Things To Do
in Castellana Grotte
Castellana Grotte is a charming Apulian hill town in the Bari province, perched above olive groves and vineyards. It is best known as the gateway to the Grotte di Castellana, an impressive limestone cave system opened to the public in the 1930s. The historic center features whitewashed lanes, stone staircases, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Within easy reach of Alberobello and the Adriatic coast, Castellana Grotte makes a convenient base for exploring Puglia's caves, trulli, and countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Castellana Grotte and check into your hotel. Take some time to relax and freshen up after your journey. Stroll around the quaint streets to get a feel for the local atmosphere.
Visit the iconic Castellana Caves, exploring the breathtaking limestone formations and underground wonders. Join a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and geology of this natural marvel. Spend some time at the nearby park for a picnic lunch amidst nature.
Dine at a local trattoria, savoring traditional Apulian dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the illuminated town center, soaking in the charming ambiance. Wrap up the evening with a gelato from a nearby gelateria.
Return to the Castellana Caves for a deeper exploration of the guides’ favorite spots. Delve into the fascinating stories and myths surrounding the caves as you journey further into their depths. Capture stunning photographs of the unique rock formations and underground lakes.
After your cave adventure, head to the nearby town of Alberobello, known for its iconic trulli houses. Explore the narrow streets, visiting local shops and enjoying the charming architecture. Lunch at a café featuring local specialties before roaming through the Trullo Museum.
Enjoy dinner in Alberobello at a traditional restaurant, relishing local dishes such as orecchiette pasta. Stroll through the trulli-lined streets as the sun sets and the town lights up. Return to Castellana for a peaceful night’s rest.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Local bread and groceries | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🧀Burrata or local cheese | $8-12 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (1-2 km) | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to spectacular caves (Grotte di Castellana) and easy access to Apulian towns
- Pleasant, walkable historic center with authentic local culture
- Delicious regional cuisine and high-quality olive oil and burrata
- Quiet and safe village atmosphere with slower pace
- Limited nightlife and options within Castellana Grotte itself
- Weather can be very hot in summer; cave visits can be crowded
- Distances to larger beaches and attractions require a car or public transport
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Sono vegetariano" - I am vegetarian
- "Buona sera" - Good evening
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Castellana Grotte
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping overlook where whitewashed houses cascade down the hillside toward olive groves.
Narrow lanes with limestone walls, arched passageways, and vibrant flowers—perfect for golden-hour street photography.
Dramatic limestone facade and entrance area offering textures and scale for landscape and architectural shots.
Food in Castellana Grotte
Castellana Grotte Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small ear-shaped pasta tossed with rapini (broccoli rabe), garlic, and olive oil.
Must-Try!
Creamy burrata served with ripe tomatoes, extra-virgin olive oil, and crusty bread.
Pork rolls seasoned with herbs, grilled or roasted until juicy.
Soft olive-oil bread often topped with tomatoes, olives, and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, bread, cheeses, and regional specialties on market days.
Toasted Friselle topped with ripe tomatoes, olive oil, and sea salt from street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera.' Use formal 'Lei' with strangers and elders.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats indoors and speak quietly.
Safety
Tipping in Castellana Grotte
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. If service is not included, round up or leave about 5-10% for good service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming almond trees make it ideal for walking and town exploration.
Hot, dry days with strong sun; plan cave visits and outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated.
Crisp air and harvest season; quieter streets and pleasant hiking weather.
Mild with occasional rainfall; cave interiors stay cool and crowds thin out.
Castellana Grotte at Night
Hiking in Castellana Grotte
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged limestone landscapes with long-distance routes and scenic overlooks near Bari and Bitetto.
Hikes along the Gravina canyon with viewpoints and historic rock-cut structures.
Seaside walking along cliffs and beaches, with views of the Adriatic Sea.
Airports
How to reach Castellana Grotte by plane.
Primary international airport serving Bari and the Apulia region; about a 40–60 minute drive to Castellana Grotte, depending on traffic.
Smaller international airport serving Southern Apulia; about 90–120 minutes by car, with connections to major European cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Italian families and retirees, with a small number of seasonal workers and visitors.
Visitors use Castellana Grotte as a gateway to caves and the Puglian countryside.
Some locals work in tourism, agriculture, and small businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the region's most popular sport; local matches and events draw crowds in nearby towns.
The flat-to-rolling countryside around Castellana Grotte is ideal for long-distance rides.
The limestone landscape offers opportunities for light climbing and scrambling for experienced hikers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Castellana Grotte.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for plant-based dishes like orecchiette with rapa, burrata with tomatoes, grilled vegetables, and olive-oil dressings; ask for sauces free of meat stock and seek seasonal produce at markets.