Things To Do
in Margherita di Savoia

Margherita di Savoia is a sun-kissed coastal town in Apulia famed for its expansive salt flats and long sandy beaches. The town sits along the Adriatic Sea, offering a relaxed pace, seaside promenades, and easy day trips to Barletta and Trani. The Deserto di Margherita di Savoia salt pans create a surreal, reflective landscape that draws photographers at sunrise and sunset.

With fresh seafood, olive oil-rich cuisine, and a welcoming local vibe, it’s a great base for exploring southern Italy’s quieter side.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Relaxation
morning
:

Arrive in Margherita di Savoia and settle into your charming accommodations, soaking in the coastal ambiance. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to unwind from your travels, with the sound of waves gently lapping at the shore. Enjoy a fresh Italian breakfast at a local café, sampling pastries and robust coffee.

afternoon
:

Explore the town’s shops and boutiques, discovering unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts. Visit the nearby salt pans, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to learn about the traditional salt harvesting methods still in use today. Enjoy a light lunch featuring local seafood delicacies at one of the seaside restaurants.

evening
:

Unwind with a seaside dinner as the sun sets over the Adriatic, casting a golden hue across the sky. Savor authentic Apulian cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients, paired with a glass of fruity local wine. After dinner, take a relaxing promenade along the beach, enjoying the soft evening breeze.

day 2
Cultural Exploration
morning
:

After breakfast, visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a beautiful example of local architecture. Spend time admiring the intricate frescoes and the historical significance of this charming church. Take a moment for reflection in the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred space.

afternoon
:

Head towards the nearby Archaeological Park where you can explore ancient ruins and learn about the rich history of the area. Engage with local guides who can share fascinating stories about Margherita di Savoia's past. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the ruins while surrounded by scenic views.

evening
:

Return to town and indulge in a leisurely dinner at a local trattoria, where you can savor traditional dishes like orecchiette pasta. Engage with locals as you share stories and laughter over the communal dining experience. Enjoy the warm atmosphere as the night unfolds with live music performances in the town square.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Cappuccino or espresso$1.5-3
🚌Public transport day pass$4-6
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$70-120
🚕Taxi ride within town$6-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning salt flats and coastal scenery
  • Relaxed pace and friendly locals
  • Excellent seafood and rustic Apulian cuisine
  • Short trips to Barletta and Trani for history and culture
  • Strong walking and cycling routes along the coast
  • Limited nightlife within the town itself
  • Some attractions require a car for easy access
  • Seasonal crowds during peak summer months
  • Direct international flights are limited; needs transfer
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "" - Yes
  • "No" - No

Places to Visit in Margherita di Savoia

Visit one of these nice places.

Deserto di Margherita di Savoia Salt Flats

Vast white pans reflecting sky colors at sunrise and sunset; a surreal landscape ideal for wide-angle and reflection shots.

Lungomare Adriatico

Long seafront promenade with palm-lined views, soft sands, and pastel sunsets over the Adriatic.

Salt Pan Boardwalk at Dawn

A gentle boardwalk around the flats provides silhouettes of birds and glistening water in the early light.

Barletta Castle and Sea Views

A short trip north offers medieval castle vantage points with the sea beyond for dramatic coastal photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Margherita di Savoia

Apulia’s cuisine highlights vibrant olive oil, seafood from the Adriatic, and rustic breads like friselle. Fresh produce, regional cheeses, and simple, flavorful preparations define meals here. Pair dishes with local wines such as Primitivo or Bombino Nero for a complete Puglian experience.

Margherita di Savoia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Orecchiette con cime di rapa

Pasta with turnip greens and garlic; a staple of the region, often available in trattorie nearby.

Must-Try!

Friselle con pomodoro e olio d’oliva

Friselle or bread crisps topped with ripe tomatoes and extra-virgin olive oil; a classic seaside snack.

Burrata

Creamy fresh cheese typically served with tomatoes, olive oil, and bread; find it in local delis and eateries.

Focaccia Barese

Soft, olive-oil-rich focaccia from nearby Bari; a common accompaniment to meals.

Taralli

Crunchy ring-shaped biscuits available in variety of flavors; perfect as a snack or with wine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato Locale

Weekly market in the town center offering fresh seafood, vegetables, cheeses, and bread; great for sampling local produce.

