Weekend in Abruzzo: what to see and where to go

Abruzzo offers an incredible variety of landscapes, from the sea to the mountains, passing through ancient villages and artisan traditions. This vast richness can make it difficult to decide what to do and see if you only have a weekend at your disposal. But don’t worry, we’ll help you decide the perfect itinerary for your weekend in Abruzzo!

First time in Abruzzo: where to go

If it’s your first time spending a weekend in Abruzzo, there are some stops that you definitely shouldn’t miss. If your time is limited, you’ll need to optimize your schedule and focus on destinations and attractions close to each other to minimize travel time. Based on your interests, you can choose one of these routes:

• Coast and culture: Start the weekend in Pescara, enjoying a walk along the seafront and exploring the historic center, then head to Ortona to admire the picturesque Aragonese Castle and the scenic harbor.
• Villages and nature: Spend a day in Rocca Calascio, one of the most iconic places in Abruzzo, and then continue to Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a medieval village that will offer you fairy-tale views and timeless atmospheres.
• Culture and tradition: Visit L’Aquila to discover its rich historical heritage and the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, and pair this experience with a stop in Sulmona.
• Relaxation and wellness: Combine a relaxing visit to the Caramanico Terme thermal baths with a short exploration of nearby villages, such as Pescocostanzo or Scanno, for a blend of wellness and local tradition.

Exploring Abruzzo by public transport, even if just visiting the main cities, is impractical if you have less than 48 hours, especially if you are coming from a distant region. The lack of infrastructure currently makes driving the most sensible option to fully enjoy the trip.

What to see in 2 days in Abruzzo

It’s impossible to see all of Abruzzo in two days, but you can still create a rich itinerary if you're willing to put in a little effort. On the first day, you can start your morning in Pescara, take a walk along the seafront, and visit the historic center, where you’ll find the Gabriele d’Annunzio House Museum. In the afternoon, head to Ortona, about an hour’s drive from Pescara.

After enjoying a typical dinner featuring seafood, you can head to Rocca Calascio the following morning, one of Italy’s most scenic villages, and then visit the medieval village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, just 10 minutes by car. From there, you can continue to L’Aquila, the nearest capital, in the evening. In just two days, you will have tasted two different sides of Abruzzo: the coast and the inland.

Weekend in Abruzzo: 3-day itineraries

If you have a bit more time to spend in Abruzzo, perhaps starting on Friday afternoon after work or taking advantage of a long weekend, you can enrich your itinerary based on your specific interests. One day could be dedicated to nature, exploring the National Park of Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise or the Majella National Park.

Alternatively, you can opt for an excursion in the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park. Whether you choose a trekking adventure or a scenic drive, the panoramic views and unspoiled nature are not to be missed, especially Campo Imperatore, “the little Tibet of Italy.”

If you’re passionate about historical villages, Sulmona, famous for its handmade confetti, is a must-visit, as well as Scanno, with its timeless small lake. Nearby, we recommend a brief stop at Pescocostanzo, a village rich in Renaissance buildings and artisan shops, which is also home to futuristic ski resorts in winter. If you can extend your trip by a day, dedicate some time to visit L’Aquila.

Looking for a car to optimize your weekend travel? Visit our Pescara car rental office, the most convenient for exploring Abruzzo in just two days!