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 .
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Buonasera" - Good evening
- "Per favore" - Please
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Historic City Exploration
morning:Start your day by visiting Piazza del Popolo, the heart of the city. Then take a guided tour of the stunning Ventidio Basso Theater. Finally, treat yourself to a delectable breakfast at Caffè Meletti, famous for its delicious pastries and cappuccino.
afternoon:After lunch, stroll through the charming streets of Ascoli Piceno and explore the historic architecture. Don't miss a visit to the Museo Tattile Statale Omero, a unique museum filled with tactile art. For a delightful lunch, head to Osteria dei Segreti for authentic local cuisine.
evening:In the evening, head to Piazza Arringo to enjoy the lively atmosphere and authentic Italian gelato. Then, experience the local nightlife at Osteria 100 Scale and savor traditional drinks and music.
Artistic & Culinary Delights
morning:Embark on a cultural morning by visiting the Pinacoteca Civica, home to an impressive collection of art. Then immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the Mercato Coperto, a bustling food market. Conclude your morning activities with a delightful brunch at Ristorante Passetto, known for its delicious Italian cuisine.
afternoon:In the afternoon, visit the Chiesa di San Francesco, a beautiful church adorned with intricate frescoes. Follow this with a hands-on pasta-making class at Le Delizie di Terrosi, and indulge in the homemade flavors. For a relaxing break, head to Piazza del Popolo and enjoy a refreshing coffee at Caffè Meletti.
evening:In the evening, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at Ristorante al Teatro, and savor the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine. Then, head to Cantina dei Papi for a delightful wine tasting experience, accompanied by a variety of local cheeses and meats.
Nature & Wellness Retreat
morning:Start your day with a rejuvenating morning hike in Parco della Pace, where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Then, visit the Fonte di Sant'Emidio, a historical fountain known for its healing properties. Recharge with a healthy breakfast at Caffetteria Al San Francesco, offering a range of nutritious options.
afternoon:Afterwards, head to Terme di Sant'Agelo, a thermal spa known for its relaxing treatments and picturesque views. Indulge in a refreshing spa session to rejuvenate your body and mind. For a light lunch, enjoy a selection of fresh salads and smoothies at Il Piccolo Ristoro.
evening:In the evening, experience the tranquility of the city by taking a leisurely walk along the Tronto River. Then, savor a delightful dinner at Ristorante Osteria del Divino, known for its organic and locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, unwind with a relaxing evening stroll in Piazza Arringo.
Cultural & Gastronomic Exploration
morning:Kickstart your day by visiting the Museo Archeologico, housing a fascinating collection of archaeological artifacts. Then, peruse the Biblioteca di Ascoli Piceno, a charming library filled with literary treasures. For a delightful breakfast, head to Pasticceria Cova and savor their renowned pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
afternoon:In the afternoon, embark on a culinary adventure by exploring the local flavors at the Mercato delle Erbe. Taste a variety of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and olive oils while soaking in the vibrant market atmosphere. Then, visit the Duomo di Ascoli Piceno, an architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate sculptures and artwork.
evening:For a memorable evening, indulge in a gourmet dinner at Ristorante Sognare, offering a fusion of traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll to Piazza del Popolo and enjoy a vibrant nightlife experience at Birreria del Corso, known for its craft beer selection and lively ambiance.
Ascoli Piceno Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Olive Ascolane
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
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
Vincisgrassi is a delectable local variation of lasagna, featuring layers of fresh egg pasta, rich béchamel sauce, tender meat ragu, and an abundant sprinkle of grated parmigiano. This comforting dish is frequently served in restaurants and homes across the region.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Mercato Coperto
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.
Piazza del Popolo
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.
Pet sitters in Ascoli Piceno
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!