Things To Do
in Ascoli Piceno
Ascoli Piceno is a charming town located in the Marche region of Italy. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the town boasts a picturesque main square called Piazza del Popolo, lined with elegant buildings and cafes. Ascoli Piceno is famous for its delicious stuffed olives, a local specialty that can be enjoyed at the many trattorias in town.
Visitors can also explore historical sites such as the Gothic-style Ascoli Piceno Cathedral and the ancient Roman bridge Ponte di Porta SolestĂ .
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đ˝ď¸ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $1.50 - $3.50
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- đď¸ââď¸ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Piazza del Popolo, the heart of Ascoli Piceno. Enjoy a coffee at one of the charming cafĂŠs while admiring the stunning architecture around you.
Explore the impressive Forte Malatesta, a fortress offering panoramic views of the city. After that, indulge in local delicacies at a traditional trattoria.
Stroll through the picturesque streets and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Cap off your day with a delicious dinner featuring the region's famous olive all'ascolana.
Visit the stunning Tempio di Sant'Emidio Rosso, a beautiful church dedicated to the patron saint of Ascoli. Take time to appreciate its unique architecture and serene atmosphere.
Head to the Museo Archeologico Statale to immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. The museum's collection includes artifacts from ancient Roman and Picene civilizations.
Enjoy a leisurely dinner in a local restaurant, sampling dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Tronto River.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with medieval architecture
- Beautiful landscapes and surrounding natural scenery
- Less touristy compared to other Italian cities, providing a more authentic experience
- Delicious local cuisine and regional wines
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Can be less accessible for those with mobility issues due to hilly terrain
- Fewer international amenities and services than bigger urban centers
- Potential language barrier for non-Italian speakers
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
Best Activities in Ascoli Piceno
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore stunning trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Experience the charming atmosphere of this historic square, surrounded by beautiful architecture and local cafes.
Wander through the narrow streets, visit the historical buildings, and soak in the medieval atmosphere.
Enjoy an exhilarating outdoor adventure on the river, surrounded by the picturesque landscape.
Discover the scenic countryside on a cycling tour, passing through vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ascoli Piceno with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ascoli Piceno
Visit one of these nice places.
This bridge offers fantastic views of the city and the Tronto River below, making it a great spot for photos.
The main square in Ascoli Piceno, Piazza del Popolo, is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings and is a great place to capture the essence of the city.
This historic fortress provides stunning panoramic views of Ascoli Piceno and its surroundings, offering a perfect vantage point for photography.
Food in Ascoli Piceno
Ascoli Piceno Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local specialty, Olive Ascolane are large green olives stuffed with a savory mixture of meat, cheese, and spices, then breaded and fried to perfection. They are typically served as a popular antipasto or snack, and can be found in many local eateries and bars.
Must-Try!
Ciauscolo is a soft, spreadable salami, often seasoned with garlic and pepper, and is a beloved delicacy in Ascoli Piceno. It is commonly enjoyed as a topping for bruschetta or paired with fresh bread and local cheeses. Look for it in traditional food shops and markets.
Vincisgrassi is a delectable local variation of lasagna, featuring layers of fresh egg pasta, rich bĂŠchamel sauce, tender meat ragu, and an abundant sprinkle of grated parmigiano. This comforting dish is frequently served in restaurants and homes across the region.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ascoli Piceno better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
For an authentic local market experience, head to Mercato Coperto. Here, you can encounter a diverse array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and artisanal products. The market also offers various street food stalls where you can savor regional delicacies like porchetta sandwiches and fritto misto.
The historic Piazza del Popolo hosts a bustling food market, especially on weekends, featuring a delightful assortment of local fruits, vegetables, and specialty food items. You'll also find vendors selling freshly prepared street food such as panzerotti, fried seafood, and arancini.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ascoli Piceno, it is common to show respect for the elderly by addressing them with a formal title, such as 'signore' (Mr.) or 'signora' (Mrs.), and by giving up seats on public transportation.
Italians in Ascoli Piceno value personal space and may stand closer during conversations compared to many other cultures. It's important to be aware of and respect personal boundaries while interacting with locals.
When greeting someone in Ascoli Piceno, a handshake is common, and it's typical to exchange pleasantries. Similarly, when leaving, it's considered polite to say goodbye to each person individually.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ascoli Piceno with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ascoli Piceno
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Ascoli Piceno, Italy. In most cases, a service charge is included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, if you receive exceptional service, you may choose to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation, but it is not expected.
Cash is widely used for transactions in Ascoli Piceno, especially for small purchases and in traditional establishments. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, particularly in larger stores and restaurants. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller businesses or markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ascoli Piceno.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ascoli Piceno, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect lively outdoor events and festivals.
Ideal for warm weather and outdoor activities. Expect crowded tourist spots and vibrant atmosphere.
Great for enjoying fall foliage and local harvest festivals. Expect cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Less crowded and ideal for exploring historical sites. Expect colder temperatures and occasional snowfall.
Ascoli Piceno at Night
Hiking in Ascoli Piceno
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hike with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail leads through lush forests and rocky paths, making it a rewarding experience for hikers.
Located a short drive from Ascoli Piceno, this area offers coastal trails with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Perfect for both leisurely walks and more challenging hikes.
A bit further out but worth the trip, this park features various hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult. The park is home to diverse wildlife and offers stunning natural landscapes.
Known for its rugged terrain and beautiful mountain scenery, this national park offers numerous hiking routes that cater to different skill levels, along with opportunities for birdwatching and flora observation.
The highest mountain in the Sibillini range, Monte Vettore offers challenging hikes with panoramic views. The ascent is rewarding and provides stunning vistas of the surrounding area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ascoli Piceno through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ascoli Piceno by plane.
Located approximately 95 km from Ascoli Piceno, serving international flights mainly to European destinations.
Located about 250 km from Ascoli Piceno, this is the largest airport in Italy and serves numerous international destinations.
Located around 110 km from Ascoli Piceno, it offers flights to various European destinations.
Approximately 168 km from Ascoli Piceno, providing extensive domestic and international flight options.
Roughly 100 km away, this airport services flights to various European destinations, primarily in the summer season.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, representing ethnic Italians who have historically inhabited the region.
Includes immigrants from various countries, contributing to the cultural diversity in Ascoli Piceno.
A significant demographic group, comprising older adults, often engaged in community and social activities.
Includes students and young professionals, often involved in education and local employment.
This group covers the youth population, playing a crucial role in the future development of the community.
The Soul of Ascoli Piceno
Discover the essence of Ascoli Piceno through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Ascoli Piceno, with local clubs such as Ascoli Calcio that have a passionate fan base.
Basketball enjoys considerable popularity in Ascoli Piceno, with various local leagues and clubs promoting the sport.
Cycling is a favored activity, both for recreational purposes and as a competitive sport, taking advantage of the picturesque landscapes of the region.
Volleyball has a strong presence in Ascoli Piceno, with numerous teams participating in local and regional tournaments.
Rugby is growing in popularity in Ascoli Piceno, with local clubs fostering interest through various youth and adult leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ascoli Piceno.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Ascoli Piceno's traditional cuisine is meat-centric, many eateries in the city offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of local classics, along with plant-based Mediterranean dishes. Ristorante Fiori di Zucchina and Osteria Nonna Nina are notable for their diverse vegetarian and vegan menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find several establishments in Ascoli Piceno that accommodate their dietary needs. Restaurants like Strega & Amore and Osteria de Borgo Antico are known for their gluten-free pasta, pizza, and other delectable gluten-free options.