a traditional dish in more rustic eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning fish market near the port where you can watch local fishermen unload their catch; a great place to taste or buy fresh seafood.
A central produce market offering seasonal vegetables, cheeses and cured meats — ideal for assembling a picnic or sampling local products.
Seasonal stalls and small vendors selling fried seafood, panini with fish and other quick bites particularly lively in summer evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite greetings like 'Buongiorno' and 'Buonasera' and address older people as Signore/Signora until invited to use first names.
Dress modestly when entering churches — shoulders and knees should be covered. Smart-casual attire is common in restaurants and public places.
Meals are social and lingering; avoid rushing and respect traditional meal times. Expect a relaxed pace and savor the aperitivo and multi-course dinners.
Keep voices moderate, especially in residential areas and late at night. Italians value conviviality but also respect for shared spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Ancona
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest in Italy: leave small change for good service or round up the bill. For table service, 5–10% is appreciated but not obligatory; always check if a service charge ('servizio' or 'coperto') is included.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, hotels and restaurants, though smaller businesses may prefer cash. ATMs are common; notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, dry and busy: perfect beach weather with crowded beaches and lively nightlife near the coast. Book accommodation early and expect higher prices in July–August.
Mild temperatures and fewer tourists; ideal for hiking Monte Conero, wine tasting and cultural visits with beautiful autumn colors.
Cooler, wetter and quieter: museums and restaurants remain open but some seaside facilities close. Good for off-season sightseeing and lower prices.
Pleasant weather, blooming hills and the return of outdoor activities; a great time for walking, cycling and early-season beach visits.
Ancona at Night
Hiking in Ancona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of coastal and ridge trails around Monte Conero offering panoramic views, routes to Sirolo and Numana, and access to secluded coves.
Short scenic paths around Portonovo bay combining sea views, pine woods and historical military structures.
Green park within Ancona with shaded walks, viewpoints over the harbor and routes connecting historic sites.
Coastal walking path linking two charming towns with cliff-top vistas and beach access points.
Airports
How to reach Ancona by plane.
Main local airport 15–25 minutes from the city by car or shuttle bus, with regional and seasonal European flights; easiest airport for access to Ancona.
Major international airport about 2–3 hours by train or car, offering more flight options and good rail connections to Ancona.
Smaller regional airport roughly 2–2.5 hours south by car, useful for some domestic and low-cost flights.
International hub about 3–4 hours by train or car; an option for long-haul flights and broad connectivity to Ancona by rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term Italian residents with deep maritime and agricultural traditions; community life centers on family, church and local commerce.
University students from Università Politecnica delle Marche bring a younger, international element and lively cultural events.
A significant proportion of older residents who enjoy the slow pace, social clubs and seaside lifestyle typical of the Marche region.
Domestic and international beachgoers and ferry passengers who swell the population during summer months, especially in Conero resorts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport regionally with local clubs and active amateur leagues; match days draw local support and community engagement.
Ancona’s harbor and coastal waters are ideal for sailing, yacht racing and rowing; many clubs and regattas operate in the area.
Indoor team sports are widely played at community and regional levels, with strong participation among youth and students.
Road and mountain biking are popular on coastal routes and inland hills, with organized rides and challenging climbs around Conero.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ancona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common (pasta, soups, grilled vegetables, legumes). Ask for simple dishes without fish or meat; many restaurants can adapt pasta and vegetable-based plates.
Vegan options are available but less widespread; focus on vegetable-based primi, salads, bruschette and ask staff to omit cheese or butter. Larger towns have a few vegan-friendly cafés.
Many restaurants can offer gluten-free pasta and bread — look for 'senza glutine' on menus or ask staff. Celiac awareness is good in Italian eateries, but always confirm cross-contamination if severe.