Ancona, situated on the eastern coast of Italy, is a city that enchants every visitor with its rich historical, cultural, and natural heritage. This port city, the capital of the Marche region, is one of Italy’s lesser-known gems, but no less fascinating for it. With its breathtaking views, historic architecture, and delicious gastronomic specialties, Ancona represents an essential stop for those who wish to discover Italy’s true pearls.
In this article, you’ll discover what to see in Ancona and get to know the 19 most emblematic places that contribute to defining the unique character of this splendid city. For those with limited time, there will also be final suggestions to enjoy the main attractions of the Marche capital even during a one-day vacation.
Keep reading and take notes on what to do in Ancona during your stay!
Ancona’s Cultural and Historical Attractions
Ancona is not only a charming port on the Adriatic Sea but also a melting pot of culture and history that offers a wide range of architectural beauties to admire. Let’s take a look at the most important ones together.
1. Church of Santa Maria della Piazza (St. Mary of the Square)
In the heart of the Porto district, in Piazza Santa Maria, under what was once a 4th-century Early Christian basilica, stands the majestic Church of Santa Maria della Piazza, a Romanesque architectural gem whose roots date back to the 11th and 12th centuries.
Originally known as Santa Maria del Canneto, due to its proximity to the marshy areas of the port, the church later became the beating heart of city life, taking on the name of Santa Maria del Mercato, testifying to the effervescence of the market that animated the square.
Upon crossing the building’s threshold, what awaits you is a true spectacle for the eyes. Here you can admire, through a glass floor, the splendid underlying Early Christian mosaics, rich in symbols such as acanthus bushes and birds, which create an invisible bridge with the historic Basilica of Aquileia.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this extraordinary historical and cultural testimony. The Church of Santa Maria della Piazza is a living chapter of Ancona’s history, just waiting to be discovered.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
2. Church of San Francesco alle Scale (St. Francis of the Stairs)
Church of San Francesco alle Scale (image source: Mongolo1984)
In the beating heart of Ancona, the Church of San Francesco alle Scale offers a truly enchanting visual spectacle. The staircase, which precedes the entrance, is a real masterpiece from 1447 that invites visitors into a world of Gothic and Renaissance beauty.
The portal, made in 1454 by Giorgio Orsini, is a treasure of art and history, a real delight for the eyes. Inside, the painting “The Assumption” by Lorenzo Lotto, behind the main altar, is a vision not to be missed and offers a close encounter with Renaissance genius.
Include a brief stop at this church in your visit to Ancona and let yourself be charmed by this wonderful place.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
3. Piazza del Plebiscito ( Plebiscite Square) – Also known as Piazza del Papa
Piazza del Plebiscito in Ancona (image source: Crsn.mrlt)
Also known as Piazza del Papa, this crossroads of history and conviviality offers an urban spectacle that captures the soul.
Immerse yourself in the lively and welcoming atmosphere of its outdoor cafes, perfect for savoring moments of pure relaxation. The square, the beating heart of the city since the 15th century, is adorned with historic architectures such as the Palazzo del Governo and the Neoclassical church of San Domenico, designed by the celebrated architect Carlo Marchionni.
In the center stands the statue of Clement XII, a witness to the rebirth of the port of Ancona. A nugget of this square is the presence of the city museum, where you can explore the rich urban history of Ancona.
Visiting Ancona also means immersing yourself in places like this, where every corner tells stories of past eras rich in beauties to admire.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
4. Piazza della Repubblica (Republic Square) – also known as Piazza del teatro or delle Muse
Among Ancona’s main places of interest is also Piazza della Repubblica or, as many call it, Piazza delle Muse. Overlooking the picturesque port, this square is the perfect stage to immerse oneself in an urban spectacle that captures the soul.
Let yourself be seduced by the majestic architecture of the Teatro delle Muse, inaugurated in 1827 and recognized as a temple of classical music; and don’t forget to visit the charming church of the Santissimo Sacramento, a building whose elegant 16th-century facade and bell tower featuring a Borromini-style spiral crowning, fully evoke the Roman Baroque style.
Piazza della Repubblica is the ideal place for those thinking of visiting Ancona in one day. Here you can freely stroll among the outdoor bars and enjoy the lively social atmosphere, while admiring the splendid panorama offered by the port.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
5. Piazza Cavour (Cavour Square)
Piazza Cavour is an enchanting open-air theater and contains multiple historical testimonies. The most important of all is certainly the majestic statue of Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, placed in the center of the square and surrounded by bas-reliefs depicting key episodes of Italian unification.
