Get ready for stone-paved streets, tower-studded skylines, and seriously addictive food. Known as the city of a hundred towers, Ascoli Piceno is a medieval marvel tucked between the Sibillini Mountains and the Adriatic Sea. This underrated gem in Le Marche blends dramatic architecture with a taste for the good life. You’ll wander through Renaissance palaces, snack on crispy olive all’ascolana in sun-drenched piazzas, and sip your way through nearby Marche wineries. It’s got the beauty of a film set, the rhythm of real Italian life, and just enough edge to keep you exploring.
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Best things to do while you visit Ascoli Piceno
Wander through Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is the showstopper of Ascoli Piceno, a stunning square lined with gleaming travertine buildings and perfect symmetry. It’s the place that pulls you in and makes you want to stay a while. Grab a table at Caffè Meletti, a local icon since 1907, and try the city’s signature anise liqueur. Things really come alive in summer, when open-air concerts and festivals turn this elegant piazza into a celebration of local culture.
Explore the Church of San Francesco
Standing tall over Piazza del Popolo, the Church of San Francesco is a striking example of Gothic architecture from the 13th century. Its elegant bell tower and soaring dome make it one of Ascoli Piceno’s most iconic landmarks. Step inside to explore quiet chapels, centuries-old frescoes, and the kind of atmosphere that tells you this city has stories carved into every stone.
Visit Palazzo dei Capitani
Anchoring the southern edge of Piazza del Popolo, Palazzo dei Capitani mixes Romanesque muscle with Gothic flair. Once the political nerve center of Ascoli Piceno, today it opens its doors to art shows, concerts, and cultural events that reveal just how layered this city’s history really is. From its stone facade to its vaulted halls, every corner still hums with old power and new energy.
Walk to Piazza Arringo
Just around the corner from Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Arringo is the oldest square in Ascoli Piceno, and it still knows how to make an impression. With the Cathedral of Sant’Emidio towering on one side and twin fountains glinting with bronze dolphins and sculpted shells, it’s a mix of grandeur and charm.
Get lost in the historic Center
Wander through the maze of travertine alleys that give Ascoli Piceno its unmistakable character. Around every turn, there’s something to catch your eye: a quiet medieval courtyard, a fragment of Roman stonework, or a Gothic arch casting shadows over centuries-old paving. No map needed, just follow your curiosity.
Taste Olive all’Ascolana
You can’t visit Ascoli Piceno without tasting olive all’ascolana. These plump green olives, stuffed with seasoned meat and fried until crisp, are a delicious symbol of local pride. Order a plate in a family-run trattoria, pair it with a glass of Marche red, and you’ve got the full Ascoli experience in one bite.
Marvel at the Loggia dei Mercanti
Right next to the Church of San Francesco, you’ll find the Loggia dei Mercanti, a graceful Renaissance loggia built around 1513 by the city’s wool traders’ guild. Its five travertine arches rest atop Corinthian columns, creating a stylish open-air gallery that once displayed the goods of Ascoli’s merchants. Look closer and you’ll spot a plaque with the exact brick measurements used in historic construction, proof that even architecture here has stories to tell.
Best things to do around while you visit Ascoli Piceno
Head to Civitella del Tronto
15 miles southwest of Ascoli Piceno (around 30 minutes by car), Civitella del Tronto brings big drama in all the best ways. This hilltop village is home to one of Europe’s largest fortresses, a sprawling military stronghold that looks like it was carved straight out of the mountain. You can explore secret tunnels, climb ancient stone steps, and take in wild views of the Gran Sasso peaks in the distance. Bonus: it’s also where you’ll find la Ruetta, officially one of the narrowest streets in Italy, try walking through it without turning sideways. Visit Civitella del Tronto for a quirky, scenic, and refreshingly offbeat detour from Ascoli.
Stroll through the Sibillini Mountains
Roughly an hour from Ascoli Piceno, Monti Sibillini National Park is where the Marche region reveals its wildest self. Skip the crowds and head into a landscape of jagged peaks, hidden villages, and hiking trails that stretch for days. Legend says a prophetess once lived in a cave here, so don’t be surprised if the place feels a little magical. Between dramatic valleys, eagles overhead, and sweeping views, it’s the perfect contrast to Ascoli’s polished travertine streets.
Walk to the artistic heritage of Fermo
Less than an hour northeast of Ascoli Piceno, Fermo is a hilltop town that rewards curious travelers with a rich mix of art, history, and sweeping countryside views. Dive into the Pinacoteca to see Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, then wander the halls of Palazzo dei Priori or step into the quiet grandeur of the city’s cathedral. Below the main square, the Roman cisterns reveal an ancient engineering marvel few visitors expect.
