Ostuni is known as “la Città Bianca”, the White City. Its old town of whitewashed houses, stairways and arches covers a hilltop between the Itria Valley and the Adriatic, and shines in the sun from miles away.
Why visit Ostuni
For one of the most beautiful towns in Apulia and a perfect base. Ostuni combines a lively historic centre with countryside of trulli and masserie, beaches less than 15 minutes away and the Itria Valley right behind it.
Top things to do in Ostuni
The old town
Get lost in the white lanes, staircases and tiny squares, with views over the olive groves to the sea.
The cathedral
A late-Gothic cathedral with a striking rose window at the top of the old town.
Piazza della Libertà
The main square at the foot of the old town, with the tall column of Sant’Oronzo and many cafés.
The olive groves and the coast
The plain below Ostuni is covered with ancient olive trees; along the coast, the coves of Costa Merlata and the sandy beaches near Torre Pozzella.
The Itria Valley
Cisternino, Locorotondo, Martina Franca and Alberobello are all within about half an hour.
Best time to visit Ostuni
May, June and September are ideal: warm, with the sea already pleasant. July and August are lively with festivals but busy. Spring and autumn are lovely for walks.
Getting to and around Ostuni
Brindisi airport is about 35 minutes away, Bari about an hour. Ostuni station is on the Bari–Lecce line, a few kilometres from the centre. A car is useful for the coast and the countryside.
What to eat in Ostuni
Orecchiette, fava bean purée with chicory, grilled meats from the Itria Valley, burrata, extra-virgin olive oil and Apulian wines.
Ostuni FAQ
Is Ostuni a good base for Apulia?
Yes: it lies between Bari and Lecce, close to the Itria Valley and the beaches.
How far is the sea from Ostuni?
About 8–10 km, roughly 15 minutes by car.
