Top 7 Things To Do in Taranto

Discover the top things to do in Taranto, from walking the iconic Swing Bridge to tasting raw mussels fresh from the Mar Piccolo—experiences you won’t find in Rome or Florence. This is Southern Italy at its most authentic.

Tired of hearing about the same five cities every time someone mentions Italy? What if there's a coastal city where Greek ruins meet street markets, and locals casually snack on raw seafood?

Welcome to Taranto, a coastal city in Southern Italy. Known as the 'City of the Two Seas,' Taranto sits between the Ionian Sea and the Mar Piccolo — a rare layout that shapes everything from the local cuisine to the city's layered history.

In Taranto, centuries-old ruins sit next to family-run fish stalls, and the sea shapes everyday life. If you're after exciting tours and experiences in Taranto, expect ancient temples, swing bridges, and a culture shaped by the sea.

With its small size, city breaks in Taranto are perfect for exploring a side of Italy that's often overlooked but deeply rewarding for its authenticity. And when the day winds down, there are plenty of comfortable places to stay. You’ll also find plenty of top accommodations in Taranto so that you can relax and recharge between activities.

If you're craving something different from your Italian adventure, keep reading. This guide to the top things to do in Taranto will show you a side of Italy most travelers miss.

7. Take a Boat Tour Along the Tarantina Coast

Want to experience a classic Italian summer without the crowds? Taking a boat tour along the Tarantina Coast is one of the best things to do in Taranto. Nicknamed the "City of Two Seas," Taranto sits between the Ionian Sea and the Mar Piccolo. Its coastline offers a laid-back charm from Italy's busier beach spots.

Stretching south from the city, the Tarantina Coast serves up a slice of Southern Italy that's wild, quiet, and surprisingly under the radar. You've got rugged cliffs, tucked-away beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters.

A boat tour along the Tarantina Coast from Taranto gives you front-row seats to this lesser-known stretch of coastline. You'll catch striking views of Taranto's swing bridge and the Aragonese Castle, both architectural icons that look even more impressive from a boat. As you pass into the open sea, the city fades, and the wild side of the coast takes over.

You'll pass rocky outcrops, watchtowers, and hidden coves, and there's even a chance of spotting dolphins. Most tours stop at quiet beaches like Marina di Leporano or along the coast of San Bito, where you can swim or snorkel straight off the boat.

Whether with friends, a partner, or a solo escape, it's an easy and rewarding way to spend a day in Taranto.

Planning Tip: Boat tours can fill up quickly in summer, so book ahead if you visit between June and September. Early morning tours are best if you want calmer waters and fewer crowds.

6. Find the Best Seafood in Taranto

With Taranto's unique location between Mar Piccolo and Mar Grande, it's no surprise that the city has one of the liveliest seafood scenes in Southern Italy.

Everything from sea urchin pasta to octopus carpaccio and grilled shrimp is served simply with olive oil and sea salt. Locals eat oysters straight from the shell or grab paper plates of fried anchovies from market counters.

The standout? Mussels. Taranto's mussels are some of the best in Italy, farmed right in the Mar Piccolo. The mix of salt and freshwater gives them a sweet, rich flavor that's hard to beat. They're usually eaten raw with just a squeeze of lemon or cooked in local dishes.

If you're up for trying something raw, try a plate of crudo—raw seafood, Taranto-style. We're talking mussels, oysters, and thin slices of octopus or shrimp, often served with lemon and nothing else.

Prefer something cooked? Walk a few minutes into the Ponte San Francesco di Paola bridge and grab a table at a local trattoria that keeps it simple and fresh. Look for cozze alla tarantina (mussels in spicy tomato broth), linguine with sea urchin, and frittura di paranza (mixed fried fish).

Travelers love going on food tours in Taranto in search of the freshest seafood in town because it feels spontaneous, but with the added benefit of local guidance. If you're curious about raw seafood or unfamiliar dishes, food tours often include insights into food safety and preparation, making the experience enjoyable and reassuring.

Take your time, try something unexpected, and talk to the vendors. It's an easy way to tap into local life and a highlight among the top things to do in Taranto.

