Things To Do
in Ortona
Ortona is a coastal town in Abruzzo perched along the Adriatic Sea, known for its maritime heritage and scenic promenade. It blends a picturesque old-town atmosphere with a lively fishing harbor and easy access to the Trabocchi Coast. The town provides a relaxed base for exploring both seaside vistas and inland hill towns in the Frentani area.
Expect friendly locals, fresh seafood, and a quintessentialura Abruzzese atmosphere throughout the year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring a fresh cornetto and a cappuccino. Afterward, wander through the charming cobbled streets of Ortona's historic center, visiting the beautiful Cathedral of St. Thomas the Apostle. Don't forget to stop by the ancient Ortona Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
In the afternoon, enjoy a delightful lunch at a trattoria, indulging in traditional Abruzzese cuisine. After your meal, visit the Museum of the Battle of Ortona to learn about the city's significant role during World War II. Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling along the picturesque waterfront promenade, taking in the sights and sounds of the sea.
As the sun sets, head to a local pizzeria to experience authentic Italian pizza made with fresh ingredients. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach, where the gentle sound of waves creates a serene atmosphere. Conclude the night with a gelato from one of the local shops, savoring the flavors as you reflect on your day.
Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the sandy beaches of Lido Riccio. Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters or relax on the warm sand as you soak up the sun. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline from a different perspective.
After a fun-filled morning at the beach, grab lunch at a seaside café, enjoying fresh seafood and local wines. Afterward, try your hand at windsurfing or sailing, with lessons available for beginners. Spend the afternoon basking in the sun, playing beach volleyball, or simply lounging with a good book.
As evening approaches, join a beachside barbecue where you can enjoy grilled fish and local specialties. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers alike. Wind down your day with a stroll along the shoreline, watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $4-7 |
| 🛒Grocery staples (weekly) | $40-80 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ticket | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming coastal town with authentic Abruzzese cuisine
- Beautiful Trabocchi Coast views and walkable center
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Fresh seafood and traditional markets
- Limited nightlife compared to large cities
- Smaller town amenities; some services concentrated in nearby towns
- Seasonal crowds can affect parking and beach access in summer
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove si trova il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Non capisco" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Ortona
Visit one of these nice places.
Long seaside promenade with views of the Adriatic, perfect for sunrise and sunset photography.
Iconic ancient wooden fishing platforms along dramatic sea cliffs; dramatic seascapes and golden-hour shots.
Harbor at dusk with boats, reflections on the water, and activity from fishermen.
Historic square with surrounding architecture and local life; ideal for candid street photography.
Food in Ortona
Ortona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic fish stew featuring a mix of local seafood, usually served with rustic bread and finished with olive oil.
Must-Try!
Skewers of grilled sheep or lamb meat, commonly enjoyed at casual eateries and seaside spots.
Thick square-cut pasta made with a stringed instrument, typically served with a robust tomato meat sauce or pecorino.
Clam spaghetti tossed with garlic, olive oil, parsley, and a hint of white wine.
Comforting legume-based soups that highlight regional legumes and olive oil, great vegetarian options.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering fresh seafood, cheeses, vegetables, bread, and local specialties; great for tasting and groceries.
Try simple seaside bites like fried anchovies, small panini with local cheeses, or fresh mini-pizze from street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a courteous Buongiorno or Buonasera; modest and friendly conversation is valued. Address locals with 'signore' or 'signora' when appropriate.
When visiting churches, dress modestly and speak softly; remove hats in sacred spaces and observe local customs.
Punctuality is appreciated; queue patiently in markets and shops, and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Ortona
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in Italy, but rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip at nicer restaurants and for good service is appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash is always handy for small markets and casual eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with high humidity; excellent beach conditions and long daylight hours. Expect lively coastal scenes, outdoor dining, and crowds on weekends.
Milder temperatures with blooming landscapes; great for walking tours and harbor photography without peak heat.
Comfortable temperatures and less crowded; markets and harvest flavors emerge; a good time for food-focused walking tours.
Cool, often mild coastal weather with occasional rain; some attractions may have reduced hours, but the town retains charm and fewer crowds.
Ortona at Night
Hiking in Ortona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail with海 views and iconic trabocchi structures; suitable for a scenic half-day hike.
Accessible hikes in the foothills within driving distance for green landscapes and panoramic outlooks.
Airports
How to reach Ortona by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about a 1-2 hour drive from Ortona depending on traffic.
A larger option with broader connections; about 2.5-3.5 hours by car or train via the Adriatic corridor.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in the area, contributing to a family-friendly vibe in the town center and beaches.
A portion of residents are retirees who enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle and local traditions.
Seasonal visitors, especially in summer, come to enjoy seafood, markets, and coastlines.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local clubs and match days are common in nearby towns and towns along the coast.
Volleyball, swimming, and paddle sports are common along the Adriatic coast during summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ortona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many seafood-focused dishes can be adapted; request dishes centered on legumes, vegetables, pasta con pomodoro, and olive oil. Mediterranean salads and other vegetable-based options are widely available.