Things To Do
in Giulianova
Giulianova is a charming Adriatic town in the Abruzzo region, perched between a long sandy beach and a historic hilltop core. It blends a pedestrian-friendly seafront with a compact old town rich in churches, viewpoints, and seaside ambiance. The town is split into the lively Lido area along the coast and the elevated historic center connected by stairs and scenic belvederes.
Visitors enjoy seafood-focused cuisine, easy coastal walks, and proximity to the Abruzzo countryside and national parks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Giulianova and check into your comfortable seaside hotel. Spend the morning unpacking and wandering the nearby beach, soaking in the sun and the beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachside café, savoring fresh pastries and Italian coffee.
After lunch, take a stroll through Giulianova's Old Town, where you can explore charming cobblestone streets and visit historical sites like the Chiesa di San Flaviano. Get a feel for the local culture by visiting small artisan shops that showcase handmade goods. Consider stopping for gelato at one of the popular local shops.
In the evening, dine at a traditional Italian trattoria, where you can enjoy freshly prepared seafood dishes. After dinner, take a relaxed walk along the beach promenade, watching the sun set over the horizon. Cap off the night with a drink at a beach bar, indulging in local wines or cocktails.
Start your day with breakfast at a local bakery, then head to the Museo Civico, where you can delve into the region's rich history and art. Explore the exhibits showcasing local artifacts and artworks. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the stunning views of the town from the museum's terrace.
For lunch, enjoy traditional Abruzzese cuisine at a nearby restaurant featuring local specialties. Afterward, visit the nearby Terenzi Castle, where you can explore the stronghold and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Spend some time relaxing in one of the nearby parks or gardens, bringing a book to read or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
Return to Giulianova's beachfront for dinner, where you can choose from a variety of seafood restaurants offering fresh catch from the Adriatic. After savoring your meal, stroll along the waterfront, where local musicians often perform, adding a lively ambiance to the night. Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting a local lounge or bar for a nightcap.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🚌1-day public transport pass | $3-5 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.5-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-130 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and a well-preserved historic center
- Delicious local seafood and regional Abruzzo cuisine
- Walkable town with easy access to nature and parks
- Relaxed atmosphere with family-friendly vibes
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities
- Can get crowded in peak summer months
- Limited English-speaking services in some traditional venues
- Some attractions require a short drive or bus ride outside town
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Giulianova
Visit one of these nice places.
Extensive seaside promenade with wide horizons, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour coastal shots and people-watching along the water.
Historic square in the old town framed by arches and churches; good for architectural and street photography.
Hilltop fortress area with panoramic views over the Adriatic and the town below; dramatic sunset vistas.
Picturesque harbor and marina with boats and reflections, especially striking during calmer evenings.
Food in Giulianova
Giulianova Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional fish stew featuring local Adriatic fish, tomatoes, and herbs; best enjoyed at seaside trattorias during fish-market season.
Must-Try!
Square-cut pasta served with a robust meat or tomato ragù, a classic Abruzzo specialty often found in traditional trattorie.
Grilled skewers of lamb, commonly enjoyed in rustic eateries and outdoor grills across the Abruzzo region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh seafood, vegetables, fruit, cheeses, and local specialties; great for sampling seasonal produce.
Friselle topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs—common, casual street food along the seafront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Commonly greet with a polite 'Buongiorno' (good morning) or 'Buonasera' (good evening); a handshake is typical in formal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; be quiet and respectful in churches and during services.
Speaking at a moderate pace and using polite forms is appreciated; locals value warmth and straightforward hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Giulianova
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included in larger meals; additional tipping is customary but not obligatory. A small tip for good service at a cafe or bar is appreciated but not required.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; many places support contactless payments. ATMs are plentiful in town centers and near the coast.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; great for walks along the coast and hillside trails; occasional showers.
Hot, sunny days ideal for beaches and outdoor dining; beach clubs and festivals pop up along the seafront; stay hydrated and protect from sun.
Pleasant days with cooler evenings; sea remains usable for coastal activities; harvest season brings fresh produce to markets.
Cool but typically mild along the coast; fewer crowds; excellent time for coastal strolls and museum visits with lower prices.
Giulianova at Night
Hiking in Giulianova
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
High-mountain plateau with scenic trails and panoramic views; suitable for day hikes and nature photography, reachable by a combination of road and local transport.
Rolling inland trails through olive groves and vineyards with views over the Adriatic; moderate hikes suitable for a half-day outing.
Airports
How to reach Giulianova by plane.
Main regional airport serving Abruzzo; about a 1-1.5 hour drive to Giulianova, with regular domestic and some seasonal international flights.
Additional regional option on the Adriatic coast; reasonable access by road and rail to Giulianova, suitable for shorter trips.
Major international gateways; longer drive but frequent connections to central Italy and good train links to the Abruzzo region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and professionals; the town has a strong sense of local community and tradition.
A significant influx during summer months, especially along the coast, with many families and weekend travelers.
Smaller in number but present in schools and nearby universities; many pursue outdoor and cultural activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at amateur and club levels; local teams and youth academies are common in the region.
Popular on coastal roads and hillside routes, with organized rides during the season.
Active seaside sport culture with municipal pools and beach clubs offering training.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Giulianova.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-based pastas, bruschette, and caponata-style dishes; ask for vegetarian-friendly risottos or tomato-based sauces and avoid broth-heavy preparations.