Strolling along the lively Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi means immersing yourself in a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. This historic site, recently redeveloped, constitutes the perfect balance between past and present and is ideal for relaxing and observing city life.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
6. Piazza Roma (Rome Square)
Piazza Roma is positioned between Corso Mazzini and Corso Stamira and crossed by Corso Garibaldi. This square is not only the urban hub but also a meeting point of the city’s four historic districts: San Pietro to the northwest, Capodimonte to the southwest, Cardeto to the northeast, and Santo Stefano to the southeast.
Its development was due to the demolition of the old 16th-century walls, a transformation that allowed the area to double in size and renew its architectural style.
Dominated by significant buildings such as the Palazzo dell’Orologio to the northeast and the former Palazzo della Provincia, now the seat of the University’s Rectorate, to the southwest, the square offers a lively contrast between new and old.
Every day, this place comes alive with a colorful market, making it a place of city vitality and encounters not to be missed if you are visiting the city as a tourist.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
7. Arco di Clementino (Arch of Clementino)
Discover with us one of Ancona’s jewels: the Arco Clementino. Imagine walking towards an 18th-century masterpiece, designed by the great Luigi Vanvitelli. This imposing entrance to the city is not only a tribute to Pope Clement XII but also an architectural triumph carved in refined Istrian stone and adorned with sculptural details that capture the eye.
The arch, characterized by a large fornix and finely worked columns, offers angles and panoramic views that provide wonderful opportunities for photography enthusiasts. The monument was intended to be even grander, but the project remained unfinished upon Vanvitelli’s death, leaving behind a fascinating aura of mystery.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Arco Clementino and experience what only a monument of this kind can offer.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
8. Arco di Traiano (Arch of Trajan)
Stopping to observe the Arch of Trajan for a few minutes is one of the best things to do in Ancona. This historical treasure, which stands against the sky reflecting the greatness of the 2nd century AD, was designed by Apollodorus of Damascus and is a symbol of the Roman Senate’s gratitude towards Emperor Trajan.
Located on the pier of the port, the Arch of Trajan impresses with its elegant forms. Its fluted Corinthian columns and decorations with naval rams make this monument a masterpiece of art and engineering, testifying to Ancona’s importance in the Roman maritime transport network.
The inscriptions on the arch, narrating stories of dedication and admiration for Trajan, are also perfectly preserved, offering a fascinating window into the past. Discover this splendid monument from the Marche region and let yourself be moved by its beauty and uniqueness.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
9. Ancona Cathedral (Duomo di Ancona)
The Cathedral of Ancona is a building that dominates the city from Guasco Hill. Dedicated to St. Cyriacus, the cathedral masterfully combines Romanesque and Byzantine styles, offering a visual spectacle that stands out against the sky of the Gulf of Ancona.
Originally the site of a Doric temple dedicated to Aphrodite, the place has seen the rise of several sacred structures, culminating in the current cathedral, a fundamental witness to the maritime and religious history of Ancona.
Its Greek cross structure culminates in a grandiose dome, with interiors that boast lion stilofori and a 13th-century prothyrum by Margaritone d’Arezzo, immersed in an atmosphere of solemn majesty.
A trip to Ancona is not complete without the unique experience of walking through the naves of its Cathedral. Mark this visit among the stops of your tour.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
10. Mole Vanvitelliana also known as the Lazzaretto of Ancona
Vanvitellian Lazzaretto or Mole Vanvitelliana in Ancona
Among the most beautiful things to see in Ancona, we cannot fail to mention the Mole Vanvitelliana, a masterpiece signed by Luigi Vanvitelli. This extraordinary pentagonal structure rises on an artificial island in the heart of the port and is accessible via three bridges that connect it to the mainland.
Originally conceived as a lazaretto for the quarantine of goods and people, the Mole has undergone multiple transformations, serving as a military hospital, sugar refinery, and tobacco warehouse. Today it is a cultural center that regularly hosts events and exhibitions.
Discover this masterpiece of art and history and enjoy a unique cultural experience.
| TICKET PRICE | The price varies depending on the event. |
| HOW TO BOOK | https://www.lamoleancona.it/ |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
11. National Archaeological Museum of Ancona (Museo Archeologico Nazionale delle Marche)
The National Archaeological Museum of the Marche is a cultural treasure housed in the imposing Palazzo Ferretti. This museum, founded in 1863, takes you on a journey through the civilizations that have shaped the region, from prehistory to Roman times.
With the most complete Picene collection, ranging from the 9th to the 4th century BC, the museum offers a unique insight into the life and traditions of this ancient civilization. Furthermore, you can admire important Greek, Gallic Senoni, and Roman collections, which recount how the culture of the Marche region evolved over the centuries.
The Palazzo Ferretti, which houses the museum, is an artistic and historical masterpiece in its own right, enriched by the frescoes of Pellegrino Tibaldi and the Zuccari brothers, and the architectural interventions of Luigi Vanvitelli in the 18th century. An experience that combines history, art, and architecture in a magnificent setting.
