How Much Time Do You Need in Ostuni?

I spent six weeks exploring Puglia during my two-month trip to Italy, and while there were cities where I happily stayed for an entire week, Ostuni isn’t one of them. One full day is ample time to wander the historic center at a leisurely pace. Whether you’re opting to spend a night or two or just visiting for the day, Ostuni is a fantastic day trip in Salento.

If you’re keen on enjoying a beach day at the nearby coast, approximately five kilometers away, consider adding an extra day to your visit. Squeezing in both the town and the beach in a single day might feel rushed, especially if you’re traveling by bus or train.

Things to Do in Ostuni

This guide focuses on attractions within Ostuni’s historic center, all easily reachable on foot without needing a car.

Explore the Historic Centre

The historic center, perched on a hill and enveloped by formidable walls, offers a journey back in time. All paths lead to the Arco Scoppa, a prominent feature in front of the grand cathedral. The stroll from the entrance to the cathedral takes about ten minutes unless you wander off for souvenir shopping along the way.

If walking up and downhill on cobblestone streets isn’t your favorite, consider taking a tuk-tuk tour of Ostuni. These charming rides are available seasonally and offer a fun yet comfortable way to explore the city, especially during hot summer days!

Ostuni Cathedral

A church has stood at this location since the 11th century, but due to seismic events in the area, the current structure dates back to the late 1400s. While typically closed during the midday hours, visiting the ornate altars and frescoes is free in the mornings or evenings.

You’re likely to hear that the cathedral’s rose window is one of the largest globally—what do you think?

Ostuni Archeology Museum

Ostuni’s most notable attraction is its Archaeological Museum, situated within the Church of San Vito Martire. The museum showcases artifacts from the surrounding Murgia region.

Upon entering through the church, you will find impressive displays of pottery, jewelry, coins, and tools that date back hundreds, if not thousands, of years. The museum culminates in showcasing “The World’s Oldest Mother,” a 28,000-year-old skeleton of a pregnant woman and her fetus. Depending on your interest level, allocate between 30 minutes to one hour for your visit.

Walk the City Walls

Ostuni is a fortified city with walls constructed in the early Middle Ages to fend off invaders. Today, strolling along the city walls offers a delightful perspective of the White City against the countryside backdrop.

Access is easiest from Borgo Antico, near the Santa Maria Della Stella church. From there, you can either take a shorter route back to the center or opt for a longer path. Be sure to bring water, as there are no shops or shade along the walkway.

Piazza della Liberta

Piazza della Liberta is the main square and a bustling entry point into the historic center. The square’s centerpiece is an obelisk depicting Sant’Oronzo, safeguarding the city.

This square is also home to various buildings, including the Town Hall, several churches, and the remnants of an old tower along with the original city walls. Additionally, the Tourist Information Office is located here to assist with bus tickets, luggage storage, and local tours.

Panoramic Lookout Points

While wandering Ostuni, the city didn’t seem particularly “white” compared to other towns like Locorotondo or Alberobello. However, when I viewed it from outside the historic center, I was reminded of its fitting title.

A convenient panoramic viewpoint is a short ten-minute walk from Piazza della Liberta, offering stunning vistas perfect for capturing memories.

Churches of Ostuni

Just like other towns in Puglia, Ostuni is dotted with churches, many of which are closed in the afternoons but available for visits in the mornings or evenings. Some churches occasionally host temporary art exhibits that are worth checking out.

• Church of San Francesco d’Assisi – A highlight towering over Piazza della Liberta, featuring a bronze door commemorating the city’s miraculous escape from a plague in the 1600s.
• Madonna del Carmine Church – Slightly downhill from the piazza, featuring a newly updated stone facade dating back to the 1890s.
• Sanctuary della Gratta – This picturesque white church can be found on the fields below the historic city center, and each second Sunday of August, locals take part in a candlelit procession into the center.

Drinks with a View at Borgo Antico

While you could consider this place a restaurant, I found enjoying a drink at Borgo Antico Bistro more of an experience than just a meal. This local hotspot features prominently on social media, where patrons pose with cocktails and cheese while the stunning sunset graces the background.

During my two nights in Ostuni, I noticed the long waits for tables; even after being seated, patrons expressed delays in service, which led me to dine elsewhere. However, getting in early for a quick drink and some photographs could create lovely memories of your time there.

(If you plan to visit Locorotondo, consider enjoying an evening drink or wine tasting at the Sírose vineyard instead for a quieter experience with nicer views.)

The Famous Doors of Ostuni

While Ostuni showcases its famous whitewashed buildings, it also bursts with color through its collection of painted doors.

The most iconic is undoubtedly the rich blue door next to Borgo Antico Bistrot, which attracts long lines of visitors for perfect photo ops. I also discovered a colorful door along a pedestrian street, likely near some artist studios, allowing me to snap photos without waiting in line.

Be sure to share your favorite painted door when visiting Ostuni!

