Between national parks, stone villages, and an untamed cuisine, discover the authentic and secret heart of Italy.

Forget for a moment the crowds of Rome and the perfectly manicured hills of Tuscany. Imagine a different, wilder Italy, where imposing mountains touch the sky, wolves and bears roam freely through national parks, and medieval stone villages seem frozen in time. This place exists, and it’s called Abruzzo.

Considered the “green heart of Europe,” this region is the bridge between central and southern Italy, a treasure trove of authenticity that offers everything from snow-capped peaks in the Apennines to golden beaches on the Adriatic Sea. If you’re seeking a genuine experience, escaping the obvious to connect with raw nature and robust cuisine, Abruzzo is your destination. Ready to uncover one of the Boot’s best-kept secrets?

Main Cities and Attractions: Where History Breathes

In Abruzzo, cities tell stories of resilience and tradition. While the region is famous for its nature, its urban centers are jewels that deserve to be explored.

• L’Aquila: The region’s capital is a symbol of strength. Marked by a 2009 earthquake, the city is in a beautiful process of rebirth. Walking through its historic center is to witness the reconstruction of magnificent baroque churches and stone palaces. Don’t miss the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio and the monumental Luminous Fountain (Fonte Luminosa).
• Sulmona: Nestled in a fertile valley, Sulmona is an elegant and vibrant city, world-famous for its confetti—sugar-coated almonds that are transformed here into true works of art. The birthplace of the Roman poet Ovid, the city charms visitors with its main street, Corso Ovidio, and the impressive view of the medieval aqueduct.
• Santo Stefano di Sessanio: Want to experience an authentic medieval village? This is the place. Located within the Gran Sasso National Park, this borgo (historic village) has been meticulously restored and transformed into an albergo diffuso (a “scattered hotel”), where rooms are integrated into the original stone houses. It’s an unforgettable journey back in time.

Flavors of the Region: A Cuisine of Mountain and Sea

Abruzzo’s cuisine is direct, delicious, and unforgettable, based on local ingredients of the highest quality. Prepare to be delighted:

• Arrosticini: The region’s signature dish! These are skewers of sheep (or lamb) meat seasoned simply with salt and grilled to perfection. Eating them straight from the grill, accompanied by bread with olive oil, is a sacred ritual.
• Maccheroni alla Chitarra: A fresh, porous pasta made on a special tool with steel wires that resembles a guitar (chitarra). The traditional sauce is a rich and hearty ragu of lamb, pork, or veal.
• Cheeses and Wines: Try the Pecorino d’Abruzzo, an intense and delicious sheep’s milk cheese. To drink, you can’t go wrong: the red wine Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is one of Italy’s most famous, robust and fruity, while the white Trebbiano d’Abruzzo is light and refreshing.

Landscapes and Nature: The Realm of Parks and “Little Tibet”

Abruzzo is home to three national parks, making it one of the greenest regions in Europe.

• National Parks: The Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise and the Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga protect an incredible biodiversity. With luck, you might spot the Marsican brown bear (an endemic brown bear) and the Apennine wolf.
• Gran Sasso and Campo Imperatore: The Gran Sasso is the highest peak in the Apennines. At its feet stretches the Campo Imperatore plateau, a vast and breathtaking landscape known as Italy’s “Little Tibet.” It’s the perfect place for hiking, picnics, or simply feeling small in the face of nature’s grandeur.
• Costa dei Trabocchi: Contrasting with the mountains, Abruzzo’s coastline has a unique charm. The Costa dei Trabocchi is named for its ancient and ingenious wooden fishing machines (trabocchi) that jut out over the sea. Today, many trabocchi have been transformed into exclusive restaurants, offering an unforgettable gastronomic experience over the waters of the Adriatic.

Curiosities and Traditions: The Festival of the Snakes

One of Italy’s most fascinating and bizarre traditions happens here. Every year, on the first of May, the town of Cocullo celebrates the Festa dei Serpari (Festival of the Snake Charmers). The statue of Saint Dominic the Abbot is covered with dozens of non-venomous snakes and carried in a procession through the town. The tradition has pagan roots and is a spectacle of faith and folklore that attracts curious visitors from all over the world.

A Tip from ITALIA et al

To explore the truly wild soul of Abruzzo, rent a car. Public transportation is limited in the mountainous areas, and having the freedom to drive along scenic roads, stop at viewpoints, and discover hidden villages will make all the difference on your trip. The best time to visit is in the spring or autumn, when temperatures are pleasant in both the mountains and on the coast, and the landscapes are spectacular.

Transform Inspiration into an Unforgettable Journey with ITALIA et al

Discovering Abruzzo means understanding that Italy has countless facets, many of them hidden from mass tourism. It’s a land that rewards the curious with authenticity, raw beauty, and real stories—and these are the exact values that guide our work at ITALIA et al.

We believe the best trip is the one that reflects who you are. That’s why we don’t use algorithms or offer generic packages. Our itineraries are personalized with care, empathy, and the expertise of those who truly know the country. Whether it’s a solo adventure in the mountains, a romantic trip along the Costa dei Trabocchi, or a family itinerary exploring medieval villages, we design a unique experience that respects your pace and passions.

With handpicked accommodations, genuine culinary experiences, and support from people who live and breathe Italy, we help you explore the country more deeply and personally.

Stop being just a tourist. With us, you create your own journey. Shall we start designing your itinerary for Abruzzo (or any other part of Italy you’ve been dreaming of)?

Choose your destination here and discover how Italy can be tailored just for you.