Rent a Motorhome in Ancona | Campcruisers

Discover Ancona: Your Adventure's Starting Point

Welcome to Ancona, the historic heart of the Marche region and the perfect starting point for your Italian adventure. When you rent a motorhome in Ancona, you’re not just hiring a vehicle; you’re unlocking a world of freedom and discovery. Geographically, Ancona holds a unique position. It's perched on a promontory on the Italian Adriatic coast, making it one of the few places in Italy where you can see the sun both rise and set over the sea. The city is nestled between the slopes of Monte Conero to the south and Monte Astagno, home to the impressive Citadel.

The history of Ancona is as rich as its landscapes. Founded by Greek settlers from Syracuse in about 387 BC, its name comes from the Greek word 'Ankon' (Ἀγκών), meaning 'elbow', a nod to the shape of the harbor. This harbor has been the city's lifeblood for millennia. Under the Roman Empire, it flourished, and the magnificent Arch of Trajan, still standing today, is a testament to this era. During the Middle Ages, Ancona became a powerful maritime republic, rivaling even Venice. This legacy of trade and independence has shaped the city’s resilient and cosmopolitan character. If you want to dive deep into this history, the best way is to rent a camper in Ancona and explore the ancient landmarks at your own pace. With a population of around 100,000 inhabitants, Ancona is a vibrant, bustling city that serves as the administrative capital of Marche. Its significance extends beyond governance; it’s a major ferry port with connections to Croatia, Albania, and Greece, making it a true gateway to the east. The decision to rent a motorhome in Ancona places you at a crossroads of culture and travel.

Ancona has been home to notable figures, including the 15th-century navigator and archaeologist Cyriacus of Ancona, who is often called the father of modern archaeology. His spirit of exploration is something you'll feel as you plan your trip. The best way to embrace this is when you rent a camper in Ancona, giving you the flexibility to chase horizons. The weather here is typically Mediterranean, with hot, sunny summers and mild, wetter winters. The best time to visit and rent a motorhome in Ancona is during the shoulder seasons – from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is comfortably warm, perfect for both city exploration and coastal drives, and you'll avoid the peak summer crowds. Planning to rent a camper in Ancona during spring means witnessing the countryside burst into a riot of color, while an autumn trip offers golden landscapes and local harvest festivals. Many travelers agree that the freedom afforded when you rent a motorhome in Ancona makes these seasons particularly magical. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, your journey starts here. So, rent a camper in Ancona and let the adventure begin!

Top Sights & Activities In and Around Ancona

Once you rent a camper in Ancona, a treasure trove of sights and activities awaits you, both within the city and in its breathtaking surroundings. Start your exploration at the very top of the city, at the Cattedrale di San Ciriaco. This stunning cathedral sits majestically on Guasco Hill, offering panoramic views of the port and the Adriatic Sea. Its unique mix of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture is a sight to behold. Just a short drive in your campervan will take you down to the port, where the ancient Arch of Trajan stands as a proud reminder of Ancona's Roman past.

Don't miss the Piazza del Plebiscito, the city's main square, known locally as Piazza del Papa. It’s the perfect place to park nearby, wander in, and enjoy a coffee while soaking up the local atmosphere. Another must-see is the Mole Vanvitelliana, a massive pentagonal building from the 18th century located within the port. Originally a quarantine station, it's now a cultural hub hosting exhibitions and events. For a unique coastal experience, head to Passetto Beach. This city beach is famous for its 'grotte', caves carved into the rock by fishermen to store their boats, and is accessible via a grand monumental staircase or a panoramic lift.

The true magic of your decision to rent a motorhome in Ancona is the ability to explore the surrounding region. The Parco del Conero is an absolute jewel. This regional park protects the limestone cliffs of Monte Conero, which plunge dramatically into the turquoise sea. Here, you can hike scenic trails, discover hidden coves like the famous Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle (Beach of the Two Sisters), and visit charming towns like Sirolo and Numana. Having a camper gives you the ultimate flexibility to find the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the cliffs. A trip to this park is a key reason many people choose to rent a camper in Ancona for their Italian holiday.

Unforgettable Road Trips Starting from Ancona

With the keys to your campervan, Ancona is the perfect launchpad for some of Italy's most scenic road trips. Here are a couple of tour ideas to inspire your journey.

🚐 The Conero Riviera & Medieval Villages (3-4 Days)

🏞️ The Heart of Marche: Urbino & Frasassi Caves (4-5 Days)

Returning Your Camper Clean in Ancona

After an amazing road trip, it's time to prepare your motorhome for its return. Most rental agreements require you to return the vehicle with a clean interior and exterior. Finding a suitable car wash can be tricky, as many standard facilities are not high enough for a campervan or motorhome.

It's essential to find a washing station with high bays, typically found at truck stops or self-service jet-wash facilities. These provide the necessary clearance to clean the roof and upper parts of your vehicle safely. When you rent a motorhome in Ancona, it's wise to locate one of these before your return day to avoid any last-minute stress.

Here are a few suitable washing stations in and around Ancona that can accommodate larger vehicles:

1. L'Elefante Blu - Ancona Baraccola
This is a self-service jet wash facility known for having high-pressure wands and often open bays suitable for taller vehicles. It allows you to control the cleaning process yourself.
Address: Via 1° Maggio, 60131 Ancona AN, Italy

2. Autolavaggio Iper a Spazzole
Located near a larger commercial area, this type of car wash often has options for larger vehicles like vans and campers. Inquire about their maximum height restrictions before entering.
Address: Via Albertini, 36, 60131 Ancona AN, Italy

3. Truck Wash Stations
Look for signs for 'Lavaggio Camion' on industrial estates or along major highways leading into Ancona. These are designed for large trucks and will easily accommodate any motorhome.

Always check the height clearance before entering any automatic car wash. Using a self-service jet wash is often the safest and most effective option for the vehicle you rent a camper in Ancona.

How to Get to Ancona for Your Camper Adventure

Getting to Ancona to start your motorhome adventure is straightforward, especially for international travelers. Your journey will most likely begin with a flight.

From the UK & Ireland:
The most convenient airport is Ancona-Falconara Airport (AOI). Ryanair often operates direct seasonal flights from London Stansted (STN). Alternatively, you can fly into larger Italian hubs like Bologna (BLQ), Rome (FCO), or even Pisa (PSA) with airlines like British Airways, Aer Lingus, easyJet, and Ryanair from major airports such as London Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Manchester (MAN), and Dublin (DUB). From these airports, Ancona is easily reachable via a scenic train ride (approx. 2-4 hours).

From the USA & Canada:
There are no direct flights to Ancona from North America. The typical route involves a one-stop flight to a major European hub. You can fly from cities like New York (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Toronto (YYZ), or Chicago (ORD) to Rome (FCO), Frankfurt (FRA), or Munich (MUC) with airlines like Delta, United, Air Canada, and Lufthansa. From there, you can catch a connecting flight to Ancona (AOI) or take the high-speed train from Rome to Ancona.

From Australia, New Zealand & South Africa:
Travelers from Down Under or South Africa will also have a journey with at least one, and more commonly two, layovers. A popular route is to fly from Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Auckland (AKL), or Johannesburg (JNB) to a major hub in the Middle East (like Dubai with Emirates or Doha with Qatar Airways) or Asia (like Singapore with Singapore Airlines). From there, you can connect to a flight to Rome (FCO) or Bologna (BLQ) and complete the final leg of your journey to Ancona by train.

Once you arrive in Ancona, our rental station is conveniently located, allowing you to quickly pick up your vehicle and begin the trip you've been planning since you decided to rent a motorhome in Ancona.