Ortona Travel Guide

Ortona, what a coastal gem! I loved this picturesque town since childhood, and its charm never fades. Perched on the Adriatic coast of Abruzzo, Ortona offers a perfect blend of history, beach life, and culinary delights. As a local, I’ve explored every nook and cranny of this fascinating place, from its medieval castle to its sun-drenched beaches. Let me share with you the Ortona I know and love.

Fast Facts About Ortona

• Location: Province of Chieti, Abruzzo, on the Adriatic coast
• Population: Approximately 23,000
• Known for: Beaches, Aragonese Castle, Cathedral of San Tommaso
• Best time to visit: Late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October)

Things To See And Do in Ortona

Let me guide you through my favorite spots and experiences:

• Visit the Aragonese Castle: This 15th-century fortress is the symbol of Ortona. I love walking along its walls, imagining the naval battles it has witnessed. The view of the Adriatic from here is breathtaking.
• Tour the Cathedral of San Tommaso: Home to the relics of St. Thomas the Apostle, this cathedral has a special atmosphere. The story of how the relics arrived here is fascinating.
• Relax on Ortona’s Beaches: The golden sands and clear waters are perfect for a day of sunbathing and swimming. My favorite spot is a small cove just south of the port – it’s less crowded and incredibly beautiful.
• Visit the Museum of the Battle of Ortona: This museum offers a sobering look at Ortona’s WWII history. It’s a powerful reminder of the town’s resilience.
• Stroll through the Historic Center: I never tire of wandering these streets. The mix of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture is captivating.
• Wine Tasting: The surrounding vineyards produce excellent Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. I recommend visiting a local cantina for a tasting – the passion of the winemakers is contagious.
• Explore the Port: Watching the fishing boats come in with their catch is a daily ritual for me when I’m here. It’s also where you’ll find the freshest seafood.

Where to Stay in Ortona

I’ve hosted friends and family at various accommodations. Here are my top picks:

• Budget: B&B Villa Martina – Cozy rooms near the beach. The owners treat you like family.
• Mid-range: Hotel Mara – Comfortable hotel with sea views. Their rooftop terrace is perfect for watching sunsets.
• Luxury: Castello di Semivicoli – For a unique experience, this restored castle in nearby Casacanditella is unforgettable.

Local Cuisine and Dining

Ortona’s cuisine is a celebration of the sea. Don’t miss these local specialties:

• Brodetto alla vastese: This fish stew is a local staple. Every family has their own recipe, but it’s always delicious.
• Scapece: Marinated fish that’s perfect for a beach picnic.
• Pasta alla chitarra: Traditional Abruzzese pasta, often served with seafood here.

Recommended restaurants

• Ristorante Al Vecchio Teatro: Excellent seafood in a historic setting. Their seafood risotto is unforgettable.
• Hostaria del Pavone: Traditional cuisine with a modern twist. Try their fish crudo – it’s incredibly fresh.

Typical costs for meals: €25-35 for a mid-range restaurant, €40-60 for high-end dining.

Getting Around Ortona

• How to reach: Accessible by train from Pescara (about 30 minutes) or by car. The coastal train ride is scenic and relaxing.
• Local transportation: The town center is walkable, but a car is useful for exploring beaches and surrounding areas.
• Local buses connect different parts of the town and nearby beaches. In summer, there’s a fun tourist train that runs along the coast.

When to Visit Ortona

• Late spring and early fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It’s my favorite time to enjoy the beaches peacefully.
• Summer (June-August) is perfect for beach activities but can be crowded. The evening passeggiata along the lungomare is lively and fun.
• Winter (December-February) is quiet but mild. It’s a great time to explore the town’s history without the crowds.

What to Pack for Ortona

• Beach essentials (swimwear, sunscreen, beach towel) for summer visits
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the town
• Light layers for variable weather
• Camera to capture coastal views and historic sites
• Wine tote for bringing home local vintages

Ortona Travel Tips

• Many shops and restaurants close for a long lunch break (typically 1-4 PM). Use this time for a siesta or beach relaxation.
• Try to time your visit with the local fish market for the freshest seafood. It’s a sensory experience!
• Be respectful when visiting religious sites like the Cathedral.
• If you’re a history buff, consider hiring a local guide for a WWII tour. The personal stories bring history to life.

Nearby Attractions

• Costa dei Trabocchi: Scenic coastline with traditional fishing platforms. It’s a photographer’s dream.
• Guardiagrele: Charming town known for artisanal crafts. The wrought ironwork is particularly impressive.
• Lanciano: Historic town famous for a Eucharistic miracle. The church where it happened is beautiful.
• Majella National Park: Beautiful mountain landscapes for nature lovers. The contrast with the coast is striking.

Useful Resources

• Ortona Tourism: www.comuneortona.ch.it
• Abruzzo Tourism: www.abruzzoturismo.it
• Ortona War Cemetery: www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2004300/ortona-war-cemetery/

Ortona is a town that has weathered many storms, both literal and figurative, yet it stands proud, offering its beauty and hospitality to all who visit. What I love most about Ortona is its ability to seamlessly blend its rich history with a vibrant present. You can start your day exploring ancient ruins, spend the afternoon on a sun-drenched beach, and end your evening savoring fresh seafood in a cozy trattoria.

The town has a special energy – perhaps it’s the sea air, or maybe it’s the warmth of the people. There’s a resilience here, a joy for life that’s palpable. Whether you’re watching fishermen mend their nets in the port, sipping a glass of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo as the sun sets over the Adriatic, or joining locals for an evening stroll along the lungomare, Ortona has a way of making you feel part of its story.

For me, Ortona represents the heart of Abruzzo’s coastal life. It’s where history meets the sea, where culinary traditions are passed down through generations, and where the beauty of nature is celebrated daily. It’s a town that invites you to slow down, to savor each moment, each view, each bite of delicious food.

Come to Ortona with an open heart and a willingness to embrace la dolce vita. Whether you’re here for the beaches, the history, the food, or simply to experience authentic Italian coastal life, Ortona will not disappoint. It’s a little piece of Adriatic paradise that I’m always thrilled to share, a place that continues to captivate me no matter how many times I visit.