If you’re wondering which activities in Ancona are the most exciting, a visit to this architectural marvel certainly ranks among them.
| TICKET PRICE | Full ticket €6 Reduced ticket €3 |
| HOW TO BOOK | 071 202602 |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
12. Museo Tattile Statale Omero (Omero State Tactile Museum)
Another pearl of Ancona that is absolutely worth a visit is the Museo Tattile Statale Omero. Inaugurated in 1993, this extraordinary place was born from the visionary idea of the married couple Aldo Grassini and Daniela Bottegoni, both visually impaired, who wished to make art accessible to all, particularly to people with visual disabilities. At the Omero museum, in fact, you can “see” works of art through touch, a truly unique and inclusive experience.
This revolutionary museum is housed in the magnificent Mole Vanvitelliana and hosts architectural models, plaster and fiberglass casts of famous sculptures and design objects, all freely explorable by touch. Each piece is accompanied by a Braille description, ensuring that every visitor can fully enjoy the exhibited art.
With themed rooms ranging from classical to contemporary art, the Omero museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of art, including sections dedicated to Italian design.
If you desire a truly unique artistic experience, where art is felt at your fingertips, the Omero museum is the ideal place. We await you in Ancona to discover its wonders together!
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | https://www.museoomero.it/ |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
13. Pinacoteca Civica di Ancona (Civic Art Gallery of Ancona)
The Civic Art Gallery “Francesco Podesti” of Ancona, an artistic and cultural symbol of the city, represents an essential stop for those seeking things to do in Ancona. Founded in 1884, the art gallery collects works of immense value, both nationally and internationally, spanning from the 14th to the 19th century.
The collections include masterpieces by artists such as Carlo Crivelli, Titian, and Lorenzo Lotto, as well as key works by Francesco Podesti and other local artists who influenced the Ancona school of painting.
Despite the challenges that have characterized the place, the art gallery remains a point of reference for art lovers.
To book your visit and learn more about this incredible cultural treasure, visit the official website of the art gallery.
| TICKET PRICE | Full ticket €6 Reduced ticket €3 |
| HOW TO BOOK | 071.2225047 |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
14. Teatro delle Muse (Theater of the Muses)
Entrance of the Theatre of the Muses in Ancona (image source: Parsifall)
The Teatro delle Muse in Ancona is not only the largest theater in the Marche region but also one of the largest in Italy.
After remaining closed for 59 years, in 2002 the building was reopened to the public with modern and renovated interiors, hosting a wide variety of shows. In addition to the large main hall, it has an intimate 180-seat space, ideal for more intimate performances and cultural events.
Home to the Marche Stable Theater and the Marche Philharmonic Orchestra, the Teatro delle Muse is a stage for world-famous artists and significant events, such as the auditions for “Italy’s Got Talent.”
Want to know where it’s located? Here are our directions to get there.
| TICKET PRICE | The price varies depending on the show |
| HOW TO BOOK | https://www.marcheteatro.it/ |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
The Unmissable Beaches of Ancona
In addition to its famous architectural and cultural heritage, Ancona also has enchanting natural corners that are an essential stop for sea lovers. Let’s discover together the seaside places to visit near Ancona.
15. Portonovo Beach
Portonovo Beach in Ancona
Portonovo Beach is located in the picturesque Baia Verde (Green Bay) and is a corner of paradise on the Conero Riviera, near Ancona. Here you’ll find beaches with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking panoramas, and you’ll have the opportunity to savor excellent local cuisine, including moscioli, the precious wild mussels of the Conero.
In addition to its natural beauty and culinary richness, Portonovo is also a place of discovery and adventure. Here, there are paths that wind through small woods until reaching the sea, allowing you to discover unique historical sites, such as the Torre Clementina and the church of Santa Maria di Portonovo.
Visit this splendid beach now and let yourself be surprised by its unique beauties.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
16. Passetto Beach
Passetto Beach in Ancona is a jewel set among the city’s natural and historical beauties and represents the right place to enjoy a moment of relaxation by the sea. This picturesque corner is located at the end of Viale della Vittoria, in the Adriatico district.
From here, starting from the Monument to the Fallen of the First World War, a large staircase descends towards the sea, and the landscape you encounter is that of a splendid rocky beach.
Along the beach, there are various bars and beach resorts where you can relax with a good coffee, but the main point of interest is the Seggiola del Papa (Pope’s Chair), a rock near which you’ll find “il Quadrato,” a rock slab smoothed by water that is absolutely perfect for sunbathing in summer.
Discover this splendid corner of paradise in the city of Ancona now.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
Experiences Not to Miss in Ancona
After taking notes on the cultural riches and splendid beaches, you may be wondering: “what else should I see in Ancona to further enrich my experience?” Fortunately, the city never ceases to amaze, offering many other wonders that we will reveal to you in the following lines.
17. Parco del Cardeto (Cardeto Park)
Cardeto Park near Ancona
Parco del Cardeto represents a true green lung of Ancona, as well as the largest urban park in the city. Inaugurated in 2005, it occupies the tops of the Cappuccini and Cardeto hills and extends over an area of about 35 hectares, offering a magnificent panoramic view of the sea and the city center.
From a naturalistic point of view, the park is a true treasure of biodiversity. Among the Mediterranean scrub and cypress groves, the Campo degli Ebrei (one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe) stands out with its spring flowering of narcissus and spontaneously growing orchids.
This park is also a place of memory and reflection. Here, in fact, there is an ancient World War II air raid shelter that now serves as a memorial for peace. If you’re wondering what to see in and around Ancona, this park is certainly a great stop to mark on your itinerary.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
18. Grotte del Passetto (Passetto Caves)
The Passetto Caves are located on the rocky promontory on which Ancona stands and date back to the early 20th century. Initially, these places served as shelters for small fishing and pleasure boats and as resting spots on hot summer days.
Today, the over 500 artificial caves are equipped with all kinds of services, and their colorful wooden doors brighten up the beach atmosphere, making this a magical place, both for those who live there and for tourists.
If you’re thinking about what to visit in Ancona, our advice is to include a visit to the famous Passetto Caves in your stay.
| TICKET PRICE | Free |
| HOW TO BOOK | Open Access |
| HOW TO GET THERE FROM THE CENTER | Discover the Route |
19. Local Gastronomy
Ancona-style stockfish (image source: Provincial Association of Ancona Chefs)
The symbol dish of Ancona is stoccafisso all’anconitana, a preparation that sees the dried fish slowly cooked together with potatoes, tomatoes, plenty of wine and oil, and which is the undisputed protagonist of numerous festivities.
Equally famous is the mosciolo di Portonovo, a locally fished wild mussel, not farmed, which enjoys recognition as a protected origin product. These mollusks are often cooked directly on the beach after fishing, in dishes such as pasta sauces or grilled.
Ancona’s appetizers reflect the love for seafood, with local delicacies such as crocette and bombetti “in porchetta” and sea truffles. During festivities, the pizza di Pasqua, a bread enriched with pecorino cheese and similar in shape to a panettone, is never missing.
The first courses see vincisgrassi as the protagonist, a local version of enriched lasagna, and pasta with moscioli. Variations of homemade fresh pasta, such as tagliatelle and cannelloni, also keep the region’s culinary traditions alive.
In the main courses, brodetto all’anconetana stands out, a local variation of fish soup, as well as meat dishes such as rabbit and chicken in potacchio, cooked with rosemary, garlic, and wine.
The side dishes are an explosion of local biodiversity: paccasassi, succulent herbs that grow in rock crevices, and misticanza salad, made with wild greens, are examples of how the local flora is integrated into the daily diet.
Ancona’s cuisine is also rich in traditional sweets, such as ciambelloni and the cicerchiata of Carnival, demonstrating a variety that reflects the cultural and gastronomic richness of the place. Throughout the year, there are opportunities to taste local drinks such as Rosso Conero and Verdicchio wines, which encapsulate the unique terroir of the area.
To best experience Ancona’s cuisine, our advice is to visit the city’s historic restaurants such as Fricchiò, O Acqua O Vino or Tavola del Carmine.
What to Do in Ancona in One Day
If you only have one day to explore Ancona, the unmissable places we recommend you visit are certainly:
- the Ancona Cathedral, which allows you to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of both the city and the sea;
- Piazza della Repubblica, the ideal place to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and observe the lively daily hustle and bustle;
- the Archaeological Museum, a unique place to delve into the history of the capital of the Marche region and get to know in detail the civilizations that inhabited it.
The best time to visit Ancona is undoubtedly spring or early fall. In these seasons, in fact, the climate is mild and the city is no longer besieged by the typical summer crowds of tourists. In these periods, it is also easier to visit places in the province. To learn about these places, we invite you to read our article on what to see in the province of Ancona and take advantage of our suggestions on other wonderful locations to discover in the splendid Marche territory.
If you wish to turn a simple visit to Ancona into an unforgettable vacation, remember that the choice of accommodation also plays a fundamental role. Staying in a villa will allow you to enjoy not only comfort and privacy, but also a unique atmosphere capable of making your stay truly special. Book your villa in the Marche region now and experience a luxury vacation in this enchanting region.