Origins: The medieval hill-town of Montepagano pre-dates Roseto. Coastal settlement began in the 1860s, divided into land lots called Le Quote. In 1887 it was named Rosburgo, then officially renamed Roseto degli Abruzzi in 1927 to shed Austrian connotations and honour its famous roses
Growth & Tourism: It transformed rapidly in the 20th century, merging seaside charm with hilltop history. Today it’s the province’s second largest town (˜25?000 residents) and a Blue Flag–awarded beach resort
Geography: Nestled between the Vomano and Tordino rivers, its 10?km of sandy Adriatic coastline includes neighborhoods like Campo a Mare, Borsacchio, and Montepagano
What Makes It Special
Beachside Bliss: Known as Lido delle Rose, it's celebrated for fine sand, shallow safe waters perfect for families, and well-run lidos with umbrellas, loungers and cafés
Promenades & Parks: The twin seafront promenades—Lungomare Roma and Trento—are ideal for cycling, strolling, live events, and summertime food markets
Historical Montepagano: Perched up high, it features medieval alleys, the Church of the Annunciation (17th?century), and Montepagano Castle with Gothic arches
Typical Food & Wine
Seafood-Centred: Numerous beachside restaurants and taverns offer fresh Adriatic seafood—octopus, fish, local shellfish specialties .
Abruzzo Classics: Enjoy pasta d'Abruzzo (like maccheroni alla chitarra), arrosticini (skewered lamb), and Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wine from local vineyards
Experiences:
Historic Cellar Wine Tour: Sample five local wines + bruschetta and stylized by cantucci & vino cotto
Olive-Grove Picnic: Relax in an olive orchard with local meats, cheeses, fruit, and a bottle of regional wine .
Activities & Things to Do
Along the Coast:
Swim, sunbathe, rent umbrellas & loungers.
Kayaking or Beach Tennis at beach clubs like Bagno Oltremare
Walk or cycle the beautiful seaside promenade.
Try guided bike tours to Giulianova or Pineto
In the Countryside & Hills:
Visit the Borsacchio Nature Reserve, spotting rare birdlife and olive groves
Hike or bike in the nearby Gran Sasso – Monti della Laga National Park
Cultural & Events:
Explore Montepagano’s castle and churches
Attend summer events: Roseto opera prima (film festival), Soundlabs (music), plus local religious processions
Catch an ATP Challenger tennis event or support the local basketball team at PalaMaggetti arena
Quick Tips
Best Visit Time: June–early September—warm, lively, beach-friendly, with fewer crowds in June & September
Getting There: Easy train rides on the Adriatic line between Pescara & Teramo; reachable by A14 highway & regional roads
Summary
History: From medieval Montepagano to modern coastal resort, renamed to reflect local charm.
Description: A Blue Flag seaside town with sandy beaches, green promenades, flower-lined streets, and hilltop heritage.
Cuisine: Seafood, Abruzzo pasta specialties, local meats and wines—best enjoyed via cellar tours and olive-grove picnics.
Activities: Beach fun, cycling, cultural festivals, nature reserve hiking, sports events, day trips into Abruzzo hills.