Abruzzo is a region—and, truth be told, a state of mind—overflowing with sights to see, secrets to uncover, and reasons to fall hopelessly in love. It’s a land that doesn’t merely welcome visitors; it actively woos them, the way a seasoned romantic might. Before long, travelers find themselves utterly enchanted, carrying home a beauty so compelling it practically demands a return trip. And this beauty isn’t limited to the eye: Abruzzo’s celebrated food and wine scene ensures the taste buds get their fair share of admiration too.
Still, the wonders of Abruzzo extend far beyond the few postcard images we tend to remember. That’s precisely why I’ve gathered this list of 10 unforgettable places—ideal whether you’re just passing through or plotting a full vacation within these captivating borders.
What follows is a deliberately diverse collection of locations. Abruzzo, after all, is a region where the seaside and the mountains coexist like old friends who somehow never argue. Gentle hills and quiet plains shift, within mere kilometers, into wild, rugged landscapes worthy of an adventurous spirit. And through it all runs a common thread: that unmistakable, almost trademark charm that could only belong to Abruzzo itself.
📑 Table of Contents
- Rocca Calascio
- Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga
- Parco del Lavino
- Stiffe Caves
- Lake Scanno
- Costa dei Trabocchi
- Abruzzo, Lazio & Molise National Park
- Majella National Park
- Lago di Capodacqua
- Pescara
Rocca Calascio
Rocca Calascio is the kind of mountaintop fortress that makes you feel like you’ve wandered onto a movie set—because, well, you have. Come for the views, stay for the heroic photos.Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga
This massive mountainous area is home to Corno Grande, the highest peak in the Apennines. Perfect for trekking, skiing, and nature lovers seeking dramatic landscapes.
Photo by Sterling Lanier on Unsplash
Parco del Lavino
If you're looking for a secluded, quiet, and relaxing place to visit, Lavino Park is the place for you. We're in the province of Pescara, in Decontra, a park named after the Lavino River, where the water ranges from turquoise to blue. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, which you can encounter and admire during your visits. There's also a still-intact mill, which until a few years ago was still in operation and used to process grains.Stiffe Caves
These spectacular caves feature underground rivers and waterfalls, creating one of Abruzzo’s most exciting natural attractions.Lake Scanno
A gorgeous heart-shaped lake surrounded by forests. The nearby village of Scanno is known for traditional costumes and gold crafting.
Photo by giuse on Unsplash
Costa dei Trabocchi
A stunning coastal stretch known for its wooden fishing platforms (“trabocchi”), many of which are now panoramic seafood restaurants.
Photo by Paolo Bendandi on Unsplash
Abruzzo, Lazio & Molise National Park
One of Italy’s oldest national parks, home to Marsican bears, wolves, deer, and breathtaking landscapes.
Photo by Daniele Franchi on Unsplash
Majella National Park
Known for hermitages, deep valleys, and untouched wilderness — a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.Lago di Capodacqua
A crystal-clear lake hiding the ruins of a submerged village beneath its emerald waters.Pescara
Pescara is where the Adriatic meets after-hours energy—sunny beaches by day, buzzing bars and clubs by night.
Photo by Dan V on Unsplash
This list is far from exhaustive; Abruzzo is filled with countless other stunning places, hidden gems, and unique experiences waiting to be explored. I mostly focused on Nature and trekking kind of activities. I suggest if you starting your trip from Pescara (which is where you probably landed) to ask around and search on the internet for more places to visit