The Abruzzo region is east of Rome and its biggest city, Pescara, sits on the Adriatic coast.
You'll be a drive away from both the beach and skiing. Rather than bustling cities, it's home to quiet villages, castles and vineyards.
First published January 6, 2016: 8:16 AM ET
Monthly budgets consider the following costs: rent for a one-bedroom apartment, groceries, utilities, cable, Internet, phone services, and entertainment (eating out twice a week and two trips to the movies a month).
