Taranto is one of southern Italy’s most underrated coastal cities. It sits between two waters. Locals call it the City of Two Seas. One side faces the open Mar Grande. The other looks onto the sheltered Mar Piccolo.
If you want Apulia with fewer crowds, Taranto is a smart pick. You get archaeology, sea promenades, and quick beach escapes. You also get a real local feel. Taranto is not a city built only for tourists.
This guide covers the best things to do in Taranto. You will also find an easy itinerary, beaches, food tips, and day trips.
Why visit Taranto in Apulia
Taranto is a city of contrasts. You can watch ships pass the canal. Then you can step into a museum packed with Magna Graecia treasures. You can explore the old town in the morning. Then swim on the Ionian coast in the afternoon.
Taranto also works well for short breaks. A day trip hits the main sights. Two days gives you a relaxed pace. Three days lets you add nature or wine.
Best for
History lovers who want Magna Graecia stories
Food travellers chasing fresh seafood
Couples who love waterfront walks
Slow travellers who avoid the busiest Apulia hubs
Quick orientation: the City of Two Seas
Taranto’s layout is shaped by water. The old town sits on an island-like strip. Bridges connect it to the newer districts.
You will hear two names often.
Mar Piccolo: calmer and sheltered
Mar Grande: larger and more open
This setting makes Taranto feel maritime and alive. Even a short walk brings sea views.
Best things to do in Taranto
1) Visit MArTA, Taranto’s top museum
Start with MArTA, the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto. It is one of Italy’s strongest collections for Magna Graecia. The displays span deep time too, from prehistory to the Middle Ages.
Plan at least 1.5 to 2 hours. Go early for a quieter visit.
Why it is worth it
Famous masterpieces like the Ori di Taranto (Taranto gold)
Clear storytelling of ancient Taras and the wider region
A perfect plan on hot or rainy days
2) See the Doric columns in Piazza Castello
This is a short stop with a big impact. The Doric columns stand in Piazza Castello. They are one of Taranto’s oldest Greek landmarks. It is also an easy photo stop.
The visible temple phase dates to the early 6th century BC. It is often described as the oldest temple in Magna Graecia. The dedication is debated by scholars. It may not have been Poseidon.
3) Walk Taranto old town in the Città Vecchia
The Taranto old town is atmospheric. Expect narrow lanes, small squares, and sudden sea glimpses. It feels raw and authentic.
Take your time. Stop for coffee. Follow the light to viewpoints.
Best times to go
Morning for softer light
Late afternoon for warm tones
4) Visit the Cathedral of San Cataldo
In the heart of the old town you find the Cathedral of San Cataldo. It is widely described as the oldest cathedral in Puglia. The current building has strong 10th-century roots, tied to the Byzantine period.
It is a calm pause during your walk. Dress respectfully and keep your visit quiet.
5) Cross the Ponte Girevole swing bridge
The Ponte Girevole is a Taranto icon. It spans the navigable canal between Mar Grande and Mar Piccolo. It links the old town to the newer side.
The bridge you see today dates from the mid-20th century. It replaced an older swing bridge from the late 1800s. If you catch an opening, it is a great local moment.
6) See the Aragonese Castle area
The Aragonese Castle sits by the canal. It anchors the waterfront and frames classic photos.
If you want to go inside, check current visiting hours. Guided visits can add useful context.
7) See Taranto from the water
Taranto makes sense from the sea. A short ride shows the two waters clearly. You also get a fresh skyline view.
Public waterbus (KYMA Mobilità)
This is a useful option for simple crossings and sea views. In season, services can link the city waterfront with San Pietro Island. Check the current timetable before you plan your day.
Tours usually focus on the canal, harbour, and the two-sea setting. Some add a sunset ride or a swim stop in warm months.
Dolphin sightings can happen, but they are never guaranteed. Choose responsible operators.
8) Plan a Cheradi Islands day
The Cheradi Islands are the small archipelago off Taranto. The two main islands are San Pietro and San Paolo.
For visitors, San Pietro is the key name. It has summer access and beach time. San Paolo is generally not open for landing, due to military use.
This is a warm-season add-on. Think boat time, pine shade, and simple swim hours.
Taranto beaches and the best beaches near Taranto
Taranto is a great city base. The best swim days are often outside the centre. A car helps a lot. In summer, check local buses and seasonal services too.
Most popular beaches are about 20–45 minutes away by car. Times vary with traffic and season. Parking can fill fast in July and August. Arrive early if you want an easy start.
These beaches are often listed among the top choices in the Taranto area.
San Pietro in Bevagna
Long sandy shores and a classic holiday feel. Great for full beach days.
Campomarino di Maruggio
A popular Ionian coast spot with clear water. Arrive early in peak season.
Marina di Lizzano
Wide beach stretches and easy summer vibes. Good if you want space.
Marina di Pulsano
One of the best-known areas for clear water. Lido Silvana is a famous local stretch.
Marina di Leporano
A quick beach escape from Taranto. Ideal for short swim breaks.
Torre Colimena and Salina dei Monaci
A favourite area for natural scenery. You can pair beach time with quiet walks. Respect protected zones and follow signs.
Ginosa Marina
A larger beach set-up with family-friendly energy. Useful for easy facilities.
Peak-season tip
Arrive early, park once, and stay longer. That keeps the day calmer.
Taranto food: what to eat and drink
Taranto is a seafood city. The waters shape the menu. You can keep it simple and still eat very well.
Try cozza nera di Taranto
The local black mussel is a Taranto symbol. You may see it called cozza nera di Taranto. It is linked to the Mar Piccolo tradition. It is also recognised as a Slow Food Presidio.
Ask what is freshest that day. Choose places with busy kitchens.
Eat pettole when you see them
Pettole are small fried dough bites. They are a winter favourite in Puglia. In Taranto, they are closely tied to seasonal celebrations.
Try them sweet or savoury. Eat them hot and fresh.
Add Primitivo di Manduria to your plans
If you like wine, do not skip Primitivo di Manduria. The wine area is close enough for an easy day trip.
Keep it simple. Choose one or two wineries. A slow tasting beats a rushed schedule.
Taranto itinerary ideas
Taranto day trip itinerary
If you have limited time, focus on the icons.
Start at MArTA
Walk to the Doric columns in Piazza Castello
Cross the Ponte Girevole
Explore the Città Vecchia Taranto lanes
Visit the Cathedral of San Cataldo
Finish with a waterfront sunset walk
Add a simple seafood dinner to end the day.
2 days in Taranto: relaxed weekend plan
Two days is the best rhythm for most travellers.
Day 1: archaeology and the old town
MArTA in the morning
Temple columns and central stroll
Old town walk in the afternoon
Cathedral visit
Sunset at the swing bridge
Day 2: sea views and beach time
Morning promenade and photos
Aragonese Castle area
Optional short boat ride
Afternoon beach escape to Pulsano or Leporano
If you want a nature twist, swap the beach for Gravine.
Taranto weekend itinerary: add a third day
If you have extra time, add one of these.
San Pietro Island day in the Cheradi
Primitivo of Manduria wine tasting
Terra delle Gravine scenery and walks
Day trips from Taranto
Terra delle Gravine and Gravina di Laterza
This day trip gives you a strong contrast to the coast. You get canyon landscapes and big views. It works best in spring and autumn.
Bring proper shoes and water. Keep your route simple. Start early if you visit in warm months.
Manduria and Primitivo wine country
Manduria is a great add-on for wine lovers. It is close enough for a calm day. Plan tastings for late morning or afternoon.
Beach-hopping along the Ionian coast
If the weather is good, go beach-first. Pick one main beach and one short stop. Do not rush.
Where to stay in Taranto
Taranto is easiest when you choose the right base.
Stay near the historic centre
Choose this for evening walks and fast sightseeing. It suits short visits.
Stay near the waterfront
Choose this for sea views and promenades. It is great for sunrise and sunset.
Stay outside the centre for beach access
Choose this if your trip is mostly sea time. It can be better value too. A car helps.
Practical tip
Check parking before you book. This matters in summer.
