Chieti​

Latest page update: 20 June 2025
By: Dion Protani

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Chieti
Chieti has a good range of well-rated accommodation, from modern hotels in the lower town to historic properties in the old centre. Visitors appreciate its convenient location between the Adriatic coast and the Majella Mountains, making it a practical base for exploring the region.
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Best Western Parco Paglia Hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms, a wellness area and excellent guest feedback for cleanliness and accessibility (€€). Albergo La Dépendance provides a more central stay within the historic area, featuring elegant rooms and strong reviews for its character and location near major landmarks (€€). For a higher-end option, Nuovo Albergo combines contemporary design with spacious accommodation, a restaurant and reliable service, popular among both business and leisure travellers (€€€).

Where is

Where is Chieti?
​The city of Chieti is the capital city of the Province of Chieti with a population of 50,606 inhabitants.

​It stands at an elevation of 330 metres above sea level and lies around 95 kilometres east of L'Aquila, the regional capital of Abruzzo. ​

At the centre of Chieti is its main square, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II which is the location of its main sight: the Cattedrale di San Giustino.
Other places of interest in the city centre include the Teatro Marrucino and the Civitella Archaeological Museum. The majority of shops and restaurants are situated on Corso Marrucino and Via Asinio Pollione which leads up to the cathedral. 
Comune di Chieti
Province: Chieti

Region: Abruzzo

Population: 48,585​ (in 2024 - source)

​​​​Size: 58 km²

Elevation: 330 metres

Highlights: Cattedrale di San Giustino, Teatro Marrucino

Close by: ​​Pescara, Francavilla al Mare, Montesilvano, Ortona

What People Ask About Chieti, Abruzzo

Is Chieti worth visiting?
Yes—Chieti is one of the oldest cities in Abruzzo, offering Roman ruins, panoramic views, and a peaceful historic centre. It’s ideal for visitors interested in archaeology, history, and local culture away from the tourist crowds.
What are the main attractions in Chieti?
Highlights include the Roman theatre, the National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo, and the Gothic-style Cathedral of San Giustino. The old town offers quiet streets, local eateries, and sweeping views over the Maiella mountains and Adriatic coast.
How do I get to Chieti?
Chieti is served by two train stations—Chieti Scalo on the Rome–Pescara line and Chieti Città closer to the centre. It’s also just 15 km from Pescara Airport and is easily reached by car via the A25 and A14 motorways.
What is Chieti known for?
Chieti is known for its ancient Roman heritage, religious festivals, and well-preserved historical centre. It’s home to some of Abruzzo’s most important archaeological finds and offers a mix of cultural depth and natural scenery.
When is the best time to visit Chieti?
The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant for exploring the historic centre. Easter is especially notable for the traditional Good Friday procession, one of the oldest in Italy.
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Discover

Discover Chieti
Set on a ridge between the Pescara and Alento Valleys, Chieti is one of the oldest cities in the Abruzzo region, overlooking the Adriatic coast to the east and the Maiella Mountains to the west. The city is divided into two main areas: the historic upper town, with its ancient streets and panoramic viewpoints, and the modern lower town, which developed along the valley floor. Its elevated setting provides a striking balance between mountain and sea landscapes, typical of central Abruzzo’s geography.
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The historic centre is marked by the Cathedral of San Giustino, whose foundations date back to the early Middle Ages, and the Corso Marrucino, lined with elegant palazzi and cultural landmarks. The Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo, housed in Villa Frigerj, displays artefacts from the ancient city of Teate Marrucinorum, highlighting Chieti’s Roman heritage. Other notable sites include the Roman Theatre, the Church of San Francesco al Corso, and the National Archaeological Museum La Civitella. Positioned between Pescara and the Maiella National Park, Chieti connects Abruzzo’s coastal plain with its mountainous interior.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Chieti
  • Cattedrale di San Giustino is one of the oldest churches in Abruzzo, located at the highest point of the historic centre. Its foundations date back to the early Middle Ages, with later Baroque and Neoclassical additions. The bell tower offers views over the town, while the crypt preserves original Romanesque features.
  • Museo Archeologico Nazionale d'Abruzzo is housed in the elegant Villa Frigerj and contains one of the most important archaeological collections in central Italy. Highlights include the famous Warrior of Capestrano and artefacts from the Italic, Roman, and Samnite periods. The museum is set within a small park not far from the city centre.
  • Teatro Marrucino is a historic opera house opened in the early 19th century, known for its elegant interior with gilded boxes and frescoed ceilings. It continues to host classical concerts, operas, and theatre performances. Guided visits are sometimes available to explore its architecture and stage history.
  • Tempietti Romani (Roman Temples) are two well-preserved Roman structures located in the old town, likely dating from the 1st century AD. Their Corinthian columns and carved pediments provide a striking glimpse of Chieti’s classical past. The site is free to visit and sits next to a small panoramic terrace.
  • Guided walking tour through Chieti Alta takes visitors along historic streets, medieval walls, and scenic viewpoints over the Abruzzo hills. Tours often include stops at churches, Roman ruins, and local food tastings. The route explores the cultural layers of one of Italy’s oldest continually inhabited towns.

