To get an idea of Giulianova, imagine coastal promenades lined with palm trees beside glorious white beaches. Churches and art galleries crowd historic plazas a short walk uphill from a lively port and its neighboring seafood restaurants. Wander between the historic hilltop center of Paese and the Giulianova Lido shoreline for the full Giulianova experience.
Paese contains one of the architectural gems of the town in the 16th-century Santuario della Madonna dello Splendore. Stroll along the colonnade at the front of the building. Listen to the soft flow of the fountain that is said to draw from a miraculous water source that inspired the sanctuary’s construction.
The complex also contains the Dello Splendore Museum, where religious artifacts and artworks line the walls. Chat with docents to learn the history and background of the many pieces spread across three floors.
Walk south for 10 minutes along a tree-lined road for the main parts of the historic center. The enormous dome of Il Duomo di San Flaviano towers over the Piazza Bruno Buozzi. Amble along the narrow lanes of the Old Town quarter and try the traditional cheeses and pastries in atmospheric restaurants.
For a change of scenery, descend via the long and winding steps to the Lido beach area. Snap photos of the green vegetation and scenic shoreline from an observation deck adjoining the outdoor staircase. At the bottom of the steps lies the Piazza Roma, where the stylish Giulianova railway station stands.
Admire the yachts of the busy Giulianova Harbor and saunter along the neighboring beaches that straddle the Adriatic Sea.
Find the town in Teramo Province on the eastern coast of central Italy. Rent a car for the 1-hour drive north from Pescara and stop at the historic town of Atri on the way.
Giulianova combines the stunning beaches of the Lido district with the hilly Old Town quarter’s churches and museums.
