Ancona Travel Guide

Your ultimate guide to Ancona, Italy, including top attractions, local culture, food and drink recommendations, transportation, and more.


Ancona, located in the Marche region of Central Italy, is a beautiful coastal city that offers a wide range of cultural, natural, and historical attractions. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Ancona has something for you. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover all the top things to do, see, and experience in Ancona.

List of Places to Visit in Ancona

Below are the top attractions that you should not miss during your visit to Ancona.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Roman Amphitheatre: This ancient structure dates back to the 2nd century AD and is a testament to the area’s rich Roman history.
  • The Archeological Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from ancient civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Etruscans.
  • The Cathedral of San Ciriaco: This beautiful Romanesque cathedral offers stunning views of the city and the sea from its terrace.
  • The Mole Vanvitelliana: This unique pentagonal-shaped building was used as a fortress and a prison in the past. Today, it hosts cultural events and exhibitions.

Natural Attractions of Ancona: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monte Conero: This nature reserve boasts breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding hills. It is a popular destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts.
  • The Passetto: This scenic promenade overlooks the sea and offers panoramic views of the cliffs and the beach below.
  • Regional Park of the Mount San Bartolo: This natural park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as stunning views of the Adriatic coast.
  • Portonovo Beach: This beautiful sandy beach is located at the foot of Monte Conero and offers crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ancona

Ancona and its surrounding areas offer countless opportunities for hiking and biking. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Monte Conero Trail: A challenging hiking trail that offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding hills.
  • The Giro dei Tre Monti Trail: A 43 km biking route that takes you through the beautiful hills surrounding Ancona.
  • The Path of the Gorges: A hiking path that takes you through the beautiful gorges of the Frasassi caves.

Best Things to Do in Ancona: Activities and Tours

Whether you are looking to explore the city’s history, its natural beauty, or its food scene, Ancona has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Ancona:

  • Take a guided tour of the city’s historical sites, including the Roman Amphitheatre and the Mole Vanvitelliana.
  • Join a boat tour of the coast to explore hidden coves and beaches.
  • Learn how to make traditional Italian dishes during a cooking class.
  • Enjoy a wine tasting tour of the region’s best wineries.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ancona

If you are planning to spend a week in Ancona, here is a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Explore the city’s historical sites, including the Roman Amphitheatre, the Archeological Museum, and the Cathedral of San Ciriaco.
  • Day 2: Take a boat tour of the coast and visit the Portonovo Beach.
  • Day 3: Visit the Regional Park of the Mount San Bartolo and enjoy some hiking or biking.
  • Day 4: Discover the beautiful Conero Riviera and its lovely beaches.
  • Day 5: Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Italian dishes.
  • Day 6: Enjoy a wine tasting tour of the region’s best wineries.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy the city’s promenades and beaches.

Food and Drink Scene of Ancona

Ancona’s food scene is a mix of traditional Italian dishes and local seafood specialties. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Brodetto: A fish stew made with a variety of local seafood and served with toasted bread.
  • Stoccafisso all’Anconetana: Salted cod cooked with tomatoes, black olives, and onions, served with polenta.
  • Olive all’Ascolana: Fried stuffed olives filled with meat, eggs, and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Rosso Conero: A dry red wine made from montepulciano grapes, typical of the Conero area.
  • Vernaccia di Serrapetrona: A sweet red wine with a fruity and floral aroma.
  • Anisetta Meletti: A popular local digestive liqueur made with anise and other herbs.

Where to Stay in Ancona: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ancona offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the top picks:

  • Hotel Fortuna: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of the city, offers comfortable rooms with sea views.
  • Ostello per la Gioventù Ancona: A hostel located near the city center, offers budget-friendly accommodation for backpackers.
  • Residence Vanvitelli: A guesthouse located in the Mole Vanvitelliana complex, offers self-catering apartments with sea views.

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

If you are looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, here are some ideas:

  • Olive oil: Ancona is known for its high-quality olive oil, which you can purchase at local shops and markets.
  • Ceramics: The region of Marche is famous for its ceramics, which you can find in local shops and galleries.
  • Pecorino cheese: This sheep’s milk cheese is a local specialty, and you can find it at local food markets and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Ancona

Ancona’s culture is deeply rooted in its history and traditions. Here are some of the local customs to keep in mind:

  • The city has a lively social scene, with many events and festivals taking place throughout the year, such as the Festa del Mare in July and the Festa di San Ciriaco in September.
  • Italians typically eat dinner late in the evening, so don’t be surprised if restaurants are still empty before 8:00 pm.

Best Time to Visit Ancona

The best time to visit Ancona is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. July and August can be very hot and crowded, while winter can be quite cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ancona

Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your trip and avoid any cultural faux pas:

Do:

  • Try the local seafood specialties and dishes made with olive oil.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn a few basic Italian phrases.

Don’t:

  • Wear beachwear outside of the beach areas.
  • Use your phone during meals or conversations.
  • Ignore the city’s regulations about trash disposal.

Safety and Health

Ancona is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it’s always a good idea to take some precautions to stay safe.

Safety in Ancona

  • Avoid walking alone at night in unlit areas.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe or in your hotel room.
  • Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

Health in Ancona

  • Always drink bottled water to avoid any risk of waterborne diseases.
  • Make sure to have medical insurance that covers you in Italy.
  • Always carry a small first aid kit for any minor injuries.

Getting to Ancona: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ancona is well-connected to other parts of Italy by road, air, and sea. Here are your options:

Airports Near Ancona

  • Ancona-Falconara Airport: Located about 20 km from the city center, offers flights to major cities in Italy and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Ancona

  • The main bus station is located near the train station and offers bus connections to many destinations in Italy.

Other Options

  • Trains: Ancona is connected to major cities in Italy by train.
  • Ferries: The port of Ancona offers regular connections to many destinations in Greece, Croatia, and Turkey.

How to Get Around in Ancona

Getting around in Ancona is easy and convenient. The city has a reliable public transportation system that includes buses and taxis. Walking is also a great option, as many of the main attractions are located in the city center.

Where to Go Next from Ancona: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ancona is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Central Italy. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth considering:

  • Urbino: This beautiful medieval town is located about 100 km from Ancona and offers stunning architecture and beautiful landscapes.
  • The Frasassi Caves: These amazing karst formations are located about 60 km from Ancona and are a must-see for nature lovers.
  • Loreto: This historic town, located about 20 km from Ancona, is famous for its Sanctuary of the Holy House and its lovely streets.
  • The Conero Riviera: This scenic stretch of coastline is located just south of Ancona and offers beautiful beaches and breathtaking views.

Conclusion

Ancona is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Hopefully, this comprehensive travel guide has given you all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip and experience everything this beautiful city and region have to offer.