Things To Do
in Penne
Penne sits on a limestone ridge in the Abruzzo region, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Its historic center preserves medieval and Renaissance architecture, with narrow lanes and stone staircases. The town is renowned for its culinary heritage, olive oil, and high-quality Abruzzo wines.
Wandering its piazzas and ramparts provides a relaxed glimpse into traditional Italian village life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the narrow, cobbled streets of Penne, taking in the beautiful medieval architecture. Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, where you can admire the stunning frescoes and intricate details. Don't forget to grab a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café, savoring a cornetto with coffee.
After lunch, explore the ancient ruins of the nearby castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Take your time appreciating the historical significance of the site and the breathtaking scenery. As the afternoon sun shines down, enjoy a leisurely walk in the lush parks nearby.
As the sun sets, head to a local trattoria for dinner, indulging in authentic Abruzzese cuisine. Spend your evening enjoying the vibrant atmosphere in the town square, perhaps listening to live music or enjoying gelato at a local shop. Wind down your day with a peaceful stroll under the starlit sky.
Begin your day with a hike in the Monti Gemelli Natural Park, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. The crisp morning air will invigorate you as you embrace the tranquility of nature. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the picturesque scenery.
After your hike, find a scenic spot to relax and enjoy the picnic you prepared. Spend some time birdwatching or simply soaking in the beauty of your surroundings. As the afternoon progresses, embark on a nature walk to explore more hidden gems within the park.
Return to Penne for a cozy dinner, perhaps trying a local wine paired with freshly made pasta. Enjoy a relaxing evening in a small wine bar, where you can learn about the region’s wine production. Conclude the night by reflecting on the beauty of the day while savoring a dessert and a nightcap.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧀Local cheese or olive oil | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $1.5-3 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $8-20 |
| 🚗Taxi or local transport (short ride) | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming hill-town atmosphere with preserved historic streets
- Warm Abruzzo cuisine and local wines
- Compact town center ideal for walking
- Proximity to nature and countryside activities
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Some attractions may have limited operation in winter
- Occasional hillside driving can be steep
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due, per favore" - I would like a table for two, please
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Grazie" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Penne
Visit one of these nice places.
A bustling square framed by historic stone buildings and a grand church, ideal for daylight street photography.
A panoramic viewpoint offering sweeping valley and olive grove vistas, especially photogenic at sunrise or sunset.
Ancient fortifications and staircases that reveal the texture of the town's heritage and provide dramatic angles.
Characterful lanes with stone textures, arches, and hanging laundry—great for intimate, human-scale shots.
Food in Penne
Penne Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Skewered lamb bites grilled over charcoal, a quintessential Abruzzo street food often found at market stalls and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Hand-cut square-cut pasta (chitarra) with tomato and meat ragù or light olive-oil and garlic sauce; a regional favorite.
Aged sheep’s cheese served with a drizzle of local olive oil and crusty bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, olive oil, and ready-to-eat snacks from local vendors.
Seasonal stalls around the main squares selling arrosticini, fried dough, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera; formal address (Lei) is common until invited to use the first name.
Dress modestly and speak softly inside religious sites; photography may be restricted in some areas.
Safety
Tipping in Penne
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated in nicer venues.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and small cafés; some places may add a service charge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry, with coastal breezes cooling inland hills. Seek shade, stay hydrated, and enjoy long evenings in the piazzas.
Mild days with colorful foliage and harvest festivals; ideal for markets, photography, and countryside walks.
Cool temperatures with possible rain; cozy trattorie and indoor cultural events are common.
Comfortable temperatures and blooming countryside; perfect for hiking and outdoor dining.
Penne at Night
Hiking in Penne
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle 3-5 km loop through olive groves and rolling hills with valley views.
Moderate day hike along forested slopes with panoramic overlooks within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Penne by plane.
Closest airport with domestic and some international flights; about 30-40 minutes by car to Penne.
Major international hub about 2.5-3 hours by car or train; many flight connections.
Alternative gateway for southern routes; roughly 2-3 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families with active community life and local events.
A substantial elderly community is common in historic hill towns.
People from nearby towns who study or work in Abruzzo's inland towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and matches.
Popular for road cycling along rolling countryside roads.
Access to Apennine ski areas in winter within driving distance.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Penne.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
There are plenty of vegetarian options like fresh vegetables, pasta al pomodoro, legume-based dishes, and cheese plates. When dining out, ask for pasta with tomato and olive oil or grilled vegetables; inform staff of dairy or egg restrictions.