Tours and Activities

Chieti Tours and Activities

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Chieti
  • Ristorante Taverna Teate: Located in the historic centre, this refined restaurant offers a menu rooted in Abruzzese tradition with modern touches. Dishes include sagne e fagioli, lamb with rosemary, and ricotta-based desserts. The elegant interior and careful presentation make it ideal for a special occasion. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Osteria Cicerone: Tucked into a quiet side street, this welcoming osteria serves regional classics in a rustic setting. Menu highlights include pasta alla chitarra, polpette al sugo, and seasonal vegetable flans. The atmosphere is cosy, with friendly service and a strong local following. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Trattoria Il Rifugio: Just outside the old town, this informal trattoria is known for its hearty cooking and generous portions. Specialities include arrosticini, stewed pork, and homemade pasta. It’s a great option for a satisfying, down-to-earth meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Pizzeria Vesuvio: A casual choice near the university area, Vesuvio serves thin-crust pizzas from a wood-fired oven, along with salads and simple pasta dishes. It’s ideal for a relaxed dinner with friends or a quick bite. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
  • Gelateria Tentazioni: Centrally located, Tentazioni is popular for its creamy, artisan gelato made with natural ingredients. Flavours like pistachio, stracciatella, and seasonal fruit sorbets are among the most requested. Perfect for a sweet treat while exploring the town. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)

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Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Chieti
  • Pescara (approx. 15 km east of Chieti): A lively coastal city, Pescara is known for its long sandy beaches, vibrant seafront promenade, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Museo delle Genti d'Abruzzo, visit the bustling Piazza della Rinascita, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife along the Adriatic coast. Pescara is perfect for those seeking both relaxation by the sea and urban experiences.
  • Lanciano (approx. 35 km west of Chieti): A historic town known for its medieval architecture, Lanciano is famous for the Lanciano Miracle, a significant event in Catholic history. Visitors can explore the Chiesa di San Francesco and the old town’s charming streets. Lanciano also offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it an ideal destination for history and nature enthusiasts.
  • Vasto (approx. 45 km north of Chieti): A coastal town located along the Adriatic Sea, Vasto boasts beautiful beaches and a historic old town. Visitors can explore the Castello Caldoresco, the Piazza Rossetti, and the Vasto Marina for a relaxing day by the sea. Vasto offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and seaside beauty, ideal for those looking for both history and leisure.
  • Sulmona (approx. 40 km southeast of Chieti): Known for its medieval architecture and the production of confetti (sugared almonds), Sulmona is set in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. Visitors can explore the Piazza Garibaldi, the Aquila and San Francesco churches, and enjoy walking through the town’s charming streets filled with local shops and cafes. Sulmona is a peaceful town with a rich history.
  • L'Aquila (approx. 75 km southwest of Chieti): The capital of the Abruzzo region, L'Aquila is known for its stunning medieval architecture, including the Fontana Luminosa and the Basilica di San Bernardino. The town also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with local museums and art galleries, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. L'Aquila is a great destination for those interested in history, architecture, and nature.
​Abruzzo Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Abruzzo

1. ​Gran Sasso & Monti della Laga National Park
2. Rocca Calascio
3. Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park 
4. Campo Imperatore
5. Majella National Park 
6. Roccascalegna
7. Vasto 
8. Barrea 
9. Sulmona
10. Ortona ​

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Abruzzo

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Chieti
​Using public transport you can take a direct train to Rome with a journey time of 3 hours and 9 minutes or if you drive, the same journey is significantly faster: around two hours and ten minutes. Also by car you can reach the fellow provincial capitals of L'Aquila in 1 hour and 21 minutes (95 km), Pescara in 20 minutes (18 km) and Teramo in an hour, a journey of 76 kilometres. 

Chieti's transport system includes local buses while the main train station, simply called Stazione di Chieti, is situated four kilometres outside the city, a taxi ride of just over 10 minutes. The most convenient airport for Chieti is Pescara Abruzzo International Airport which is just ten kilometres away and a journey time of around 15 minutes by taxi. Nearby places of interest include the city of Pescara and the seaside towns of ​​Francavilla al Mare, Montesilvano and Ortona.
Public transport: ​​​local buses, Stazione di Chieti (4 km from centre)

By train: ​​​Rome - 3 hours and 9 minutes
By car: ​​​L'Aquila - 1 hr 21 mins, Pescara - 20 mins, Teramo - 1 hour

Fly to: ​​​Pescara Abruzzo International Airport (10 km)

Private Transfers

Chieti Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and efficient way to reach Chieti or continue your journey from the city to other destinations in Abruzzo and neighbouring regions. You’ll be collected directly from your chosen location and driven by a professional local driver, ensuring a smooth and relaxed journey without the need for public transport or car hire.

Private transfers can be arranged to and from Abruzzo Airport in Pescara, which offers the most convenient access for both arrivals and departures. The journey between Pescara and Chieti generally takes around 20 to 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to L’Aquila, Sulmona, and Lanciano, or to nearby destinations such as Guardiagrele, Ortona, and Vasto.
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To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

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