Street Food Stands

Seasonal stalls along the promenade serving fritti, panzerotti, and local snacks; ideal for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer highs hover in the upper 20s to mid-30s Celsius, while winter temperatures typically range from 5-12°C. Spring and autumn are comfortable for outdoor activities, with sea temperatures warming into late spring. Rain is most likely in the autumn and winter months, with sunnier periods in late spring and early autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and mealtimes

A cordial greeting like Buongiorno is appreciated; meals typically start around 1 PM for lunch and after 7:30 PM for dinner.

Religious and cultural sites

Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly in sacred spaces; seasonal festivals may have specific etiquette.

Tipping and service

Service may be included in the bill or left as a small extra; local hospitality is warm, and people often linger to chat after meals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Margherita di Savoia is generally safe for travelers, with typical city-level caution advised in crowded areas and at night. Keep an eye on belongings in busy spots and be cautious near water and salt flats where footing can be uneven. When driving, follow local traffic rules and be aware of seasonal beach traffic in peak months. Healthcare facilities are accessible in Barletta and Bari if needed.

Tipping in Margherita di Savoia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated but not always required; rounding up or a 5-10% allowance at nicer restaurants is common practice.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, while credit/debit cards are common in restaurants and shops; smaller establishments may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Moderate temperatures and blooming coastal vegetation; ideal for walking tours and photography without the heat of summer.

Summer

Hot and sunny with long days; beaches, salt flats, and open-air events draw crowds. Stay hydrated and use sun protection.

Autumn

Pleasant weather with cooler evenings; great for coastal hikes and less crowded markets.

Winter

Mild to cool with occasional rain; some seaside facilities may close; a good time for quieter museum and culinary experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Margherita di Savoia at Night

Nightlife in Margherita di Savoia is relaxed and small-scale, focused on seaside bars, gelaterias, and late walks along the promenade. In nearby Barletta or Trani, you’ll find more options for live music, small clubs, and wine bars, especially on summer weekends. Expect a laid-back vibe with opportunities to enjoy fresh seafood, local wines, and sunset views rather than bustling party scenes.

Hiking in Margherita di Savoia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Salt Flats Boardwalk Trail

Easy, scenic loop around the salt pans suitable for all ages; best at sunrise or sunset.

Foresta Umbra (Gargano National Park) – various trails

A bit farther away, but provides shaded forest hikes with lush scenery and wildlife.

Coastal Trail to Barletta

A moderate coastal hike with sea views, passing small coves and fishing villages.

Airports

How to reach Margherita di Savoia by plane.

Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (BRI)

Major international gateway for the region; connects to many European cities and offers rail or road links to Margherita di Savoia.

Brindisi – Salento Airport (BDS)

Smaller coastal airport with seasonal and some international routes; drive or train connections to the coast.

Naples International (Capodichino) (NAP)

A longer transfer, but an option for broader connections; typically requires a train or rental car to reach the Apulia coast.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center and promenade are highly walkable, with most sights reachable on foot. Longer beach segments and salt flats may require a short drive or bike ride. Public pathways along the coast provide pleasant routes for pedestrians and runners.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Relaxed seaside atmosphere with kid-friendly beaches and promenades.

Couples and skippers

Romantic sunsets, quiet beaches, and seafood dining options.

Older travelers

Accessible waterfront walks, slower pace, and nearby day trips to historic towns.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Calcio)

Locally popular; matches and viewing at nearby stadiums or bars when schedules align.

Beach Volleyball

Common along the coast in summer on designated play areas near the promenade.

Cycling

Flat coastal routes and gentle inland lanes make for easy, scenic rides.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light outside peak beach hours. Summer weekends can bring congestion along the coast and in town center near markets and beaches. Rail connections to nearby towns (Barletta, Trani) are convenient alternatives to driving.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Margherita di Savoia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Navigate by choosing vegetable-forward dishes, filesystem of burrata and tomato salads, friselle, orecchiette with rapa, and olive-oil-based sides; most restaurants are accommodating with cheese and vegetable options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Italy’s public healthcare system provides access to general practitioners and hospitals in Barletta and Bari. Pharmacies are common in town, and private clinics are available in larger nearby cities. Carry your European Health Insurance Card if you are an EU visitor and have travel insurance for any private services.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide