If you’re craving an Italian adventure that blends ancient history, coastal charm, and mouthwatering cuisine—all without the crowds of Rome or Venice—Ancona is your answer. Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, this port city in the Marche region is a treasure trove of Roman ruins, Renaissance architecture, and hidden beaches. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Ancona, from sunrise at a hilltop cathedral to sunset seafood feasts.
- San Ciriaco Cathedral
- Arch of Trajan
- Roman Amphitheatre
- Mole Vanvitelliana
- Piazza del Plebiscito
- Church of Santa Maria della Piazza
- Passetto Beach
- Mount Conero: Hiking & Hidden Coves
- Savoring Ancona: A Foodie’s Paradise
- Offbeat Ancona: Quirky & Cultural
- Practical Tips for Your Ancona Adventure
- Why Ancona Deserves a Spot on Your Italy Itinerary
- FAQ: Your Ancona Travel Questions Answered
San Ciriaco Cathedral
Perched on Guasco Hill, the San Ciriaco Cathedral is Ancona’s crown jewel. Built in the 11th century over a Roman temple to Venus, this architectural marvel blends Byzantine domes with Romanesque arches. Don’t miss the crypt’s ancient ruins or the panoramic views of the Adriatic from its terrace. Pro tip: Visit at sunrise to avoid crowds and watch the city awaken.
Arch of Trajan
Standing tall at the harbor since 115 AD, the Arch of Trajan is a testament to Ancona’s Roman roots. This 19-meter marble arch once welcomed ships to Emperor Trajan’s expanded port. Today, it’s the perfect spot for golden-hour photos. Fun fact: The stone was imported from Turkey—proof of Ancona’s ancient trade connections.
Roman Amphitheatre
Tucked near the cathedral, the Roman Amphitheatre once hosted gladiator battles for 6,000 spectators. While partially excavated, its stone tiers and tunnels whisper tales of ancient entertainment. Pair your visit with a stroll through Parco del Cardeto, a leafy park offering harbor views.
Mole Vanvitelliana
This 18th-century pentagonal fortress, Mole Vanvitelliana, was built to quarantine plague victims. Today, it hosts art exhibits and the Omero Tactile Museum, where you can “see” sculptures through touch—including replicas of Michelangelo’s Pietà.
Piazza del Plebiscito
Nicknamed Piazza del Papa, this square buzzes with locals sipping espresso under the gaze of Pope Clement XII’s statue. Pop into the Museo della Città to explore Ancona’s medieval trade history or simply people-watch at a café.
Church of Santa Maria della Piazza
This 12th-century church wows visitors with its intricate stone carvings and Byzantine mosaics unearthed beneath the floor. Nearby, the Museo Archeologico showcases Greek vases and Roman artifacts—a deep dive into the region’s layered past.
Passetto Beach
A 15-minute walk from downtown, Passetto Beach combines WWII-era caves (once fishermen’s shelters) with turquoise swimming spots. Climb the Monumento ai Caduti for sweeping views, then reward yourself with fried calamari at a cliffside trattoria.
Mount Conero: Hiking & Hidden Coves
Just south of Ancona, Mount Conero lures hikers with trails through pine forests and wildflower meadows. Below lies Portonovo, a pebbly beach crowned by the 11th-century Santa Maria di Portonovo church. Bus #94 from Ancona’s station makes this a easy day trip.
Beach Comparison Table:
| Beach | Highlights | Best For | Accessibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passetto | Rocky coves, historical caves | Swimming, photography | 15-minute walk downtown |
| Portonovo | Secluded, Santa Maria church backdrop | Hiking, relaxation | 30-minute bus ride |
| Palombina | Sandy shores, family-friendly | Sunbathing, picnics | 10-minute drive north |
Savoring Ancona: A Foodie’s Paradise
Brodetto: The Ultimate Seafood Stew
Ancona’s signature dish, brodetto, is a tomato-based stew simmered with at least seven types of Adriatic catch (think squid, clams, and monkfish). Pair it with a glass of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, a crisp local white wine. For the best brodetto, head to Ristorante La Moretta near the harbor. (Foodie guide here).
Mercato delle Erbe: A Feast for the Senses
Ancona’s 19th-century covered market, Mercato delle Erbe, is a sensory overload. Sample ciauscolo (spreadable salami), olive ascolane (stuffed fried olives), and fresh pecorino cheese. Don’t leave without grabbing a panino stuffed with local prosciutto!
Offbeat Ancona: Quirky & Cultural
Serenellini Accordion Factory: Music to Your Ears
Dive into Italy’s musical heritage at the Serenellini Accordion Factory, where craftsmen hand-assemble instruments using century-old techniques. Book a tour to see reeds and bellows transformed into concert-ready accordions.
Teatro delle Muse: An Evening of Elegance
Catch an opera or ballet at Teatro delle Muse, a neoclassical gem adorned with statues of the nine Muses. Even if you skip a show, admire its grand façade in Piazza della Repubblica.
Practical Tips for Your Ancona Adventure
- Getting Around: The city center is walkable, but buses connect to beaches and Mount Conero.
- Avoid Crowds: Visit churches early and book sunset dinners in advance.
- Guided Tours: Unlock hidden stories with a history-focused walking tour.
Why Ancona Deserves a Spot on Your Italy Itinerary
Ancona isn’t just a port—it’s a living museum where Roman arches frame fishing boats and Baroque piazzas hum with modern life. Whether you’re tracing ancient footsteps, devouring seafood stews, or swimming in Adriatic coves, this underrated city offers la dolce vita without the tourist frenzy. So pack your curiosity (and appetite) and let Ancona surprise you. Buon viaggio!
FAQ: Your Ancona Travel Questions Answered
1. Is Ancona worth visiting, or is it just a cruise port?
Absolutely worth visiting! While Ancona is a busy ferry hub, it’s packed with Roman ruins, Renaissance architecture, and seafood-focused cuisine. Highlights like the San Ciriaco Cathedral and Passetto Beach make it a standalone destination, not just a stopover.
2. What’s the best time to visit Ancona?
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for beaches but can be busy. Winter is quiet, with cheaper accommodations—perfect for history buffs who don’t mind cooler temps.
3. How do I get to Ancona?
- By air: Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI) has flights from major European cities.
- By train: Direct routes from Rome (3 hours) and Bologna (2 hours).
- By ferry: Regular services to Croatia, Greece, and Albania (check schedules here).
4. Are there day trips from Ancona?
Yes! Visit the Conero Riviera for hiking and beaches, or explore nearby towns:
- Loreto: Home to the Holy House of Mary pilgrimage site.
- Urbino: A UNESCO-listed Renaissance gem.
- Sirolo: A cliffside village with stunning Adriatic views.
5. What local dishes should I try in Ancona?
Don’t miss:
- Brodetto (fish stew) at a harborfront trattoria.
- Vincisgrassi (a richer, meatier lasagna).
- Olive all’ascolana (fried stuffed olives).
Pair everything with Verdicchio wine!
6. Is Ancona family-friendly?
Yes! Beaches like Palombina are calm and sandy, and attractions like the Omero Tactile Museum engage kids with hands-on art. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the city center is stroller-friendly.
