Ancona – Italy Cruise Tour Information

Ancona – Italy

Rising above the waters of the Adriatic Sea is Ancona, a city steeped in over 2,400 years of history. From the Cathedral standing high above the old town on Gusaco Hill to its beautiful ancient arches, Ancona is a city waiting for its secrets to be discovered. Uncover the past with Azamara®’s immersive Italy cruises.

Fascinated by human history? Visit the Marche National Archaeological Museum and journey through the Copper Age, the Bronze Age, and beyond. Marvel at ancient Greek ceramics, Roman ruins, relics of the Picenian civilization, preserved Federico Zuccari frescoes, and a wealth of artifacts—all within the beautiful Palazzo Feretti Palace on the slopes of Gusaco Hill. Elsewhere, the marble Arco di Traiano towers high above the harbor in tribute to Emperor Trajan, who funded the expansion of Ancona. Unveiled in 115 AD, the arch stands 18.5 meters high and served as a beacon for ships approaching Rome’s impressive Adriatic port.

While walking the stone streets of Old Town, make a stop at Piazza del Plebiscito. Known as Piazza del Papa by locals, this charming square is the perfect spot to relax with an al fresco drink. Worked up an appetite from all that walking? Visit Corso Garibaldi for your pick of classic Italian delights, including stoccafisso all’anconetana—a seafood dish that put Ancona on the culinary map.

Ancona, capital of Italy’s picturesque Marche region, is a bustling city overlooking the glittering Adriatic Sea.

This Mediterranean Cruises destination is packed with historical landmarks such as the Roman ruins, Cathedral of Saint Ciriaco, and the Trajan Arch — a Turkish marble icon dating back to 114 A.D. Further inland, the walled city of Urbino stands as a jewel of the Italian Renaissance. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Italy’s best-preserved medieval centres, offering breathtaking views over the valleys.

Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including:

Osimo Palaces and Museums
The Imperial Town of Jesi
The Frasassi Caves

Step back in time on a Cruise excursion to Osimo, a historic and hilly commune located a short distance from Ancona. The old town boasts charming streets, magnificent squares, and an array of notable architecture. Discover the Palazzo Campana, the Cathedral of San Leopardo, and the Piazza Nuova gardens with its panoramic views. Next, sample traditional Marche cuisine in the foyer of La Nuova Fenice — an elegant horseshoe-shaped theatre. Finally, venture underground in the Grotte di Osimo, a labyrinth of caves deep beneath the town. Dating back 2500 years, you’ll be entranced by its mystery and rustic charm.

Don’t miss an unforgettable Cruise excursion to the town of Jesi, the birthplace of Emperor Frederick II of Swabia. Take in the town’s architectural splendour while visiting Palazzo Pianetti, an 18th-century Rococo palace. Discover Palazzo Bisaccioni’s art collection, Piazza Colocci square, and the Pergolesi Theatre, a regal opera house. At the Istituto Marchigiano di Enogastronomia, you’re invited to take part in a wine tasting session where you’ll enjoy delicious samples of local food.

Delight in uncommon sights when you book a Cruise excursion to the riverside town of Genga. Experience a guided underground adventure at the extraordinary Frasassi Caves to see stalactites and stalagmites. You’ll visit the Grotta Grande del Vento, a cavern so large it could contain a cathedral! The caves and their dramatic lighting will immerse the whole family in a subterranean otherworld. Back on the surface, visit Fazi Battaglia, an iconic winery founded in 1949. Enjoy a tasting of vintage wines in the gorgeous countryside, served with a delicious buffet.