Ancona holidays

How to reach Ancona

Flight time:

• Direct flights from London to Ancona Raffaello Sanzio Airport – also known as Marche Airport – take approximately 2 hours 10 minutes.

• If you’re flying from elsewhere in the UK, add a couple of hours as your journey will most likely involve a stopover in Milan or Rome.

Transfer time:

• Marche Airport is located a roughly 20-minute drive from the centre of Ancona.

• The Aerobus Raffaello is a convenient shuttle service between the airport and the city’s train station.

• Alternatively, you can pick up a taxi from outside the terminal.

Price:

• The Aerobus to central Ancona costs €5.50 one way, while a taxi will set you back around €25–€30.

• If you’re planning to explore the wider region, car hire is available at the airport.

Best time to visit Ancona

Ancona enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, with sun-soaked summers and mild winters. Choosing the best time for your holiday to Ancona depends on whether you prefer to spend your days basking on its beaches, or exploring its sights in cooler, calmer comfort.

• May to September is high season in Ancona, with temperatures ranging between 24°C and 30°C. This is the ideal time for enjoying the Adriatic beaches and experiencing the town’s open-air events. The sun shines for up to 12 hours a day, and rainfall is minimal.

• October to November sees temperatures dip to 15°C to 20°C. Rainfall increases slightly, but Ancona’s cultural scene thrives as the locals reclaim the city. It’s a lovely time for exploring the historic centre and sampling delicious Marche cuisine at a slower pace.

• December to February is low season, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 5°C to 10°C. It’s a peaceful time to sightsee, but make sure you pack layers to wear. Rainfall is moderate, but there are plenty of dry, crisp days.

• March to April signals the start of spring, with temperatures climbing from around 15°C to 18°C. This is a great time for walking along Ancona’s coastal trails or visiting the Conero Regional Park. Rainfall is moderate, and there should be around 7–9 hours of sunshine each day.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Italian is the official language, but many people speak basic English. Knowing a few Italian phrases will be much appreciated by the locals, though.

• Local habits and customs: Life in Ancona revolves around food and family, so expect long, leisurely lunches and late dinners. You’ll also find that many shops and businesses close for a couple of hours during the afternoon, usually between 1 pm and 4 pm.

• Currency: Italy uses the Euro. ATMs are common throughout the city, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or markets.

• Getting around: Ancona’s public transport system includes both buses and trains. Single bus tickets cost about €1.50 per person and can be bought at ticket machines or nearby tobacconists. The train connects Ancona to nearby towns and other coastal spots, with fares starting at about €3 for short journeys.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 230V and plugs are the European two-pin type. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Ancona is on Central European Time, which is one hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Ancona

The capital of Italy’s Marche region, Ancona is a port city brimming with history and coastal charm. Ancona holidays promise a mix of cultural experiences, scenic viewpoints and fantastic food – much of it caught right there in the Adriatic Sea. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Passetto Beach and War Memorial: An iconic clifftop spot offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea below. Follow the sweeping staircase down to pebble beaches and hidden coves.

• Monte Conero: This dramatic headland just south of Ancona offers a breathtaking perspective on the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters beyond. The viewpoint at Belvedere Nord is a particular highlight.

• Cittadella di Ancona (Ancona Citadel): Situated in the old fort, this spot offers panoramic views of the city’s terracotta rooftops, plus the bustling port and shimmering Adriatic beyond.

The best districts

• Centro Storico (Historic Centre): Wander the charming cobbled streets of Ancona’s old town, where you’ll discover picturesque piazzas, artisan shops and hidden courtyards. This area is perfect for soaking up the city’s authentic atmosphere.

• Port Area: The vibrant port combines modern activity with historic charm. Visit the Mole Vanvitelliana, a pentagonal fort surrounded by water that now hosts exhibitions and events.

Historical monuments

• Cattedrale di San Ciriaco (Ancona Cathedral): Perched on Guasco Hill, this cathedral not only showcases impressive Romanesque-Byzantine art and architecture, but offers spectacular views over the city and sea.

• Arch of Trajan: Built in AD 115, this marble triumphal arch marks the entrance to Ancona’s old Roman port. It’s a striking reminder of the city’s ancient roots.

