Ortona
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Ortona's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring a fresh cornetto and a cappuccino. Afterward, wander through the charming cobbled streets of Ortona's historic center, visiting the beautiful Cathedral of St. Thomas the Apostle. Don't forget to stop by the ancient Ortona Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
In the afternoon, enjoy a delightful lunch at a trattoria, indulging in traditional Abruzzese cuisine. After your meal, visit the Museum of the Battle of Ortona to learn about the city's significant role during World War II. Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling along the picturesque waterfront promenade, taking in the sights and sounds of the sea.
As the sun sets, head to a local pizzeria to experience authentic Italian pizza made with fresh ingredients. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach, where the gentle sound of waves creates a serene atmosphere. Conclude the night with a gelato from one of the local shops, savoring the flavors as you reflect on your day.
Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the sandy beaches of Lido Riccio. Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters or relax on the warm sand as you soak up the sun. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline from a different perspective.
After a fun-filled morning at the beach, grab lunch at a seaside café, enjoying fresh seafood and local wines. Afterward, try your hand at windsurfing or sailing, with lessons available for beginners. Spend the afternoon basking in the sun, playing beach volleyball, or simply lounging with a good book.
As evening approaches, join a beachside barbecue where you can enjoy grilled fish and local specialties. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers alike. Wind down your day with a stroll along the shoreline, watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast featuring local pastries and coffee to energize you for a day of wine tasting. Head to one of Abruzzo's renowned vineyards, where you'll learn about the region's rich winemaking history and the unique grape varieties cultivated here. Participate in a guided tour of the vineyard, enjoying the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and vineyards.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the vineyard, pairing traditional Abruzzese dishes with exquisite local wines. After lunch, immerse yourself in a wine tasting session to sample a variety of wines, including Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Trebbiano. Learn about the nuances of each wine as you engage with the knowledgeable staff.
Return to Ortona and relax at a local wine bar, where you can continue to sample wines from the region. Engage in conversations with locals and fellow wine enthusiasts, sharing your favorite tastes from the day. As the night winds down, enjoy a light dinner of antipasti, complemented by a glass of your favorite wine.
Start your day with breakfast at a quaint café, fueling up for a cultural exploration of Ortona's rich heritage. Visit the Church of Santa Maria della Mercede, known for its stunning artwork and historical significance. Continue your morning at the nearby Archaeological Museum, where you can admire artifacts from the ancient Roman era.
After a morning filled with history, enjoy lunch at a family-run restaurant, where you can sample homemade pasta. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic ruins of the ancient Roman theater, imagining the performances that once captivated audiences. Don’t miss the chance to visit the beautiful Palazzo Farnese, a striking example of Renaissance architecture.
As dusk falls, enjoy a traditional dinner at a local osteria, where you can savor regional dishes made with local ingredients. Take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Ortona, appreciating the charming architecture. End the evening at a small bar, where you can enjoy live music and mingle with the locals.
Begin your journey with breakfast at a local bakery before setting off to Majella National Park, known for its stunning landscapes. Enjoy a scenic drive to the park, taking in the breathtaking views of the Apennine Mountains. Upon arrival, start your hike along one of the well-marked trails, surrounded by lush forests and diverse wildlife.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint, taking in the beauty of the park. Continue your exploration with a guided tour to discover the unique flora and fauna of the region, learning about the local ecosystem. You may also have the chance to visit ancient hermitages hidden within the mountains.
As the day winds down, return to Ortona and treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating your adventurous day with traditional dishes. Share stories of your hiking experiences with your dining companions, reliving the day's highlights. Conclude your evening with a walk through the quiet streets, reflecting on the natural beauty you witnessed.
Start your day with a breakfast of fresh bread and jam before heading to a local cooking school for a hands-on culinary experience. Meet your instructor, who will guide you through the process of making traditional Abruzzese dishes using local ingredients. Enjoy the aromas and flavors as you prepare a delicious meal from scratch.
After cooking, sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delightful lunch paired with local wines. Share stories and tips with fellow cooking enthusiasts as you savor the homemade dishes. Spend the afternoon visiting local markets to gather fresh ingredients for your next cooking adventure, engaging with local vendors along the way.
As evening approaches, return to your accommodation to relax and digest after a fulfilling day. If you’re up for it, head out for a casual dinner at a nearby trattoria, where you can indulge in more regional specialties. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the evening ambiance and perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a local bar.
Begin your day with a visit to the historic Castello Aragonese, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of Ortona. Enjoy a guided tour that reveals the castle's secrets and offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. After the tour, take a moment to stroll through the surrounding gardens, taking in the beauty of the landscape.
For lunch, savor local fare at a nearby café, indulging in fresh pasta dishes that capture the essence of Abruzzese cuisine. Afterward, explore the nearby Sanctuary of St. Thomas, where you can learn about the local traditions and admire the beautiful architecture. Spend the afternoon wandering through the quaint streets, hunting for artisan shops and local crafts.
As evening falls, dine at a charming restaurant that offers stunning views of the coastline. Relish in a multi-course meal featuring local specialties, paired with regional wines. Finish your night with a leisurely walk along the cliffside, enjoying the moonlit reflections on the water.
Kick off your day with breakfast at a local café, fueling up for an action-packed day at the coast. Head to the beach for an exciting day of snorkeling, where you can explore the vibrant marine life of the Adriatic Sea. The clear waters and abundant sea life promise a thrilling morning of adventure.
After snorkeling, enjoy a beachfront lunch, sampling fresh seafood caught from the local waters. Spend your afternoon engaging in beach activities, such as jet skiing or windsurfing, with options available for all skill levels. Take breaks to relax on the sand and enjoy the sun, soaking in the coastal atmosphere.
As the sun sets, join a sunset cruise along the coast, where you can admire the picturesque views and perhaps spot some dolphins. After the cruise, enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, relishing the flavors of the sea. Cap off the night with a stroll along the beach, listening to the calming sounds of the waves.
Start your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the bustling Ortona market, where vendors showcase fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Wander through the market, engaging with vendors and sampling delicious treats, including cheeses, cured meats, and pastries. Take your time exploring the stalls, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
After your market visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Spend the afternoon visiting artisan workshops, where you can see local craftspeople at work and perhaps purchase unique souvenirs. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about traditional crafts, such as pottery or lace-making.
As evening approaches, return to the market for a special evening food event, where you can taste a variety of local dishes prepared by talented chefs. Join the locals in celebrating the culinary heritage of the region, enjoying the lively atmosphere. End your night with a glass of local wine, soaking in the community spirit and flavors of Abruzzo.