Abruzzo is not usually one of the first places that come to mind when we think of Italy, but it is a region that also deserves your attention especially if you are looking to experience a more laid-back holiday. The region is about a two to three-hour drive from the city of Rome, nestled by the Adriatic Coast and the Apennines in the heart of Italy, and called, ‘the green lung of Europe’ because it is home to many nature reserves, including a regional park and three national parks. There, you will be able to enjoy the Adriatic coastline, plenty of breathtaking lakes and mountain ranges, fantastic medieval towns, and unspoiled parks.

It is almost impossible to run out of things to see, do, and experience in Abruzzo, Italy. If you are visiting in springtime, you can spend lazy days in one of the beaches on the Trabocchi Coast or explore the town of Vasta on foot. Majella National Park can be your destination if you want to enjoy some skiing and winter sports. In the summer, you can enjoy plenty of trekking and hiking opportunities in one of the region’s regional parks. You could even aim to visit hamlets, like Santo Stefano di Sessanio and Rocca Calascio.

A visit to Abruzzo, Italy is not complete without immersing yourself in its culture and enjoying its diverse cuisines, which can differ from one place to another. Fara San Martino, the capital of Italian pasta, is a must-see. The small village is in Majella National Park, and it is home to some of the most popular pasta brands, like Cocco and Delverde. You can also visit places like Castelli for its ceramics, and Sulmono for confetti. Vasto, the hilltop town in the south, boasts an old medieval center and a great array of beaches where you can enjoy crystal clear waters.