Things To Do
in Castellaneta

Castellaneta is a charming town in the Puglia region of southern Italy, known for its stunning landscapes and historical architecture. It is famous for its beautiful ancient churches and a unique landscape that features limestone cliffs and ravines. The town has a rich cultural heritage, being the birthplace of the renowned actor Rodolfo Valentino.

Castellaneta offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Italian life, making it a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Castellaneta
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, followed by a stroll through the historic center to admire the ancient buildings.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, then visit the Museo Archeologico to learn about the area's rich archaeological history.

evening
:

Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the town, followed by a leisurely walk through the main square to enjoy the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Parco Naturale Regionale Terra delle Gravine, taking in the breathtaking views and unique flora.

afternoon
:

Return to Castellaneta for lunch, then visit a local food market to sample regional delicacies and interact with local vendors.

evening
:

End your trip with a traditional Puglian dinner at a family-run osteria, followed by a visit to a local bar for some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza Margherita$8
🍷Local Wine$6
Coffee$2
🍦Gelato$3
🥖Focaccia$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Beautiful natural surroundings
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Some attractions may have restricted hours in winter
  • Public transportation can be infrequent
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Il conto, per favore" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Castellaneta

Visit one of these nice places.

Castellaneta's Ancient Ruins

Capture the stunning remnants of ancient walls and churches that showcase the town's rich history.

Panoramic Viewpoints

Various viewpoints along the cliffs provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and coastline.

Historic Center

The charming streets and buildings of the historic center make for beautiful and timeless photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Castellaneta

Castellaneta offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the rich flavors of Puglia's traditional cuisine. Visitors can indulge in local dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, often complemented by the region's excellent wines.

Castellaneta Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa

A traditional pasta dish made with orecchiette (ear-shaped pasta) and sautéed turnip greens.

Must-Try!

Focaccia Barese

A thick, soft focaccia topped with tomatoes, olives, and rosemary, perfect as a snack or appetizer.

Panzerotti

Deep-fried pastries filled with cheese and tomato, a popular street food.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Castellaneta

A bustling market where visitors can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and cured meats.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the town offering panzerotti, gelato, and other local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Castellaneta experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures average around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Spring and autumn are characterized by pleasant temperatures and occasional rain, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and it is polite to greet shopkeepers.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to signal when to start eating, and keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites, and casual but neat attire is appropriate for dining out.

Safety Guide

Safety

Castellaneta is generally a safe town for visitors, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. It is also advisable to be cautious when swimming in unfamiliar waters.

Tipping in Castellaneta

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, but this is often included in the bill as a service charge.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is recommended for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to visit Castellaneta.

Summer

Hot and sunny weather attracts tourists to the beaches, but be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

A great time to enjoy local harvest festivals and pleasant weather.

Winter

Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists allow for a more peaceful experience, although some attractions may have limited hours.

Nightlife Guide

Castellaneta at Night

Castellaneta offers a relaxed nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and cafes that come alive in the evenings. Visitors can enjoy live music, especially during the summer months, and socializing with locals in the town's main square is a popular activity. There are also some dance clubs that cater to a younger crowd, but overall, the nightlife is more laid-back compared to larger cities.

Hiking in Castellaneta

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero del Parco delle Gravine

A beautiful hiking trail that winds through the Gravine Park, offering stunning views of the ravines and local wildlife.

Strada del Mare

This coastal trail provides a scenic hike along the shoreline, perfect for enjoying the sea breeze and picturesque views.

Airports

How to reach Castellaneta by plane.

Brindisi Airport (BDS)

Located approximately 80 km from Castellaneta, this airport offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Castellaneta is a compact town that is very walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance of each other. The historic center features narrow streets that are best explored on foot, allowing visitors to soak in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population primarily consists of Italian families who have lived in the area for generations, contributing to the town's rich cultural fabric.

Tourists

In the summer months, Castellaneta sees an influx of tourists from both Italy and abroad, drawn by its historical sites and beautiful beaches.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Castellaneta, with local clubs and community matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Cycling

With its scenic landscapes, cycling is a favored activity among locals, with many cycling clubs and events throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Castellaneta are generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses that connect to nearby towns, but schedules may vary, so planning ahead is advisable. Parking in the town is available, but it can be limited during peak tourist season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Castellaneta.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes are vegetarian-friendly, but it's recommended to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Some restaurants offer gluten-free alternatives; however, it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Castellaneta is generally good, with a local hospital and several clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical care. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor ailments and prescriptions.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide