Car & Van Hire - Ancona

From cultural events to sporting activities and everything in between, you will surely find plenty of things to see and do in this charming city.

Events in Ancona

Wondering what to do in Ancona? There are a wide range of exciting events and festivals throughout the year, including the Ancona Jazz Festival in July and the Ancona International Film Festival in October. If you’re travelling to the Marche region for Easter, you won’t want to miss the Turba in Cantiano Festival that’s celebrated on Good Friday. You’ll see a lively street parade and plenty of locals dressed in traditional costumes.

Things to see in Ancona

If you’re wondering what to see in Ancona, one of the must-see attractions in Ancona is the Cathedral of San Ciriaco, a stunning 11th-century church located atop a hill with sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea. The National Archaeological Museum of the Marche region is another must-visit destination, showcasing ancient artefacts and artworks. Please note the museum is closed on Mondays. The Passetto is also a popular city spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a beautiful coastal walk perched upon a steep cliff with stunning vistas over the sea. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the Conero Regional Park is a beautiful nature reserve with hiking trails, beaches, and breath-taking views. You can reach this park in just under a 30-minute drive from Ancona.

Shopping in Ancona

Ancona is home to a wide range of shops and boutiques, offering everything from designer clothing to local handicrafts. Stroll down Corso Garibaldi and Piazza Roma to find some of the best Italian fashion brands, along with cafes and aperitivo bars. Gourmands will want to visit the Bottega Re Formaggio, a historical grocery store that specialises in the region’s best cheeses and local produce.

What to eat and drink in Ancona

When it comes to food and drink, Ancona has many delicious options. Seafood lovers will be impressed with the fresh fish and shellfish available at many of the city's restaurants. Local specialities include brodetto, a hearty fish soup, and stoccafisso all’Anconetana, a traditional dish of cod with potatoes, white wine, and tomatoes. For meat lovers, savour the typical vincisgrassi, a type of lasagna made with ragout and béchamel sauce.

Things to do with kids in and around Ancona

If you're visiting Ancona with children, there are plenty of activities to keep them entertained in and around Ancona. Visit the historical Lazzaretto di Ancona, also known as the Mole Vanvitelliana. This pentagonal-shaped artificial island was built in the 18th century as a quarantine island, but today hosts a museum and exhibitions. In the spring and summer months, the beaches of Senigallia are an ideal getaway for families. With crystal waters and soft sandy shores, the beaches in Senigallia are perfect for making sand castles and offer plenty of fun activities like windsurfing and water skiing. The quickest way to reach Senigallia from Ancona is to take the E55 motorway, reaching your destination in about a 40-minute drive. Alternatively, for a more scenic route, you can opt for the coastal SS16 Adriatica road with stunning sea views, reaching Senigallia in about 50 minutes.

Ancona has a well-connected road network, with a ring road encircling the city, allowing for easy navigation. 

However, it's important to note that some areas of the city are pedestrian-only, so be sure to check signs and maps to avoid driving in restricted areas.

Ancona has several city gates, which are historical landmarks and tourist attractions. Some of the most popular gates include Porta Pia, Porta del Carmine, and Porta San Francesco. These gates also serve as entry and exit points for the city.

The main access and exit arteries to and from Ancona include the A14 highway, which connects the city to other parts of Italy, and the SS16 Adriatica road, which runs along the Adriatic coast. 

Be sure to check traffic reports before heading out on these roads, especially during peak travel times.

In terms of parking in Ancona, there are several paid parking lots and garages available, as well as metered street parking. Ancona airport parking also offers both short-term and long-term parking options for those flying in and out of the city. Driving on Ancona roads is a worthwhile experience, allowing visitors to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace. However, it is advisable to know the city's road network, pedestrian areas, and traffic rules before renting a car. 

Ready to plan your trip to Ancona? Check out our car rental options and prepare for a smooth drive through the stunning region.