Things To Do
in Cassano delle Murge
Cassano delle Murge is a scenic hilltop town in the Apulia region, perched on the Murge plateau near Bari. Its historic center is a maze of white-washed houses, narrow lanes, and panoramic viewpoints over the surrounding countryside. The town has a strong agricultural heritage, with olive oil and wine traditions guiding daily life.
Visitors can enjoy laid-back strolls, local specialties, and a sense of timeless southern Italian charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Cassano delle Murge and settle into your accommodation at a charming local bed and breakfast. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque town, admiring the ancient architecture and vibrant local life. Stop by a café for a quintessential Italian breakfast of cappuccino and cornetto.
Visit the local market, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal products from the region. Afterward, embark on a guided walking tour to discover the history and culture of Cassano, including its beautiful churches and historical sites. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures of the breathtaking landscapes.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional trattoria, savoring local dishes such as orecchiette with broccoli rabe. After dinner, take a sunset walk through the town, soaking in the serene atmosphere. Wind down with a gelato from a local vendor as you enjoy the starry night sky.
Begin your day with breakfast at the bed and breakfast, then head out to the nearby Alta Murgia National Park for a day of outdoor adventure. Take in the stunning views and breathe the fresh air while hiking through the park's diverse terrain. Keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna that inhabit this area.
After your hike, have a packed picnic lunch in one of the park's scenic spots, surrounded by nature's beauty. Join a guided tour to explore the ancient rock formations and charming rural villages nearby. Engage with locals to learn about their traditions and ways of life.
Return to Cassano for a relaxed evening, enjoying a light dinner at a pizzeria renowned for its wood-fired pizzas. Spend the remainder of the night mingling with locals at a nearby wine bar, sampling regional wines and chatting about your day’s adventure. Engage in a friendly game of cards or board games at your accommodation to connect more with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🚌One-way public transit | $1-3 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $6-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $80-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and scenic countryside
- Close to Bari for day trips and transport
- Limited nightlife and public transport in rural areas
- Smaller scale of services compared to bigger cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove si trova…?" - Where is…?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi può consigliare un buon ristorante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due, per favore." - I would like a table for two, please.
- "Acqua naturale o frizzante?" - Still or sparkling water?
- "Il conto, per favore." - Can I have the bill, please?
Places to Visit in Cassano delle Murge
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers sweeping views of the Murgia plateau and surrounding olive groves, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Winding streets with white-washed walls, arches, and charming courtyards ideal for candid street photography.
A classic Apulian town square scene with local life, markets, and the rhythm of daily activity.
Food in Cassano delle Murge
Cassano delle Murge Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional pasta with broccoli rabe, garlic, olive oil, and chili.
Must-Try!
Small rolls of pork stuffed with herbs and cooked over coals.
Creamy fresh cheese served with bread, tomatoes, and olive oil.
Soft olive-oil bread topped with tomatoes and olives.
Crunchy ring-shaped biscuits flavored with sesame or wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly open-air market offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, and local specialties.
Seasonal stalls with vegetables, fruit, olive oil, and handmade snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with polite Italian phrases (Buongiorno/Salve). Address people with formal titles in business or official settings.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly in sacred spaces.
Southern Italy values hospitality and slower tempos; patience and polite conversation are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Cassano delle Murge
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is optional in Italy; rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns and restaurants; cash is still commonly used in smaller places; service charges may be included.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with vibrant outdoor life. Hydration is essential; seek shade and late-afternoon siestas; many festivals occur after sundown.
Mild days with harvest season; olive picking and grape-related activities appear; landscapes show golden tones.
Milder but wetter, with cooler evenings; crowds thin; great time for museum visits and cozy dining indoors.
Blooming landscapes and comfortable temperatures ideal for outdoor walks, hikes, and photo shoots.
Cassano delle Murge at Night
Hiking in Cassano delle Murge
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
High-ground trails with expansive views and limestone features.
Gentle loop through regional olive groves and rural scenery.
Airports
How to reach Cassano delle Murge by plane.
Main gateway to the region, with regular international and domestic flights; about a short drive to Cassano via highway.
Another option with several seasonal and international routes; useful for southern excursions.
A larger hub option for longer trips, with connections to many European cities; farther but feasible for multi-city itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many multi-generational households and a strong sense of community.
A sizeable elderly population due to its peaceful rural setting.
A significant portion involved in olive oil, wine, and other farming activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in the region, with local teams and amateur leagues.
Popular at local clubs and community centers, especially in schools and youth programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cassano delle Murge.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include pasta with tomato and olive oil, grilled vegetables, burrata, and soups. Ask for dishes without meat or broths; many places can adapt.