Top Rated Hotels in Taranto
- 🔍Aparthotel Masseria Villa Marchesi
Review score: 9.9/10 · 22 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): A stylish masseria-style aparthotel close to the coast, set up for relaxing stays with a resort feel. Great for couples and slow travellers who want pool time and an easy beach rhythm outside the busy centre.
Neighborhood/landmark (if visible): Near Spiaggia Conchetta di Posto Vecchio (listed nearby)
Key facilities (only if displayed): Outdoor pool; Free private parking; Fitness centre
Why it stands out (1 sentence): The highest-rated “hotel-style” option in this Taranto list, with a pool + masseria vibe. - 🔍Bacã Suites, Restaurant & Bar
Review score: 9.3/10 · 44 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): A modern, design-forward suites stay with an on-site restaurant/bar feel, good for a city break. Best for couples and food-focused travellers who want a more boutique experience.
Neighborhood/landmark (if visible): 2.3 km from Taranto Sotterranea; 4.6 km from Erasmo Iacovone Stadium (listed)
Key facilities (only if displayed): Restaurant; Bar
Why it stands out (1 sentence): One of the best-rated boutique-style hotels in Taranto with a built-in dining focus. - 🔍Hotel Europa
Review score: 9.1/10 · 1,102 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): A 4-star classic in a prime central position, ideal for sightseeing-first stays. Best for first-timers who want to walk to Taranto’s headline spots and have solid hotel services and comfort.
Neighborhood/landmark (if visible): Via Roma and Corso Due Mari area, near the Swing Bridge and the Aragonese Castle zone (listed)
Key facilities (only if displayed): Not clearly displayed on the reference page snippet
Why it stands out (1 sentence): Big-review-count “safe pick” with an excellent score in one of Taranto’s best central locations. - 🔍Relais Histò San Pietro Sul Mar Piccolo
Review score: 9.0/10 · 116 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): A serene, upscale relais overlooking the Mar Piccolo, built around a minimalist style and spa concept. Best for couples who want a quiet recharge stay and don’t mind being outside the busiest centre.
Neighborhood/landmark (if visible): On the Mar Piccolo (listed)
Key facilities (only if displayed): Spa (listed); Free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out (1 sentence): The strongest “spa escape” option on this list, with a standout setting on the Mar Piccolo. - 🔍Hotel Delfino Taranto
Review score: 8.9/10 · 1,580 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): A seafront hotel known for panoramic views and an easy, comfortable stay style. Best for travellers who want waterfront walks, sunsets, and a reliable full-service base.
Neighborhood/landmark (if visible): Taranto seafront (listed)
Key facilities (only if displayed): Free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out (1 sentence): A high-review-count, seafront favourite that consistently scores well.
Top Rated Villas in Taranto
- 🔍Casa Vacanze da Melina
Review score: 9.9/10 · 8 reviews
Short description: A central, Old Town-style stay a short walk from Taranto’s headline sights. Best for couples or friends who want a walk-everywhere base with practical comforts like air-conditioning and a balcony view.
Neighborhood/landmark: 100 m from Castello Aragonese; 700 m from Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Taranto – MArTA
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi; Air-conditioning; Shared lounge; Shared kitchen; Balcony
Why it stands out: One of the top-rated villa-style stays for a true “Taranto on foot” trip. - 🔍Suite Balestra
Review score: 9.7/10 · 73 reviews
Short description: A modern holiday-home setup with outdoor space, suited to travellers who want quieter evenings and easy beach time. Great for couples or small families who like having a garden or terrace and don’t need to be in the historic centre.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Spiaggia di Gandoli Bay; 9.1 km from Taranto Sotterranea; 11 km from MArTA
Key facilities: Garden; Terrace
Why it stands out: High score plus a big review base, with an outdoorsy, independent-stay vibe. - 🔍CasaMarè
Review score: 9.4/10 · 91 reviews
Short description: A beach-leaning base with a simple, comfortable holiday-home layout and a patio for downtime. Best for relaxed travellers who want sea access nearby and a practical home base for day trips.
