Things To Do
in Taranto
Taranto, a coastal city in southern Italy, is known for its historic old town with narrow streets and ancient architecture. The city boasts a beautiful waterfront area overlooking the Ionian Sea, with sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Taranto is home to important archaeological sites such as the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Taras.
The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and traditional festivals throughout the year.
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the stunning Aragonese Castle, where you can explore its ancient walls and enjoy picturesque views of the sea. Grab a coffee at a nearby café to soak in the local atmosphere.
Head to the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto to uncover the rich history and artifacts from ancient Greece and Rome. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming old town streets.
Dine at a traditional seafood restaurant along the waterfront to savor fresh catches of the day. Enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the Lungomare, admiring the sunset over the harbor.
Start your morning at the Cathedral of San Cataldo, a stunning example of Apulian Romanesque architecture. Take time to appreciate its beautiful frescoes and serene ambiance.
Visit the local artisan shops in the historic center to pick up unique souvenirs. Enjoy a light lunch at a trattoria, sampling local pasta dishes.
Experience the vibrant local nightlife by visiting Piazza della Vittoria, where you can enjoy live music and social gatherings. Try a gelato from a nearby shop for a sweet treat.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with ancient sites and museums.
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches, ideal for relaxation and recreation.
- Delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood and traditional Apulian dishes.
- Strategic location in Southern Italy, close to other tourist destinations like Matera and Alberobello.
- Vibrant local festivals and events, showcasing local traditions and culture.
- High levels of industrial pollution affecting air and water quality.
- Economic challenges, including high unemployment rates.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may suffer from urban decay and lack of infrastructure maintenance.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to overcrowding during peak months.
Best Activities in Taranto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the small and picturesque Mar Piccolo, a natural harbor with beautiful views and opportunities for boating and fishing.
Enjoy the scenic beaches along the Ionian coast, including Taranto Lido, San Vito, and more, offering sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Wander through the historic Old Town, where you can discover medieval architecture, charming streets, and traditional local shops and cafes.
Discover the impressive Aragonese Castle, a historic fortress offering stunning views of the city and the sea, as well as interesting exhibitions and events.
Tours
Uncover the best of Taranto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Taranto
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers picturesque views of historic buildings and the harbor.
Bridge with panoramic views of the Mar Piccolo and Mar Grande, perfect for photography.
Medieval castle with stunning views of the city and the sea.
Food in Taranto
Taranto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ear-shaped pasta served with a savory sauce of turnip tops, garlic, and chili. Best enjoyed at Trattoria da Zia Cesira.
Must-Try!
A delightful mix of fried small fish and seafood, often served at coastal restaurants like Ristorante La Vecchia Taranto by the seafront.
Sea urchins enjoyed fresh at seafood eateries like Ristorante Al Faro.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Taranto better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this bustling fish market on Via Cialdini to appreciate the fresh catch and possibly enjoy some delectable street food such as fried calamari and seafood arancini.
A vibrant open-air market where you can pick up fresh produce, local cheeses, and olives. Sample some of the market’s street food offerings like panzerotti, a delicious stuffed pastry.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Taranto, it is common to greet friends and acquaintances with a kiss on each cheek. This is a gesture of warmth and friendliness and is considered a polite and respectful way to greet someone.
Taranto has a strong religious tradition, and it is important to show respect for religious customs and practices. Visitors should be mindful of local religious events and traditions, and be respectful when visiting churches and other religious sites.
When dining in Taranto, it is important to observe traditional Italian dining etiquette. This includes waiting for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and using utensils rather than eating with hands. It is also customary to express appreciation for the meal to the host or chef.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Taranto with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Taranto
Ensure a smooth experience
In Taranto, Italy, tipping is not as common as it is in some other countries. It is not expected to tip at restaurants or cafes, as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is appreciated to leave some small change as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
In Taranto, Italy, cash is still widely used for payments, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also accepted in most places, particularly in larger shops and restaurants. It's always good to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or in more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Taranto.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers
Peak tourist season with hot weather and crowded beaches
Milder temperatures and fewer tourists, ideal for sightseeing
Mild and wet weather, fewer tourists, good for experiencing local life
Taranto at Night
Hiking in Taranto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park in the Apulia region offering a variety of hiking trails through forests, along coastlines, and through traditional villages.
A scenic coastal area with trails that follow the ancient fishing huts known as 'trabocchi', providing beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.
A regional park featuring unique limestone landscapes, hiking paths, and rich biodiversity, ideal for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
This trail, known as the 'Path of the Gods', is not too far from Taranto and offers breathtaking views and a challenging hiking experience.
A hike to the top of Monte Sannace offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas, along with a chance to explore historical ruins.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Taranto through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Taranto by plane.
The main airport serving Bari and the surrounding region, located approximately 80 kilometers from Taranto.
Also known as Brindisi Casale Airport, it is located about 40 kilometers from Taranto, serving both domestic and international flights.
The main airport serving Naples, located approximately 240 kilometers from Taranto, with numerous international connections.
Located in Rome, approximately 400 kilometers from Taranto, it is one of the largest international airports in Italy.
Located in Calabria, about 250 kilometers from Taranto, serving both domestic and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Taranto, consisting of citizens who hold Italian nationality.
Includes immigrants from various countries, contributing to the cultural diversity in Taranto.
A significant portion of the population is elderly, reflecting broader trends in aging demographics across Italy.
Young people, including students and young professionals, making up a vital part of the city's social fabric.
The younger demographic group, consisting of school-age children and teenagers.
The Soul of Taranto
Discover the essence of Taranto through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Taranto, with a rich history and a passionate fan base, particularly surrounding the local team, Taranto FC.
Basketball has a significant following in Taranto, with local clubs competing in various leagues, fostering youth development and community participation.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Taranto, with several clubs and school programs promoting the sport among youth and adults alike.
Given its coastal location, Taranto is known for various water sports, including swimming, sailing, and windsurfing, attracting enthusiasts to its beaches.
Rugby has been growing in popularity in Taranto, supported by local clubs that encourage participation at all levels, from youth to adult leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taranto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood plays a prominent role, many restaurants in Taranto also offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes such as eggplant parmigiana, fava bean puree, and locally grown vegetable risottos.
Several eateries in Taranto cater to gluten-free diets, offering dishes like risotto, grilled seafood, and polenta, and some also serve gluten-free pasta.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Taranto with these cultural adventures.
