Things To Do
in Martano

Martano is a charming town located in the heart of the Salento region of Puglia, Italy. Renowned for its historic architecture, particularly its beautiful Baroque churches, the town offers a glimpse into traditional Italian life. Surrounded by stunning countryside and close to the Adriatic coast, Martano is a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the area.

The warm, welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural heritage make it a delightful destination for travelers seeking authenticity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Martano
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the historic center, visiting the Church of Saint John the Baptist and enjoying a coffee at a local café.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the nearby olive groves and take a guided tour of a local olive oil mill to learn about the production process.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional trattoria, sampling local cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk to admire the sunset over the countryside.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trips and Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Take a short drive to the coastal town of Otranto, explore its stunning beaches and historic castle.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby town of Lecce, known for its baroque architecture, and enjoy some shopping in the artisan boutiques.

evening
:

Return to Martano for a wine tasting experience at a local vineyard, followed by dinner featuring regional specialties.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8
Coffee$2
🍷Local Wine$10
🥗Salad$6
🍰Dessert$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine and wines
  • Stunning natural landscapes and beaches
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation options may be limited
  • Some attractions may require a car to access
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Martano

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza del Popolo

The main square in Martano, surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of local life.

Church of San Giovanni Battista

This stunning Baroque church features intricate architecture and is a beautiful backdrop for photographs.

Olive Groves at Sunset

The surrounding olive groves provide a picturesque setting, especially during the golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Martano

Martano is a culinary haven where traditional Puglian flavors come to life. With a focus on fresh, local ingredients and time-honored recipes, the town offers a delightful array of dishes that capture the essence of the region.

Martano Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Orecchiette alle cime di rapa

A classic Puglian dish made with ear-shaped pasta and turnip tops, usually seasoned with garlic and olive oil.

Must-Try!

Focaccia

A thick, oven-baked bread topped with olive oil, herbs, and sometimes other ingredients like tomatoes or olives.

Pasticciotto

A sweet pastry filled with custard, often enjoyed as a dessert or snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Martano Market

Held weekly, this market showcases fresh produce, local cheeses, and other artisanal products.

Street Food Stalls

Explore various stalls offering local street foods like panzerotti, deep-fried pastries filled with cheese and tomato.

Climate Guide

Weather

Martano experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures reach around 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures hover around 10°C (50°F). Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities, with spring rains helping to keep the landscape lush.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a warm greeting is customary when meeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for the host to start the meal before digging in.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; casual but neat attire is generally acceptable.

Safety Guide

Safety

Martano is generally a safe destination for travelers. Standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night are advised. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Martano

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.

Summer

Summer is warm and bustling with tourists, perfect for beach activities and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Autumn offers pleasant weather and the grape harvest, with opportunities for wine tastings.

Winter

Winter is cooler and quieter, but still charming, with festive decorations and local Christmas markets.

Nightlife Guide

Martano at Night

Martano has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few bars and wine taverns where locals gather to enjoy drinks and socialize. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, often featuring live music or local events on weekends. While it may not be as vibrant as larger cities, the charm lies in its intimate settings and community vibe.

Hiking in Martano

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gargano National Park

A bit further afield, this park offers diverse landscapes and hiking trails, including coastal paths and forested areas.

Lama Monachile

A scenic trail that leads to stunning sea views, perfect for a day hike with opportunities for swimming.

Airports

How to reach Martano by plane.

Brindisi Airport (BDS)

Located about 70 kilometers from Martano, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Martano is a highly walkable town, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance of one another. The historic center is pedestrian-friendly, and leisurely strolls through its picturesque streets are encouraged. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Martano's population consists of local Italians, who are known for their hospitality and strong community ties.

Tourists

In the summer months, the town sees an influx of tourists looking to experience the culture, food, and natural beauty of the Salento region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in the region, with local teams playing in various leagues and community events.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, with numerous trails and scenic routes attracting both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Martano is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. The town's narrow streets can become congested during peak tourist season, but walking is the best way to navigate. Public transportation options include local buses connecting Martano to nearby towns, though having a car can offer more flexibility for exploring the region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Martano.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many traditional dishes are vegetarian-friendly, but it's advisable to specify dietary needs to the restaurant staff.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional pasta is not gluten-free, some restaurants offer alternatives, and local markets have gluten-free products.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Martano is accessible through local clinics and hospitals in nearby towns. Emergency services are reliable, and the region has a good network of healthcare providers, including pharmacies. Visitors should ensure they have appropriate travel insurance to cover any medical needs.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide