Things To Do
in Ostuni
Perched on a limestone hill above the olive groves of the Valle d'Itria, Ostuni is a striking blend of history and sea air. Its historic center, known as the Città Bianca, is a maze of whitewashed houses, sunlit stairways, and panoramic terraces. The town overlooks the Adriatic Sea and serves as a gateway to the trulli towns, beaches, and rural produce of Puglia.
Visitors come for the views, the cuisine, and the slow, sun-soaked pace of life in this iconic Apulian town.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Brindisi Airport and take a scenic drive to Ostuni, known as the 'White City' for its whitewashed buildings. Settle into your charming accommodation and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Spend the morning exploring the narrow streets, soaking in the sun and the unique architecture.
Have lunch at a local trattoria and savor traditional Apulian dishes, including homemade orecchiette pasta. Afterward, visit the Ostuni Cathedral, a breathtaking structure with a stunning Gothic facade. Stroll around the Piazza della Libertà, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and views of the valley.
As the sun sets, head to one of the many rooftop bars to enjoy an aperitivo with a panoramic view of the landscape. Afterward, dine at a restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood dishes, perhaps trying the local catch of the day. End the night with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation under the starry sky.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, perhaps trying a cornetto filled with cream. Spend the morning wandering through the winding alleyways of Ostuni's historical center, taking in its charming shops and art galleries. Don't miss the chance to visit the beautiful Church of San Francesco.
For lunch, grab a panino from a local deli and picnic in one of the town's serene squares. Spend your afternoon visiting the Museo di Preistoria, where you can discover the area’s ancient history. A stop at a local artisan shop could yield wonderful pottery or textiles.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up and prepare for dinner. Enjoy a meal at a family-owned restaurant and ask for their daily specials to truly experience local flavors. Spend your night joining in on a traditional folk music performance if available, immersing yourself in the culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $6-10 |
| 🥖Bakery item or loaf | $2-4 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $2-4 |
| 🧀Local cheese plate | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning white-washed architecture and scenic coastal views
- Delicious regional cuisine and wines
- Hilly streets can be tiring to navigate
- Peak season crowds and higher prices in summer
- "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
Places to Visit in Ostuni
Visit one of these nice places.
White-washed stairways and winding lanes with views over olive groves and the Adriatic.
Baroque square framed by pale stone and fountains, ideal for evening photography.
Panoramic overlooks where the town meets the coastline—perfect for sunset shots.
Iconic staircases bordered by jasmine and bougainvillea, offering dramatic compositions.
Food in Ostuni
Ostuni Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Puglian pasta with turnip tops, garlic, and olive oil; a regional staple often found in Ostuni’s trattorias.
Must-Try!
Crispy friselle topped with ripe tomatoes, oregano, olive oil, and salt; a perfect light lunch or snack.
Creamy burrata served with ripe tomatoes and crusty Altamura bread, showcasing local dairy and bread-making traditions.
A hearty, rustic sandwich made on a soft, round bread filled with cheese, cured meat, or vegetables.
A regional cured meat typically enjoyed with bread and cheese, often paired with a glass of red wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and regional specialties; a great place to taste local ingredients.
Street-food vendors selling friselle, puccia, taralli, seasonal fruit, and snacks alongside the main square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera'; use polite forms with elders and in shops.
Dress modestly; speak softly and be respectful in sacred spaces.
Eat leisurely and savor meals; gelato and coffee are often enjoyed standing or seated; take time to enjoy the company.
Safety
Tipping in Ostuni
Ensure a smooth experience
Gratuities are appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5–10% in nicer venues is common.
Cash is widely accepted; many places accept cards and contactless payments; some small markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with sea breezes; beaches fill up; hydrate, wear sunscreen, and dine early to avoid heat.
Milder temperatures and harvest season; fewer crowds and great lighting for photography and food markets.
Cool but rarely freezing; some attractions may close earlier; cozy trattorias and cafe culture thrive.
Blooming landscapes and pleasant temperatures; ideal for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Ostuni at Night
Hiking in Ostuni
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling hills, olive groves, and panoramic viewpoints.
Cliffside trails and sea views along the Adriatic coast.
Forest routes with wildlife and diverse flora.
Airports
How to reach Ostuni by plane.
Closest international airport; about a 40–60 minute drive to Ostuni; taxis and rental cars available.
Larger international hub; about 1.5–2 hours by car or train; more flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly families and older residents in the old town; vibrant community life with seasonal workers and artisans.
Global visitors drawn to white-washed streets, beaches, and cuisine.
Growing number of residents from other parts of Italy and Europe seeking Mediterranean living.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local matches and clubs accessible in nearby towns.
Flat and hilly routes through Valle d’Itria and along the coast; road bikes and scenic tours.
Swimming, snorkeling, and beach volleyball along the Adriatic coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ostuni.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are vegetable-forward; look for orecchiette with cime di rapa or tomato and burrata options; ask for vegetarian options and confirm no meat broths or anchovies in broths.