All About Pescara
Located along the eastern coast of Italy, bordering the Adriatic Sea, Pescara lies at the mouth of the Aterno-Pescara River in Abruzzo province. A relatively modern city, Pescara has an eventful and tumultuous history wherein it was entirely destroyed in the Middle Ages and then again during World War II. Leaving the past behind, the town is an emerging holiday destination in its present-day avatar. Simultaneously, it continues to grow as a prominent industrial hub, having a naval shipyard as well as electrical and textile industries.
While still under the radar of most international tourists, Pescara is already a favorite among travelers from Northern Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and Croatia. One of its many lures is the city’s picturesque location. Close to the mountains, surrounded by pine forests, and along the water, it creates an unmatched relaxing atmosphere. A quintessential resort and university town, Pescara is also culturally progressive. Home to several museums and the world-famous Pescara Jazz festival, it is particularly known for being the birthplace of the noted Italian poet Gabriele D’Annunzio.
Routes and Ferries to Pescara
Considering Pescara’s economic importance, it comes as no surprise that the city is readily accessible by sea, land, and air. Tourists can reach the coastal town in the summers from Cesenatico in Italy as well as Lošinj and Novalja in Croatia. Sailing once a week, the boat from Lošinj takes under 4 hours. Ferry tickets to Pescara for this journey cost €95.00 on average. In contrast, the sailing time from Novalja is 6 hours, with tickets starting at around €105. Gomo Viaggi operates boats on both these routes. You can easily purchase ferry tickets to Pescara and many other Italy destinations online via Ferryscanner.
On land, one can drive to or arrive at Pescara by Bus from Rome and other parts of the country. The city is also well-connected by train, as it has four stations. However, Pescara Centrale is the primary hub, with trains reaching from cities such as Rome, Bari, Turin, and Trieste.
Tourists wishing to fly into the city will find Abruzzo Airport a suitable option, situated only 10 minutes from the center. The airport stays busy with seasonal and year-round fights from London, Bucharest, Malta, Prague, Milan, and other European terminals.
Port of Pescara
The Port of Pescara is a small, sheltered, shallow harbor with breakwaters but limited commercial activity. The seaport is nevertheless ideal for yachts and fishing boats and accommodates ferries during summer. Moreover, Pescara has one of the largest marinas in the Adriatic Sea.
Among the facilities at the harbor are two designated fishing piers, several mooring points, and the option to berth along the river canal. The port also has plenty of shops and restaurants nearby for travelers with ferry tickets to Pescara or those coming in their own vessel.
Occasionally, ferries and hydrofoils to the city dock at the nearby Port of Ortona. In this case, upon disembarking, you can take a 15-minute train or a 30-minute taxi ride to the center.
Best Beaches in Pescara
The 20+ kilometer sandy shoreline of Pescara is one of its biggest draws. Boasting mild Mediterranean-like weather, the town becomes a hotspot for sunseekers come August, creating a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Spiaggia di Pescara
An opportune place to bask in the sun and watch passengers arriving with ferry tickets to Pescara, the main urban beach of the city, is its hottest spot in summer. The fine sand, shallow entry into the water, and breakwaters to keep the sea calm make Pescara Beach an ideal shoreline to bring the kids. Moreover, with plenty of fish, it’s an excellent spot for a snorkel. The strip has both private and free areas. Sunbeds and parasols can typically be rented for €30. Although near the bustle of the center, there are several restaurants, bars, and shops along the promenade lining the beach.
Spiaggia di Montesilvano
Located about 15 minutes north of the center, Montesilvano is one of the best beaches in Pescara. Glistening golden sand and a general commercial buzz results in the beach being a favorite with locals and tourists. The strand has long stretches of free areas dotted in between by lidos that rent out sun loungers and umbrellas. As with most beaches in the area, breakwaters at Montesilvano allow for pleasant swimming conditions. At the same time, a deeper seabed close to the shore encourages beachgoers to put on their snorkeling gear.
Spiaggia Libera
Libera is a disability-friendly small beach that not many tourists know about. Offering a clean sandy entrance to clear waters, it’s a lovely place to sunbathe and splash around in the sea. While breakwaters keep the waves at bay, a small kiosk on the shore serves refreshments and rents sunbeds. The beach also has showers and toilets.
