Things To Do
in L’Aquila
L’Aquila is a picturesque medieval city located in the Abruzzo region of Italy. It is known for its stunning architecture, including the impressive Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio. The city was heavily damaged by a devastating earthquake in 2009, but efforts have been made to restore and preserve its historic buildings.
L’Aquila is surrounded by beautiful mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio to admire its stunning architecture. Take some time to stroll through the peaceful gardens surrounding the basilica.
Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, savoring traditional Abruzzese dishes. Afterward, explore the historic streets of L’Aquila, including the charming Piazza del Duomo.
Dine at a cozy restaurant where you can taste local wine paired with delicious pasta. End your night with a leisurely walk through the illuminated city center.
Begin with a hike in the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park. Enjoy breathtaking views and fresh mountain air.
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature or return to town for lunch at a rustic cafe. After lunch, visit the charming town of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, known for its medieval architecture.
Return to L’Aquila for dinner, trying some hearty mountain cuisine. Relax at a local bar with a glass of Montepulciano wine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, with beautiful architecture and landmarks.
- Breathtaking natural landscapes surrounding the city, including mountains and parks.
- A vibrant local community with festivals and events that showcase traditional Italian culture.
- Relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger Italian cities like Rome and Milan.
- Good opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring nature.
- Still recovering from the 2009 earthquake, leading to ongoing reconstruction and some areas being less developed.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields or industries.
- Public transport options may be less frequent than in bigger cities, making travel more challenging.
- Smaller expat community, which might make it harder for newcomers to connect with others.
- The climate can be harsh in winter, with cold temperatures and snow in higher elevations.
Best Activities in L’Aquila
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Gran Sasso National Park, with its diverse trails and picturesque views of mountains, valleys, and wildlife.
Enjoy cycling through the beautiful plateau of Campo Imperatore, surrounded by the Gran Sasso massif and the breathtaking scenery of the Apennine Mountains.
Experience the thrill of rock climbing at Rocca Calascio, an ancient fortress perched on a rocky hilltop offering challenging climbs and panoramic vistas.
Tours
Uncover the best of L’Aquila with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in L’Aquila
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Apennine Mountains and beautiful landscapes, ideal for nature and landscape photography.
A historic church with a lovely courtyard, providing a great backdrop for architectural and cultural photography.
An iconic landmark with historical significance, perfect for capturing the essence of the city.
Food in L’Aquila
L’Aquila Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These succulent skewers of lamb or mutton are a beloved local specialty. The meat is traditionally seasoned with just a sprinkle of salt and cooked over an open flame for a delightful smoky flavor. For an authentic experience, head to the countryside or visit one of the many traditional
Must-Try!
This dish consists of thin crepes rolled and filled with pecorino cheese, eggs, and meat broth. It is a comforting and rich specialty that can be found in traditional osterie and trattorie throughout L’Aquila.
Unique Experiences
Get to know L’Aquila better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The covered market in L’Aquila, Mercato Coperto, is a vibrant hub of culinary activity where visitors can find an array of fresh produce, cheese, meats, and local specialties. Numerous stalls offer delectable street food options, including porchetta sandwiches, arrosticini, and fried delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In L’Aquila, Italy, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.
When addressing people in L’Aquila, it is customary to use formal titles and language, especially when meeting someone for the first time or in professional settings.
In L’Aquila, meal times are important social events and it is polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Additionally, expressing appreciation for the food is considered respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of L’Aquila with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in L’Aquila
Ensure a smooth experience
In L’Aquila, Italy, tipping is not generally expected, as a service charge is usually included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, it is still appreciated to leave some small change or round up the bill as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
In L’Aquila, Italy, cash is the most widely used form of payment, especially for small businesses, local markets, and smaller restaurants. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger establishments, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for transactions in the city.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into L’Aquila.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit L’Aquila. Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and sunny days make it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Warm temperatures with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
Mild weather with colorful foliage, perfect for hiking and exploring the surrounding nature.
Cold and snowy, great for winter sports enthusiasts. The city has a festive atmosphere during the holiday season.
L’Aquila at Night
Hiking in L’Aquila
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain range offering various hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Apennines.
Known as 'Little Tibet,' this high plateau features several hiking paths and an expansive landscape ideal for outdoor activities.
A hike that leads to the summit with stunning panoramic views, suitable for experienced hikers.
A vast park with diverse flora and fauna, offering numerous trails that vary in difficulty.
This hike offers a moderate challenge with beautiful scenery and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
A scenic area for hiking around the lake, featuring easy trails suitable for families.
A less-traveled area providing serene hiking experiences amidst nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into L’Aquila through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach L’Aquila by plane.
Located approximately 110 km from L'Aquila, this airport serves domestic and some international flights.
Situated about 120 km from L'Aquila, Fiumicino is the largest airport in Italy, offering a wide range of international flights.
Approximately 130 km from L'Aquila, Ciampino mainly serves low-cost airlines and charter flights to various European destinations.
Located about 200 km from L'Aquila, Naples airport provides numerous international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population of L'Aquila consists of Italian nationals, primarily those with roots in the Abruzzo region.
A smaller but growing group of foreign residents, including individuals from Eastern Europe, North Africa, and other parts of Europe.
A significant segment of the population is elderly, reflecting broader trends in Italy with an aging demographic.
L'Aquila hosts a student population due to its universities, contributing to a vibrant youth demographic.
The Soul of L’Aquila
Discover the essence of L’Aquila through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in L’Aquila, with local teams and a passionate fan base.
Basketball has a strong following in L’Aquila, with several clubs competing in regional leagues.
Rugby is gaining popularity in L’Aquila, with local clubs providing opportunities for both youth and adults to participate.
Volleyball is a popular sport in schools and recreational leagues throughout L’Aquila.
Athletics is well represented in L’Aquila, with various events and competitions taking place annually.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting L’Aquila.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While L’Aquila’s traditional cuisine heavily features meat and dairy, many restaurants now offer vegetarian and vegan options to cater to diverse dietary preferences. Look out for establishments that highlight these choices on their menus or inquire with the staff for recommendations.
For those with gluten sensitivities, several restaurants and cafes in L’Aquila are attentive to providing gluten-free alternatives. From locally made gluten-free pastas to carefully prepared main dishes, individuals with gluten restrictions can enjoy a variety of culinary offerings across the city.