San Benedetto del Tronto
A Hidden Gem on the Adriatic Sea
My partner and I were fortunate enough to get invited to an absolutely glorious wedding this past summer in San Benedetto del Tronto, a small coastal Italian town overlooking the gloriously blue Adriatic Sea on Italy's east coast. As someone who really prefers cities – in my mind, originally, this was simply a stopover in between Rome and Milan, a quick moment for a lovely celebration of two people we adore, and then on to the much more hustle and bustle of the cities.
A sneaky surprise
I can't tell you how drastically wrong I was – this was, hands down, my favorite stop of our four city trip. I never thought a place like San Benedetto del Tronto could completely redefine what I look for in a destination. This small, seaside town on Italy’s east coast wasn’t even supposed to be a highlight of our trip, but it ended up stealing the show with its perfect blend of charm, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
One of the first things that struck me about San Benedetto was how effortlessly walkable it is. The Lungomare, a stunning, palm-lined promenade that stretches along the crystalline water, became our go-to for morning strolls and sunset walks – and an easy place to jump in and out of restaurants to really appreciate just how fresh the seafood was. Every turn seemed to offer something special—cozy cafes, colorful gelato stands, and endless views of the Adriatic that just begged you to slow down and soak it all in.
Food on Food on Delicious Food
The seafood. My. God. I can’t emphasize enough how fresh and flavorful every dish was. From the rich brodetto to calamari that practically melted in my mouth to seafood pizza (don’t knock it until you try it, please and thanks), every bite felt like a love letter from the sea. Add a glass of local Pecorino wine, and suddenly, dinner became an event we looked forward to all day (to no one’s shock - when in Rome/Italy).
Then there are the beaches. What can I even say about those pale golden sands and crystal clear waters? Whether we were lounging under the shade of colorful umbrellas at one of the seaside cabanas, or cooling off in what was maybe the calmest clearest waves, the beach felt like the heart of San Benedetto’s charm – uncomplicated, welcoming, and absolutely perfect. Also - being able to lounge in the waves and continually stumble onto starfish over starfish? I was entranced. I'll neither confirm nor deny that my very anti-beach partner even admitted "okay, here I get the charm of a beach day".
A must see
San Benedetto del Tronto wasn’t just a stop on our trip; it became the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left. It’s not just a destination—it’s a feeling, and one I already can’t wait to experience again.