Planning Tip: Go early. The market's at its best in the morning when the catch is fresh, the action is nonstop, and you've got the first pick of everything. Bring cash, and don't wear white—things can get messy in the best way.

5. Visit the Whitewashed Charm of Ostuni

Looking for a day trip that delivers history, food, and views all in one? Head to Ostuni, the iconic "White City," just around an hour’s drive from Taranto. Perched on a hilltop above endless olive groves, Ostuni is one of the best day trips from Taranto if you want a change of pace without going too far.

Ostuni is hard to miss. Its whitewashed buildings, like the Ostuni Cathedral and Piazza della Liberta, glow under the sun and can be spotted miles away. Once inside the old town, you're stepping into a maze of narrow alleys, flower-filled balconies, and staircases along the Centro Storico di Ostuni that lead to rooftop views over the Adriatic coast.

But sightseeing is just part of the draw—Ostuni is also made for wine lovers. Wine-tasting experiences in Ostuni showcase Apulia's bold reds and refreshing whites, such as Ostuni Ottavianello and Ostuni Bianco.

When it comes to food, you’re in for a treat. Local restaurants and street vendors serve up traditional Puglian dishes like panzerotti (fried pastry filled with mozzarella and tomato) or pucce (soft sandwich). For something sweet, pasticciotto, a custard-filled pastry, is a local favorite.

Want something different? Head just outside the city and take an e-bike tour in Ostuni through La Piana degli Ulivi, a charming B&B among ancient olive groves and rustic farms. It’s just about 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) from Ostuni, so it’s easy to reach.

Ostuni delivers that full southern Italian experience: a walkable town center, deep roots, bold flavors, and scenic countryside. Whether you're here for the food, the views, or both, it's one of the best things to do in Taranto to experience a slower, richer side of Apulia.

Planning Tip: Trains between Taranto and Ostuni run often, but renting a car gives you more freedom, especially if you want to hit up vineyards or olive farms outside the town. During peak season, book wine and food experiences in advance.

4. Venture on a Day Trip to Locorotondo, Alberobello, and Martina Franca

Want to swap the sea views for rolling hills and storybook towns? One of the best things to do in Taranto is to take a day trip to Locorotondo, Alberobello, and Martina Franca. Located in Itria Valley, these three hilltop towns boast limestone lanes, Baroque architecture, and a laid-back atmosphere that's impossible not to love.

Kick off your day in Locorotondo, a whitewashed hilltop town whose name means "round place." Just about 22.9 miles (36.8 km) from Taranto, you can reach Locorotondo in about a 33-minute drive. You might not immediately notice the original circular layout, but its charm remains intact. At 1,312 feet (400 meters) above sea level, it's all crisp air, quiet cobbled streets, and flower-filled balconies.

Next stop is Alberobello, home to the famous trulli. These cone-shaped stone houses are one of the most recognizable sights in Apulia. They might look unusual, but locals have lived here for centuries. Exploring the town's UNESCO-listed quarters gives you a peek into an old way of life.

Finally, head to Martina Franca, a town known for its sweeping piazzas and bold baroque architecture. Witness the fresco-covered rooms at Palazzo Ducale that give you a peek into the town's noble past. Nearby, the Basilica of San Martino catches your eye with detailed carvings. In summer, it is home to the prestigious Itria Valley Festival of Opera Music.

This day trip is about wandering without a checklist—sipping coffee at a random cafe and chatting with locals. It's laid-back and local, and that's exactly why it's one of the top things to do in Taranto.

Planning Tip: Book a car rental from Taranto if you can. It gives you flexibility and saves time between towns. If you're going in summer, leave early in the day to avoid the heat and catch the towns before they fill up.

3. Wander Through Taranto’s Old Town

If you're in Taranto and want to get a feel for the city's roots, wandering the streets of Old Town is a must. It's one of the most authentic things to do in Taranto— no crowds, just narrow alleys, weathered buildings, and stories carved into every corner.

