San Benedetto del Tronto, located in the province of Ascoli Piceno, is one of the most popular seaside destinations on the Adriatic coast.

Known as the “capital of the Riviera delle Palme”, this town in the Marche region combines unique natural landscapes, maritime traditions, fine gastronomy, and a tourist offering that makes it an ideal destination at any time of the year.

The seafront and its iconic palm trees

The promenade of San Benedetto del Tronto is considered one of the most beautiful in Italy. Stretching for several kilometers, it welcomes walkers and cyclists with a setting of over 7,000 palm trees, giving the city an exotic and elegant appearance. Alongside the palms are themed gardens, fountains, and green areas that make the walk an enchanting experience both during the day and in the evening.

The coastline features wide sandy beaches with shallow waters, making it particularly suitable for families. Modern and well-equipped beach establishments alternate with free-access areas, offering solutions for every type of traveler.

The old town and the Tower of Gualtieri

Beyond the sea, San Benedetto del Tronto preserves an old town that tells its long history. The Paese Alto, perched on a hill, retains its medieval structure with narrow alleys, brick arches, and picturesque views. The undisputed landmark is the Tower of Gualtieri, also known as the “Torrione,” whose hexagonal shape dominates the city and offers a breathtaking view of the coastline and surrounding hills.

Walking through the streets of the old town allows visitors to discover the authentic soul of San Benedetto del Tronto, far from the vibrant pace of the seafront yet deeply tied to its cultural identity.

The harbor and maritime tradition

The bond with the sea is an integral part of the city. The harbor of San Benedetto is one of the most important on the Adriatic and still hosts a significant fishing fleet. The port district is lively with the fish market and the characteristic boats that testify to a centuries-old maritime tradition.

The Museum of the Sea, divided into several sections, recounts this special relationship through naturalistic collections, naval artifacts, and historical exhibits. It is an ideal stop for those who want to delve deeper into the local seafaring culture.

Nature and outdoor activities

San Benedetto del Tronto is also a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and sports lovers. The cycle path that runs along the coast connects the city with nearby towns, offering kilometers of routes surrounded by palm trees and themed gardens.

For those who love unspoiled nature, the Sentina Nature Reserve is a haven of biodiversity. This coastal reserve, located south of the city, is perfect for walks, birdwatching, and exploring lagoon habitats and sandy dunes that host various species of migratory birds.

Art and culture by the sea

The cultural soul of the city also finds expression along the promenade, where the open-air contemporary sculpture route unfolds. Here, Italian and international artists have left their works directly on the south pier, turning a walk toward the lighthouse into an outdoor art gallery.

Throughout the year, San Benedetto hosts cultural events, music festivals, and exhibitions that enrich the visitor’s experience. The city is not only a seaside resort but also a dynamic cultural center in constant evolution.

Flavors and culinary traditions

Local cuisine is one of the most authentic aspects of the territory. The signature dish is the brodetto alla sambenedettese, a fish soup enriched with green tomatoes and peppers that gives it a distinctive and bold flavor.

Alongside seafood dishes, the gastronomic tradition includes specialties from the hinterland such as olive all’ascolana (stuffed fried olives) and mixed fried fish, both highly appreciated by locals and visitors. Traditional recipes are often paired with Marche wines, including Pecorino and Passerina, which enhance the flavors of the region.

A land between sea and hills

One of the most fascinating aspects of San Benedetto del Tronto is its geographical position. In just a few minutes, visitors can move from golden beaches to the rolling hills of the Marche, where medieval villages and vineyards reveal another face of the territory. The proximity to towns such as Ascoli Piceno allows travelers to combine a seaside holiday with cultural and historical itineraries.