Tucked between the Apennines and the Majella mountains, Sulmona is a quiet mountain town in Abruzzo that feels like a hidden gem of central Italy. It’s ideal for slow‑tourism lovers, couples, and families who want to swap big‑city crowds for authentic squares, local food, and gentle outdoor adventures.
If you’re asking “what to do in Sulmona Italy”, this guide will help you plan a relaxed getaway—especially around late spring or early summer, when the lakes, woods, and hilltop villages shine.
Things to Do in Sulmona
One of the best things to do in Sulmona is simply to wander. The compact historic center is made for strolling, with narrow streets, artisan shops, and elegant palaces that open up into bright, sun‑drenched piazzas.
- Take a morning walk along Corso Ovidio, the main street named after the Roman poet born here, and peek into historic churches and boutiques.
- Spend an hour in Piazza Garibaldi, one of the largest squares in central Italy, where you can sip coffee at a café while kids run free in the open space.
- Visit the medieval aqueduct that crosses the square, then loop up to the surrounding lanes for mountain views and quiet corners.
If you arrive on a Wednesday or Saturday, don’t miss the local market in Piazza Garibaldi, where you can taste seasonal produce, cheeses, and other Abruzzo specialties.
For a sweet highlight, drop into a confetti workshop such as Fabbrica Confetti Pelino, where giant sugar‑coated almonds are shaped into flowers and decorative bouquets. Many shops double as small museums, filled with antique sweet‑making machines and colorful displays ideal for a quick, fun stop with kids.
What to See Around Sulmona
Sulmona is an excellent base for exploring nearby lakes, forests, and hilltop villages that feel off the beaten path.
Lakes and nature spots
- Lago di Scanno and Scanno village – A short drive from Sulmona, the lake and the surrounding stone village make a perfect half‑day trip. The lake itself is surrounded by forest and offers gentle paths for families, while the village is great for a coffee or ice cream stop.
- Lago di San Domenico – A smaller, quieter lake near Villalago, ideal for a calm picnic or a short walk with younger children.
Hilltop villages and castles
- Pacentro – A fairy‑tale village built around a 13th‑century castle, with panoramic views over the Val Pescara. It’s a lovely place for an aperitivo at the belvedere or a relaxed stroll through cobbled streets.
- Pescocostanzo – A mountain town at higher altitude, known for its wide stone staircases, traditional architecture, and the nearby Bosco di Sant’Antonio, one of Abruzzo’s most photogenic beech forests.
- Campo di Giove, Corfinio, and Pettorano sul Gizio – These smaller villages offer Roman ruins, medieval churches, and peaceful squares, perfect if you want to escape the roads and feel like a local.
Nature and wildlife experiences
- Riserva del Lupo and Passo San Leonardo – A wildlife area and high mountain pass where you can hike short trails, spot birds, and enjoy crisp mountain air without technical difficulty.
- Area faunistica dell’Orso in Palena – A safe, educational way to see Apennine brown bears up close, suitable for older kids and wildlife lovers.
- Eremi and hermitages – Quiet spots such as the Eremo di San Venanzio, the Abbazia Morronese, and the Hermitage of Sant’Onofrio al Morrone combine spiritual atmosphere with sweeping views, though they involve some walking.
For a more active option, canoe trips on the Tirino River near Bussi let families enjoy a gentle paddling experience, with some operators welcoming children as young as 5–6 years.
Local Food to Try in Sulmona and Abruzzo
A Sulmona travel guide isn’t complete without mentioning food.
- Confetti di Sulmona – Colorful sugar‑coated almonds, often shaped into flowers and bouquets, are a symbol of celebration and a must‑try souvenir.
- Arrosticini – Small skewers of grilled lamb, typical of Abruzzo, served in local trattorias and festivals.
- Pasta alla chitarra – Thick, square‑cut spaghetti served with rich meat or tomato sauces, a regional signature dish.
- Cheeses and charcuterie – Try local pecorino, smoked cheeses, and cured meats paired with rustic bread and a glass of regional wine.
For a family‑friendly meal, look for small trattorias in Sulmona’s center, such as Osteria del Tempo Perso, which is noted for honest, home‑cooked food at reasonable prices.
Why Visit Sulmona, Italy
Sulmona is one of those places in Italy where the crowds stay away but the atmosphere feels true. It’s a perfect base if you want:
- Authentic mountain life – Quiet streets, local markets, and a slower pace than the big coastal cities.
- Easy access to nature – Within an hour you can reach lakes, forests, and national parks in the Majella area.
- Hidden‑gem villages – Picturesque towns like Pacentro, Scanno, and Pescocostanzo that rarely appear on mass‑tourism itineraries.
- Family‑friendly activities – From lakeside walks and gentle hikes to bear‑watching and simple canoe rides, the region is naturally suited to slower, kid‑approved trips.
Even if you only spend a night or two in Sulmona, you’ll have enough time to soak up the town’s character and still explore a handful of nearby highlights without feeling rushed.
How to Get to Sulmona, Italy
Sulmona sits in the province of L’Aquila in central Abruzzo, making it reachable from both Rome and the Adriatic coast.
- By train – Direct regional trains connect Sulmona with Rome (about 2–2.5 hours) and other towns in Abruzzo, passing through scenic mountain and countryside landscapes.
- By car – If you’re driving from Rome, the trip takes roughly 2 hours and offers a more flexible way to explore nearby villages, lakes, and passes.
For a more unusual experience, consider riding the “Transiberiana d’Abruzzo” scenic train line, which cuts through mountain valleys and offers a slow‑tourism–style way to arrive.
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