Ancona in 3 Days: Beaches, Cuisine, and Culture!

Discover the Adriatic pearl in Italy's Le Marche region!

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Ancona, Italy is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this coastal city. Visitors can explore its magnificent cathedrals, museums, and ancient landmarks while enjoying the panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. Sampling the local cuisine and wines is a must, and Ancona's bustling waterfront is the perfect place to find seafood delicacies and Italian gelato.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival & Beach Time!

  • Check into your hotel by the beach, the Hotel Emilia, a lovely oceanfront spot with stunning views of the bay and a warm, friendly staff.
  • Hit the beach! The sandy shoreline of Conero Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and indulging in delicious gelato from the nearby food trucks.
  • Visit Passetto, a rocky cove where you can sunbathe and jump off the rocks, or wander the cliffside paths for some stunning ocean views.
  • Dine for dinner at Hotel Fortino Napoleonico, their seaside terrace is the perfect spot for a romantic or celebratory dinner, overlooking the sea.
Day 2

Explore the streets and cuisine of Ancona!

  • Start the day off with breakfast at Cafe Meletti and sample their legendary cappuccino, a staple of Italian morning rituals.
  • Visit the Cathedral of San Ciriaco, the main church of Ancona, with one of the best views in the city.
  • Visit the city's central market and taste some local seafood, like the fresh and flavorful Adriatic fish.
  • At lunchtime, visit Hostaria del Golfo to sample the savory fish soup, a regional classic that is simply scrumptious.
  • Wander through the medieval streets of Ancona and explore the hilltop fortress, La Torre Guelfa, which offers amazing views of the Adriatic sea and the sunset.
  • Enjoy al fresco dining at Osteria della Fontana, a little gem tucked away in a charming square, where you can taste all of the local food favorites.
Day 3

Culture and Art in Ancona!

  • Begin your day with breakfast at Cafe Leopardi, where the popular poet of the same name was a regular patron. Enjoy their fantastic espresso while flipping through one of Leopardi's famed books.
  • Visit the world-renowned Mole Vanvitelliana on the harbor, an imposing building that is now a cultural complex hosting the National Institution of Dramatic Art.
  • Stroll around the city's Modern Art Gallery, housing works from established and emerging artists from across the nation.
  • Visit the Marino Marini Museum, where you can view the masterful sculptures and graphic artworks of the famous artist.
  • Dine at Il Cortiletto, a hidden gem transformed from an old sawmill that now serves some of the area's most inventive dishes. Perfect for a day of sophisticated dining down on the street-level terrace.
  • Ancona truly offers something for everyone, from beach bums to history buffs, to culture-seekers. Plan your trip today and come to the charming and absolutely captivating city of Ancona.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Ancona, Italy by plane is to fly into Ancona Falconara Airport. Several airlines operate flights to Ancona from major cities in Europe.

Car

The best way to get to Ancona, Italy by car is to drive on the A14 motorway, which connects Bologna to Taranto, and take the Ancona Nord or Ancona Sud exits.

Train

The best way to get to Ancona, Italy by train is to take a train to Ancona Train Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Italy.

Boat

The best way to get to Ancona, Italy by boat is to take a ferry from several ports in Croatia, Greece or Montenegro to Ancona Ferry Terminal, which is located in the city center.

Bus

The best way to get to Ancona, Italy by bus is to take a long-distance bus to the Ancona Bus Station, which is located in the city center.

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