Ostuni is a beautiful city in southern Italy known for its whitewashed buildings. There are many things to do and see there, such as exploring its narrow streets, visiting historic sites, and enjoying the local cuisine. Not sure about what to do in Ostuni? This guide covers 13 attractions and activities that will help you make the most of your time in Ostuni.
1. Get lost in the Old Town
One of the best things to do in Ostuni is to meander through the cobblestone streets of the Centro Storico. This old town is like a portal to the past, and it is easy to get lost in its beauty. Its whitewashed buildings are a sight to behold, especially when contrasted with the rolling hills and the shimmering blue sea. From the top of the hill, visitors can get an excellent view of the city and the coastline.
The old town of Ostuni is also full of life. Enjoy the lively restaurants and cafes, boutique stores, churches, and ancient buildings. Take your time and wander through the alleyways, and don’t miss out on the opportunity to observe the locals in one of the many charming piazzas. Sit down and take in the atmosphere, and you won’t regret it.
2. Join a walking tour or journey through Ostuni aboard a tuk-tuk
Exploring Ostuni on foot is a great way to get to know the city and its culture. There are several walking tours available, with some offering a unique insight into the city’s past. You can discover Ostuni’s famous landmarks, appreciate its impressive architecture, and learn about its history and traditions.
Alternatively, if you’d like to see the top sights of Ostuni in a different way, why not book a private tour by tuk-tuk? This is a great way to get an up-close and personal experience of the city, and it’s a great way to experience the city’s culture in an exciting, unique way.
3. Admire the Cathedral
Visiting the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral should be a priority for anyone exploring the city of Ostuni. This impressive building was constructed in the 11th century but contains parts that date back to the 5th century. As such, it is a perfect example of the transformation of architecture throughout the centuries. The façade is Romanesque, the portal Gothic, and the bell tower Baroque. Inside, visitors will be able to admire a host of beautiful artwork, including paintings, a mosaic, and 12th-century parchments.
A visit to the Cathedral is the perfect way to appreciate Ostuni’s history and culture. In addition to admiring the exquisite architecture, visitors will also have the opportunity to take in the stunning views from the bell tower. There is no better way to get a feel for what Ostuni has to offer than by visiting the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral.
4. Get a taste of the local olive oil
Visiting Ostuni, Italy, is not complete without a tour of the local olive oil production. A guided tour will take you to an ancient olive grove and a Masseria which is a traditional farmhouse located on the outskirts of the city.
The olive trees in this area are believed to be over a thousand years old. During the tour, you will learn the process of making olive oil, from planting seeds to pressing the final product.
Additionally, you will get to sample different varieties and learn about the health benefits of olive oil, as well as its importance in southern Italian cooking. To top it off, you can enjoy the olive oil with a slice of freshly baked focaccia bread. Going on this tour is a great way to experience the rich culture and history of Ostuni while tasting some of the best olive oil in the world.
5. Head to the beach
Taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea is one of the best activities to do in Ostuni. Located just 8 kilometers away, the city is close to some of Puglia’s finest beaches.
Spiaggia di Pilone is a long stretch of golden sand and one of the most popular destinations in the area. Those looking for a more secluded spot should head to Spiaggia di Torre Pozzelle, a wilder beach with fewer facilities.
6. Explore the museums
Experience Ostuni’s history and culture by visiting one of its many museums. The Museo Diocesano di Ostuni, housed in the former home of the town’s bishops, is a great place to explore. It houses a variety of artwork, archaeological finds, ceramics, artifacts, and treasures.
For a look at pre-classical civilizations, visit the Museo di Civiltà Preclassiche, located in a former monastery. It contains a collection of artifacts, ornaments, and ceramics from the Paleolithic period.
Art lovers should visit the Orizzonti Arte Contemporanea gallery, which features works by local artists and is a hub for events and exhibitions. Exploring Ostuni’s museums is a great way to learn about the city’s fascinating history and culture.
7. Attend a traditional Puglian Cooking Class
If you’re visiting the charming city of Ostuni in Puglia, Italy, why not take the opportunity to learn how to make some of the best and most popular local dishes? A traditional Puglian cooking class in the neighboring town of Cisternino is the perfect way to do this.
