10 Relaxing and Scenic Things to Do Year-Round in Pescara Italy for Beach Food and Nature Lovers

Key Takeaways:

• Pescara blends seaside charm with mountainous backdrops, offering travelers the best of both worlds.

• From art museums and beaches to national parks and bike paths, the city delivers experiences all year long.

• It’s an ideal destination for travelers who love authentic Italian food, Adriatic views, and relaxed exploration.

Nestled along Italy’s Adriatic coast, Pescara is a city that often flies under the radar—but those who visit quickly understand its appeal. Known for its long, golden beaches, lively markets, and surrounding mountain views, it serves as the gateway to Abruzzo’s stunning natural parks. The city has roots in ancient times but feels modern, with wide boulevards, fresh seafood restaurants, and a youthful vibe fueled by beach life and local festivals. It’s a place where you can ski in the morning and sunbathe in the afternoon depending on the season.

Locals love Pescara for its mix of laid-back lifestyle, strong traditions, and creative energy. Whether you’re enjoying a bike ride along the seafront, sipping Montepulciano wine in a quiet piazza, or exploring the nearby Apennines, Pescara offers memorable experiences year-round. Here are 10 of the best things to do that make this city an unexpected Italian treasure.

Table of Contents

1. Stroll or Bike the Lungomare Beach Promenade

2. Visit the Birthplace and Museum of Gabriele D’Annunzio

3. Explore the Majella National Park Trails

4. Discover Local Flavors at Mercato Coperto di Pescara

5. See Contemporary Art at the Vittoria Colonna Museum

6. Enjoy a Sunset Aperitivo at Ponte del Mare

7. Attend the Pescara Jazz Festival or Local Summer Events

8. Tour the Medieval Village of Città Sant’Angelo Nearby

9. Relax at the Pineta Dannunziana Nature Reserve

10. Try Paddleboarding or Windsurfing Along the Coast

1. Stroll or Bike the Lungomare Beach Promenade

The Lungomare is one of Pescara’s most defining features—a long, palm-lined promenade that runs parallel to the Adriatic Sea and offers a beautiful setting for walking, biking, or simply soaking up the sun. Stretching for several kilometers, the path is perfect for sunrise jogs, sunset strolls, or all-day bike rides with views of the sparkling coast. Along the way, you’ll pass public art pieces, playgrounds, stylish beach clubs, and open-air cafés that serve coffee in the morning and cocktails at dusk. Whether it’s summer or winter, locals use the promenade to stay active and connected.

Renting a bike is easy and affordable, with several rental points near Piazza Salotto. The entire stretch is pedestrian-friendly and well-lit in the evenings, making it enjoyable for families, solo travelers, and couples alike. In the summer, the beach becomes lively with sunbathers and volleyball games; in the off-season, the quiet brings a calming stillness. It’s the perfect way to experience daily life in Pescara with Adriatic air in your lungs and Italian rhythm in your stride.

2. Visit the Birthplace and Museum of Gabriele D’Annunzio

Pescara takes great pride in being the birthplace of Gabriele D’Annunzio, one of Italy’s most influential poets, playwrights, and political figures. His childhood home, now a national museum, offers a unique window into the life of this controversial and creative icon. The museum includes original furnishings, letters, early manuscripts, and family portraits, all preserved to reflect the style of late 19th-century Italy. Even if you’re not familiar with his work, the house captures a moment in time and a mind that shaped national culture and identity.

The museum is open year-round and located in the historic district of Pescara Vecchia, a charming area to wander before or after your visit. Guided tours are available in Italian, but visual displays and pamphlets help international visitors understand the context. The museum also hosts temporary art and literature exhibits, giving it a fresh reason to return. For lovers of literature, Italian history, or vintage interiors, this stop is a must.

3. Explore the Majella National Park Trails

Just an hour inland from Pescara lies Majella National Park, a vast mountain reserve filled with hiking trails, ancient hermitages, gorges, and wildlife unique to central Italy. It’s the perfect year-round escape for anyone seeking fresh air and outdoor adventure—whether you’re into hiking, climbing, snowshoeing, or just panoramic views. In warmer months, trails like the Blockhaus and Valle dell’Orfento offer scenic routes past waterfalls, wildflowers, and breathtaking viewpoints. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, ideal for cross-country skiing and nature photography.