Neighborhood/landmark: 1.1 km from Spiaggia del Mon Rêve Resort; 10 km from Taranto Sotterranea
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi; Air-conditioning; Patio; Kitchen; Flat-screen TV
Why it stands out: Strong reviews for a sea-near Taranto stay that still keeps you connected to the city. - 🔍Villa Old fisherman’s
Review score: 9.4/10 · 54 reviews
Short description: A spacious villa with a private outdoor setup that’s built for slow, all-day stays. Best for families or groups who want a pool, garden time, and a true villa-holiday feel rather than a city-centre base.
Neighborhood/landmark: Lama / San Vito area
Key facilities: Pool with a view; Free Wi-Fi; Free on-site private parking; Garden; Barbecue facilities; Airport shuttle
Why it stands out: One of the best private pool and garden villa picks in Taranto. - 🔍Casa della Nonna Pasqua
Review score: 9.4/10 · 49 reviews
Short description: A calm, homey villa-style stay geared toward easy logistics and comfort. Best for travellers with a car who want parking included and a quieter base while still being within reach of Taranto’s main sights.
Neighborhood/landmark: 1.9 km from Taranto Sotterranea
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi; Free private parking; Garden views
Why it stands out: Excellent score and review count with the two big easy-stay perks: Wi-Fi and free parking.
Top Rated B&B in Taranto
- 🔍Maison MoDì
Review score: 9.7/10 · 18 reviews
Short description: A stylish, modern B&B-style stay in central Taranto, set close to key sights. Best for couples or short city breaks when you want comfort, air-conditioning, and an easy walk to museums and the Old Town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near National Archaeological Museum of Taranto MArTA; Castello Aragonese; Taranto Cathedral
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi; Air-conditioning; Family rooms; Private bathrooms; Balcony
Why it stands out: One of the top-rated small stays in the centre for a walk-everywhere Taranto trip. - 🔍Lo Schiaccianoci B&B
Review score: 9.5/10 · 112 reviews
Short description: A central B&B base close to Taranto’s main cultural sights, with a strong location for sightseeing on foot. Best for couples and first-timers who want an easy, practical stay with B&B convenience.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near National Archaeological Museum of Taranto MArTA; Castello Aragonese
Key facilities: Lift; 24-hour front desk; Family rooms; Breakfast in the room
Why it stands out: High rating plus a true centre location makes it a reliable no-stress Taranto base. - 🔍Palazzo Pitagora
Review score: 9.3/10 · 523 reviews
Short description: A refined, suite-style B&B option with a strong review history, offering more space than many city-centre stays. Best for couples and longer stays if you want a boutique feel with extra comfort.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near National Archaeological Museum of Taranto MArTA
Key facilities: Breakfast; Free Wi-Fi; Family rooms; Kitchenette; Balcony; Sun terrace; Garden
Why it stands out: A standout mix of high scores and a large number of reviews, with terrace and garden perks. - 🔍Suite al mare
Review score: 9.2/10 · 243 reviews
Short description: A sea-view stay that leans into Taranto’s waterfront atmosphere, designed for relaxed weekends. Best for couples who want views, air-conditioning, and a sleep-by-the-sea vibe close to the main sights.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near National Archaeological Museum of Taranto MArTA
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi; Air-conditioning; Sea views; Hot tub
Why it stands out: One of the strongest-rated sea-view picks in town for a romantic Taranto stay. - 🔍Nicanto Rooms
Review score: 9.2/10 · 208 reviews
Short description: A stylish rooms-and-suites stay close to the Old Town and the castle, with a welcoming, boutique vibe. Best for couples and food-focused travellers who want a central base and historic Taranto on foot.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Castello Aragonese
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi; Air-conditioning; Garden; Bar; Balcony; Terrace
Why it stands out: Excellent castle-area location with a strong rating and solid review count.
