Ancona travel guide

Photo of Bright summer view from flying drone of Cattedrale di San Ciriaco church and San Gregorio Illuminatore - Catholic church. Stunning morning cityscape of Ancona town, Italy, Europe.

Introduction to Ancona

Ancona is a destination known for attractions like Mole Vanvitelliana, Passetto, and Cattedrale di San Ciriaco. Travelers who visit this Italian city in the Marches region are often fascinated by the rich history and interesting culture it offers. We recommend taking the time to explore this city in Italy on foot and walk alongside the over 100.9 thousand locals who live in Ancona. You’ll quickly discover you’re surrounded by endless numbers of things to see and do.

Easily accessible from Marche airport, Ancona is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Italy any time of the year.

Travelers curious about Ancona might find it interesting that the city was named after elbow. You'll learn more fascinating facts about Ancona as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Ancona is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Ancona below!

History of Marche

Marche, an enchanting region nestled in central Italy, boasts a rich and captivating history. It was first inhabited by the Umbri and Piceni tribes, before being conquered by the Romans in the 3rd century BC.

During the Middle Ages, Marche was splintered into numerous Papal States, which left a lasting imprint on its cultural and architectural landscape. In the 16th century, it became a hub for Renaissance culture, fostering artists such as Raphael and Federico Barocci.

The region was unified with the Kingdom of Italy in 1860, marking a new era in its history. Today, the history of Marche is reflected in its beautifully preserved historical towns, Roman ruins, and magnificent Renaissance art, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the past for every visitor.

Local culture and customs in Marche

The Marche region of Italy exudes a rich culture that mirrors its historical and geographical diversity. This is a land of artisans, where handcrafts and tradition hold sway. It's common to find locals engaged in pottery, weaving, and the production of musical instruments. Visitors are often invited to participate in these activities, offering a unique insight into Marche's cultural fabric.

The region's gastronomic culture is equally enticing, with food and wine playing significant roles. The Marchigiani take their cuisine seriously, with delicacies like 'vincisgrassi', a local type of lasagna, and 'brodetto', a fish stew. Try these at the local 'sagre', food festivals celebrating specific dishes. They're not only a culinary delight but also an opportunity to interact with locals. Remember, the Marchigiani appreciate a slower pace of life, so don't rush your meal.

Lastly, respect for religion is vital in Marche, predominantly Catholic. Churches are considered sanctuaries, so maintain a quiet demeanor and dress modestly when visiting. Understanding these customs and traditions will undoubtedly enrich your experience in the captivating region of Marche.

Currency information for travelers in Marche

The official currency in Marche, like the rest of Italy, is the Euro (€). Cash is widely accepted and can be obtained through ATMs, known locally as Bancomats, which are extensively available throughout the region. Credit cards are also commonly accepted, especially Visa and Mastercard. However, it's always advisable to carry some cash as smaller establishments may not accept cards.

Travelers should be aware that tipping is not obligatory but it is customary to leave a small amount, usually around 10% of the bill. Budget-wise, costs in Marche are generally lower compared to other Italian regions, especially for food and accommodation. However, prices can increase during peak tourist seasons, so it's wise to plan and budget accordingly.

Language tips for travelers in Marche

In Marche, as with much of Italy, the primary language spoken is Italian. While English is taught in schools, don't expect everyone to be fluent. Therefore, learning a few basic Italian phrases can be very beneficial. Start with greetings like 'Buongiorno' (Good morning), 'Buonasera' (Good evening), and 'Grazie' (Thank you). Familiarize yourself with common dining phrases such as 'Posso avere il conto?' (Can I have the bill?).

While in Marche, you might encounter the local Marchigiano dialect. It's quite distinct from standard Italian but usually used in more rural areas or among the elderly. Don't worry, though; your attempts to communicate in Italian will be appreciated, and most locals can switch to standard Italian. Also, remember that Italians communicate a lot through gestures. So, observing and mimicking these can help you understand the local communication style better.

Best time to visit Marche

The best time to explore Marche, Italy depends on your preferred activities and tolerance for crowds. The region boasts a moderate climate year-round, but spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are particularly pleasant, offering comfortable temperatures for outdoor pursuits and sightseeing. During these seasons, you'll experience Marche's stunning landscapes transitioning, with blossoming flowers in spring and changing leaves in autumn. Summer (July-August) tends to be hotter and more crowded with tourists, but it's also when vibrant local festivals, such as the Rossini Opera Festival and Festa del Verdicchio, take place. These events provide an authentic taste of local culture, making it a worthwhile time to visit despite the crowds. Winter (November-March) is quieter and cooler but offers unique experiences like truffle hunting and skiing in the Apennines. Regardless of when you visit, be sure to check local calendars for any seasonal events or festivals. Ultimately, the best time to explore Marche is when it aligns with your interests and travel preferences.

Weather in Marche

Marche, situated in Central Italy, experiences a Mediterranean climate with variations due to its coastline and mountainous regions. Coastal areas have milder, wet winters and hot, dry summers, with temperatures ranging from 8°C in January to 28°C in July. Inland areas, particularly towards the mountains, experience more substantial seasonal variations with colder winters and moderately hot summers.

Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, but autumn is typically the wettest season, while summer is the driest. Marche's climate is generally mild, but it's worth noting that the region can experience occasional extreme weather events like heavy snowfall in the mountains during winter and heatwaves in the summer. While the coastal areas offer a refreshing sea breeze during summer, the inland regions can become quite hot.

Local tip for visiting Marche

One insider tip that could significantly enhance your travel experience in Marche, Italy, is to visit in the autumn. Unlike other popular Italian regions, Marche is overlooked during this season. The region's charm lies in its stunning fall colors, harvest festivals, and fewer crowds, making it a perfect time to explore the local culture and cuisine at a leisurely pace. A visit to the local truffle fairs in Acqualagna and Sant' Angelo in Vado in late October and November is highly recommended. During these events, you can savor a variety of truffle-infused dishes and witness truffle hunting dogs in action. This insider tip ensures you experience a unique aspect of Marche's regional identity that is not commonly known to most tourists.

Top services in Ancona

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Ancona, Italy. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 260 airlines that fly to Italy. Browse the 28 top-rated tours available to you in Ancona. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Ancona.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Ancona, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Ancona on your vacation in Italy.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Ancona from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Ancona!

Learn more about Italy

There are many reasons to visit the city of Ancona, but a trip to Italy needs no explanation.

Exploring Italy, which spans 301,338 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Italy offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Mole Vanvitelliana, Passetto, and the Cattedrale di San Ciriaco, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Italy.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Italy.

What to see in Ancona

Photo of the long staircase in the downtown of the beautiful ancient italian village.

Ancona has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Ancona.

Top attractions in Ancona

Home to plenty of top attractions, Ancona is more than just a wonderful city in Italy. Ancona is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Italy.

One fascinating sight in Ancona is the unforgettable Mole Vanvitelliana. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Ancona. This remarkable attraction is located at Banchina Giovanni da Chio, 28, 60121 Ancona AN, Italy and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 08:00-01:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Italy, check out our list of top attractions in Ancona below. Discover the best places to visit in Ancona, including the fascinating Mole Vanvitelliana, Passetto, Cattedrale di San Ciriaco, Piazza del Plebiscito, and Arch of Trajan.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Ancona.

Things to do in Ancona

Photo of view at dawn of the war Memorial, circular temple of 1930 in Istrian stone.

Enrich your travel experience in Ancona by joining tours and activities. Ancona offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Ancona below.

Most popular experiences in Ancona

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Ancona.

Ancona offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Walking Tours, Lunch Experiences, and Dinner Experiences are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Italy.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Ancona by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Ancona

Travelers in Ancona can choose from 14 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Tours by vehicle is the answer.

The most popular tour in Ancona is the fantastic Wine Tour and Tasting at Le Marche's Oldest Wine Estate. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Ancona one of the best travel destinations in Italy.

Ancona also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Wine Tour and Tasting at Le Marche's Oldest Wine Estate is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular E-Bike Tour. This experience costs around 30 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Ancona. This E-Bike Tour is available in 2 languages: English, and Italian. Around 27 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 4 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Ancona and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Ancona below.

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Discover the best things to do in Ancona. Choose from 28 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Ancona. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Marche

Marche, Italy's culinary scene is a gastronomic paradise, offering a variety of local dishes that are a testament to the region's rich food culture. The best places to eat in Marche range from humble street food stalls to elegant high-end restaurants. Start your culinary journey in the bustling markets of Ancona, where you can taste fresh seafood dishes like Brodetto, a hearty fish stew. In the quaint town of Ascoli Piceno, indulge in Olive all’Ascolana, stuffed olives that are breaded and fried, a popular street food delicacy. For a more refined dining experience, visit Ristorante Uliassi in Senigallia, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative seafood creations. Don't miss out on trying Vincisgrassi, a lasagna-like pasta dish originating from the region, best enjoyed with a glass of Verdicchio, a crisp local white wine. Remember, dining in Marche is more than a meal, it's a journey through its rich culinary traditions that takes your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure.

Best shopping in Marche

Marche, a region in central Italy, is a treasure trove for shopping enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for high-end fashion or unique local crafts, Marche has it all. The region is renowned for its shoe industry, so a visit to the Shoe Factory District in Macerata is a must for footwear lovers. Here, you'll find high-quality shoes made by skilled Italian craftsmen. For a blend of fashion, food, and local produce, head to the bustling markets in Ascoli Piceno. This is the best place to go shopping in Marche if you're looking for a truly immersive experience. Don't leave without picking up a 'paccasassi', a type of local pickle, as a tasty souvenir. For designer fashion, the city of Ancona boasts several luxury boutiques offering a mix of international and Italian brands. Keep in mind that many shops in Marche close for a 'riposo' (afternoon break), so plan your shopping spree accordingly. Happy shopping!

