Explore the Historic Ortona Old Town

Step back in time as you wander through the streets of Ortona's Old Town. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history as you admire the well-preserved medieval architecture, quaint alleys, and charming squares. Visit the imposing Aragonese Castle, perched on a hill, and enjoy panoramic views of the town and the breathtaking Adriatic Sea. Don't forget to explore the Basilica of Saint Thomas, a beautiful church that houses stunning artwork and religious relics.

Savor Ortona's Gastronomic Delights

Indulge your taste buds in the flavors of Ortona's local cuisine. Begin your culinary adventure by tasting delicious dishes such as vastedda, a traditional bread filled with lamb stew, or maccheroni alla chitarra, a homemade pasta served with a rich meat sauce. Pair these delights with a glass of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, a renowned local wine, and experience the gastronomic treasures that this region has to offer.

Pictured here is a dried fish tree which can be found in November onwards. It's a Christmas tradition. This shop also sold amazing cheeses, oils and wines but the smell was a little too overpowering for me. If you like that sort of thing though, this shop can be found in the central square of the town, near the bus station.

Relax on the Beautiful Beaches

Ortona boasts a stunning coastline, with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches. Spend a relaxing day basking in the sun and taking refreshing dips in the Adriatic Sea. Lido Riccio and Lido Saraceni are popular beach areas where you can rent beach umbrellas and loungers, indulge in water sports, or simply unwind while enjoying the mesmerizing coastal views. Be authentically Italian and get up early to swim in the water!

Engage in Outdoor Adventures

For those seeking a bit of adventure, Ortona offers plenty of outdoor activities. Hike along the scenic Sentiero Italia, a long-distance trail that crosses the Abruzzo region. Explore the nearby Majella National Park, home to majestic mountains, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Or, for a unique experience, take a boat trip along the coast, witnessing the rugged cliffs and hidden caves this area is known for.

Discover the Abruzzo Wine Trail

Located in the heart of the Abruzzo wine region, Ortona is an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts. Embark on an enchanting journey along the Abruzzo Wine Trail, where you can visit prominent wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and, of course, taste the region's exquisite wines. From full-bodied Montepulcianos to crisp Trebbianos, this is an opportunity to savour the flavours and learn about the rich wine heritage of the area.

There is also a walking trail that you can embark on, which ends at a wine fountain. The red wine is free and can be found in Caldari di Ortona. The wine fountain is located in a vineyard which is on the route of a popular pilgrimage from Rome to a church in Ortona, where Saint Thomas the Apostle’s bones, are said to have been interred. The pilgrimage typically takes people around 16 days to complete, so you can see why this wine fountain near the final destination would be a welcome sight! You can still drink the wine if you haven't been on the Pilgrimage however, so don't worry if you don't like walking.