Local tour companies offer guided day trips from Pescara, or you can rent a car and follow marked routes on your own. The park also includes cultural highlights like medieval abbeys and the hermit cave of Celestine V, a pope who lived as a monk in the mountains. Majella is rich in spiritual and natural beauty, making it a soul-refreshing detour from the coastal vibe of Pescara. Bring sturdy shoes, a reusable water bottle, and an appetite for wild tranquility.

4. Discover Local Flavors at Mercato Coperto di Pescara

No visit to Pescara is complete without wandering through the Mercato Coperto, the city’s vibrant indoor market filled with local produce, cheeses, meats, seafood, and handmade pasta. This is where locals shop for their daily ingredients and where you can sample some of the freshest flavors in Abruzzo. Vendors are proud of their products and happy to offer samples, whether it’s sharp pecorino, fresh olives, or dried sausage. It’s a sensory feast that gives you a true taste of regional life and tradition.

The market is open all year, and mornings are the best time to visit when everything is stocked and the energy is high. If you’re staying in a local apartment or have a picnic in mind, it’s the perfect spot to grab ingredients. Look out for seasonal treats like arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers) or sweet sfogliatelle. It’s not just a market—it’s a living slice of Pescara’s identity.

5. See Contemporary Art at the Vittoria Colonna Museum

For a dose of creativity, stop by the Museo d’Arte Moderna Vittoria Colonna, one of Pescara’s top venues for contemporary art exhibitions. This clean, modern space sits near the beach and regularly hosts shows by local and international artists working across painting, sculpture, photography, and digital media. It’s a refreshing contrast to Pescara’s traditional charm, offering forward-thinking commentary and experimental expression. Admission is affordable, and the staff often speak English and are happy to provide exhibition context.

The museum also includes a bookshop, café, and rooftop space used for small concerts or film screenings during summer. Its ever-changing exhibits mean there’s always something new to discover, and many feature emerging Italian artists you won’t find in big cities. It’s a great stop before or after a seaside stroll and ideal for travelers who like to mix beach days with cultural depth.

6. Enjoy a Sunset Aperitivo at Ponte del Mare

Ponte del Mare is more than just a pedestrian bridge—it’s one of Pescara’s most iconic viewpoints. Stretching across the mouth of the river and connecting the city’s north and south beaches, the bridge is a modern marvel that offers panoramic views of the sea, port, and mountains in the distance. Cyclists and walkers share the curved, elevated walkway, which is especially popular at sunset when the sky glows golden over the Adriatic. Whether you’re heading out for an evening stroll or pausing for a moment of reflection, it’s a magical place.

Nearby cafés and beach bars make it easy to grab an aperitivo—a glass of wine or a spritz with small snacks—before or after crossing the bridge. It’s a local ritual to gather around this area in the early evening, soaking up the views and breeze. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. If you’re looking to enjoy Pescara like a local, this is the place to do it.

7. Attend the Pescara Jazz Festival or Local Summer Events

Every July, Pescara Jazz Festival transforms the city into a hotspot for global music lovers. As Italy’s first jazz festival (dating back to 1969), it draws big-name artists as well as emerging talent from around the world. Venues range from open-air stages along the beach to elegant theaters and historic piazzas. Beyond jazz, summer in Pescara is packed with food fairs, craft markets, beach concerts, and cultural parades—making it an ideal time to visit.

Even if you’re not in town during the jazz fest, the city keeps a full cultural calendar year-round. Check bulletin boards near Piazza Salotto or visit the city’s tourism website to find out what’s happening during your stay. From classical music and cinema to local artisan pop-ups and seasonal processions, there’s always something going on that connects you with the heart of the community. Pescara knows how to celebrate, and visitors are always welcome to join.