Best free things to do in Marche

Marche, a captivating region in Italy, offers a wealth of free activities that allow you to immerse in its rich heritage and stunning landscapes. One of the best free things to do in Marche is visiting the old town of Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can stroll through charming medieval streets, admire Renaissance architecture, and soak up the inspiring atmosphere. Another must-visit spot is the ruggedly beautiful Conero National Park, perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking amid stunning coastal cliffs and lush forests. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the enchanting Frasassi Caves. Although the guided tour isn't free, just wandering around the surrounding park and river is a delightful experience. Finally, Marche's numerous beaches, such as those at Sirolo and Numana, offer pristine sands and azure waters at no cost. Pay a visit to the bustling markets in Ancona, where you can take in the lively local culture. Remember, the joy of traveling often comes from the simplest experiences, and Marche offers plenty of these without requiring you to loosen your purse strings.

Vacation packages in Ancona

Photo of Mole Vanvitelliana also known as the lazaretto of Ancona.

The best and easiest way to visit Ancona is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Italy.

Booking a vacation package to Ancona means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Ancona to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Ancona is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Ancona, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Ancona.

Popular types of vacations in Ancona

The most popular way to experience Ancona is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Italy. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Ancona on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Italy, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Italy, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Ancona, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Ancona below.

Top vacation packages in Ancona

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Italy.

Get more Ancona vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Italy that match your needs and budget.

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Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Ancona.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Ancona get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Italy. Your customized holiday package to Ancona is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Ancona

To get to the city of Ancona the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Italy can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Ancona by booking flights with any of the 7 airlines that offer direct flights to Marche airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Marche airport are Ryanair, Azul, Air China, Pegasus, and Turkish Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Ancona.

To reach the city of Ancona, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Marche airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Ancona, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Marche airport and Ancona below.

Find cheap flights to Ancona

Photo of Wonderful view of Arch of Trajan and Cattedrale di San Ciriaco church on background. Sunny summer cityscape of Ancona town, Italy, Europe. Traveling concept background.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Ancona, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Italy. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Ancona, Italy, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Ancona costs around 20 EUR and is offered by the airline Ryanair.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Ancona cost approximately 572 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on June 2 and the return flight is scheduled on June 13. The flight time is around 58 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Naples International.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Italy and the city of Ancona from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Ancona

Travelers visiting Ancona in Italy can fly to Marche airport directly from 1040 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Marche airport and the city of Ancona in Italy depart from Marche airport in Ancona, Italy, Sydney airport in Sydney, Australia, and Tocumen International airport in Panama City, Panama.

Travelers can fly to Italy by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Ancona; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Sydney; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Panama City.

The airline that operates most flights to Italy is Thai Vietjet. Thai Vietjet offers 5 scheduled flight routes to Italy.

Discover the most popular flights to Ancona below. Click to view flights to Ancona, Italy from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Ancona

Photo of Panorama view of the port of Ancona, Italy.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Ancona is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Ancona usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Ancona offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Ancona and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Ancona planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Italy can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Ancona. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Ancona.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Ancona in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Ancona

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Ancona provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Ancona. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Ancona

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Ancona for the unique experience they provide.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Ancona provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Ancona are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Ancona.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Ancona. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Ancona on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Ancona that match the information provided.

Transportation in Marche

Marche, Italy offers a variety of transportation options for the discerning traveler.

Marche's public transit system is well developed, with a network of buses serving the region's cities, towns, and countryside. There are also regular train services that connect to major Italian cities and towns, providing a convenient and scenic way to explore the region.

Taxis are readily available in the urban areas of Marche. They are metered and provide a handy way to navigate around the city, especially for shorter distances.

For those who prefer the freedom to explore at their own pace, there are numerous car rental services. They offer a range of vehicles, from compact cars to luxury sedans.

Aside from these conventional modes of transportation, Marche offers unique local experiences such as horse-drawn carriage rides in the countryside, or the opportunity to rent a Vespa, Italy's iconic scooter, for a truly Italian experience.

Car rental in Ancona

Photo of Plebiscito square in the downtown of the city with the ancient church, the statue of the pope and people in cafe and restaurant.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Ancona.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Ancona, Italy, below.

Popular types of car rental in Ancona

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Ancona to find the best car for your travel plans. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Italy at their own pace.

This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Ancona.

Check out all options available in Ancona and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Italy below.

Search for car rental in Ancona

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Ancona. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Ancona, Italy, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Ancona

Photo of Urbani Beach - Sirolo, Ancona, Marche, Italy, Europe.

The city of Ancona is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Italy. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Italy has it all.

Italy is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Italy that are as magical as the city of Ancona. The most popular travel destinations in Italy are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Italy

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Italy. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Ancona

Photo of Ancona beach, Italy.

A taste of Italy through a visit to Ancona can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Ancona to another remarkable destination in Italy.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Ancona to other spectacular locations in Italy, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Ancona

Travelers in Italy can catch flights to domestic airports in Palermo, Olbia, Catania, and Cagliari. Domestic flights in Italy are operated by 1 airline: Volotea. There are around 4 scheduled flight routes operating to Ancona on a weekly basis.

From Ancona, travelers can book scheduled flights to 4 domestic destinations.

Search domestic flights from Ancona

Traveling to another city or region in Italy? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Ancona to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Italy on the selected dates.

Most popular countries in Europe

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