Pescara South Beach
There are sandy beaches in Pescara on both sides of the port. South Beach is similar to its northern counterpart, except it has a greener, less commercialized backdrop. The water here is refreshing and inviting. Furthermore, the beach is family-friendly thanks to breakers, gradual descent into the sea, and the availability of sunbeds and umbrellas. Although within walking distance of Pescara’s Old Town, several restaurants and markets are in the vicinity of the strand.
Spiaggia di Punta Ferruccio
Offbeat beach finders who don’t mind a 30-minute drive will love the wild and natural Punta Ferruccio. The quiet beach requires a 20-minute walk from the free car park but promises a serene, crowd-free experience. The rocky and gravel beach does not have any facilities. So, wear shoes and bring along drinking water, snacks, a hat, and a towel. Surprisingly, this small strip is your ticket to some of the most mesmerizing blue-green waters of the Adriatic.
Places to Visit in Pescara
The best places to visit in Pescara showcase the city’s classic meets contemporary architectural uptake while shining a spotlight on its natural beauty and mixological heritage.
Architecture of Pescara
The architecture of Pescara is a testament to the changing personality of the town. Ponte del Mare is arguably the city’s most-loved construction. Inaugurated in 2009, the 466-meter-long pedestrian and bicycle bridge is a favorite among locals for a stroll, especially during sunset. At the same time, Cattedrale di San Cetteo is the city’s primary religious building. Dedicated to the patron saint of Pescara, its construction dates back to the 1930s. Other structures that stand out are the Basilica of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows, Salotto Square, Ponte Flaiano, and Palazzo Imperato, constructed in Art Nouveau style.
Museums of Pescara
The town’s numerous museums cover various interests, making them some of the best places to visit in Pescara. The most popular is Gabriele D’Annunzio’s Birthplace Museum. On display at the residence are tons of documents, photos, clothes, and rooms full of vintage furniture from when the poet was born in 1863. Museo Paparella Treccia Devlet is another must-visit. The 19th-century villa houses over 150 pieces of the Castelli ceramic collection from the 16th to the 19th century. In addition, there are several watercolor and oil paintings done by local artists.
Nature Reserve Pineta Dannunziana
Established in 2000, Nature Reserve Pineta Dannunziana is the city’s green oasis. It is among the best places to visit in Pescara when you want to enjoy nature and step away from the beaches momentarily. The 130-acre park consists of a children’s playground, walking trails, picnic spots, and the opportunity to see birds, turtles, and fish in the lake. Besides flora and fauna, the reserve has, within its space, Art Nouveau villas, the D’Annunzio Theater, and the old Aurum factory.
Aurum Factory
Aurum is a unique liqueur made in Pescara since 1925 and is known for its 40% alcohol content. It consists of brandy as the main component, infused with different fruit flavors. Concocted by Amedeo Pomilio, it is said that the name Aurum was a suggestion from Gabriele D’Annunzio. Besides enjoying the drink while in the city, the original Aurum factory is now a beautiful building, theatre, and event space worth a visit.
Fattoria La Valentina
Famous for its natural gorgeousness, Abruzzo is also a noteworthy wine region. Several vineyards dot the landscape near Pescara, perfect destinations for a culinary adventure. Among them, La Valentina is a farm that has been active for over 30 years, producing wine using traditional methods such as hand harvesting. They have two vineyards. One is in Spoltore, 15 minutes from Pescara, which is also the site of their cellar. The other is in San Valentino. The winery produces a collection of reds, whites, and also rosé. Tourists wanting to learn more about local wine can contact and visit La Valentina for a tour and tasting. The owners of the winery speak English.
Transportation Around Pescara
Pescara’s central and coastal neighborhoods are convenient and easy to sightsee on foot. When arriving with ferry tickets to Pescara, you’ll find that the port is next to the main commercial district. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops are effortless to reach and do not require any transport. You can further rent bicycles to meander around Pescara, as several bike lanes criss-cross the city.
For airport transfers, the bus is the cheapest mode of transportation available. Two bus lines operate from early morning till late night. One-way tickets to the center cost €1.10. Otherwise, you can readily get taxis for travel to nearby areas.
Tourists staying in Pescara for a longer duration that are planning to explore the bordering regions are better off renting a vehicle. Several car hire agencies have offices at the airport and in town.
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