GemmaAscoli Piceno is the kind of place that surprises you. You arrive thinking you will spend a few quiet hours walking around, and suddenly it is evening, your phone battery is low, your shoes are tired, and you are still saying, “Okay, just one more street.” This town in the Marche region does not shout for attention. It gently pulls you in, then refuses to let go.
Built almost entirely from warm travertine stone, Ascoli Piceno glows in soft shades of cream and gold. It feels elegant without trying too hard, historic without feeling heavy, and lively without becoming noisy. It is not crowded like Florence or rushed like Rome. Instead, it moves at a pace that lets you breathe, look around, and actually enjoy where you are.
Based on my overall experience, Ascoli Piceno is one of those destinations that rewards curiosity. The more you explore, the more it gives back. From grand piazzas and ancient bridges to food that deserves its own love letter, this town knows how to make you feel welcome.
Below are 10 things to do in Ascoli Piceno that you truly need to see. These are not rushed checklist stops. These are places and moments that stay with you long after you leave.
1. Fall in Love with Piazza del Popolo
If Ascoli Piceno had a living room, this would be it. Piazza del Popolo is not just the main square. It is the heart of daily life.
The first thing you notice is the harmony. The travertine buildings match perfectly, as if the square was designed by someone with an obsession for symmetry. Then you notice the sound. Not traffic. Not chaos. Just footsteps, conversation, and the gentle clink of coffee cups.
This is where you start your visit and where you will probably end your day too. Locals meet here in the morning for espresso. In the afternoon, you see students chatting on the steps. In the evening, the square transforms into a calm social scene that somehow feels lively and relaxed at the same time.
Sit down at one of the cafés, order a drink, and do absolutely nothing for a while. This is not wasted time. This is part of the experience.
2. Visit Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo
Standing proudly in Piazza del Popolo, this medieval palace once served as the political center of the city. Today, it still carries that sense of importance, just without the stress.
Inside, you can explore rooms that host exhibitions and cultural events. Even if you do not step inside, take time to admire the exterior. The towers, the arches, and the details carved into the stone tell stories without using words.
The palace feels strong and serious, but not intimidating. It reminds you that Ascoli Piceno has seen centuries pass by and is still standing confidently, like someone who has nothing left to prove.
3. Explore the Historic Center on Foot
This is not a town you explore with a plan. This is a town you explore by getting slightly lost.
Ascoli Piceno’s historic center is a maze of narrow streets, stone arches, hidden courtyards, and unexpected views. Every corner seems to reveal something new. A tiny church. A quiet square. A balcony overflowing with flowers.
Walking here feels natural. The streets guide you gently rather than confusing you. And if you do lose your direction, you will not mind. You are surrounded by beauty either way.
This is also where you start noticing daily life. Laundry hanging from windows. Neighbors greeting each other. The smell of lunch drifting from open kitchens. It feels real, not staged.
4. Discover Piazza Arringo and Its Historic Buildings
Piazza Arringo is older than Piazza del Popolo and feels more formal, almost noble.
This square is home to some of the most important buildings in the city, including the Cathedral of Sant’Emidio, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, and the Archaeological Museum.
The atmosphere here is quieter and more reflective. You do not rush through it. You slow down naturally, almost out of respect.
Stand in the center of the square and look around. You are surrounded by centuries of history layered neatly together. It is one of those moments where you suddenly realize how small one lifetime really is.
5. Step Inside the Cathedral of Sant’Emidio
The Cathedral of Sant’Emidio is dedicated to the patron saint of the city, who locals believe protects Ascoli Piceno from earthquakes. Considering the region’s history, that belief is taken very seriously.
The exterior may seem simple at first, but inside, the atmosphere changes completely. The crypt is the true highlight. It is calm, beautiful, and deeply moving.
Even if you are not particularly interested in churches, this one deserves your time. There is a sense of peace here that feels genuine, not forced.
Take a moment to sit quietly. No photos. No rushing. Just a pause.
6. Walk Across the Roman Bridge of Ponte di Cecco
Ascoli Piceno has Roman roots, and Ponte di Cecco is one of the clearest reminders of that past.
This ancient bridge crosses the Tronto River and has survived centuries of floods, wars, and change. Walking across it feels strangely powerful. You are stepping where people walked thousands of years ago, probably complaining about their sandals.
The view from the bridge is simple but beautiful. Water flowing below, greenery around, and the town rising behind you.
It is a short walk, but one filled with meaning.
7. Taste the Legendary Olive all’Ascolana
Now we talk about serious matters.
Olive all’Ascolana are not just food. They are pride. These large green olives are stuffed with seasoned meat, breaded, and fried until golden.
You will find them everywhere, but not all are equal. When done right, they are crisp outside, soft inside, and dangerously addictive.
Order them as an appetizer, but do not expect to stop at one. Or five.
Locals take these olives very personally. If you compliment them, you may receive a full explanation of why their version is better than everyone else’s. Smile and agree. This is the correct response.
8. Visit the Fortezza Pia
Sitting above the city, Fortezza Pia offers one of the best panoramic views in Ascoli Piceno.
The walk up is manageable and rewarding. Once at the top, you can see the red rooftops, the surrounding hills, and the calm rhythm of the town below.
The fortress itself is impressive, but the view is the real prize. It gives you perspective, both literally and emotionally.
This is a great spot for photos, but also a great spot to simply stand still and take everything in.
9. Enjoy the Local Food Beyond the Famous Olives
Ascoli Piceno knows how to eat well.
Beyond olive all’Ascolana, you will find handmade pasta, rich sauces, local cheeses, and meats prepared with confidence and care.
Meals here are not rushed. Portions are generous. Conversation flows easily. Nobody checks the time.
Try local wines from the Marche region and do not be shy about dessert. You are on vacation. This is your official excuse.
Food here tastes comforting, honest, and deeply satisfying.
10. Stay Until Evening and Feel the Town Change
As daylight fades, Ascoli Piceno becomes even more charming.
The travertine stone reflects the soft glow of streetlights. The pace slows further. Couples walk hand in hand. Friends gather in piazzas. The town feels intimate.
This is when you truly understand its magic. Not because something dramatic happens, but because everything feels right.
Sit in a square with a drink. Watch the evening unfold. Listen to laughter echo gently through the streets.
This moment alone is worth the trip.
Why Ascoli Piceno Stays With You
Ascoli Piceno does not overwhelm you. It does not rush you. It does not demand attention.
Instead, it invites you in quietly and makes you feel at home.
You leave feeling lighter, calmer, and already planning a return. It is the kind of place that grows in your memory rather than fading.
If you love towns with history, beauty, warmth, and excellent food, Ascoli Piceno delivers all of it without trying too hard.
And sometimes, those are the places you end up loving the most.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.