Ancona (province) Travel Guide

Discover the best cultural and outdoor attractions, hiking/biking routes, tours, where to stay, what to buy and local customs in Ancona (Province), Central Italy.


Ancona (province) is located in the Marche region of Central Italy, renowned for its picturesque seaside towns, lush countryside and rugged, mountainous terrain. Home to rugged cliffs, rolling vineyards, and charming seaside villages, Ancona is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the best that Central Italy has to offer. This comprehensive travel guide will give you all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to Ancona.

Introduction to Ancona (Province)

Ancona is a hidden gem in Central Italy, boasting an array of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine. Mild temperatures throughout the year make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to explore the best of the Italian countryside.

List of Places to Visit in Ancona (Province)

Ancona is a province with a plethora of attractions to visit, including museums, historical places, and natural wonders. Below are some of the best things to explore during your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

In Ancona, you can dive deeper into the rich cultural heritage of the province by visiting some of its museums and historical places. Here are some must-visit attractions:

  • Museo Tattile Statale Omero: This museum in Ancona is dedicated to tactile art and is an ideal destination for visually impaired visitors.
  • Museo Archeologico Nazionale delle Marche: The museum located near Ancona showcases ancient artifacts and archaeological finds from the Marche region.
  • Cathedral of San Ciriaco: This is an iconic building in the Italian gothic style, is a beautiful monument and stands on top of the Guasco hill.
  • Palazzo Ducale: A grand old palace built in the 15th century has now been turned into a fine art museum and cultural center.

Natural Attractions of Ancona (Province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re a nature lover, you’ll love Ancona. The province is home to stunning natural landscapes such as scenic ocean views, rolling hills, and vibrant vineyards that will take your breath away. Some natural attractions to visit include:

  • Conero Coastline: This beautiful and rugged coastline is perfect for nature walks, trekking, and relaxing amidst stunning coastal views.
  • Frasassi Caves: Discovered in 1948, Frasassi caves are some of the most intricate and awe-inspiring geological formations in the world.
  • San Bartolo Natural Reserve: This reserve is perfect for nature lovers and those keen to indulge in hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ancona (Province)

One of the best ways to explore Ancona’s outdoor beauty is through its hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the top routes to explore:

  • Gola del Furlo: Located in the heart of the region, Gola del Furlo provides some of the most panoramic views amidst the greenery.
  • Parco sulla Collina del Cardeto: This scenic park located in Ancona provides excellent options for hiking and cycling. With a vast number of routes across the hills, you will find the perfect trail to match your fitness level.
  • San Marino Trekking Trails: Located in the Republic of San Marino, this area situated near the Ancona region has some of the most challenging hiking trails across the mountains.

Best Things to Do in Ancona (Province): Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and exciting tours you can indulge in during your trip to Ancona. Here are some of the best:

  • Gourmet Food and Wine Tours: Enjoy the Ancona province’s culinary traditions amidst its wine tastings, cheese, and olive oil tasting tours.
  • Hot Air Balloon Tours: Experience a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery by taking a hot-air balloon ride over the region.
  • Sailing Tours: Take a sailing tour around the Conero coastline or the Adriatic sea and explore the numerous cave systems, beaches, and coastal villages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ancona (Province)

If you’re planning to spend a week in Ancona, we recommend the following itinerary:

  • Day 1: Visit Ancona City and explore the town’s cultural heritage.
  • Day 2: Explore the Frasassi Cave and other natural wonders and vineyards around the area.
  • Day 3: Visit Loreto and Recanati and explore these scenic and historic towns.
  • Day 4: Hit the Beach on the Conero peninsula and explore the stunning coastline.
  • Day 5: Sailing Trip on the Adriatic Sea.
  • Day 6: Gourmet Food and Wine Tours. Visit vineyards and enjoy culinary traditions.
  • Day 7: Hiking at Parco sulla Collina del Cardeto.

Food and Drink Scene of Ancona (Province)

Ancona is famous for its culinary traditions, which includes succulent meat dishes and vineyards producing robust deep red wines. Here are some of the traditional dishes and local beverages you should try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Brodetto di Pesce: This is a traditional fish soup that has become a signature dish of the Ancona region.
  • Olive all’Ascolana: A street food famous in Ancona is stuffed fried olives, filled with cheese.
  • Crescia: A flatbread that is traditionally served alone or with fillings.

