Sant'Omero Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sant'Omero with this comprehensive travel guide that includes top attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Sant’Omero

Sant’Omero is a charming town in the Abruzzo region of Central Italy. Located in the province of Teramo, it is nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains. Known for its heritage sites, natural scenery, food, and wine culture, Sant’Omero attracts visitors for a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Its well-preserved old town, palaces, and churches are symbols of the town’s long and rich history.

List of Places to Visit in Sant’Omero

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The town’s historic 12th-century gate, Porta Romana, is one of the most famous landmarks. Other notable attractions include:

  • Palazzo Baronale: A 16th-century palace that houses a museum with collections of pottery, art, and artifacts that reflect the town’s history.

  • Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie: A holy place for devout Catholics, this 17th-century church is decorated with frescoes and houses a stunning painting of the Virgin Mary.

  • Chiesa di S. Francesco: A Gothic-style church nestled in the old town that dates back to the 14th century. It showcases fine artwork, including a 14th-century wooden cross, an altar dedicated to St. Anthony, and a Baroque style decoration.

Natural Attractions of Sant’Omero: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sant’Omero’s natural beauty is a primary draw for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers trails for hiking and biking, including the Monte Pruno nature reserve. It also has a beach along the Adriatic coast that attracts sunseekers in search of a relaxing day out. Other natural attractions include:

  • Riserva Naturale Abetina di Roseto: A protected area that covers 23 hectares of woods and is home to many species of flora and fauna.

  • Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park: A vast network of trails for hiking and bike riding that features mountain ranges, glaciers, and pristine lakes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sant’Omero

There are several trails for hiking and biking that facilitate adventure seekers to explore the vast nature bliss around the town. The Omero and Monsampolo trail is the most popular. Others include Gran Sasso Trails and Monte Pruno Trail.

Best Things to Do in Sant’Omero: Activities and Tours

Sant’Omero has something for everyone. Here are some fun activities and tours that provide visitors with exciting experiences:

  • Winery Tours: Visit the famous vineyards in the region, including the Pasetti Winery, to learn about winemaking and sample their products.

  • Gastronomy Tours: Taste the town’s famous dishes, such as arrosticini, a skewered mutton dish, and pastries like fiadoni, a savory cheese pastry.

  • Truffle Hunting: Venture into the woods with a guide and his dog to search for truffles.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sant’Omero

For a week-long itinerary, visitors can plan the following activities:

  • Day 1: Explore the old town, visit the Palazzo Baronale museum, and discover the historic Porta Romana Gate.

  • Day 2: Take a guided tour of the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie and Chiesa di S. Francesco.

  • Day 3-4: Hike or bike along the Monte Pruno Trail and relax on the beach.

  • Day 5: Visit wineries, do tastings and have lunch at a local restaurant.

  • Day 6: Participate in a cooking class and learn to make fiadoni, arrosticini, and more.

  • Day 7: Take a truffle hunting trip and finish the day with a gourmet dinner.

Food and Drink Scene of Sant’Omero

Italian cuisine is famous worldwide, and Sant’Omero is no exception. Visitors can indulge in the town’s traditional dishes and local wines, which include white Pecorino and red Montepulciano.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arrosticini: Skewered grilled mutton that is a beloved traditional dish in the town and region.

  • Fiadoni: A savory cheese pastry made with eggs, milk, and grated cheese.

  • Scrippelle: A type of Italian crepe that is filled with cheese, and served as a soup or rolled snack.

Local Beverages

  • Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC: A red wine made from the Montepulciano grape.

  • Pecorino DOC: A white wine produced from Pecorino grapes.

Where to Stay in Sant’Omero: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The town has plenty of accommodation options that suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • B&B Tartaruga (affordable): A cozy, comfortable bed, and breakfast that provides a relaxing stay for a reasonable price.

  • Palazzo Seneca (luxury): A luxurious 16th-century palace that features lavish rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

  • Agriturismo Vigna Caravaggio (mid-range): A stunning farmhouse surrounded by picturesque vineyards that offer a unique experience.

What to Buy in Sant’Omero: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can purchase authentic local products and souvenirs to remember their trip to Sant’Omero. The best items to buy include:

  • Wine: The town’s wines are famous for their distinct taste and aroma.

  • Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Olive oil is a staple of Italian cuisine, and the region produces excellent quality oils.

  • Ceramic Art: The town has a rich history of pottery-making, and visitors can buy beautiful handmade ceramic products that reflect the town’s heritage.

Local Culture and Customs of Sant’Omero

The town’s culture is deeply rooted in its history. Traditional customs and festivals are celebrated annually, including:

  • Festa di Sant’Omero: A five-day festival that celebrates the town’s patron saint, San Omero, every year in August. It features music, dance, and street food.

  • La Notte Bianca: A cultural and artistic festival that takes place in the historic center of the town.

Best Time to Visit Sant’Omero

The best time to visit Sant’Omero is from April to June or September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the town is less crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy the attractions and activities without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sant’Omero

Do:

  • Respect the local’s customs, traditions, and culture.

  • Try the local dishes and wines.

  • Follow environmental laws and guidelines.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces.

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting churches.

  • Disrespect the local’s religion or beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sant’Omero

Sant’Omero is a safe town, and visitors can move around without any significant concerns. However, tourists should practice common sense precautions like keeping an eye on their possessions and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night.

Health in Sant’Omero

The town has a well-equipped hospital that provides standard medical facilities. Visitors are advised to have comprehensive travel health insurance. In case of an emergency, call the emergency numbers- 112 or 118.

Getting to Sant’Omero: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sant’Omero

  • Pescara International Airport: A 1-hour drive from Sant’Omero with flights to and from major European cities.

  • Rome Fiumicino Airport: A 2.5-hour drive from Sant’Omero with flights to and from most major cities globally.

Bus Stations Near Sant’Omero

  • Teramo Bus Station: The town is located around 15 km from Teramo Bus Station with frequent bus services connecting the region.

Other Options

Taxis and car rentals are options to move around Sant’Omero and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Sant’Omero

The town is small enough for visitors to walk around the city center. For outdoor activities, biking and car rentals are good options. Buses are also available to reach nearby towns.

Where to Go Next from Sant’Omero: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sant’Omero is strategically situated, so visitors can easily explore nearby destinations. These include:

  • Teramo: The town is a cultural and artistic center with beautiful monuments, museums, and galleries. Teramo is a half-hour drive or 20km away from Sant’Omero.

  • Roseto degli Abruzzi: A lively seaside town that’s only a 30-minute drive away from Sant’Omero. It has a long golden beach and a beautiful marina.

  • L’Aquila: A cultural city with several historic landmarks and a famous museum that’s just over an hour’s drive away from Sant’Omero.

Conclusion

Sant’Omero is a hidden gem that has something for everyone. It is a town steeped in history and surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy tours of historic sites, explore the outdoors, sample the town’s local cuisine and wine, and unwind in the comfortable accommodations. Sant’Omero is a must-visit for anyone exploring Central Italy.