For anyone visiting Ascoli with an eye on culture, don’t forget to visit Fermo Italy, it offers a perfect next stop.
Drive for wine
Nestled just over an hour’s scenic drive from Ascoli Piceno, the Moroder Alessandro winery, high above the conero coastline, makes a perfect day-trip stop for wine lovers. Founded in the late 1700s and now run by the Moroder family, its organically farmed vineyards sit in the Monte Conero Natural Reserve, yielding standout wines like the award-winning Dorico Montepulciano “cru.” Enjoy tasting sessions on the terrace overlooking the sea-swept vineyard, then explore the barrel cellar and take in views that prove the detour’s worth.
Good to know before visiting Ascoli Piceno
Is Ascoli Piceno worth visiting?
Absolutely! Ascoli Piceno, located in Italy’s Marche region, is a hidden gem rich in history, architecture, and culinary delights. Often referred to as “the city of travertine” due to its beautiful stone buildings, Ascoli boasts one of Italy’s most charming piazzas, Piazza del Popolo, and a relaxed, authentic vibe untouched by mass tourism. Visitors will enjoy exploring Roman ruins, medieval towers, Renaissance palaces, and scenic landscapes nestled between two natural parks.
Is Ascoli Piceno safe?
Yes, Ascoli Piceno is considered a very safe destination for travelers. The city enjoys a low crime rate and welcomes visitors with characteristic Italian warmth and hospitality. As with any travel destination, it’s wise to follow general safety tips, such as keeping a close eye on personal belongings and being cautious at night in remote areas. Overall, tourists should feel comfortable and secure during their stay.
What food is Ascoli Piceno known for?
One of the most iconic dishes from Ascoli Piceno is the “Olive all’Ascolana”, large green olives stuffed with seasoned meat, breaded, and fried. Locals are also proud of their handmade pasta, such as “Vincisgrassi,” a rich lasagna with meat ragù, and “Maccheroncini di Campofilone.” The region also excels in cured meats, truffles, and wines such as Rosso Piceno. For dessert, don’t miss the traditional “Cicerchiata,” especially around Carnival season.
Is Ascoli Piceno older than Rome?
Yes, Ascoli Piceno predates the founding of Rome. The city was originally settled by the Piceni people and later became a significant Roman municipality. Archaeological evidence suggests that Ascoli existed well before 753 BC, the traditional date of Rome’s founding. With its ancient roots, including a Roman bridge and forum, Ascoli provides a fascinating glimpse into Italy’s pre-Roman history.
What are the best hotels to stay in Ascoli Piceno?
- Palazzo Dei Mercanti – A luxurious hotel set in a historic building, centrally located near Piazza del Popolo.
- Albergo Sant’Emidio – A cozy and elegant hotel within walking distance of major attractions.
- B&B Piazza Del Popolo – A budget-friendly option offering comfort and unbeatable location.
What are the best restaurants in Ascoli Piceno?
To truly experience the flavors of the region, try these local dining spots:
- Ristorante Vittoria – Known for its refined regional cuisine and exceptional service.La Locandiera – Celebrated for hearty local fare and its warm, familial atmosphere.
How do I get to Ascoli Piceno?
Ascoli Piceno is best reached via train or car. The nearest airport is in Ancona (Ancona Falconara Airport), about an hour and a half drive away. From there, you can rent a car or take a train to San Benedetto del Tronto and then a connecting line to Ascoli. Regular train service connects Ascoli to major Italian cities via regional transfers. Driving allows for more flexibility and scenic detours through the Marche region’s countryside.
What is the best time to visit Ascoli Piceno?
The ideal time to visit Ascoli Piceno is during the spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the city hosts several cultural events. Summer months tend to be warmer and busier with tourists, while winter is quieter and colder but offers a cozy atmosphere and Christmas markets. Don’t miss the medieval reenactments and festivities of the “Quintana” in August—one of the city’s most vibrant traditional events.
What are the must-see sights in Ascoli Piceno?
Start with a stroll through Piazza del Popolo, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, lined with travertine buildings and cozy cafés. Don’t miss Piazza Arringo, the city’s oldest square, which houses the Cathedral of Sant’Emidio and the Palazzo dell’Arengo with its art museum. Explore the Roman Theatre, Forte Malatesta, and the medieval towers dotting the city. Finally, take a walk along the Ponte di Cecco and venture into the Marmore National Park for outdoor adventures and scenic hikes.
