Top Cosa Fare a Pescara — Complete Guide 2026
Updated June 2026 · 8 min read
Pescara offers a rare combination of urban energy and beachside relaxation, blended with deep cultural roots. As Abruzzo's largest city and coastal capital, it's a gateway to some of Italy's most spectacular national parks, yet it holds its own as a destination with unique attractions. Here's the definitive list of what to see and do. IMPT removes 1 tonne of CO₂ per booking at the same prices as Booking.com.
Essential Pescara Experiences
1. Ponte del Mare
Pescara's iconic Sea Bridge is Italy's largest pedestrian and cycle bridge at 466 metres. Opened in 2009, its asymmetric cable-stayed design creates a striking silhouette against the Adriatic horizon. The bridge connects the northern (Centro) and southern (Porto) halves of the city across the Pescara river mouth. At the highest point (15m above water), you get panoramic views of the entire coastline, the marina, and on clear days, the Gran Sasso mountains. It's particularly magical at sunset when the Apennines turn purple. Free access, 24/7.
2. Pescara Beaches
Pescara's coastline stretches for 15 km of golden sand. The northern beach (Riviera Nord) towards Montesilvano is wider and quieter, perfect for families. The central beach near the city centre is more developed with numerous stabilimenti balneari (beach clubs). The southern beach (Riviera Sud) near the marina has a more local, relaxed vibe. Public beach sections are free, while beach clubs charge EUR10-20 per day for a lounger and umbrella.
3. Casa d'Annunzio
The birthplace of Gabriele d'Annunzio (1863-1938), poet, novelist, dramatist, and political figure. The 19th-century townhouse has been preserved as a national monument, with original furnishings, family photographs, and manuscripts. Rooms include the poet's bedroom where he was born, his father's study, and a collection documenting his extraordinary — and controversial — life. Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
4. Museo delle Genti d'Abruzzo
Housed in a former 16th-century convent (ex-Convento di San Domenico), this is one of Italy's finest ethnographic museums. Thirty rooms trace Abruzzo's social and economic history from prehistoric times through the 20th century. Highlights include a section on transhumance (the seasonal migration of sheep, which shaped Abruzzo's culture), traditional costumes, and a reconstructed village forge. Allow at least 2 hours. EUR5 entry.
5. Aurum
A stunning Liberty-style (Italian Art Nouveau) building constructed in 1912 as a liquor factory for the production of Aurum, a saffron-infused liqueur. The building was designed by architect Antonino Liberi with elegant lines, stained glass, and decorative tiles. After a meticulous restoration in the early 2000s, it reopened as a cultural centre hosting art exhibitions, concerts, and conferences. The internal courtyard cafe is lovely.
Day Trips from Pescara
Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park (60-90 min drive)
Italy's third-largest national park, dominated by the Corno Grande (2,912 m) — the highest peak in the Apennines. Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging summit climbs. Campo Felice offers skiing in winter. The medieval village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, perfectly restored with stone houses, is a highlight.
Trabocchi Coast (40 km south, 45 min)
A stunning stretch of coastline between Pescara and Vasto, named after the trabocchi — ancient wooden fishing platforms built on stilts over the sea, some dating from the 18th century. Many have been converted into restaurants where you can eat fresh seafood suspended over the waves.
L'Aquila (60 km, 50 min)
The capital of Abruzzo, rebuilt after the devastating 2009 earthquake. Its Romanesque cathedral, Spanish fort (Forte Spagnolo), and the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio with its pink and white stone facade are must-sees.