Things To Do
in Pescara
Pescara is a lively Adriatic city in Abruzzo known for its long sandy beaches and a walkable waterfront. It blends a seaside vibe with a growing arts scene, university energy, and a thriving seafood culture. The city offers a relaxed pace by the sea, modern conveniences, and easy access to the Abruzzo hinterland and mountains.
It serves as a convenient gateway to both beach and hill-dominated landscapes along the Adriatic coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and strong Italian coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Pescara's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and vibrant street art. Don’t miss a visit to the historic Piazza della Rinascita, a perfect spot to soak in the local atmosphere.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Museo Casa Natale di Gabriele D'Annunzio, where you can learn about the life of the famous Italian poet. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional trattoria, sampling local seafood dishes that Pescara is known for. Spend the rest of the afternoon shopping for unique artisan crafts and souvenirs along Corso Umberto I.
As the sun sets, head to the beachfront promenade for a picturesque walk along the Adriatic coast. Choose a seaside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh catch of the day while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. Cap off the evening with a gelato from a nearby gelateria, enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Pescara.
Wake up to the sound of the waves and enjoy breakfast with a view at one of the beachside cafés. Afterward, grab your beach gear and head to the sandy shores of Pescara Beach, known for its clear waters and lively atmosphere. Spend your morning lounging under the sun or taking a refreshing swim in the Adriatic Sea.
In the afternoon, get your adrenaline pumping with some exciting water sports, such as windsurfing or paddleboarding, available for rent along the beach. Join a guided tour to explore the coastline from the water, experiencing Pescara from a unique perspective. Afterward, relax with a light lunch at a beach bar, enjoying fresh fruit and refreshing cocktails.
As the evening approaches, find a spot along the beach to enjoy the stunning sunset over the Adriatic. Afterward, visit one of the local beach clubs for dinner, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere with music and dancing. Finish the night with a stroll along the beach, taking in the shimmering lights of the city reflecting on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly staples) | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee/espresso | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket (1 ride) | $1.5-2 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $90-160 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline with long beaches and a lively waterfront
- Compact city center that’s easy to explore on foot
- Rich Abruzzo cuisine and accessible day trips to the hills
- Good value for money compared with other Italian seaside cities
- Seasonal crowds in peak summer can feel busy
- Some cultural sites may have limited hours in the off-season
- Public transport coverage is best in the city center; some areas require a short walk or taxi
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning / Hello
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due" - I'd like a table for two
- "Il conto, per favore" - The check, please
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Possiamo avere un caffè?" - Can we have a coffee?
Places to Visit in Pescara
Visit one of these nice places.
A pedestrian bridge with sweeping views of the Adriatic coast, perfect for golden-hour river and sea photography.
Long seaside promenade with palm trees, modern architecture, and vibrant sunset silhouettes.
Bustling square and nearby streets offering architecture, life photography, and café culture.
Birthplace of the famed Italian poet, a small historic site with understated exterior and intimate interior shots.
Historic church with Romanesque and Gothic hints, ideal for architectural detail shots and quiet interiors.
Food in Pescara
Pescara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Skewered lamb bites grilled over charcoal, traditionally enjoyed with bread and a glass of local white wine.
Must-Try!
Square-cut spaghetti made with a special guitar-shaped pasta tool, often served with a hearty ragù or seafood sauce.
Coastal fish stew featuring a mix of local catches, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs—best enjoyed with plenty of crusty bread.
Light fried dough pockets served with prosciutto and ripe tomatoes; a street-food-friendly Abruzzo favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling morning market near the old town offering seafood, local produce, bread, and regional specialties.
Seasonal seaside stalls and pop-ups offering quick bites, fried seafood, and lighter snacks along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera.' Handshakes are common; in close circles, a kiss on each cheek may occur in social settings.
Speak politely and avoid loud conversations in churches and quiet areas. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Keep hands visible while eating; wait for everyone to be served before starting; try the local bread and olive oil with meals.
Safety
Tipping in Pescara
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, a tip is not mandatory. Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount for good service is appreciated, especially in tourist areas. Service charge may be included in the bill at some restaurants.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, shops, and hotels. Cash is still useful for small purchases and markets; some venues may have minimums for card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days and warm evenings with lively beach life, sea breeze, and numerous outdoor events. Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and enjoy beach clubs along the coast.
Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for city walks and hillside day trips. Coastal fog can appear; layerable clothing helps.
Cool to mild with occasional rain; city lights and indoor cultural activities shine. Pack a warm jacket and an umbrella.
Mild and growing greenery, perfect for outdoor cafes, markets, and coastal trails. Bring a light jacket for cooler mornings.
Pescara at Night
Hiking in Pescara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hillside and forest trails along the coastline, suitable for short hikes and easy walks with sea views.
A few hours’ drive away, offering alpine scenery, ridges, and panoramic viewpoints for day-long hikes.
Airports
How to reach Pescara by plane.
Located near Città Sant'Angelo, about 10–20 minutes from central Pescara by car, with domestic and seasonal international flights and convenient shuttle connections.
Approximately a 2–3 hour drive from Pescara, serving domestic and some international routes; often used for broader Central Italy travel.
Several hours by road or rail; major international hub for connections and long-haul flights. Useful for international travelers combining a Pescara stay with a Rome stay.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population participates in university life and campus activities near the city center.
Residential neighborhoods along the coast and in the historic center with regular markets and family-friendly services.
Peak summers bring visitors to the beaches, harbor, and nightlife areas, contributing to a dynamic seasonal economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and regional teams feature matches that attract community support; football is a staple of local culture.
A popular on-beach activity during summer; many beaches host informal games and organized events.
Coastal and hillside routes make cycling a favored way to explore the area, including early-morning rides along the promenade.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pescara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many trattorie offer pasta with tomatoes, mushrooms, olives, and vegetable-based dishes. Ask for “senza carne” or “vegetariano” and look for antipasti di verdure and formaggi locali.