Ortona Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Ortona
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Ortona, a vibrant coastal city in Abruzzo, Italy, is perfect for family travelers seeking history, adventure, and relaxation. Begin your visit at Castello Aragonese, a striking fortress with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. Stroll along Corso Vittorio Emanuele for shopping and gelato at Gelateria Caffè Ideale. Visit the Basilica di San Tommaso Apostolo, where the relics of Saint Thomas are housed. For a hands-on experience, book the Trabocchi Coast Bike Tour with Abruzzo Biking, which takes you along scenic seaside routes and traditional fishing huts called trabocchi. Spend a sunny afternoon at Lido Riccio Beach, ideal for swimming and sandcastle building. Explore the Museo della Battaglia di Ortona to learn about the city’s pivotal role in World War II. End your day with dinner at Ristorante Al Vecchio Teatro, sampling local seafood specialties. Ortona offers a blend of culture, history, and outdoor fun for all ages.
Nearby cities
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Discover Marina di San Vito in Abruzzo—where your family can stroll sandy beaches, savor fresh seafood, and bike seaside paths beneath golden Italian sunsets.
Francavilla al Mare
Discover Francavilla al Mare in Abruzzo—where your family can splash in gentle waves, bike along the coast, and savor gelato by golden sandy beaches.
Pescara
Discover Pescara in Abruzzo—where your family can enjoy sunny beaches, gentle bike trails, and seaside gelato strolls. Make lasting memories together here!
Torino di Sangro
Discover Torino di Sangro in Abruzzo—where your family can bike coastal trails, picnic by shimmering lakes, and explore sandy beaches under sunny skies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Ortona has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Families visiting Ortona, Italy, can embark on unforgettable outdoor adventures along the spectacular Costa dei Trabocchi, where scenic bike paths hug the Adriatic coastline and offer breathtaking sea views. Explore the lush Riserva Naturale Regionale Punta Aderci, where gentle trails wind through wildflower meadows and lead to pristine beaches perfect for swimming or picnicking. Kayaking around the historic Aragonese Castle provides a unique perspective of Ortona’s dramatic cliffs and the shimmering turquoise waters below.
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For a memorable stay in Ortona, choose accommodation near the historic center along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, where you’ll be within walking distance of the Aragonese Castle and the stunning Cathedral of Saint Thomas. This area offers easy access to the scenic Trabocchi Coast, celebrated for its unique fishing huts and crystal-clear Adriatic waters. Staying here also places you close to the lush Riserva Naturale Regionale Punta Aderci, perfect for hiking and beachside relaxation.
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For a comfortable and convenient family stay in Ortona, consider the area near Lido Riccio, where family-friendly beachfront resorts offer easy access to the Adriatic Sea and plenty of activities for children. Staying close to Corso Vittorio Emanuele II puts you within walking distance of the Aragonese Castle and the vibrant Piazza della Repubblica, making it simple to explore local gelaterias and restaurants after a day at the beach or sightseeing.
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A romantic weekend in Ortona begins with a stroll along the scenic Passeggiata Orientale, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the iconic Aragonese Castle. Couples can explore the historic Cathedral of Saint Thomas the Apostle, then enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard such as Cantina Tollo. Sunset dinners at a trabocco, the traditional wooden fishing huts turned restaurants, provide an unforgettable experience with fresh seafood and panoramic coastal vistas.
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Families visiting Ortona will love the sandy stretches of Lido Riccio, a popular beach known for its gentle waves and shallow waters, perfect for children. The area offers plenty of amenities, including beach clubs and playgrounds, making it easy for parents to relax while kids play. Just a short drive away, the crystal-clear waters at Lido Saraceni provide another excellent option, with scenic views of the Adriatic Sea and easy access to local gelaterias for a sweet treat after swimming.
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For a memorable snowshoeing or winter hiking experience near Ortona, head to the Majella National Park. This stunning park, located in the Apennine Mountains, offers scenic trails winding through beech forests and across snowy plateaus with breathtaking views of Monte Amaro. You might spot wildlife such as chamois or golden eagles as you explore the tranquil, snow-covered landscapes. The nearby town of Caramanico Terme also provides access to well-marked winter trails and cozy mountain refuges.
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Visiting Ortona offers a delightful blend of history and coastal charm, with average costs for popular attractions and tours typically ranging from €8 to €20 per person. Exploring the impressive Castello Aragonese or the Museo della Battaglia di Ortona provides great value, while guided tours of the Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere or the scenic Trabocchi Coast may cost a bit more, especially if you opt for wine tastings or boat excursions along the Adriatic Sea.
