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

In Chieti, the best choice for historic charm is Hotel Palazzo Zani, located in the heart of the old town. Housed in a 17th-century noble residence, it features frescoed ceilings, antique furnishings, and original stone archways. The hotel overlooks the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, offering easy access to the Cathedral of San Giustino and local artisan shops. Guests enjoy personalized service, an on-site wine bar featuring regional Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, and a rooftop terrace perfect for sunset views over the Majella Mountains.

The Old Town (Centro Storico) is ideal for first-time visitors to Chieti. This well-preserved medieval district boasts cobbled streets, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old buildings. It’s home to key landmarks like the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Suffragio and the Chieti City Museum. Walking through this area offers an authentic glimpse into daily life, with local cafes, open-air markets, and friendly shopkeepers. Its compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, ensuring a safe and immersive experience.

In Chieti, don’t miss the Festa di San Giustino held each June, where locals parade through the streets in traditional Abruzzese costumes, accompanied by drummers and folk dancers. You can also join a handmade pasta workshop at La Bottega dell’Olio, learning to craft maccheroni alla chitarra using a wooden tool. For a deeper connection, attend a local cooking class focused on Ciceri e Tria, a hearty chickpea and wheat stew that reflects the region’s rural heritage.

Yes, Chieti is highly family-friendly. The city offers child-friendly attractions such as the Museo Archeologico Regionale with interactive exhibits and the Giardino Botanico di Chieti, a peaceful botanical garden with nature trails. Many hotels provide family suites and baby amenities. Families can enjoy scenic walks along the Aventino River, visit nearby farms for animal encounters, or take part in seasonal festivals like the Christmas Market, which includes puppet shows and carol singing—perfect for all ages.

Near Chieti, the Gran Sasso National Park is a must-visit, home to Italy’s highest peak, Maiella Mountain. Hiking trails lead through beech forests and alpine meadows, with stunning views of the Apennines. In spring, the Valle del Fucino offers wildflower displays and birdwatching opportunities. For a more relaxed outing, visit the Lago di Bomba, a serene lake ideal for kayaking and picnicking, just 20 minutes from the city center.

Yes, Chieti offers several romantic escapes. Stay at Villa Sole, a secluded countryside villa with a private terrace overlooking vineyards and the Sulmona Valley. The villa features a heated outdoor pool, candlelit dinners under the stars, and a spa room with local herbal treatments. Couples can book a guided sunset hike to Monte Velino, followed by a tasting of Abruzzo olive oil and passito wine—a perfect blend of intimacy and regional authenticity.

Absolutely. Chieti serves as an excellent base for road trips across Abruzzo. With well-maintained roads connecting to L’Aquila, Teramo, and Ortona, you can easily explore remote mountain villages and coastal towns. Drive through the Gorges of the Aterno River for dramatic scenery, or take the winding route to Castel di Sangro to discover ancient Roman ruins. The flexibility of driving allows full immersion in the region’s diverse landscapes—from high-altitude forests to sun-drenched hillsides.

In Chieti, savor Ciceri e Tria, a rich stew of chickpeas and coarse wheat, traditionally served during winter. Another must-try is Arrosticini, skewers of grilled lamb made from local mountain sheep, often enjoyed with a glass of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. Don’t miss Puccia, a rustic flatbread baked in clay ovens, typically stuffed with cheese or cured meats. These dishes reflect the region’s pastoral roots and are best enjoyed at family-run trattorias like Trattoria da Gianni.

To experience traditional crafts in Chieti, visit Artigianato Abruzzese, a cooperative studio in the old town where artisans demonstrate wool weaving, pottery making, and leather crafting. You can participate in a hands-on session creating a personalized Abruzzese wool blanket or a hand-painted ceramic plate. Workshops are led by master craftsmen who share stories behind each technique, preserving the region’s intangible cultural heritage in a meaningful way.

Yes, Chieti hosts vibrant evening events throughout the year. Every summer, the Piazza del Popolo transforms into an open-air stage for concerts, film screenings, and poetry readings. During holidays, the Cathedral Square lights up with lanterns for the Christmas Market, featuring local artisans, live music, and warm drinks like vin brulé. Evenings at Bar Caffè Roma offer a cozy setting to sip espresso and listen to jazz, blending tradition with modern charm.