Free walking tours in Ostuni and what to see

Must-sees

Ostuni rises on the last hills of the Murgia, in the north of the province of Brindisi, surrounded by olive groves running down to the Adriatic. It is called the white city because of the whitewash on its houses, which covers an old town of lanes, arches and stairways. At the very top, in the La Terra quarter, is the late 15th-century cathedral, with a three-part Gothic façade and a large rose window. From there you walk down to Piazza della Libertà, with the column of Sant'Oronzo.

It is worth visiting the museum of the pre-classical civilisations of the southern Murgia, in a former convent, which holds prehistoric finds from the area's caves. Take a walk around the line of the walls too, where several Aragonese towers remain and viewpoints open towards the sea. A few kilometres away the coast has sandy beaches and dunes, and among the ancient olive trees stand the masserie, old fortified farms.

Free tours and guided visits

There is no fixed free tour in Ostuni, but there are guided group walks of the old town and private tours with a guide, which explain the history of the white city as you wander its lanes. To get to know the surrounding countryside you can book an olive oil tasting at a local mill or visit a dairy where mozzarella is made, a good way to understand the cooking of Puglia.

How long to spend

Half a day is enough to walk the old town, see the cathedral and take in the viewpoints. If you want to visit the museum and have a relaxed lunch, allow a full day. With two or three days you can combine the town with the beach and trips through the Itria Valley, home to Cisternino, Locorotondo and the trulli of Alberobello. At sunset the white stone changes colour and the atmosphere is at its best.

Where to stay

Staying in the old town lets you stroll it at night, when the visitors have gone, although the streets have steps and you cannot drive to the door. If you have a car, the newer part next to the centre is more practical. For a countryside or beach holiday, restored masserie among the olive trees and places to stay on the coast are good alternatives.