• Lazzaretto of Ancona: Also known as the Mole Vanvitelliana, this 18th-century pentagonal fortress was originally built as a quarantine station. Today it offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history and also houses cultural exhibitions.

Parks and gardens

• Cardeto Park: This vast green space has peaceful trails, historical ruins and coastal views. It’s a great spot to escape the city’s hustle and bustle in favour of a relaxing picnic or stroll.

• Conero Regional Park: This nature reserve just outside Ancona is home to dense woodlands, hiking paths and rare flora and fauna.

Day trips in the area

• Loreto: Located roughly 30 minutes from Ancona, this pilgrimage town is home to the Basilica della Santa Casa, a sanctuary said to house the Virgin Mary’s childhood home.

• Sirolo: A charming coastal town nestled in the Conero Riviera. Its beaches are arguably among the most beautiful in Italy.

• Urbino: A UNESCO-listed hilltop city is a Renaissance gem famed for its art galleries and stunning Palazzo Ducale.

Activities for families in Ancona

Ancona is a family-friendly destination with plenty to keep both kids and parents entertained, from seaside adventures to engaging cultural activities.

• Beaches: Passetto Beach is a big hit with families, combining safe swimming areas with fascinating rock pools that little ones will love to explore. Situated slightly further south, the Conero Riviera is home to more sandy beaches if you’re thinking about taking a day trip.

• Museums: The Museo Archeologico Nazionale delle Marche offers interactive exhibits that bring the region’s ancient Roman and pre-Roman history to life. Curious kids will enjoy the hands-on activities.

• Parks and playgrounds: Cardeto Park has open spaces that are perfect for running around, plus picnic spots and scenic trails.

• Boat trips: Families can join boat tours along the Conero Riviera, which are a must for soaking up the area’s beauty from the water. Tours often stop at hidden coves and beaches, with opportunities to swim and snorkel.

Free things to do in Ancona

Holidays to Ancona needn’t blow the budget. From historic architecture to thrilling scenery, the city and its surrounding areas offer plenty of enjoyable experiences that cost very little – or better still, are free!

• Historical landmarks: Some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Arch of Trajan, San Ciriaco Cathedral and the Mole Vanvitelliana, offer free entry. These sites bring the area’s history to life as well as providing incredible views.

• Beaches: Many of Ancona’s beaches are free to access. Bring your own towel and spend a few hours basking in the sun and swimming in the sea.

• Hiking: Explore the accessible trails of Cardeto Park or venture to Conero Regional Park for a more challenging hike accompanied by stunning coastal scenery. Entry to both is free.

• Wildlife watching: As well as providing plenty of walking opportunities, Conero Regional Park is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a rewarding spot for bird-watchers.

• Events: Ancona’s events calendar includes free open-air concerts and festivals, particularly during the summer months. Look out for traditional celebrations like the Festa del Mare in August, which features food tasting, music and spectacular fireworks displays.

• Walking tours: Set out to explore Ancona’s old town and port area on your own. Many landmarks are within walking distance, and it’s a perfect way to soak up the city’s atmosphere at your own pace.

Local dishes in Ancona

With its enviable location on Italy’s Adriatic coast, holidays to Ancona present the perfect opportunity to savour the region’s rich culinary heritage. From fresh seafood to traditional pasta dishes, the food scene in Marche is about as authentic as it gets.

Some typical dishes

• Brodetto all’anconetana: A hearty fish stew made with a variety of fresh seafood, tomatoes and local herbs. It’s a signature dish of Ancona that you’ll find in many restaurants.

• Olive all’ascolana: Stuffed and fried olives from the Marche region. These bite-sized snacks make the ideal appetiser.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Spaghetti con Vongole: A simple yet flavourful pasta dish made with fresh clams, garlic and fragrant parsley.

• Moscioli di Portonovo: Wild mussels harvested from the Conero Riviera and known for their intense, briny taste.

Sweets and desserts

• Ciambellone: A ring-shaped cake traditionally enjoyed with a glass of sweet wine. It’s a simple yet delightful way to end a meal.

• Frustenga: A dense cake made with dried fruits and nuts – the perfect complement to a cup of Italian coffee.

Local drinks

• Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi: This crisp white wine is a staple of the Marche region and goes perfectly with seafood.

• Rosso Conero: A robust red wine made from Montepulciano grapes. This is an ideal partner to the region’s more rustic meat dishes.