Led by a professional chef, you’ll learn how to make delicious and iconic dishes of the region, such as tiramisù, orecchiette pasta, eggplant parmigiana, and more. After the class, you’ll also get to enjoy a 4-course meal of the dishes you have prepared.
It’s easy to get to Cisternino from Ostuni – it’s just 20 minutes away by car or 30 minutes by bus. Taking a cooking class is a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine, and is an activity not to be missed when visiting Ostuni.
8. Sample local wines
Exploring the local wines of the Puglia region is one of the top things to do in Ostuni. On this tour, you will visit some of the best wineries and vineyards in the Puglia region, such as a 16th-century Masseria wine estate and a modern wine cellar. You will learn about the production process from knowledgeable guides and taste a range of exquisite wines.
Afterward, you will be taken to several other destinations in the Valle d’Itria, including Locorotondo and Alberobello. This is one of the best ways to explore the area and discover the culture and history of this region. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
9. Take a trip to Alberobello
If you’re visiting Ostuni, a day trip to Alberobello should definitely be on your itinerary. Just an hour away, this small town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its trulli – ancient houses built from limestone with conical roofs. Hundreds of these fascinating buildings dot the town, some of which you can actually go inside for a better look.
For a more in-depth experience, a 2-hour guided tour of the trulli is a great way to learn more about these iconic houses and to see a range of the most spectacular ones. Aside from trulli, Alberobello also offers plenty of other things to do, including wine tastings, cooking classes, and more. So make sure you set aside a day to enjoy the unique attractions of this amazing destination.
10. Local market shopping
Ostuni is a beautiful city in the Puglia region of Italy, and it is well known for its rich culture and vibrant atmosphere. One of the best things to do while in Ostuni is to visit the Mercato del Sabato or Saturday market.
This market is bustling with locals looking to buy fresh food, kitchenware, clothes, antiques, and handmade goods made by local artisans. You can find a variety of unique items to take home as souvenirs from your trip. If you want to find the best items, make sure to arrive early in the morning.
Shopping at the local markets is a great way to get a glimpse into the culture and daily life of Ostuni. In addition, it allows you to support local businesses and artisans by purchasing their products.
It is also a great way to practice your Italian – you can haggle and chat with the vendors to get the best deals. Make sure to bring cash and wear comfortable shoes – you will be in for a unique and fun shopping experience.
11. Visit Piazza della Liberta for a gelato
Ostuni is the perfect destination for a summer getaway, with plenty of sights and activities to enjoy. One of the highlights of a visit to Ostuni is the Piazza della Liberta. This vibrant square is the liveliest part of the city and is full of great cafes and restaurants.
It’s also home to the renowned Cremeria La Scala, a gelateria with a range of delicious flavors of gelato, granita, and sorbet. Not only are the flavors tantalizing, but they also have a shaded patio to provide relief from the strong midday sun.
With classic and seasonal flavors, this is the perfect spot to relax and try some authentic Italian gelato. Visiting Piazza della Liberta for a delicious gelato is an absolute must-do for anyone visiting Ostuni.
12. Enjoy a spectacular sunset
One of the absolute best things to do in Ostuni is to watch the stunning sunsets from a viewpoint around the whitewashed Old Town. The southern Mediterranean sky is illuminated in hues of gold, orange, and pink, making it a romantic experience for couples. The breathtaking sunsets are definitely something to make time for when visiting the city.
13. Plan your visit around the festivals
When you visit Ostuni, make sure you plan your trip around the festivals. It’s a great opportunity to explore the town’s culture and customs and to try something new. One of the best opportunities to do so is during the Sagra dei Vecchi Tempi, which takes place on the 15th of August and celebrates traditional Puglian cuisine.
Additionally, the Cavalcata di Sant’Oronzo, a costumed procession on horseback, takes place from the 24th to the 27th of August and is not to be missed. It is a great way to celebrate the town’s patron saint and enjoy the festivities.
With its stunning views of the coast and historic charm, Ostuni is a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. You’ll enjoy wandering through narrow cobblestone streets, tasting the local cuisine, and taking in the panoramas of Ostuni.
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