Things To Do
in Altamura

Use polite greetings ("Buongiorno/Buonasera") and address older people with formal pronouns ("Signore/Signora") unless invited to be informal.

Dress modestly when entering churches (shoulders and knees covered). In general, smart-casual attire is common for evenings out.

Meals are relaxed and social — plan for longer lunches and late dinners, and expect a mid-afternoon riposo where some shops close.

Be mindful during religious festivals and processions; follow local cues, and ask before photographing people up close.

Tipping is modest in Italy: leave small change for good service or round up the bill; 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants but not obligatory. For café service, omit tips for quick standing coffees; leave a euro or two for table service.

Cash (euros) remains widely used — carry some for markets, bakeries and small shops. Credit/debit cards are accepted at most restaurants and hotels; contactless payments are increasingly common. Inform your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.

Mild temperatures, blooming countryside and ideal conditions for hiking and outdoor dining. Spring festivals and market produce make it a delightful time to visit; bring light layers for cool mornings.

Hot and dry, particularly July–August; mornings and evenings are best for walking, with midday spent in shade or air-conditioned spaces. Expect local vacation rhythms (some shops close for afternoon riposo) and lively evening socializing.

Harvest season for olives and grapes brings cooler weather, food festivals and excellent fresh produce. Comfortable for outdoor activities and photography with warmer light and fewer tourists.

Cooler, occasionally rainy and windy; snow is rare but possible on the higher Murgia plateau. Lower tourist numbers mean quieter museums and better local prices; pack a warm jacket for evenings.

Approx. 40–60 minutes by car from Altamura; the main international gateway for Puglia with rental cars, buses and train connections to Bari city and onward regional buses to Altamura.

About 1.5–2 hours by car; useful for some international and low-cost carriers, with car rental and bus connections to the region.

Predominantly native families and older generations who maintain traditional trades, agriculture and local businesses.

Younger people often commute to Bari or nearby cities for work or study; small student and young professional communities add contemporary cafés and bars.

Small populations of immigrant workers from Eastern Europe, North Africa and elsewhere contribute to the local economy, particularly in agriculture and services.

Seasonal influx of domestic and international visitors attracted by food, architecture and proximity to Matera and Bari.

Vegetarian options are generally easy to find: vegetable-based pasta (cime di rapa, tomato sauces), breads, cheese plates and salads. Ask for no anchovies in sauces and request cheese-only antipasti; many trattorie will accommodate with prior notice.

More limited but manageable — simple pasta with tomato, grilled vegetables, legumes and salads are available. Carry basic snacks and identify markets for fresh fruit, vegetables and olive oil.

Traditional cuisine is wheat-heavy, but many restaurants can prepare gluten-free pasta or dishes on request; look for modern eateries and indicate your needs clearly ("senza glutine").

Inform staff about allergies in Italian where possible (e.g., "Sono allergico a..."), and beware cross-contact in bakeries and kitchens that use lots of wheat, nuts and dairy.