Taranto walking tour: the town of the two seas

Taranto , Italy

Taranto walking tour: the town of the two seas

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About this experience

The guided tour starts from Piazza Castello square, the center of the major monuments of interest. Here we will visit the ruins of the Doric Temple of Poseidon dating back to the 6th century. B.C. with two Doric columns that bear witness to the ancient Magno-Greek temple. The tour continues with the visit of the Aragonese castle inside which there is the Navy: the first tower was built by the Byzantines in the eleventh century and over the centuries was expanded to the current conformation.

Very close to the castle you will visit and travel the revolving bridge, symbol of Taranto, connecting the island of Borgo Antico with the peninsula of Borgo Nuovo. About 90 meters long, it was inaugurated in 1887 and overlooks a large navigable canal that unites the two seas: the Mar Grande with the Mar Piccolo.

The tour concludes with a visit to the Cathedral of San Cataldo, built by the Byzantines in the second half of the tenth century, although remodeled with a Baroque façade in the mid-1700s.

Available options

Taranto walking tour: the town of the two seas

What's included

Licensed guide

Detailed itinerary

taranto

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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