8. Tour the Medieval Village of Città Sant’Angelo Nearby

Just a 25-minute drive from Pescara, the hilltop town of Città Sant’Angelo offers a completely different vibe—one rooted in medieval charm, cobblestone alleys, and sweeping views over vineyards and olive groves. Often listed among Italy’s most beautiful small towns, it’s an easy half-day trip and a favorite among locals for long lunches and quiet escapes. The town’s historic churches, old stone fountains, and archways provide postcard-perfect photo opportunities. Its slow pace and authentic feel make it a relaxing addition to your Pescara adventure.

While you’re there, stop at a trattoria for handmade pasta or local lamb dishes, and try some Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wine produced from nearby vineyards. Small museums and artisan shops are scattered throughout the village, and you’ll likely stumble upon a festival or market if visiting on a weekend. It’s the perfect complement to Pescara’s coastal vibe—a taste of Abruzzo’s rustic roots in one charming hilltop.

9. Relax at the Pineta Dannunziana Nature Reserve

Tucked into the southern part of the city, the Pineta Dannunziana is a peaceful pine forest and nature reserve that feels like a secret escape within the city. Named after Gabriele D’Annunzio, it offers shaded walking paths, wildlife sightings, and a refreshing break from the summer heat. It’s a haven for bird watchers and runners, and a favorite spot for morning yoga or afternoon reading under the trees. The forest also borders cultural spaces like the Aurora Theater, creating a unique blend of nature and performance.

It’s open year-round and is especially beautiful in the fall when the forest floor is covered in soft pine needles. Families love it for its calm, kid-friendly trails, and couples often bring a blanket and snacks for a quiet picnic. If you need a breather from the beaches or city streets, this green retreat is the perfect recharge zone—just minutes from downtown.

10. Try Paddleboarding or Windsurfing Along the Coast

The Adriatic waters off Pescara are calm and inviting, making the city an ideal place to try paddleboarding, windsurfing, or even kitesurfing. During the warmer months, several local schools offer lessons and rentals for all skill levels. Paddleboarding in particular is beginner-friendly and offers a new perspective of the coastline as you glide past piers and beach clubs. Early morning sessions are especially serene, with smooth waters and the sun rising over the sea.

If you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for a group lesson or a private class along Lido Beach or the south pier area. Equipment is typically included, and instructors are patient and enthusiastic. It’s a great way to stay active while making the most of Pescara’s natural setting. And after your session? There’s nothing better than an espresso or gelato back on shore, feeling accomplished and sun-kissed.

What to do if you have kids?

Pescara is incredibly family-friendly with wide promenades, sandy beaches, and a laid-back pace perfect for little travelers. The Lungomare has playgrounds along the way, and shallow waters make the beach ideal for swimming and sandcastle building. The Pineta Dannunziana is a great place for nature walks and bike rides, and even the local markets can be fun for curious kids sampling fruit or sweets. Many restaurants are welcoming to families and offer kid-sized portions of pasta and gelato. Whether you’re visiting a park, museum, or café, you’ll find that Pescara is both easy and enjoyable with children in tow.

Where can I find free events in Pescara Italy taking place this weekend?

To find free concerts, festivals, art shows, or family events happening in Pescara this weekend, visit https://planmyweekend.ai. This free tool helps locals and travelers discover curated weekend happenings with no cost and no spam. Whether you’re into live music, food markets, cultural exhibitions, or outdoor gatherings, the site filters events to match your interests. It’s the quickest and easiest way to experience Pescara like a local—and never miss what’s going on around you.

Final Thoughts

Pescara is the kind of destination that rewards slow exploration and curious hearts. With its balance of sea and mountain, history and modern life, it offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re cycling along the waterfront, exploring medieval hill towns, or sipping wine by the beach, the city always delivers a sense of relaxed sophistication. It’s less crowded than Italy’s major tourist hubs but just as rich in beauty and culture.

Perfect for a weekend escape or a longer adventure through Abruzzo, Pescara invites you to come for the beaches and stay for the depth. It’s a place where life moves at the perfect pace—and every season has something to discover.