AnKena(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For first-time visitors, the Old Town (Centro Storico) and Porto Vecchio (Old Port) districts are ideal. These areas offer easy access to major attractions like the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the Ancona Harbor, and the historic Roman ruins. Staying here ensures proximity to restaurants, shops, and cultural sites. Hotels such as Hotel Villa Fiorita and Hotel La Perla del Mare provide sea views and a genuine local experience, while being just steps from the waterfront promenade and vibrant street life.

Hotel Villa Fiorita and Hotel La Perla del Mare stand out for their sea views and contemporary amenities. Located on the hillside overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Villa Fiorita blends traditional Marche architecture with sleek interiors, offering spacious rooms with private balconies. La Perla del Mare, situated near the old port, features ocean-facing suites, free Wi-Fi, and a rooftop terrace perfect for sunset views. Both hotels provide breakfast with local specialties and are within walking distance of the city’s main sights.

In the Porto Vecchio district, don’t miss the weekly market (Mercato del Portico), where locals sell fresh seafood, handmade olive oil, and regional crafts. Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Ancona to explore ancient Roman and Etruscan artifacts. At dusk, stroll along the Passeggiata del Molo, the seaside promenade, where the Ancona Lighthouse (Faro di Ancona) casts a golden glow over the water—perfect for photography and quiet reflection on the Mediterranean ambiance.

Yes, Hotel Villa Fiorita offers family suites, baby cots, and a children’s play area nestled in its garden. The hotel hosts seasonal workshops like pasta-making and art classes, engaging kids in local traditions. Hotel La Perla del Mare also provides connecting rooms, complimentary kids’ meals, and is just a 10-minute walk from the Ancona Aquarium. Both hotels are located near the Piazza del Plebiscito, making it easy for families to explore historical sites and enjoy outdoor cafes safely.

Traveling from Ancona is convenient via ATAM buses or Trenitalia trains. For example, you can reach Camerino in about 45 minutes by bus, or take a train to Orvieto in around one hour. Renting a car grants flexibility to explore rural vineyards and medieval hilltop villages across the Marche region. Check the Tourist Information Center at the Port for updated schedules and maps to ensure smooth travel planning.

Ancona’s nightlife thrives in Largo dei Mercanti, home to lively bars like Bar Caffè Roma, which often hosts live music on weekends. For authentic flavors, dine at Ristorante da Gigi, a century-old restaurant famous for its Brodetto alla Anconetana (seafood stew) and local white wine. During the monthly Notte Bianca (White Night) festival, the old town lights up with art installations, performances, and pop-up markets—ideal for an unforgettable evening.

Must-try dishes include Brodetto alla Anconetana, a rich fish stew made with fresh Adriatic catch, best enjoyed at Trattoria da Vittorio. Don’t miss Pane di Ancona, a sweet, soft bread sold at Pasticceria Serafini, perfect for breakfast. Pair it with Verdicchio, a crisp white wine from the Marche region. For a true local taste, visit the Mercato Coperto early morning to sample hot fried squid rings and chat with vendors sharing stories of their heritage.

Yes, Ancona has a reliable public transport system. ATAM buses cover key areas including the Old Town, harbor, and train station. Trains operated by Trenitalia connect Ancona to Rome, Pesaro, Rimini, and beyond. The harbor also offers ferry services to destinations in Croatia and Greece. Consider purchasing the Ancona City Card, which includes unlimited bus rides and discounts at museums and attractions—ideal for efficient and cost-effective sightseeing.

Top photo locations in Ancona include the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, whose white dome reflects beautifully on the harbor waters. The Ancona Lighthouse (Faro di Ancona) at the end of the pier offers dramatic silhouettes at sunset. The Scalinata del Corso staircase, lined with flowers and cafés, is perfect for candid street photography. For panoramic views, climb to the Fortezza di Ancona ruins, where you can capture sweeping vistas of the city, sea, and coastline—especially stunning during golden hour.

Ancona enjoys a Mediterranean climate: warm, dry summers (25°C average in June–September) ideal for beach visits and outdoor dining; mild, wet winters (8–12°C) with occasional rain but rarely freezing. For optimal conditions, visit in spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October), when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are smaller. Coastal breezes help cool summer afternoons, but bring a light jacket for evenings. Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended year-round.