Things To Do
in Statte

Statte is a small town in the Bari province of the Apulia region in southern Italy. It sits inland among olive groves and agricultural fields, offering a calm atmosphere away from the bustle of Bari. Its historic center features narrow lanes, whitewashed houses, and intimate local churches.

Visitors can enjoy rustic Italian life, easy day trips to the Adriatic coast, and authentic Apulian flavors in nearby trattorie.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Ruins and Castle
morning
:

Start at the archaeological site of Statte to wander among Messapian and Roman ruins where time-worn stones whisper ancient stories. Follow the narrow paths up to the medieval Castello di Statte for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Feel the morning sun warm the centuries-old walls as you imagine life in times long past.

afternoon
:

Stop for a leisurely lunch at a family-run trattoria serving orecchiette with fresh tomatoes and Pecorino cheese. Explore Statte’s historic center with its colorful facades and hidden courtyards. Pop into a local café for an afternoon espresso and a sweet pasticciotto.

evening
:

Dine in a cozy osteria under twinkling lights while sampling regional wines from Puglia’s vineyards. Take a post-dinner stroll through the lit-up streets to soak in the tranquil village ambiance. End the night at a small piazza where locals share stories and laughter over limoncello.

day 2
Coastal Discovery
morning
:

Drive to the nearby Ionian coast to feel the sea breeze on a secluded beach framed by rocky cliffs. Dip your toes into the crystal-clear water and collect smooth shells along the shore. Enjoy a seaside picnic of fresh focaccia, olives, and ripe figs.

afternoon
:

Join a guided kayak tour exploring hidden coves and sea caves along the shoreline. Keep an eye out for colorful fish and sea urchins beneath the water’s surface. Pause on a remote stretch of sand for a refreshing swim and sunbathe under the Mediterranean sun.

evening
:

Return to Statte for a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant in nearby Taranto, savoring grilled calamari and local mussels. Watch the sun sink below the horizon in hues of gold and rose. Finish with a gelato stroll along the marina as fishing boats bob gently in the harbor.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$1-2
🚌Public transport ticket$1-2
🏨Budget hotel night$60-100
🧀Local cheese or bakery item$4-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming, compact town with authentic Apulian atmosphere
  • Excellent access to Bari and the Adriatic coast
  • Delicious local cuisine and olive oil culture
  • Relaxed pace of life and scenic countryside
  • Limited nightlife within Statte itself
  • Smaller town infrastructure; some services require travel to Bari
  • Hot summers can be intense for outdoor plans
  • Occasional language barriers for non-Italians in rural areas
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Dov'è la stazione?" - Where is the station?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Grazie" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Statte

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Center Streets

Narrow lanes with whitewashed facades, flowering balconies, and rustic doors ideal for everyday life photography.

Chiesa Matrice di Statte

Principal church with a classic façade and atmospheric interiors for architectural shots.

Sunset over olive groves

Hillside vantage points where rows of ancient olive trees frame the sun as it sinks.

Culinary Guide

Food in Statte

Apulia’s cooking centers on olive oil, fresh vegetables, seafood on the coast, and simple, comforting dishes that honor seasonal produce.

Statte Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Orecchiette alle cime di rapa

D-shaped pasta with sautéed rapini greens, garlic, and chili.

Must-Try!

Burrata di Andria

Creamy burrata cheese served with tomatoes and crusty bread.

Pane di Altamura

DOP bread with a crusty exterior and soft interior, perfect for dips.

Taralli pugliesi

Crunchy, ring-shaped crackers flavored with fennel or wine.

Orecchiette con le cime di rape

Pasta with turnip greens, garlic, and olive oil.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Bari Centrale

Vibrant market in Bari offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and street snacks.

Mercato settimanale di Statte

Weekly market in town with seasonal fruit, vegetables, and local specialties.

Street food picks

Focaccia barese, panzerotti, and fresh focaccia served warm from bakeries and stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Statte enjoys a Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers with average highs in the upper 20s to low 30s Celsius and mild, wet winters with average lows around 5–7°C. Spring and autumn are pleasant, often offering sunny days with cool evenings. Rain is most common in autumn and winter, with drought periods possible in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A simple Buongiorno or Buonasera when entering shops; maintain polite, friendly conversation.

Religious sites

Dress modestly when visiting churches and remove hats where appropriate; avoid loud behavior.

Photography etiquette

Ask permission before photographing people in residential areas or private properties.

Safety Guide

Safety

Statte is generally safe for travelers. Pickpockets can target crowded areas, so keep valuables secure and be mindful in markets. Driving at night is usually safe, but rural roads can be poorly lit; use headlights and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night.

Tipping in Statte

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charges are usually included in restaurants; rounding up the bill or leaving small tips for good service is appreciated but not obligatory.

Payment methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in towns and shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry, with sea breezes cooling evenings. Pack water, sunscreen, and light clothing; schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Winter

Mild to cool, with rain possible. Layered clothing recommended; many outdoor sites remain open, but some hamlets may have limited services.

Nightlife Guide

Statte at Night

In Statte, nightlife is low-key, centered on family-friendly bars and piazzas. For a more vibrant scene, residents often head to Bari for aperitivo, live music, and evening strolls along the seafront. Expect relaxed atmospheres, with late dinners uncommon before 9–10 PM. Street-front cafes and gelaterias provide a warm social scene, especially on weekends.

Hiking in Statte

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pulo di Altamura (Altamura Crater)

Fascinating limestone crater near Altamura with easy trails and ample viewpoints.

Murgia Plateau viewpoints

Rugged limestone hills offering panoramic views and sunset photography near the Bari area.

Gravina in Puglia – Canneto Gorge

Scenic gorge with trails through rock formations and river banks.

Countryside walks around Statte

Gentle hikes through olive groves and farm lanes suitable for all levels.

Airports

How to reach Statte by plane.

Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (BRI)

International gateway near Bari, about 25–40 km from Statte; frequent connections to major European cities.

Brindisi – Salento Airport (BDS)

Alternative airline hub about 90–120 km from Statte, convenient for some destinations and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Statte’s historic center is walkable, with narrow pedestrian-friendly streets and compact distances between sights. A car is useful for exploring surrounding towns and countryside, but parking in the town center can be limited. For long trips, Bari is easily reachable by road or rail, and public transport connects to the coast.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are families with strong community ties; schools and local markets reflect family life.

Elderly

A sizable elderly population is common in small towns, with traditional social structures and quiet neighborhoods.

Commuters

Some residents commute to Bari for work, benefitting from regional rail and road connections.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Calcio (soccer)

The most popular sport; local clubs and youth teams train in nearby towns and compete regularly.

Cycling

Active cycling culture in the region with scenic routes in the Murgia and countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light within Statte, but Bari and surrounding towns can experience peak-hour congestion. Public buses connect Statte to Bari and nearby towns; driving in peak season requires patience due to limited parking in central areas. Parking in Bari can be challenging, so consider trains or buses for day trips to the coast.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Statte.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose vegetable-based dishes like orecchiette with rapa, grilled vegetables, and vegetarian antipasti; inform kitchens in advance and request olive oil-heavy meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available locally, with more extensive hospitals in Bari. Pharmacies are common throughout the town. For hospital care, go to Bari's public or private facilities; carry health insurance and a European Health Insurance Card if applicable.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide