Our 24-hour guide to Atessa is written by local Max Faraone, a member of the Passucci International Travel team, a small family-run travel company that has been happily based in Atessa since 1964.  Max creates and guides local excursions and small breaks in Abruzzo and Italy in English, especially for the ex-pat community in Abruzzo and international visitors to the region.

The beautiful hidden gem of Atessa is located on a half-moon-shaped ridge at 420 mt a.s.l. It dominates a large part of the Sangro Valley, from the Trabocchi Coast to the Majella National Park.

Atessa in 5 Words

Tradition – Heritage – Culture – Nature – Authenticity

Atessa, Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy: picturesque corner with the ancient city gate Porta di San Nicola (Arco ‘Ndriano)and old staircase in the medieval town

Top Things to See & Do in Atessa

🕌 Historic Landmarks & Museums

Atessa boasts a great cultural & historical heritage! Step into the legend of Saint Leucio, who famously slayed a dragon—the dragon’s rib is displayed in the majestic Cathedral of Saint Leucio. You can visit this as you walk around Atessa’s historic centre.  Worth visiting is Chiesa dell’Addolorata, the Sassu Museum in Palazzo Ferri which is just a short 5-minute drive away.  Visit Santa Maria degli Angeli Church, San Pasquale Convent, and the 18th-century Teatro Comunale to experience Atessa through the ages.

🌅 Best Scenic Views

For the best panoramic views, visit Piazza Oberdan (Piazza della Fontana), home to a striking fountain by artist Giò Pomodoro. From here, take in the sweeping vistas of the Sangro Valley, Adriatic Coast, and Majella Mountains.

🍽 Taste the Local Flavours

Atessa is a town where you can taste products that represent the ‘excellence of the territory’, where your taste buds can have a really good time.  Savour traditional liqueurs and nougats at Fabbrica Torroni e Liquori Cavaliere Totaro and Premiata Fabbrica Piretti. Try the best world-famous honey at Iacovanelli, artisanal cheese from Iezzi, and premium olive oil from Frantoio Gentile.

🚴 Walks & Bike Rides

For a bike ride that ticks all the boxes for challenges, landscapes and places to stop and take incredible photos leaving you with lifelong memories – bike along the scenic ridge from Torino di Sangro to Atessa, continuing to Tornareccio and Monte Pallano.   For beautiful walks and hikes through unspoilt nature and breathtaking landscapes explore Monte Pallano starting from the Casanatura Environmental Education Centre in Fortecampana.

Views from Monte Pallano

🍷 Where to Sip & Savor

Enjoy a classic aperitivo at UvaRaRa or relax or for a more Pub-like atmosphere and local artisan beers try Pub L’Andriano. For wine lovers, don’t miss a tour and tasting at one of the best local wineries Cantine Spinelli—contact max@passuccitravel.com for bookings.

🍴 Where to Eat

Al Duca – Authentic Abruzzese dishes

La Masseria – Fresh seafood & event dining

Villa Egle – Exceptional grilled meats & fine dining

🎭 Festivals & Events

From enchanting Christmas Markets in December to jazz festivals in June and July, Atessa is alive with celebrations year-round. Don’t miss the main festivities from August 15-18, or the winter theatre calendar packed with cultural gems.

🎡 Activities for Kids

La Casa di Gaia offers engaging workshops for kids, while the sports centre has swimming and indoor activities. Families can also enjoy outdoor adventures at Casanatura, with its focus on nature and environmental education.

Read more about Passucci International Travel on our Abruzzo Directory

Author: Passucci Travel

Our family-owned tour partner company has been providing memorable vacactions and days out in Abruzzo since 1964.

We help unlock Abruzzo, a treasure trove of hidden gems, with unspoilt nature, ancient villages, and breathtaking landscapes but which isn't always the easiest for visitors or expats to navigate.

For those looking to travel within Italy our expert team and certified English speaking guides ensure a stressfree holiday or day out.