Abruzzo lies east of Rome, between the highest peaks of the Apennines and the Adriatic Sea. About a third of the region is protected as national or regional park, which has earned it the nickname of the green region of Europe.
Why visit Abruzzo
For nature and authenticity. Abruzzo combines mountains, wildlife and walking with quiet medieval villages, a long coastline and a cuisine that still follows the rhythm of shepherds and farmers, far from the crowds of better-known regions.
Top places in Abruzzo
Gran Sasso and Campo Imperatore
The Corno Grande is the highest peak of the Apennines. Below it, the high plain of Campo Imperatore is one of Italy’s most striking landscapes.
Abruzzo National Park
Beech forests, lakes and villages such as Pescasseroli and Scanno, home to the rare Marsican brown bear and the Apennine chamois.
The Majella
A massive limestone mountain with hermitages, gorges and trails, another national park.
Hill towns
Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Sulmona, Atri and dozens of other stone villages perched on hills.
The Trabocchi Coast
A stretch of Adriatic coast south of Pescara dotted with trabocchi, old wooden fishing platforms over the sea, and a cycle path along the shore.
Best time to visit Abruzzo
May to October is best for walking, villages and the beach. In winter the mountains have ski resorts such as Roccaraso. Spring and autumn are colourful and quiet.
Getting to and around Abruzzo
Pescara airport has some European flights, and Rome is about two hours away by motorway. Trains run along the coast, but a car is the best way to explore the mountains and villages.
What to eat in Abruzzo
Arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers), pasta alla chitarra, saffron from L’Aquila, the sugared almonds (confetti) of Sulmona and Montepulciano d’Abruzzo red wine.
Abruzzo FAQ
Is Abruzzo worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you like mountains, walking and quiet villages; it is one of the least crowded regions of central Italy.
Can you see bears in Abruzzo?
Sightings are rare but possible in the national park, ideally with a local guide at dawn or dusk.
