Free walking tours in Otranto and what to see

Must-sees

Otranto is the town of the Salento that faces the East, on the Adriatic coast of the province of Lecce. Its old town, ringed by walls and bastions, is quick to explore and holds the cathedral, whose jewel is the great 12th-century floor mosaic, with the tree of life and biblical and legendary scenes. A side chapel keeps the remains of the martyrs of 1480, when the town was stormed by the Turks. Nearby is the small Byzantine church of San Pietro, with frescoes inside.

The Aragonese castle, polygonal with round towers, dominates the harbour and hosts exhibitions. Outside the centre the landscapes vary: to the north, the Alimini lakes and their sandy beaches; to the south, the cliff coast towards Punta Palascìa, the easternmost point of Italy, and an old bauxite quarry with a green lake at the bottom. Further down is Porto Badisco, a cove linked to the legend of Aeneas.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free tours in Otranto. What you will find are guided walks of the old town and private tours with a guide, which usually focus on the cathedral, its mosaic and the history of the Turkish siege. For the coast, it is easiest to get around on your own or join boat trips from the harbour in season.

How long to spend

Half a day is enough for the cathedral, the castle and a walk along the walls. If you want to add the southern coast to Punta Palascìa and the bauxite quarry, allow another half day. With two or three days you can alternate the beach at Alimini with trips to Lecce or Santa Maria di Leuca. In summer it is very lively, so book ahead.

Where to stay

Staying inside the walls or by the seafront puts the harbour, restaurants and town beach within walking distance. If you prefer sand and pine woods, the Alimini area has campsites and holiday resorts. Inland, masserie among the olive trees are a quiet option if you have a car.