The City of Two Seas: A Self Guided Taranto Tour

Taranto , Italy

The City of Two Seas: A Self Guided Taranto Tour

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(1 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Taranto is the gateway to the Maldives of Italy and its beautiful coastlines, and boasts not centuries, but millennia of history and culture. On this self-guided walking tour, you‘ll find out how this jewel of southern Italy has been shaped by the sea, and retains a deep connection to this day.

The tour starts at Ponte di Pietra bridge, overlooking the open Ionian Sea. You‘ll head to Taranto‘s historical center which many cultures have called home, where I‘ll show you the imposing city gate, the ancient gate of Naples, Porta Napoli. You‘ll then cross Ponte di Porta Napoli, a stone bridge over two seas, and wind your way through the city‘s medieval road

Available options

The City of Two Seas: A Self Guided Taranto Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

We begin at the Ponte di Porta Napoli, adding to the historic charm of the neighbourhood.

We'll also pass by the beautiful Piazza Fontana.

We'll also pass by the Palazzo Pantaleo, with its beautiful facade. However, entry to the Palazzo itself is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the Museo Etnografico "Alfredo Majorano", with its fascinating collections. However, entry to the museum itself is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the San Domenico, adding to the historic charm of the neighbourhood.

We'll also pass by the quaint Vicolo Mercanti.

We'll also pass by the Palazzo Ulmo, with its storied past. However, entry to the Palazzo itself is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the Piazza Duomo, adding a unique flair to the city.

Passing by the Chiesa di Monteoliveto, you'll witness another architectural gem of Taranto. Please note that entry to the church is not included in this tour.

Passing by the Santuario Madonna Della Salute, you'll witness its fascinating history.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

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1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions

Meeting point

This tour starts at Ponte di porta Napoli. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading."

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Taranto

Taranto is a historic port city in southern Italy, known for its rich Greek heritage, stunning architecture, and unique location between two seas. The city is famous for its impressive Aragonese Castle and the fascinating MARTA Archaeological Museum, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Aragonese Castle

This impressive castle was built by the Aragonese in the 15th century and features a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. It offers stunning views of the city and the sea.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €5

MARTA Archaeological Museum

The MARTA Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from Taranto's Greek and Roman past, including sculptures, pottery, and coins.

Museum 1-2 hours €7

Taranto Cathedral

This beautiful cathedral is a blend of Romanesque and Baroque styles and is dedicated to the city's patron saint, Saint Catald.

Religious/Architecture 30 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Mar Grande Beach

This popular beach is known for its clear waters and fine sand, making it a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Beach Half-day Free (sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent)

Cristoforo Colombo Square

This historic square is the heart of the city and is surrounded by beautiful buildings, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.

Historical/Cultural 30 minutes to a few hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Riso, Patate e Cozze

A traditional dish made with rice, potatoes, and mussels, cooked in a rich tomato sauce.

Main Course Contains seafood and gluten

Bomba di Riso

A sweet, fried rice ball filled with custard and covered in chocolate. A local favorite and a must-try for dessert lovers.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Friselle

A traditional Puglian snack made from twice-baked bread, soaked in water or wine, and topped with tomatoes, onions, and olive oil.

Snack Vegetarian, contains gluten

Popular Activities

Scuba diving in the clear waters of the Ionian Sea Boat tours to nearby islands Sunbathing and swimming at Mar Grande Beach Strolling along the waterfront promenade Visiting museums and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Kayaking and paddleboarding Fishing excursions

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and vibrant festivals. The beaches are at their best, and the city comes alive with cultural events.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Taranto is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Brindisi Airport • 100 km (62 miles)
Bari Airport • 80 km (50 miles)

By train

Taranto Centrale

By bus

Taranto Centrale Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services throughout the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Borgo Antico Borgo Nuovo

Day trips

Matera

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Matera is a fascinating city known for its ancient cave dwellings, or Sassi, and its rich history. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a unique glimpse into Italy's past.

Lecce

70 km (43 miles) • Full day

Lecce is a beautiful city known for its stunning Baroque architecture, lively piazzas, and rich history. It's often referred to as the 'Florence of the South' for its artistic treasures.

Festivals

Festa di San Cataldo (Saint Catald's Day) • May 10th Fiera del Mare (Sea Fair) • June (specific dates vary) Sagra del Mare (Sea Festival) • August (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Aragonese Castle early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photos
Try the local specialties, such as Riso, Patate e Cozze and Bomba di Riso, at traditional restaurants in the historic center
Explore the narrow, winding streets of Borgo Antico to discover hidden gems and local shops
Take a day trip to Matera or Lecce to experience the rich history and culture of the Puglia region
Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Taranto