Top Rated Apartments in Taranto
- 🔍barneys design apartment
Review score: 9.9/10 · 34 reviews
Short description: A recently renovated, design-led apartment with a central location in Taranto. Great for couples or solo travellers who want to walk to the main sights and spend evenings in the historic centre area.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near National Archaeological Museum of Taranto MArTA; Castello Aragonese; Taranto Sotterranea
Key facilities: Not clearly displayed in the listing snippet
Why it stands out: One of the highest-rated central apartments in Taranto with a strong review history. - 🔍Oracolo Di Delfi
Review score: 9.4/10 · 27 reviews
Short description: A central apartment base close to Taranto’s museum-and-castle cluster, set up for a comfortable city stay. Best for couples and short breaks where walkability matters.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near National Archaeological Museum of Taranto MArTA; Castello Aragonese
Key facilities: Air-conditioning
Why it stands out: High score in a prime, walk-to-sights location. - 🔍Bien-être Exclusive Apartment
Review score: 9.2/10 · 35 reviews
Short description: A centrally located apartment that keeps you close to the main historic sights and waterfront walks. Ideal for travellers who want a simple, reliable base for city exploring.
Neighborhood/landmark: 800 m from National Archaeological Museum of Taranto MArTA; 1.1 km from Castello Aragonese
Key facilities: Air-conditioning
Why it stands out: Consistently strong reviews for a central, sightseeing-friendly stay. - 🔍Appartamento Due cuori
Review score: 9.4/10 · 44 reviews
Short description: A well-rated apartment option in Taranto with an easy walk to the museum and castle area. Best for couples or friends who want a comfortable base without relying on a car.
Neighborhood/landmark: 11-minute walk to National Archaeological Museum of Taranto MArTA; 0.8 miles to Castello Aragonese
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: Great location-to-score balance with a solid number of reviews. - 🔍Rifugio Sereno
Review score: 9.1/10 · 71 reviews
Short description: A beachfront apartment stay with a laid-back feel, suited to travellers who want sea time alongside Taranto access. Great for couples and relaxed weekends, especially if beach proximity is a priority.
Neighborhood/landmark: Beachfront area; Talsano mentioned as the nearest local centre
Key facilities: Beachfront; Private beach; Breakfast; Free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: One of the best-rated options for a beach-first stay in the Taranto area.
Best time to visit Taranto
Taranto works almost all year. The feel changes by season.
Spring: the best balance of weather and calm streets
Summer: best for beaches and boat days, but busier
Autumn: warm sea, softer light, slower pace
Winter: local feel, good museums, and seasonal food
If you want beaches, aim for late spring to early autumn. If you want walking, spring and autumn are ideal.
Getting to Taranto and getting around
Taranto is in southern Apulia. Many travellers fly into Brindisi or Bari. Both are practical airport options.
From Bari, direct trains can be close to about 1 hour. Travel times vary by service, so check your day.
Getting around is simple if you plan by zone.
On foot: old town, canal, Ponte Girevole, and the central sights
Bus or taxi: longer city hops and evenings without driving
Car: beaches, Terra delle Gravine, and wine country
If you do not drive, keep the plan city-focused. Add one organised day trip for beaches or Gravine.
FAQs
Is Taranto worth visiting in Apulia?
Yes. Taranto offers archaeology, waterfront walks, and easy beach access. It also feels less crowded than many Apulia hotspots.
What are the best things to do in Taranto?
Top picks include MArTA, the old town walk, the Ponte Girevole, and the Aragonese Castle area. Add the Doric columns in Piazza Castello.
How many days do you need in Taranto?
A day trip covers the main sights. Two days is ideal for a weekend. Three days lets you add beaches, Gravine, or wine.
What is Taranto famous for?
It is famous for the City of Two Seas setting and its maritime culture. It is also known for archaeology and local mussels.
Are there good beaches near Taranto?
Yes. You can reach sandy beaches like Marina di Pulsano and San Pietro in Bevagna. You can also explore nature near Torre Colimena and Salina dei Monaci.
Can you do a boat tour in Taranto?
Yes. Boat rides are a great way to see the two-sea geography. Choose reputable operators and check seasonal schedules.
Taranto is Apulia with a different rhythm
Taranto is not a polished resort town. That is part of its charm. You get real city life and sea views in every direction. You also get history that goes back to ancient Taras.
Build your Taranto plan around one theme. Choose history, beaches, or food. Keep your days simple. Taranto rewards slow travel.
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