Things To Do
in Altamura
Altamura is a charming historic town nestled in the Puglia region of southern Italy. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, particularly its uniquely designed octagonal cathedral. The town is renowned for its traditional bread-making heritage, producing the famous Pane di Altamura.
Altamura is also surrounded by picturesque countryside, with rolling hills and olive groves creating a beautiful backdrop for visitors to explore.
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Altamura Cathedral, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Take your time to admire the intricate details and learn about its history.
Visit the Museo Nazionale Archeologico, where you can explore artifacts dating back to the prehistoric era. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby trattoria to taste the local cuisine.
Stroll through the charming old town and enjoy the picturesque streets. Find a cozy café for some gelato as you soak in the atmosphere.
Start with a visit to a local bakery renowned for its Altamura bread. Watch the artisans at work and learn about the traditional baking methods.
Join a bread tasting tour to sample different varieties and pair them with local cheeses. Take a moment to relax in a nearby park to digest your culinary delights.
Head to a restaurant that specializes in local dishes featuring Altamura bread. Savor a hearty dinner while enjoying the company of locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, with notable landmarks such as the Cathedral of Altamura and ancient ruins.
- Famous for traditional Altamura bread, made with high-quality local durum wheat.
- Charming old town with narrow streets and beautiful architecture.
- Close proximity to natural parks and the stunning landscapes of Puglia.
- A strong sense of community and local traditions that enhance the living experience.
- Limited public transportation options may make it difficult to travel to neighboring cities.
- Smaller town size may result in fewer entertainment and shopping options compared to larger cities.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to fluctuations in local business activity.
- Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some visitors and residents.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors beyond tourism and agriculture.
Best Activities in Altamura
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A great opportunity to enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and countless outdoor activities within this beautiful natural park.
Explore the unique and ancient cave churches featuring stunning frescoes and a rich cultural history.
Rent a bike and enjoy the picturesque countryside and charming villages surrounding Altamura.
Tours
Uncover the best of Altamura with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Altamura
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and offers a stunning view of the city.
Impressive geological formation with a breathtaking view over the surrounding landscape.
Captures the essence of Altamura with its charming surroundings and historic architecture, perfect for photos.
Food in Altamura
Altamura Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bread with a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, known for its crunchy crust and soft, fragrant interior. It's available in numerous bakeries across Altamura, with Pane di Altamura DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) being a must-try.
Must-Try!
Orecchiette pasta served with a delightful combination of turnip tops, garlic, chili, and pecorino cheese. Try this classic dish at Trattoria dell'Orologio, a local favorite.
Creamy and indulgent, this cheese is a must-try in Altamura. Enjoy it at Caseificio Palazzo, a renowned dairy shop in the town.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Altamura better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Altamura, this covered market offers an array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local specialties. It's a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the vibrant food culture of the town.
Indulge in the delectable local focaccia, a savory flatbread topped with tomatoes, olives, and fragrant oregano, at the stand in Piazza Duomo.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Altamura, it is important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Addressing people with their titles and surnames is also customary, especially in formal settings.
When dining in Altamura, it is polite to wait for the host or the eldest person to start eating before you begin. It's also customary to keep your hands above the table and refrain from resting your elbows on it.
Respecting local traditions and customs, such as religious processions or festivals, is highly valued in Altamura. Visitors are encouraged to participate respectfully or observe these traditions without causing any disruption.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Altamura with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Altamura
Ensure a smooth experience
In Altamura, Italy, tipping is not generally expected or required in restaurants, cafes, or bars, as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is appreciated to leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation.
In Altamura, Italy, cash is widely used for making payments, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also accepted in many places, especially in larger businesses and tourist areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Altamura.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Altamura as the weather is mild and the countryside is blooming with flowers. The town comes alive with outdoor events and festivals, and it's a good time for hiking and exploring the surrounding nature.
Summer in Altamura can be hot, but it's also a popular time to visit for its vibrant atmosphere. You can enjoy the outdoor cafes, local markets, and the lively street scenes. It's a great time for outdoor dining and enjoying the local cuisine.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and the harvest season. It's a good time to experience the local food and wine festivals, as well as enjoy the changing colors of the countryside. There's a more laid-back vibe in the town during this time.
Winter in Altamura can be cold and quiet, but it's a great time to experience the Christmas markets and traditional holiday celebrations. The town is less crowded, and it's a good time for exploring the historic sites and cozying up in local cafes.
Altamura at Night
Hiking in Altamura
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park offering picturesque hiking trails through unique limestone terrain, rich flora and fauna, and stunning panoramic views.
This trail runs along the Gravine di Matera, providing breathtaking views and opportunities to explore caves and ancient settlements.
A scenic trail known for its diverse landscapes, including olive groves and rocky ridges, perfect for day hikes and nature walks.
Located a bit further from Altamura, Monte Vulture offers various trails with beautiful views, volcanic landscapes, and lush greenery.
This area features caves, rich in history and geology, with trails that lead through impressive rock formations and natural wonders.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Altamura through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Altamura by plane.
The main international airport serving Bari, located approximately 45 km from Altamura.
An international airport located about 80 km from Altamura, serving the city of Brindisi.
Located approximately 240 km from Altamura, this is a major airport serving the city of Naples.
A smaller international airport located about 120 km from Altamura, primarily serving Foggia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Altamura, primarily consisting of native Italians.
Includes various groups such as Romanians, Albanians, and North Africans who have settled in Altamura.
A significant portion of the demographic is made up of older adults, reflecting wider trends in rural Italian areas.
Representing a growing segment, these families often are drawn to the area for its quality of life.
Those attending local educational institutions, including higher education centers.
The Soul of Altamura
Discover the essence of Altamura through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Altamura, with local clubs and matches drawing significant community interest.
Basketball enjoys a strong following in Altamura, with various teams participating in regional leagues and youth programs.
Volleyball is also popular, with clubs offering training and competitive opportunities for both men and women.
Cycling is a favored activity, both recreationally and competitively, given the scenic routes around Altamura.
Athletics, including track and field events, is promoted through local sports clubs and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Altamura.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Altamura's cuisine leans heavily on its rich tradition of cheeses and meats, many restaurants offer excellent vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as grilled vegetables, fresh salads, and pasta with tomato-based sauces.
Although traditional Altamura cuisine prominently features bread and pasta, an increasing number of eateries in the town now offer gluten-free alternatives, ensuring that those adhering to a gluten-free diet can still enjoy the local flavors.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Altamura with these cultural adventures.
