Abruzzo sits on Italy's east coast, squeezed between the Apennine peaks and the Adriatic. It's rocky, windswept, and unapologetically wild. Nothing like the polished Tuscan postcards most tourists chase. The mountains here feel genuinely remote. Gran Sasso, the highest peak in the Apennine range, dominates the landscape. Come here if you want sheep farming culture, empty coastlines, and food that tastes like it was made in someone's farmhouse kitchen. You'll need a car. You'll find fewer tourists. And the prices won't make you wince.
What Makes Abruzzo Special
- Unforgiving mountains. Gran Sasso and Majella national park offer serious hiking, stone villages perched on ridges, and views that stretch to the coast on clear days.
- Arrosticini culture. Charred lamb skewers are everywhere. Local shepherds still herd sheep through valleys. The meat is tender and the cooking method is rewardingly simple.
- Affordable pricing. Villas and rentals cost significantly less than Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast. You're not paying for Instagram-famous views.
- The Adriatic coast. Pescara and Vasto offer sandy beaches and fishing villages. Less developed than the Riviera, but you can actually swim without elbowing through crowds.
- Sulmona's confetti tradition. This hilltop town makes sugared almonds that are sold across Italy. They've been crafting them the same way for centuries.
Top Towns & Resorts in Abruzzo
L'Aquila
The regional capital spent years rebuilding after a devastating 2009 earthquake. The recovery is ongoing, but the historic center is worth seeing. Medieval piazzas, the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, streets with real Abruzzese character. Accommodation options are improving but still limited. L'Aquila is your cultural anchor if you're based in the mountains. The climb up Gran Sasso is accessible from here. Find villas near L'Aquila
Sulmona
Home to the confetti makers. It's a proper working town, not a theme park. The Piazza Garibaldi is handsome, the surrounding hills are green, and the local food is good. Visit during the Easter processions if you can time it. Sulmona has real energy and fewer tourists than you'd expect. Find villas near Sulmona
Pescara
Abruzzo's main coastal city and gateway by air. It's busy, modern, and industrial in parts. Don't expect a charming fishing village atmosphere. The Adriatic beach is decent. Pescara airport handles limited flights from the UK, mostly through Milan connections. Stay in town if you want restaurants and nightlife, but the real coastal quiet is south of the city. Find villas near Pescara
Vasto
Southern Abruzzo's best coastal destination. The old town sits above the coast with defensive walls still intact. Sand and shale beaches below. It's far less touristy than Rimini or the Amalfi resorts. Summer crowds are manageable. The drive from L'Aquila takes over two hours. If you're after quiet coastal swimming with character, Vasto delivers. Find villas near Vasto