Stroll through the streets of this pretty seaside town to find enthralling museums and historic architecture near charming cafés and coffee houses.
Spend luxurious days on the long white-sand beach and evenings sampling fantastic waterfront restaurants in Pescara. Immerse yourself in this traditional Italian city’s culture and visit the childhood home of its very famous former resident.
Escape to the glorious 10-mile (16-kilometer) beach fronting the town. Relax far away from the crowds of the country’s busiest regions and swim in the warm, clear Adriatic waters. When evening comes, head for a bar overlooking the water. Savor a cool drink and fresh seafood while you watch boats in the marina.
After a light lunch, wander into town to join locals and soak up the fun, friendly atmosphere. Browse small, family-run stores for freshly picked fruit and vegetables or stroll through the cobbled streets to admire local architecture.
Follow the Pescara River’s southern bank to the Museo delle Genti d’Abruzzo. This museum inside an old barracks highlights the fascinating history of central Italy’s Abruzzo region. View a display of rare Paleolithic tools and utensils, sheepskin capes, studded shepherd boots and a fully reconstructed conical stone hut. Some artifacts are as much as 650,000 years old.
Continue along the river for 650 feet (200 meters) to the Museo Casa Natale Gabriele d’Annunzio, the birthplace of the famous writer. The home’s original interior has been preserved. Admire extravagant motifs and carvings along with plaster casts of Annunzio’s hands and face. See the original copies of his books and even some roughly scribbled notes.
Go across the river and north to the Museum of Modern Art to see exquisite paintings. The building’s collection holds excellent work, including pieces by Guttuso, Monet and Picasso.
Pescara is on the central Italian coast, a 2-hour drive east of RomeOpens in a new window. Select from a range of restaurants and accommodations next to the beach or find more in the town center.
Discover fine beaches with a splash of culture in Pescara.