Vasto​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 22 November 2023
The town of Vasto is situated within the Province of Chieti and has a population of 41,489 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 144 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 70 km². There are four hotels in the town centre while nearby places of interest include Marina di Vasto, San Salvo Marina and Lanciano.
Related links
Profile
Vasto is a picturesque coastal town located in the region of Abruzzo, Italy. Perched on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea, this historic town boasts a rich history, stunning beaches, and a charming medieval center. ​
History
Vasto's history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of prehistoric settlements in the area. In the Roman era, it was known as Histonium and served as an important port city along the Adriatic coast. During the Middle Ages, Vasto became a thriving medieval town, with various noble families, including the D'Avalos, ruling the region.

The town's historical significance is evident in its well-preserved architecture, including the impressive Castello Caldoresco, a castle built by the D'Avalos family, and the Cathedral of San Giuseppe, a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture.
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Vasto Old Town: The heart of Vasto is its historical center, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and medieval buildings. The Palazzo D'Avalos and the Loggia Amblingh are notable architectural landmarks.
  • Castello Caldoresco: This imposing castle, built on a rocky outcrop, offers panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. It often hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
  • Cathedral of San Giuseppe: The cathedral is an architectural gem, featuring beautiful frescoes, intricate stonework, and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Punta Aderci Nature Reserve: Located along the coastline, this natural reserve offers pristine beaches, sand dunes, and a variety of flora and fauna. It's a perfect spot for nature walks and relaxation.
  • Beaches: Vasto boasts beautiful sandy beaches along its coastline, making it a popular destination for sunbathing and swimming in the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.
  • Trabocchi Coast: The Trabocchi Coast, just south of Vasto, is known for its iconic trabocchi—traditional wooden fishing platforms that extend into the sea. These unique structures offer a glimpse into the region's maritime heritage.
  • Local Cuisine: Vasto is renowned for its delicious seafood dishes, including fresh fish, squid, and shellfish. Visitors can enjoy these delicacies at the town's numerous restaurants and trattorias.
  • Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Vasto hosts various cultural events, music festivals, and religious celebrations that offer insight into the town's vibrant traditions.
Comune di Vasto
​Province: Chieti

Region: Abruzzo

Population: 40,553​ ​(source: ISTAT 1 January 2022)

​​​​​Size: 148 km²

​Elevation: 144 metres

​Close by: Marina di Vasto, San Salvo Marina, Lanciano, Ortona

Recommended accommodation: Hotel San Marco

Vasto  Gallery

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.