The capital of the Abruzzo region of Italy, Pescara is one of Italy’s hidden gems. A popular seaside destination with the locals, not nearly as many visitors to this area of the east coast are from abroad. Situated on the Adriatic coast at the mouth of the scenic Aterno-Pescara River, Pescara is home to unbroken stretches of beach north and south of the river. Extending for 20km, the beach makes Pescara perfect for those looking to sunbathe and swim along idyllic Italian coastline.
The typical Mediterranean climate means this part of Abruzzo experiences very hot summers and mild, cooler and wetter winters. However if you do choose to stay in Pescara during the colder months, as an important transport hub it serves as an excellent base from which to explore surrounding Italy including Naples and Rome which aren’t too far away.
With a wealth of national parks and an historic city centre, Pescara has plenty to offer away from the beach too. The surrounding countryside is beautiful, full of life and offers plenty to see and do, while the town centre is a journey along seafront promenades, through bustling piazzas and out into open air markets.
Holiday in Pescara>
There are many cultural sights in Pescara, including a host of religious buildings and museums such as the Cathedral of St. Cetteus, the Museum of Modern Art and the Museum of the Abruzzi people. With the Gran Sasso Mountains looming in the background, a stroll through these cultural marvels is indeed a beautiful and inspiring way to spend an afternoon.
As well as being very popular with families due to the incredible beach, Pescara is also favoured by stylish couples looking for a sparkling nightlife. Walking along the stunning coastline you will find dozens if not hundreds of cafes and pizzerias. If you are in the centre, explore the myriad of independent boutiques and top Italian fashion stores before retiring to Piazza Rinascita, the centre of Pescara’s social scene, to a café with your shopping bags. With these elegant little cafes and restaurants dotted around this square and indeed the entire town, you can easily discover why the town is renowned for the quality of its fresh seafood. A beach party city, after hours can be spent club-hopping down the coast until the sun starts to come up, enjoying some of Italy’s finest nightlife. This nightlife is especially robust during Pescara Jazz, one of Europe’s most important Jazz festivals which takes place every July.
If you are staying in this small, charming town for longer, then make sure to visit some of the quaint surrounding villages such as the hillside town of Cheti – with its picturesque views of the sea – and Lanciano which is rich in Renaissance history with well-preserved historical quarters.
Renting holiday accommodation in Pescara
The best way to experience an authentic slice of Pescaran life is by staying in a holiday rental. Rather than joining the throngs of tourists return at the end of each day to your very own space, and as an added benefit if you decide to visit the open air market and stock up on prosciutto, fine Italian cheeses and seafood you can prepare a feast in your very own kitchen, then enjoy it with your ocean or mountain view on the balcony.