Teramo

A Roman city that blossomed into a medieval hub, Teramo rests in northern Abruzzo below the Apennine mountains. The city is close to the sea but at the base of the hills, giving it a nice location for outdoors enthusiasts, beach-goers and those who want a bit of city atmosphere without too much chaos and traffic.

The Piceni people inhabited this area but the Romans settled it and established a town, as can be seen in the city walls and the ruins of the Domus. The Pompeii-style villa was built in Greco-Roman style with intricate mosaics that you have to see. The Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta was built over the remains of a ancient temple. The Anfiteatro Romano dates to the 1st century BC and the Teatro Romano to the 2nd century BC. The city's archeological museum has an impressive collection of artifacts on display.

The Castello della Monica and its medieval village are on San Venanzio hill, and looks like a movie set castle. The church of Madonna della Grazie has a lovely cloister and archeological site, while the city of Teramo itself boasts a number of pretty palaces, piazzas and fountains to enjoy. There are plenty of shops and cafes to capture your interest if history and architecture aren't your thing, and the views of the mountains are a nice backdrop as you stroll around. Drive north of Teramo to the massive Fortezza of Civitella del Tronto, an impressive sight indeed. East of the city, to both the north and south, is Abruzzo's wine country, so drive around the hills and sample some of the region's famous vintages, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Trebbiano.