Taranto , Italy

Tour of Salento Sun and Sea and Culture

Active

4h - 5h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Salento, an enchanting corner of Puglia that offers sun, sea, culture and history.
In just a few hours, explore the wonders of this region.
This tour is the perfect opportunity for those who want an authentic taste of Apulian culture.

- A unique experience to explore the heart of Salento
- Great for those who have little time but want to experience Puglia
- Includes visits to significant places and opportunities to relax on the beach for those who wish.

Available options

Tour of Salento Sun and Sea and Culture

What's included

There will be a driver and a travel agent assistant during the journey

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

In the heart of Salento Greece, Soleto presents itself as a treasure chest of history, art and spirituality. Ancient hegemonic center of Greco-Salento culture in the Land of Otranto, it still retains the authentic charm of a borderland between East and West, where the Griko dialect survives as an echo of a millennial civilization.
The precious frescoes of the churches of Santo Stefano, full of Byzantine charm, and the Spire of Raimondello, a Gothic-Baroque masterpiece, tell the story of a village that has been able to blend styles, cultures and religions in a unique harmony.
Stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town, be enchanted by the scents of Salento cuisine and discover a place where tradition is not a memory, but a way of life.

In the beating heart of Salento, Galatina is a city that lives between art, history and music, a place where traditions intertwine and renew over time. Famous for its Church of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria , Galatina is also one of the capitals of Taranta, the dance that embodies the vibrant soul of this land.
Every summer, the city comes alive with the overwhelming rhythm of the Notte della Taranta, where the notes of pizzica, accompanied by the beating of tambourines, awaken the streets and squares, making Galatina an open-air stage. Music is not just an art: it is a way of living, feeling and celebrating the Salento folk tradition.
Strolling through the alleys of Galatina, you will hear the tambourine beat and the sound of ancient melodies that speak of stories of loves, labors and hopes. Grika culture and traditional music are an integral part of the daily life of this city, which never ceases to tell its authenticity.

The center of Porto Cesareo is a picturesque fishing village, where local traditions blend with the tourist bustle. Walking through the narrow streets, you can discover typical restaurants that offer dishes of fresh fish, seafood and local delicacies such as fried fish and cottage cheese omelets.
The waters of Porto Cesareo are among the clearest and most transparent in Italy, perfect for those who love swimming in a crystal clear sea and for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

What's not included

This is not a guided tour

Available languages

Written guide

EN IT

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

You will find our representative waiting for you with a sign with the name of the agency

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