Ah, Sulmona! Every time I visit this charming town, I fall in love all over again. Nestled in the heart of the Peligna Valley, Sulmona is like perfectly wrapped confetti—sweet, beautiful, and full of surprises. One of my best friends is from Sulmona, so I’ve spent countless weekends wandering its medieval streets, and I’m excited to share my insider tips with you.

Fast Facts About Sulmona

• Location: Peligna Valley, in the province of L’Aquila, Abruzzo
• Population: Approximately 25,000
• Known for: Confetti production, medieval architecture, and Ovid’s heritage
• Best time to visit: April to October

Things To See And Do in Sulmona

Let me guide you through my favorite spots in town:

• Piazza Garibaldi: This is the heart of Sulmona. I love coming here on Wednesday and Saturday mornings for the bustling market. Pro tip: arrive early for the best produce!
• Cattedrale di San Panfilo: A stunning cathedral with various architectural styles. I once attended an Easter mass here, and the atmosphere was unforgettable.
• Chiesa di Santa Maria della Tomba: Don’t let the name fool you; this 13th-century church is full of life. Its unique façade always catches my eye.
• Museo Civico: A treasure trove of local history. I discover something new every time I visit.
• Confetti Shops: You can’t leave Sulmona without trying these sweet almond confections. My favorite shop is Pelino, where their rose-shaped confetti makes perfect gifts.
• Palazzo Annunziata: Home to the Museo dell’Arte e della Tecnologia Confettiera. It’s fascinating to see how our famous confetti are made.
• Badia Morronese: Just outside town, this vast monastic complex offers a peaceful retreat. The view of Sulmona from here is spectacular.

Where to Stay in Sulmona

I’ve had friends and family stay at various places in Sulmona. Here are my top picks:

• Budget: B&B Santa Chiara – Cozy and central. The owner, Giulia, makes you feel like family.
• Mid-range: Hotel Rojan – Comfortable rooms with mountain views. I love their rooftop terrace.
• Luxury: Santacroce Luxury Rooms—For a special treat, stay in a beautifully restored historic building.

Local Cuisine and Dining

Sulmona’s cuisine is a feast for the senses. Don’t miss these local specialties:

• Confetti: Not just for weddings! Try the chocolate-covered ones – they’re addictive.
• Pasta alla chitarra: Square spaghetti made with a special tool. Best enjoyed with a rich lamb ragù.
• Pane di Solina: Bread made from an ancient local grain. It’s dense and flavorful.

Recommended restaurants

• Clemente: My go-to for traditional Abruzzese cuisine. Their gnocchi are heavenly.
• Il Vecchio Muro: Great for a romantic dinner. Try their truffle dishes when in season.
• La Locanda di Gino: A family-run place where Nonna still cooks. It’s like dining in an Abruzzese home.

Typical meal costs are €15-25 for a mid-range restaurant €30-50 for high-end dining.

Getting Around Sulmona

• How to reach: I usually take the train from Rome (about 3 hours). It’s a scenic ride through the mountains.
• Local transportation: The town center is compact and best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes – those medieval streets can be uneven!
• Car rental is available, but parking can be tricky in the center. I prefer walking or cycling around town.

When to Visit Sulmona

• Spring (April-May) is my favorite time of year. The almond trees are blooming, and the weather is perfect for exploring.
• Summer (June-August) can be hot, but it’s when most festivals happen. The Giostra Cavalleresca in July is a must-see.
• Fall (September-October) is great for food lovers. It’s harvest time, and the local produce is at its best.
• Winter (December-February) can be cold, but the Christmas markets are charming.

What to Pack for Sulmona

• Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
• A good appetite – Sulmona is a food lover’s paradise!
• A camera – the town is incredibly photogenic.
• Cash – some smaller shops and cafes may not accept cards.

Sulmona Travel Tips

• The siesta is still observed here. Many shops close from 1-4 PM. Use this time for a long, leisurely lunch like the locals.
• Learn a few basic Italian phrases. Sulmonesi appreciate the effort, and you might make some new friends.
• If you’re here for the Giostra Cavalleresca in July, book accommodation well in advance. I learned this the hard way once!
• Try to coincide your visit with a festival. Sulmona knows how to celebrate!

Nearby Attractions

• Majella National Park: A hiker’s paradise. I often come here for weekend treks.
• Scanno: A picturesque town with a heart-shaped lake. Great for a day trip.
• Pacentro: Another beautiful medieval village. The views from the castle ruins are amazing.
• Anversa degli Abruzzi: Known for its dramatic gorges. Keep an eye out for wolves!

Useful Resources

• Sulmona Tourism Website: www.comune.sulmona.aq.it
• Abruzzo Tourism: www.abruzzoturismo.it
• Local Train Information: www.trenitalia.com

Sulmona is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that engages all your senses. From the sweet aroma of confetti wafting through the air to the sound of church bells echoing off medieval walls, this town captures the essence of Abruzzo. Every time I visit, I discover something new – a hidden courtyard, a family-run trattoria, or a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. Sulmona’s charm lies in its ability to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time while still offering all the comforts of the present. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or simply seeking an authentic Italian experience, Sulmona will steal your heart, just as it has mine time and time again. Come with an open mind and an empty stomach – Sulmona is waiting to welcome you!