Ortona,
Ortona is a picturesque coastal town located in the Abruzzo region of Italy. It is known for its charming historic center, characterized by narrow alleys and ancient buildings. The town is also famous for its stunning beach, which attracts tourists looking to relax and enjoy the beautiful Adriatic Sea.
Ortona is rich in history, with landmarks such as the Aragonese Castle and the Cathedral of Saint Thomas the Apostle.
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
Exploring Ancient Ruins and Local Cuisine
morning:Start your day by visiting the ancient Roman ruins of Ortona, which provide a fascinating insight into the town's history. Don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy in the peaceful surroundings.
afternoon:In the afternoon, take a stroll through the charming streets of Ortona's historic center. Visit the local market to sample fresh produce, and then indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at Ristorante la Rupe.
evening:For a night-out, head to Piazza Plebiscito where you can enjoy a relaxing evening drink at a traditional enoteca.
Wine Tasting and Sunset Views
morning:Embark on a scenic drive to the nearby vineyards of Ortona. Enjoy a wine tasting session amidst the stunning countryside and learn about the region's winemaking traditions.
afternoon:Afterwards, make your way to the coastline and relax at Lido Riccio, a beautiful beach lined with cliffs. Take in the panoramic views while savoring a light lunch at the beachfront restaurant.
evening:As the sun sets, head to Castello Aragonese to witness the breathtaking sunset over the Adriatic Sea.
Cultural Immersion and Culinary Delights
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Museo d'Arte Contemporanea, where you can explore a diverse collection of contemporary art and local cultural exhibits.
afternoon:Stroll along the promenade and stop for a delectable traditional lunch at Trattoria Bagni Vittoria, known for its authentic Abruzzese cuisine and warm hospitality.
evening:For an authentic Italian dining experience, head to Osteria la Marisa to enjoy a memorable evening of regional specialties paired with local wines.
Coastal Adventures and Nightlife
morning:Kickstart your day with a boat excursion along the Adriatic coastline. Explore the picturesque coves and crystal-clear waters, and take a refreshing swim in the sea.
afternoon:Afterwards, savor a freshly-prepared seafood lunch at Ristorante Al Vecchio Casale, offering panoramic views of the coastline and an array of Mediterranean dishes.
evening:As the night sets in, head to Lungomare di Ortona, a lively promenade lined with bars and cafes, perfect for a vibrant night-out by the sea.
Ortona Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Brodetto Ortonese
A traditional fish stew made with a variety of seafood, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. The flavors come alive at Ristorante Pizzeria Faro, known for its excellent brodetto.
Must-Try!
Maccheroni alla chitarra
A type of pasta made with a special tool called chitarra, typically served with a rich tomato sauce or lamb ragu. Try it at Trattoria da Maria, a charming family-owned restaurant.
Arrosticini
Skewers of succulent lamb, a specialty of the Abruzzo region. Sample delicious arrosticini at Rustichella d'Abruzzo, a popular spot for local grilled meats.
Photography Spots in Ortona
Locations for the best views and photo opportunities
Aragonese Castle
Perched on a hill, the Aragonese Castle offers stunning views of Ortona and the Adriatic Sea. It is a great spot for photography and enjoying panoramic vistas.
Villa Comunale
Villa Comunale is a beautiful park with scenic overlooks, perfect for capturing the beauty of Ortona and its surroundings in photographs.
Church of Saint Tommaso Apostolo
This historic church provides a picturesque backdrop with its architectural details, making it a charming location for photos.
Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons
Spring
Spring is one of the best times to visit Ortona, Italy. The weather is mild and comfortable, and the countryside is blooming with colorful flowers. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer
Summer is another great time to visit Ortona. The weather is warm and perfect for enjoying the beautiful beaches along the Adriatic coast. This is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Autumn
Autumn is a lovely time to visit Ortona. The temperatures begin to cool down, and the vineyards and olive groves are in harvest season. It's a great time for food and wine enthusiasts to explore the local delicacies.
Winter
Winter in Ortona is generally mild, with occasional rainfall. While the beach activities slow down, it's a great time to experience the city at a slower pace, explore historical sites, and enjoy traditional winter festivities.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Mercato Coperto Ortona
This indoor market is a bustling hub of local produce, cheeses, and cured meats. Try traditional porchetta sandwiches and savory arancini from street vendors nearby.
Lungomare di Ortona
Stroll along the seafront promenade to find street food carts offering freshly fried seafood, such as calamari and shrimp, as well as classic gelato flavors at Gelateria L'Approdo.
Things to do in Ortona
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Ortona
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!