Things To Do
in Barletta
Barletta is a historic Adriatic town in Puglia, Italy, famed for its breezy seafront, medieval and Renaissance architecture, and a lively fishing heritage. Centered around the Baroque and medieval core, the town houses the imposing Svevo Castle and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore, telling centuries of history. Stroll along the long, palm-lined Lungomare or wander the narrow alleys of the old town to savor a sense of southern Italian charm.
Barletta serves as a convenient base for exploring northern Apulia, with easy rail links to Bari and other coastal gems while offering a relaxed, authentic Italian experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Barletta and settle into your chosen accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll to the historic city center to absorb the vibrant atmosphere. Grab a coffee and pastry at a local café to kickstart your Italian adventure.
Visit the majestic Castello Svevo, a 12th-century castle that provides insights into the city's rich history. After exploring the castle, wander through the charming streets, stopping by artisan shops and markets. Enjoy a light lunch featuring local specialties at a trattoria nearby.
As the sun sets, make your way to the waterfront promenade for stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Choose a restaurant with outdoor seating to savor a traditional Apulian dinner. Conclude your day with a gelato while walking through the lively squares.
Start your day with a visit to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, renowned for its stunning architecture and artworks. Spend some time admiring the intricate details and learning about its significance in Barletta's history. Afterwards, enjoy breakfast at a local bakery, sampling fresh focaccia.
Head to the Palazzo D'Avalos, which houses a rich collection of art and exhibits that showcase the cultural heritage of the region. Explore the artistic displays and take a guided tour to deepen your understanding of the local craftsmanship. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a nearby piazza, mingling with locals and soaking in the atmosphere.
Attend a performance at the Teatro Curci, an elegant venue that hosts a variety of shows from opera to ballet. Immerse yourself in the cultural scene of Barletta as you enjoy a night of entertainment. After the show, dine at a nearby osteria, savoring regional dishes paired with local wines.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨Hotel (1 night, mid-range) | $70-120 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (local) | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.5-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and coastline in one stroll
- Excellent seafood and olive‑oil cuisine
- Compact, walkable historic center and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some sites require a short drive to reach
- Seasonal crowds in summer can raise prices
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è la stazione?" - Where is the station?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due, per favore." - I’d like a table for two, please.
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Barletta
Visit one of these nice places.
A well-preserved medieval castle with towers and a moat, offering dramatic exterior shots and atmospheric interior glimpses.
Impressive cathedral facade and serene interior, ideal for architectural photography and interior alures.
Stretch of the Adriatic coastline with palm trees, promenades, and sea‑view horizons—great for sunset photography.
Ancient battlefield site located just outside Barletta, offering a sense of history and open landscapes.
Cobbled streets, arcades, and charming façades provide classic Italian town photography opportunities.
Food in Barletta
Barletta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The signature Apulian pasta with turnip tops, garlic, olive oil, and chili, often found in trattorie around the old town.
Must-Try!
Crispy friselle topped with ripe tomatoes, olive oil, and a pinch of salt—perfect as a light starter or snack.
Crunchy, savory rings flavored with fennel or olive oil, ideal with a glass of wine or as a snack while exploring.
Freshly baked fish or seafood dishes, showcasing the Adriatic bounty and simple, flavorful preparation.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning markets around the historic center offer produce, seafood, cheeses, and local specialties; great for tasting and picking up picnic fixings.
Try panzerotti (fried stuffed pastries), friselle, and fresh seafood bites from stalls near the waterfront during warm evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'buongiorno' (good morning) or 'buonasera' (good evening). A handshake is common; closer friends may greet with a cheek kiss in informal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; speak softly inside churches.
Meals are relaxed; wait to be seated, say please and thank you, and avoid rushing to the bill. Dining is often a social, lingering experience.
Safety
Tipping in Barletta
Ensure a smooth experience
A service charge (servizio) may be included on restaurant bills; if not, rounding up or leaving small tips (about 1–2 euros per person for casual service, 5–10% for standout service) is appreciated but not obligatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash is handy for market stalls and smaller venues. Contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with sea breezes; expect crowds around the beaches and promenade. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and seek shade in the late afternoon.
Pleasant temperatures ideal for walking tours and outdoor dining; gardens and terraces come alive with flowers.
Comfortable days with cooler evenings; wine and food festivals begin, offering seasonal tastings and cultural events.
Milder coastal winters; some inland attractions may have limited hours. Great for museum visits and relaxed street photography without crowds.
Barletta at Night
Hiking in Barletta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal dune trails with sea views and accessible paths suitable for easy hikes.
Dense forests with longer hiking trails in the Gargano massif; reachable by car for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Barletta by plane.
Main international gateway for Barletta; about 60–100 km by road, with frequent connections to major European cities.
Smaller regional airport; about 90–150 km by road, useful for some southern routes and domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Italian with a mix of ages; strong sense of community in neighborhoods and markets.
Seasonal visitors from Italy and Europe attracted by beaches, history, and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local matches and club culture draw weekend crowds.
Coastal and rural routes are popular for day trips, training, and scenic rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barletta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in osterie and trattorie—pasta with tomato and olive oil, friselle, grilled vegetables, burrata salads, and plenty of cheese-friendly dishes. When ordering, ask for 'senza carne' (no meat) and request olive oil-based sauces.