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

In Pene, the top choice for families is Hotel La Rocca, a hillside boutique hotel blending traditional Abruzzo architecture with modern comforts. Its private garden and terrace restaurant offer panoramic views of the valley, perfect for relaxed family time. The hotel hosts kid-friendly activities like homemade pasta workshops and guided hikes through nearby nature trails, immersing guests in local rural life. Located just 15 minutes’ walk from the Pene Castle Ruins, it’s ideal for exploring medieval history. Guests can also enjoy authentic Abruzzo stew (Cacciucco) dinners, savoring regional flavors in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The historic town center of Pene is the prime area for accommodations. It's within walking distance of key landmarks like Pene Cathedral and the Piazza Municipio, offering easy access to cultural sites. With its narrow, cobbled streets and charming medieval ambiance, the area feels intimate and safe. Many local guesthouses, such as B&B Il Soggiorno, are family-run and provide personalized service along with home-cooked breakfasts. Plus, it's only a 20-minute walk to the Laga Mountains hiking trails, making it an ideal base for travelers seeking both culture and nature.

Don’t miss the annual Festa di Santa Maria in autumn, featuring traditional processions, artisan markets, and live folk music across the town. You can take part in hands-on workshops like traditional wool weaving or learn ancient cheese-making techniques from local artisans. Another highlight is visiting the Grotte di Pene Underground Museum, where prehistoric cave paintings and stone tools reveal early human settlements in the region. These immersive experiences offer deep insight into Pene’s rich heritage and let you become part of its living history.

Yes, the Laga Mountains National Park (Parco Nazionale dei Monti della Laga) features excellent hiking routes near Pene. The Sentiero Casteloriya trail (approx. 6 km) winds through alpine meadows, wild rhododendrons, and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Another favorite is the Valle del Pene path, which cuts through ancient oak forests and clear streams, ending at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the entire town. Best visited in early morning or late afternoon, the trails are moderately challenging—ideal for hikers seeking both beauty and adventure. Always check weather conditions before setting out.

For couples, Hotel Le Terrazze stands out as a romantic retreat. Nestled on a hillside, this boutique hotel features 360-degree panoramic terraces with private hot tubs and starlit baths overlooking the historic town and distant mountains. Rooms are elegantly styled with custom scents and complimentary local wine. The hotel offers private candlelit dinners on the rooftop or among castle ruins. Start your day with an organic breakfast on the terrace, then stroll hand-in-hand through the cobbled lanes of old Pene. A perfect escape for rekindling love amidst timeless beauty.

Must-see landmarks include the Pene Castle Ruins, a 12th-century fortress once strategically vital, now offering sweeping views of the town and valley. Nearby, the Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta showcases Gothic façade and vibrant stained-glass windows. The former Town Hall building now houses a small museum displaying archaeological finds like ancient pottery, weapons, and manuscripts that trace Pene’s evolution from Roman times to the present. Together, these sites form a compelling narrative of the town’s enduring legacy in Abruzzo.

In Pene, be sure to taste Penne alla Chitarra—a thick, square-cut pasta made with a traditional guitar-shaped cutter, served with fresh tomato sauce and basil. Another must-try is Arrosto di Capra, slow-roasted mountain goat meat with wild mushroom sauce, sourced from local herds. For dessert, sample Sfrappole, a sweet fried dough coated in powdered sugar, often enjoyed during festivals. These dishes use farm-fresh ingredients; enjoy them at family-run restaurants like Trattoria da Gianni for an authentic taste of Abruzzese hospitality.

Absolutely. Pene is highly suitable for self-drive travel. Accessible via the A24 highway, it takes about 40 minutes to reach the town center. The winding roads are well-maintained and offer breathtaking views. Self-driving allows flexibility to explore nearby destinations like Laga Mountains, Pene Valley, and towns such as L’Aquila and Vicenza. Most hotels offer free parking, and some guesthouses even have private garages. Avoid weekends and drive early morning or late afternoon for safer, more serene journeys—perfect for capturing golden-hour photos of the ancient town.

Pene is a photographer’s dream. Capture sunrise shots from the eastern platform of Pene Castle Ruins, where golden light bathes the crumbling walls. At dusk, frame silhouettes against the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral from the central square. The cobblestone alleys of the old town are magical after rain, reflecting arches and wooden shutters like a cinematic scene. For wide-angle panoramas, hike to Monte Lizza summit, where you can photograph the entire town nestled in the valley—and even shoot star trails at night. Bring a tripod and wide-angle lens for unforgettable imagery.

Engage in authentic craft experiences at Casa Artigiana Pene, where you can join workshops in traditional wool weaving using century-old looms. The Bottega della Ceramica offers hands-on pottery sessions—from shaping clay to glazing and firing. Each spring, the Mercatino dell'Artigianato fair brings together dozens of local artisans showcasing embroidery, woodcarving, and leatherwork. These activities not only preserve Abruzzo’s heritage but also allow visitors to create meaningful souvenirs while connecting deeply with the community.