Penne
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Latest page update: 21 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Penne
Penne has a limited number of established hotels within the town itself, as much of the accommodation consists of smaller agriturismi and guesthouses. For well-rated hotels with full facilities, the best options are found both in and just outside the historic centre.
Hotel Di Rocco (approx. 3 kilometres from Penne) offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine and strong guest feedback for service and value (€€). Hotel Mira provides simple, well-maintained accommodation near the town centre, appreciated for cleanliness, convenience and friendly staff (€). For a more upmarket countryside experience, Agriturismo Bio Il Portico (just outside Penne) combines rural charm with comfortable rooms, a pool and excellent reviews for hospitality and surroundings (€€€).
Hotel Di Rocco (approx. 3 kilometres from Penne) offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine and strong guest feedback for service and value (€€). Hotel Mira provides simple, well-maintained accommodation near the town centre, appreciated for cleanliness, convenience and friendly staff (€). For a more upmarket countryside experience, Agriturismo Bio Il Portico (just outside Penne) combines rural charm with comfortable rooms, a pool and excellent reviews for hospitality and surroundings (€€€).
Where is
Where is Penne?
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The town of Penne is situated within the Province of Pescara and has a population of 12,108 inhabitants.
Listed as one of the "Borghi Più Belli d'Italia" (Italy's most beautiful villages), it stands at an elevation of 428 metres above sea level. There are 3 hotels within 6 km while nearby places of interest include Loreto Aprutino, Farindola and Città Sant'Angelo. |
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Comune di Penne
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Province: Pescara
Region: Abruzzo Population: 11,147 (in 2024 - source) Size: 91 km² Elevation: 428 metres Close by: Loreto Aprutino, Farindola, Città Sant'Angelo, Silvi Paese Recommended accommodation: Hotel Abruzzo Marina (31 km) |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Il Caldo Colore del Mattone (The Warm Colour of the Brick)
Listing headline: Il Caldo Colore del Mattone (The Warm Colour of the Brick)
What People Ask About Penne, Abruzzo
Is Penne worth visiting?
How do I get to Penne?
What are the main attractions in Penne?
What is Penne known for?
What food is typical of Penne and the area?
Related links
Discover
Discover Penne
Set on a group of hills overlooking the Valle del Tavo, Penne is one of the most historic and architecturally rich towns in the Abruzzo region. The settlement lies between the Adriatic coast and the Gran Sasso Mountains, offering views that stretch across both sea and mountain landscapes. Its old town, enclosed by medieval walls, is characterised by narrow cobbled streets, arched gateways, and brick buildings that reflect its long history as a centre of art, trade, and administration.
Key landmarks include the Cathedral of Santa Maria degli Angeli, with its Romanesque façade and tall bell tower, and the Palazzo dei Vestini, which houses part of the town’s civic museum. The Church of San Domenico and several Renaissance palazzi testify to its importance during the Middle Ages and beyond. Penne is also the administrative seat of the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park, with easy access to nature trails and wildlife reserves. Positioned near Loreto Aprutino and Farindola, it forms part of the cultural heartland of inland Abruzzo.
Key landmarks include the Cathedral of Santa Maria degli Angeli, with its Romanesque façade and tall bell tower, and the Palazzo dei Vestini, which houses part of the town’s civic museum. The Church of San Domenico and several Renaissance palazzi testify to its importance during the Middle Ages and beyond. Penne is also the administrative seat of the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park, with easy access to nature trails and wildlife reserves. Positioned near Loreto Aprutino and Farindola, it forms part of the cultural heartland of inland Abruzzo.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Penne
- Centro Storico di Penne stretches across a hilltop between two valleys, its narrow lanes winding among medieval houses, Renaissance palazzi, and graceful archways. The town reveals layers of history in terracotta façades, carved stone portals, and decorative iron balconies. Small piazzas open onto sweeping views of olive groves and distant mountain peaks. Walking through Penne offers a rich blend of artistic elegance and enduring medieval atmosphere.
- Duomo di San Massimo rises as Penne’s principal church, its Romanesque-Gothic façade built of warm brick and crowned with an elegant bell tower. Inside, visitors discover baroque altars, frescoes, and intricately carved wooden choir stalls reflecting centuries of devotion and artistry. The cathedral has been a spiritual centre for generations. It remains one of Penne’s most significant architectural and cultural landmarks.
- Museo Diocesano stands in the historic heart of the town, preserving sacred art, sculptures, and precious liturgical objects from Penne’s churches. Housed within a historic building, its exhibits reveal the town’s deep religious and artistic heritage. The museum offers insight into the craftsmanship and faith that have shaped Penne’s identity. Visiting provides a rewarding glimpse into centuries of local artistry and devotion.
- Piazza Luca da Penne serves as the vibrant hub of town life, surrounded by arcaded buildings, cafés, and elegant façades. The square hosts markets, festivals, and concerts that bring the community together throughout the year. Cobblestones underfoot and views of surrounding hills add to its charm. It’s the perfect place to pause and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Penne’s urban centre.
- Guided cultural and gastronomic tours in Penne lead visitors through medieval streets, noble palaces, and artisan workshops, revealing the town’s artistic and culinary traditions. Local guides share stories of Penne’s role in regional history, religious heritage, and artisanal crafts. Tours often include tastings of local specialities such as extra virgin olive oil, cured meats, and traditional pastries. Exploring with a guide unveils Penne’s rich cultural tapestry and the flavours that define this historic hill town.
Tours and Activities
Penne Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Penne Photo Gallery
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
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 Penne
By Rail: Penne is served by the Loreto Aprutino–Penne train station, located about 6 kilometres from the town centre. The station lies on the Pescara–Sulmona line operated by Trenitalia, with regular regional services. Trains connect the area to Pescara in about 30 minutes and Sulmona in roughly 1 hour. Local buses and taxis provide frequent connections between the station and Penne.
By Road: Penne is located in the province of Pescara, Abruzzo, in the hills between the Adriatic coast and the Gran Sasso mountains. From Chieti, the drive is around 45 kilometres and takes about 50 minutes via the SS81. From Pescara, it is approximately 35 kilometres and takes roughly 40 minutes by car. Parking is available close to the historic centre and near the main town gates.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Penne is located in the province of Pescara, Abruzzo, in the hills between the Adriatic coast and the Gran Sasso mountains. From Chieti, the drive is around 45 kilometres and takes about 50 minutes via the SS81. From Pescara, it is approximately 35 kilometres and takes roughly 40 minutes by car. Parking is available close to the historic centre and near the main town gates.
Nearest International Airports:
- Pescara Abruzzo Airport: Approximately 35 kilometres from Penne, with a driving time of around 40 minutes via the A14 and SS81. It is the closest airport, offering domestic and European connections.
- Ancona Falconara Airport: Located about 165 kilometres north, taking roughly 2 hours by car via the A14. A good option for travellers arriving from northern or central Europe.
- Rome Ciampino Airport: Around 180 kilometres west, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes via the A24 and A25. Convenient for visitors from across Europe.
Private Transfers
Penne Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a comfortable and reliable way to reach Penne or continue your journey from the town to other destinations in Abruzzo and surrounding regions. You’ll be collected directly from your chosen location and driven by a professional local driver, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey without the need for car hire or public transport.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Abruzzo Airport in Pescara, providing the most convenient option for both arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Penne generally takes around 50 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Loreto Aprutino, Farindola, and Città Sant’Angelo, or to nearby destinations such as Chieti, Pescara, and Montesilvano.
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.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Abruzzo Airport in Pescara, providing the most convenient option for both arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Penne generally takes around 50 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Loreto Aprutino, Farindola, and Città Sant’Angelo, or to nearby destinations such as Chieti, Pescara, and Montesilvano.
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.