Local Beverages

  • Vernaccia: This is a white wine is made using a special grape variety grown only in the Ancona region.
  • Rosso Conero: This bold red wine is made from the Montepulciano grape variety grown in the area.

Where to Stay in Ancona (Province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you want to experience luxury or stay within a budget, Ancona has numerous options to choose from. Here are some popular accommodations:

  • Stanza della Musica: A splendid guesthouse located in the heart of Ancona features themed rooms and has excellent reviews.
  • Hotel Italia: The hotel features old-style elegance and is located nearby the train station.
  • Hotel Emilia: The hotel located in Ancona City is a perfect base for exploring the city and its surroundings. With splendid views of the sea and strategically located close to major attractions, this hotel offers a comfortable stay for travelers of all types of budgets.

What to Buy in Ancona (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re thinking of taking back souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home, here’s what we recommend:

  • Lacework: Ancona is famous for its exquisite, handmade lacework, crafted by local artisans.
  • White Truffles: Ancona is known for the white truffles grown and harvested in the region.
  • Wines: The province’s vineyards produce flavorsome and robust red and white wines, which are perfect gifts that visitors can buy and carry home.

Local Culture and Customs of Ancona (Province)

Ancona is a vibrant region with unique cultural traditions worth exploring. Here are some of the customs that locals follow and locations/significant events that celebrate the cultures:

  • Palio della Vittoria: An iconic event held in August that showcases the flavor, history, and traditions unique to this region.
  • Feast of Saint Judas Thaddaeus: Celebrated annually in October by the Jesuits following an old artistic tradition
  • St. Mary’s Iuris Novitiae: This religious ceremony is a traditional music event marking the end of summer.

Best Time to Visit Ancona (Province)

The best time to visit Ancona is from April to October, as the weather at this time is ideal for outdoor recreation activities and visiting the natural landmarks of the area. August tends to be hot and humid, making it less pleasant to spend time outside. The crowds of tourists generally prefer the summer season.7

Do’s and Don’ts of Ancona (Province)

When visiting Ancona, here are some things to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Learn basic Italian phrases to communicate with the locals.
  • Follow the dress code guidelines while visiting religious/culturally significant places.
  • Rent a car or travel by train/bus, as public transport is limited in certain areas.

Don’t:

  • Wear beachwear outside of the beach areas.
  • Drink excessively in public places.
  • Touch the fruit and vegetables in markets without asking for permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ancona (Province)

Ancona is a relatively safe place, and the crime rate is low. But travelers need to be aware of petty theft in crowded areas, so it’s advisable to be vigilant with personal belongings.

Health in Ancona (Province)

The health care system in Ancona is top-notch and adheres to European standards. The hospitals and clinics situated across major locations are equipped with modern equipment, making the region an ideal destination to visit with peace of mind.

Getting to Ancona (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Ancona can easily be reached by various means of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near Ancona (Province)

Ancona is served by the Marche Airport, located nearly 12 miles from the city. This airport is well-connected via major airlines coming from European regions.

Bus Stations Near Ancona (Province)

Ancona is well-connected with other cities within the Marche region and nearby areas via bus transport. The central bus station in Ancona offers services to nearby cities.

Other Options

Travelers can opt for train travel to Ancona via the rail network of Italy that connects the region to major cities across the country.

How to Get Around in Ancona (Province)

Ancona is easily explored by bus, car, or bicycle. However, renting a car is ideal for exploring the surrounding countryside and reaching hard-to-reach scenic spots. You can also rent a bike, which is an excellent option for cycling enthusiasts who want to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

Where to Go Next from Ancona (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations that are worth visiting for cultural and relaxation trips include:

  • Urbino: The birthplace of Italian Renaissance art, this beautiful town is one of Italy’s most well-preserved small towns.
  • San Marino: Based near the Ancona region, this small republic is a landscape of rugged mountains and scenic beauty.
  • Ravenna: An ancient city is known for its Byzantine mosaics and its historic significance.

Conclusion

Ancona is a hidden gem in Italy, boasting stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Whether you want to relax and explore nature, or delve into the province’s history, Ancona has much to offer. This travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip to enjoy the best of what the region has to offer.



    Ancona
    Cupramontana
    Frasassi Caves