Restaurants in Ostuni

Ostuni’s affordable dining options can mainly be found around Piazza della Liberta. Here are a few highlights:

• Vulcani – A perfect spot for Sicilian street food, I dined here twice, relishing arancini and soda on the terrace during my first visit. On the second, I got takeout to enjoy on my train ride to Lecce.
• Bar Pasticceria da Pasquale – For local pastries, this bakery draws a crowd every morning for their famed pasticciotti, which are dense, cake-like sweets filled with ricotta or Nutella. Limited seating is available across the street.
• Pastasciutta – Best rated in the piazza, this fast-casual pasta restaurant offers fresh pasta made on-site; order at the counter and they’ll bring your dish to the table.
• Cicinedda Fruit Bistrot – A refreshing change from typical Puglian cuisine, although I did encounter some heavy smokers nearby that soured my experience.
• Drogheria Pugliese – A vegetarian sandwich caught my eye here, but unfortunately, time constraints prevented me from tasting it.
• Cremeria alla Scala – Known as the go-to gelato spot in the historic center, it’s delightful, though it’s not exponentially better than other authentic gelaterias.
• Bianc’Ostuni – Although it’s tempting to dine here due to its proximity to Borgo Antico, I found the service and food lacking.

For a more upscale dinner, consider Osteria Piazzetta Cattedrale in the historic center or Masseria Moroseta, a luxurious farmstay a bit outside the town offering farm-to-table dinners by reservation.

(For more information on staying in a masseria, check out my guide to Puglia farmstays!)

Shopping in Ostuni

I was disappointed by the number of souvenir shops inundating the walled city center, primarily selling either low-quality trinkets or overpriced local products that could be found for much less elsewhere. While a few shops offered olive oil tastings, I recommend skipping them unless you’re specifically seeking a souvenir.

For personal shopping, I suggest visiting a local supermarket in Bari or Lecce where you’ll find the same products minus the fancy packaging at much more reasonable prices. However, if you are looking for a memento, consider a beautiful package of colorful pasta or local pistachio spread.

That said, I do want to mention one store: Autenticare by Olfactys. They sell one unique product: Calce Bianca, a scent said to embody “the aroma of the white city.” Initially launched as a room spray, it now includes body mists and solid perfumes. The light, fresh fragrance boasts notes of basil and citrus with a delightful blend of coffee, pomegranate, sweet almond, vetiver, sandalwood, and musk.

Where to Stay in Ostuni

During my visit, I stayed at a budget vacation rental that I can’t recommend due to its unusual and unsettling layout. If returning, I’d prefer to consider the following accommodations:

• Pietra d’Ostuni – This one-bedroom apartment is set in a quiet neighborhood less than five minutes from the historic center.
• Hotel La Terra – Offers a reasonably priced stay right within the walled Old Town of Ostuni.
• Grotta Carlotta – Experience a unique stay in a bed and breakfast located in a cave, a fantastic adventure in Puglia.
• Alma Apuliae – An affordable one-bedroom apartment with a kitchenette; conveniently located near the bus stop and city center.

How to Get to Ostuni

I arrived in Ostuni by bus and left by train, gaining good insight into how to navigate the transport options.

Ostuni Train Station

Located about three kilometers north of the historic center, the Ostuni train station lacks a sidewalk along its road, making walking unsafe, especially with luggage. There are plans for future sidewalk construction, so keep an eye out!

The most straightforward method of reaching the train station is through public buses. They depart from a spot close to Piazza della Liberta. Tickets are under €2, purchasable in cash on board or through the tourist information office. The ride lasts under ten minutes, with regular service available, especially during summer.

The train station offers a small café and tidy restrooms. Before heading there, double-check your train times as my lack of verification led to an unexpected 90 minutes wait!

Ostuni Buses

I journeyed from Alberobello to Ostuni by bus. Though the company advertises two arrival stops, there’s actually only one right in Piazza Italia, approximately a ten to fifteen-minute walk into the historic center.

For departures, most buses utilize the main bus exchange close to the historic center, which will require a thirty-minute uphill walk or you can catch a local bus like the #587 covering connections to the center and train station.

In summer, buses run from Ostuni’s historic center to the picturesque beaches at Marina di Ostuni.

Accessibility in Ostuni

It’s important to note that Ostuni can be quite challenging in terms of accessibility. The city necessitates uphill walks, regardless of the route taken, which could pose difficulties for those with mobility restrictions.

Narrow streets, coupled with parked vehicles, create further obstacles, particularly for wheelchair users or parents with strollers. Moreover, there are many stairs and slippery, uneven surfaces to navigate throughout Ostuni.

Individual attractions may be wheelchair accessible, yet reaching their entrances can be problematic. I would suggest collaborating with a local travel agent knowledgeable about accessibility in Ostuni if you have mobility needs.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Ostuni?

The ideal times to visit Ostuni are during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the area is less crowded than in peak summer.

Is Ostuni family-friendly?

Yes, Ostuni offers various attractions suitable for families, including parks, historical sites, and family-friendly restaurants.

Can I explore Ostuni in one day?

Ostuni can be comfortably explored in a single day. You can visit major attractions, enjoy local cuisine, and even fit in some beach time if you plan accordingly.

Are there any famous food items to try in Ostuni?

Definitely! Be sure to try the local pasticciotti and other traditional Puglian dishes. Additionally, sampling the region’s olive oil and wines is a must!