Ancona Airport, Gubbio

Airport near Gubbio

Aeroporto Internazionale Di Ancona
Aeroporto internazionale di Ancona
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Giorgio Eusebio Petetti

Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI) is the main gateway to Italy's Adriatic coastline and the wider Marche region. Located around 18 km from Ancona, this compact and well-organised airport provides quick access to beaches, hilltowns, nature parks, and key cultural destinations. Whether you're beginning a coastal holiday, exploring the Conero Peninsula, or heading home after a relaxing Italian escape, this guide explains everything you need to navigate Ancona Airport with ease.

Why This Airport Matters

Ancona Airport is a valuable entry point for travellers exploring central Italy's Adriatic side. It offers a quieter alternative to larger airports like Bologna or Rome, making arrivals smoother and less stressful. With minimal walking distances and short queues, it's ideal for families, beach travellers, and anyone seeking convenience.

Its location near the A14 motorway and railway line makes AOI especially useful for accessing the Conero Coast, the Riviera del Conero, Senigallia’s beaches, and cultural towns like Urbino and Loreto. For travellers arriving by low-cost carriers or regional airlines, it provides one of the easiest ways to begin a Marche itinerary.

History and Significance

Ancona Falconara Airport began operations in the mid-20th century and gradually expanded to support both civilian and military aviation. Over time, it became an important hub for regional travel along the Adriatic coast and for connections to northern Europe.

Its role grew as tourism increased in the Marche region - especially around Ancona, the Conero Peninsula, and beach towns along Italy’s eastern seaboard. Today, it remains the region’s primary airport, serving leisure and business travellers year-round.

Airport Layout and Quick Facts

The airport has a single terminal, designed to be compact and easy to move through. Check-in is located near the main entrance, with security leading directly into a small departures hall containing shops, cafés, and several gates - all within a short walk.

Arrivals are equally simple. After disembarking, passengers move quickly through passport control (when required) and into a small baggage claim area. From the exit, car rentals, buses, and the on-site railway station are only steps away, ensuring smooth onward travel.

Where to Stay Close to Ancona Airport

Accommodation close to AOI is mainly concentrated in nearby Falconara or along the coast. A convenient option is Hotel Touring, located a short drive from the terminal.

Travellers wanting beachfront stays can choose Hotel Europa, while those preferring to stay in Ancona city have options such as SeePort Hotel. For easy airport access and comfort, Albergo Tenda Verde is another practical nearby choice.

Getting To and From Ancona Airport

By Bus

A shuttle bus connects the airport with Ancona city centre, stopping at the railway station and other major points. Journey time is around 20-25 minutes, and services typically follow flight schedules. Buses are affordable, reliable, and ideal for budget travellers.

By Taxi

Taxis are available directly outside the terminal. Fares to Ancona usually range from €20-€35, depending on time of day and traffic. For coastal towns such as Senigallia or Numana, prices are higher, but taxis remain a quick and convenient option.

By Train

Ancona Airport is one of the few regional airports in Italy with its own dedicated train station, Castelferretti-Falconara Aeroporto. Trains run regularly to Ancona, Jesi, and other local towns, making rail travel an efficient choice. From Ancona's main station, you can connect to major Italian cities. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

By Car

The airport lies close to the A14 motorway, which links the region’s coastal towns, making car travel straightforward. Car rentals are available on-site, and driving is one of the best ways to explore Marche’s countryside and hill towns. Parking options include both short- and long-term lots directly opposite the terminal. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

By Transfers and Shuttles

Private transfers and hotel shuttles offer door-to-door service, ideal for families, groups, or travellers carrying large luggage or beach equipment.

Arriving at Ancona Airport

Arrivals at AOI are calm and efficient. Passport control, when applicable, is usually quick due to the small number of simultaneous flights. Baggage reclaim is close to the exit, and luggage typically appears promptly.

The arrivals hall offers essential services, including ATMs, restrooms, a café, and car rental counters. The adjacent rail station and bus stop make onward travel exceptionally convenient.

