A gem in the Adriatic

Otranto is a coastal town in the region of Puglia in southern Italy, not far from the easternmost point of the Italian peninsula. My attention was first drawn to this town after seeing a stunning photo of its medieval walls fronting the Adriatic Sea. I researched the town and learned about its long and tumultuous history, stretching back to the 8th century B.C. (!), and made a note to visit it one day. During my trip to Puglia in May, I made sure to include Otranto in my itinerary and I stayed there for two nights. I discovered a gem of a town with an imposing castle, a maze of charming streets and an absolutely breathtaking waterfront. Read on to find out more about things to see and do in Otranto, and where to eat and stay.
A boat on the glassy waters of the Otranto harbour

A brief history of Otranto
Located about a 45-minute drive from Lecce (one of my favourite cities in Puglia), Otranto ( map ) is listed as one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. A Greek settlement in the 8th century B.C., Otranto was then occupied by the Romans. It became an important port and naval base due to its strategic location. In the centuries that followed, Otranto was invaded by the Byzantines, Ottomans, French and a host of other powers who vied to control the eastern Adriatic. The siege and occupation by the Ottomans in 1480, during which half the town’s population was killed, was especially gruesome. Otranto remained an attractive target right up to WWII.
Alphonse Tower and the monument commemorating the Martyrs of Otranto (Ottoman Siege of 1480)
Things to do in Otranto
These days, the town is, in my book, one of the best places to visit in Puglia . Otranto is famous for its castle, walled town, harbour front, sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it absolutely worthwhile to visit. It’s especially busy during the hot, summer months, so I recommend visiting Otranto in spring (May-June) or autumn (September-October) when temperatures are more agreeable and there are fewer tourists. Here are my recommendations for things to see and do in Otranto:
Visit the Castle
The 15th century Castello Aragonese is an impressive sight. The perimeter is surrounded by a deep moat and its towers provide stunning views of the town and the harbour. Walk up to Torre Matta for lovely views of the old town walls and the sea.
Aragonese Castle
The castle walls and moat
Wander around the maze of streets in the old town
The old town, almost completely surrounded by thick walls, is comprised of a maze of cobblestone streets and alleys interspersed by little squares. There’s a plethora of shops, cafés, wine bars and restaurants as well as various historic sights.
A street in the old town
There are numerous local handicraft shops and wine taverns.
I loved this place!