
A LAID-BACK ITALIAN BEACH TOWN
Located towards the heel on the arch of Italy’s boot, Castellaneta Marina is a coastal town known for its pristine beaches, lush pine forests, and relaxed atmosphere. This beachy resort town in the Puglia region offers an idyllic retreat, ideal for both relaxation and adventure. The highlight here is the beautiful coastline. Stretching for miles, the sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
The crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea provide a refreshing escape, while the gentle waves are ideal for families and casual swimmers. The beaches are lined with well-equipped lidos offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, so you can comfortably spend a day by the sea. Nature lovers will appreciate the surrounding pine forests, which offer shaded paths for walking and cycling. These lush green areas are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, providing some shade from the summer sun.
For history enthusiasts, nearby Castellaneta offers a glimpse into the region’s past. The city is famous as the birthplace of silent film star Rudolph Valentino and features a museum dedicated to his life and career. The historic centre, with its narrow streets and ancient architecture, is definitely worth exploring – don’t miss the stunning cathedral, the Church of San Domenico, and the Bishop’s Palace
When you return to Castellaneta Marina, you’ll find numerous restaurants serving up traditional Puglian cuisine. Fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and local wines are the highlights, making every meal an Italian party for your palate. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore nature, or delve into local history, Castellaneta Marina provides a relaxing retreat in the heart of Puglia.
Exciting tours and activities
From priority access for attractions, to day trips to historic sites, here’s our must see activities in Castellaneta Marina
Matera tour with cave homes and local food tasting
Matera has a lot going for it – it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, European Capital of Culture 2019 and a cave city dating back over 5,000 years. Tour its historic lanes and ancient cave dwellings, try local Basilicata food and wine, then choose to visit the cave house museum or a rupestrian church. Anna, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The cave houses of Matera were once considered a shameful place to live, best known for poverty, disease and crime. Nowadays, many caves have been transformed into chic homes, restaurants, and hotels.'Considered one of the most outstanding and intact troglodyte settlements, Matera's big draw are the ancient cave dwellings known as ‘sassi', which translates to ‘stones'. First up, we'll check out the baroque quarter, where churches and palaces are built on top of the caves. Next, we'll venture into the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso areas to see ancient sassi carved into the flanks of Gravina canyon. The dramatic setting overlooking the wild, rocky landscape is all part of the charm.You'll pause for thought in the old quarters, where inhabitants lived in squalor up until the 1950s, which was when the whole population of around 20,000 was rehoused. Wandering around today's visually arresting town, it seems hard to believe how tough life once was here. You'll also get to try typical food and wine at Lucany Restaurant, before choosing between an optional visit to the cave house museum or a rupestrian church, cut into the rock.
Free cancellation
Secrets of Alberobello Tour from Central Puglia
1 reviewA UNESCO World Heritage Site and capital of the famous ‘trulli' houses, Alberobello is one fascinating place to explore. You'll see a different side to this Puglian town by visiting the district of Aia Piccola, meeting a couple who live in a ‘trullo' and tasting local food.
Free cancellation
Alberobello, Ostuni & Local Tasting from Salento Ionian Coast
This full day tour allows two of Puglia's gems to shine brightly. You'll travel to the UNESCO-listed town of Alberobello, known as the capital of ‘trulli' houses, then round it all off with a visit to the white city of Ostuni.
Free cancellation
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