Welcome, dear traveler, to the heart of Abruzzo!
When you join us on an Italia Sweet Italia tour, we want you to feel not just like a guest, but like a part of our extended family.
Our week-long adventures are carefully crafted to immerse you in the authentic culture, history, and flavors of this incredible region.
But we also know that an authentic journey needs a little room to breathe, a little time for personal discovery.
That’s why, in the middle of our week, we dedicate one afternoon, typically from around 3:00 or 4:00 PM, entirely to you.
It’s your time to relax, wander, and follow your own curiosities.
Our tours are based in the historic center of Vasto, and everything is just a short, five-minute stroll away.
So, what can you do with your afternoon?
Well, let me share a few of the favorite activities we’ve seen our guests enjoy over the years.
Your Afternoon, Your Way
We’ve found that every traveler has their own rhythm.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of popular activities, so you can mix and match to create your perfect afternoon in Vasto.
Option 1: Relaxation & Shopping
For some, the perfect free afternoon is simply a moment of tranquility.
Many of our guests choose to stay at their hotel, taking the time to recharge and relax after a busy morning of exploring.
Once the afternoon siesta is over and the shops reopen around 4:30 PM, or even later towards 6:00 PM, they head out to stroll through the charming streets and do a little shopping.
This isn’t just about finding souvenirs; it’s an opportunity to revisit a local artisan, like a ceramic studio or a painter’s workshop, that you may have met during our guided tour of Vasto.
The shops stay open until around 8:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to find that perfect, handmade keepsake.
Option 2: History & Culture
For those with a thirst for history and art, Vasto’s cultural treasures are right at your doorstep. You can visit the Palazzo D’Avalos complex, a magnificent historic palace, which houses an archeological museum, beautiful Neapolitan gardens, and various art exhibitions.
The general admission ticket is an excellent value at just €5 per person.
You might also feel inspired to revisit one of the beautiful churches you saw during our guided walk of Vasto.
You’ve already seen them from the outside, but now you can step inside the majestic cathedral or the serene Church of Santa Maria to admire the beautiful architecture and perhaps even glimpse the remains of the Sacra Spina, the “Holy Thorn,” an ancient and revered relic.
Option 3: Seaside Adventure
If you’re feeling energetic, a popular choice is a walk from Vasto’s historic center (“Vasto alta”) down to the beach (“Vasto marina”).
Be prepared for a gentle workout—it’s a descent of about 144 meters!
The walk takes around 30 to 40 minutes at a leisurely pace.
You can then choose to walk back up, or if you prefer, catch a taxi or one of the local buses that will take you right back to your accommodation.
Alternatively, some guests prefer to descend via the scenic path through the Vasto countryside and then take a taxi back up. The views are simply breathtaking.
And speaking of the sea, the Adriatic is always a draw. You can have your taxi drop you off at the beach for a lovely stroll along the shore.
Depending on the time of year and the weather, you can even take a dip in the inviting waters.
And of course, no trip to the beach is complete without indulging in some delicious, freshly made gelato!
You can also rent a bicycle—either electric or muscular—in Vasto Marina and enjoy a safe ride on the cycling path along the beautiful Costa dei Trabocchi. The route is almost entirely flat, making it a perfect and relaxing way to explore the coastline.
Option 4: A Culinary & Cultural Stroll
While our tours include many wonderful meals, this free afternoon is a perfect time to enjoy the delightful Italian custom of the aperitivo.
In Italy, an aperitivo isn’t just a drink; it’s a social ritual.
You order a drink—perhaps a local Abruzzese wine like a robust Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, a crisp Pecorino, the fresh and delicious Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo, or even some local Abruzzese sparkling wine—and for little to no extra cost, you’re served small plates of food.
These can include anything from small slices of pizza al forno and mini sandwiches with local meats and cheeses to olives and other delectable bites that are perfect for a light, pre-dinner snack.
Many of our guests, inspired by my suggestions, create their own impromptu “aperitivo tour” of Vasto.
Some might do one or two stops, while others, in a spirit of friendly exaggeration, might even go for three or more!
It’s a fantastic way to combine a relaxing stroll with a taste of Vasto’s vibrant social life, and it’s a practice you can enjoy on your free afternoon as well as during some of our free evenings.
Here’s a typical route our guests love:
Aperitivo Stop 1: Savor your first drink with a stunning view of the 13th-century Cathedral of San Giuseppe. It’s a true dive into Vasto’s medieval past.
Aperitivo Stop 2: Move to the Loggia Amblingh for a breathtaking panoramic view of the magnificent Gulf of Vasto. It’s a moment where history and nature beautifully converge.
Aperitivo Stop 3: Enjoy a drink with a backdrop of the imposing 15th-century Caldoresco Medieval Castle. This stop is a powerful reminder of Vasto’s rich and storied history.
Aperitivo Stop 4: Conclude your tour in the beautiful Piazza Rossetti, which was once the site of a nearly 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheater. You’re literally standing on a piece of ancient history.
The Evening Rises
As for dinner, our tour lunches are so hearty that most of our guests prefer a light and casual evening meal.
A few slices of pizza from a local bakery or the bites from an aperitivo are often just perfect.
And remember the golden rule of Italian coffee culture: no cappuccino after 11:00 AM or noon!
We’ll just smile knowingly if you order one later—we’ve all been there!
While it’s possible to arrange additional excursions, we honestly recommend against it.
This free afternoon is a precious gift in a week full of wonderful, organized experiences.
It’s your time to slow down, explore at your own pace, and truly feel the gentle rhythm of life in Vasto.
If these stories have inspired you to explore the beauty and authenticity of Vasto, visit our website to discover our exclusive tours.
We can’t wait to share it with you!
Ciao for now
Fabrizio
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