Money Exchange & Currency Tips for Italy

Italy uses the euro (EUR). The best exchange rates are obtained through ATMs located at the airport or in Ancona city. Airport exchange counters may charge higher fees, so withdrawing a small amount at arrival and more in the city is often more economical.

Avoid dynamic currency conversion (DCC) when paying or withdrawing - always select euros. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the Marche region, though some smaller cafés or rural shops may prefer cash.

Euros can be used throughout the Eurozone, so leftover currency can be saved for future trips.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

Major operators in the region include TIM, Vodafone, and WindTre. While SIM cards may not always be sold inside the airport, they are easy to purchase in Ancona or Falconara at mobile shops or supermarkets offering tourist data plans.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and charging stations are available in seating areas and cafés.

Departing from Ancona Airport

Departures are stress-free thanks to the terminal’s compact size. Check-in desks are close to the entrance, and security screening is typically fast. Arriving at least 90 minutes before your flight is recommended, especially during summer.

After security, travellers enter a small departures lounge with cafés, shops, and duty-free options. Boarding is quick, with all gates close together.

Airport Services and Facilities

Food and Drink
A café, bar, and small eateries offering snacks and drinks before and after security.

Shops
Duty-free, travel essentials, souvenirs, and regional products.

ATMs and Currency
ATMs located in the arrivals area for withdrawing euros.

Wi-Fi and Charging
Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport with multiple charging points.

SIM Cards
Easiest to buy in Ancona city rather than at the airport.

Family and Accessibility Facilities
Baby-changing rooms, accessible restrooms, and mobility assistance available.

Medical and Assistance Points
First-aid services available during airport operating hours.

Lounges at Ancona Airport

Ancona Airport does not currently operate dedicated paid-entry lounges. The departures area is compact but comfortable, with seating, a bar, and access to food and drinks.

Ancona Airport Hotels

Nearby accommodation includes Hotel Touring and Albergo Tenda Verde. For travellers preferring city stays, SeePort Hotel provides comfortable boutique-style rooms with easy access to the port and city attractions.

Renting a Car at Ancona Airport

Car hire is recommended for travellers exploring the wider Marche region. Rental companies operate within the terminal, and vehicles are parked conveniently near the exit. Roads connecting the airport to Ancona, Senigallia, and the inland hill towns are well-marked and easy to navigate.

Exploring by car allows access to scenic coastal drives, winery routes, and lesser-known mountain villages.

Flights and Airlines Operating at AOI

Ancona Airport offers seasonal and year-round connections to destinations such as London, Munich, Tirana, Brussels, and several Mediterranean holiday routes. Airlines typically include Ryanair, Lufthansa, and regional carriers.

For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Gubbio on Booking.com.

Practical Tips for Using Ancona Airport

  • Arrive early during summer holiday periods.
  • Buy SIM cards in Ancona for better pricing.
  • Keep cash for rural shops and cafés.
  • Train travel from the airport is convenient and fast.
  • Expect short queues thanks to small passenger volumes.

Can You Sleep Overnight at the Airport?

Ancona Airport generally does not remain open overnight, and passengers are usually asked to leave after the final evening flight. Seating is limited, and the terminal is not designed for overnight stays. If you must wait until morning, nearby hotels such as Hotel Touring offer comfortable rooms and easy access to the terminal.

Final Thoughts

Ancona Falconara Airport is a friendly, efficient, and accessible gateway to the Marche region and Italy’s Adriatic coast. With its easy layout, short queues, and excellent transport connections, it offers a smooth start or finish to any journey. Whether you’re visiting the Conero cliffs, historic towns, or quiet beaches, AOI makes regional travel simple and enjoyable.

The Ancona Airport appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Gubbio!

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Visiting Ancona Airport

Address: Ancona Airport Raffaello Sanzio (AOI), Piazzale Sordoni, Falconara Marittima, Province of Ancona, Italy
Gubbio: 70 km

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