The Old Town sits on a small island between the Mar Piccolo and Mar Grande, connected to the modern city by the Ponte Girevole (Swing Bridge). This rotating bridge opens to let ships through the canal below. Once you cross over, you'll witness crumbling palazzi, tiny churches, bustling fish markets, and local restaurants on the pavements.

Right in the heart of the Old Town is Castello Aragonese, a 15th-century sea fortress and a royal residence. Just around the corner is San Cataldo Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Apulia. Step inside to look at Byzantine mosaics and baroque updates spanning centuries of local history.

Want to explore without walking all day? One of the top things to do in Taranto is to take a private Ape Calessino tour. Hop on a classic three-wheeled tuk-tuk that zips you around the Old Town in about an hour. It's a fun and breezy way to soak up the sights, especially if the sun's beating down or you're short on time.

Planning Tip: Go earlier in the morning when it's cooler and quieter. Wear comfortable shoes, even if you're riding—you'll want to hop off and explore at your own pace.

2. Join a Cooking Class and Taste the True Flavors of Apulia

Ever wanted to roll up your sleeves and make your classic Italian dish from scratch? A pasta cooking class in Taranto lets you do just that! The experience is all about learning the tricks behind traditional Apulian recipes, making it one of the top things to do in Taranto.

Like locals have done for generations, you’ll shape fresh orecchiette, the region's signature ear-shaped pasta. You’ll hear family stories, learn why certain shapes work better with certain sauces, and pick up skills to impress your friends back home.

But the fun doesn’t stop at pasta! Some classes also include a mozzarella and burrata experience in Taranto, where you stretch, twist, and shape these creamy cheeses from scratch. The whole experience feels personal and fun, whether traveling as a couple or with friends.

Don’t worry if you’re not a pro in the kitchen—the chefs are welcoming and know how to make it easy and fun. Plus, you get to eat the delicious dishes you make, which is always a win!

Planning Tip: Most classes run about 2 to 3 hours, with some lasting up to 4 hours. Be sure to book ahead, especially in summer (June to August) when these popular cooking classes fill up fast!

1. Uncover Ancient History at the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto

Did you know that ancient treasures lie hidden in Taranto's city center? The National Archaeological Museum of Taranto, known as MArTA, holds one of Italy's most fascinating collections of ancient artifacts. It's hands-down one of the top things to do in Taranto.

Step inside, explore the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto with a guide, and surround yourself with stories carved in stone, shaped in clay, and hammered in gold. With over 300 carefully preserved pieces, the museum walks you through centuries of Greek and Roman influence.

The first floor dives into the Greek-Roman world, packed with pottery, armor, and sculptures. Head upstairs for prehistoric finds, from Paleolithic tools to Bronze Age ornaments. Meanwhile, the final room highlights funeral inscriptions from Jews, Muslims, and Christians between the 4th and 11th centuries AD.

The museum's highlight is the Ori of Taranto or "Gold of Taranto," an extraordinary collection of Hellenistic jewelry from the 4th and 3rd centuries BCE. You'll find intricate earrings, necklaces, and diadems that survived centuries underground and still shine today.

For a full day of discovery, pair your museum visit with a trip to nearby Castello Aragonese or a stroll along Via Cavour. When you need a break, there are several local cafes close by, perfect for relaxing before or after your museum adventure.

With every turn, there's a new story to uncover. Whether a beautifully crafted vase or a warrior's armor, each artifact tells stories of gods, warriors, and daily life in Taranto.

Planning Tip: To explore the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto (MArTa), you'll likely need 1 to 3 hours, depending on your interest and pace. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 to 19:00, and entry is free on the first Sunday of each month. It’s wheelchair accessible and equipped with elevators for easy access.

Is Taranto worth visiting for tourists?

Yes, Taranto is definitely worth visiting for tourists seeking an authentic Italian experience away from the crowds. The city blends history, culture, and coastal beauty, offering a refreshing break from Italy's busier destinations.

Whether exploring ancient ruins like the Aragonese Castle or the Ponte San Francesco di Paola or enjoying fresh seafood by the sea, plenty keeps you engaged. Peaceful beaches like Tramontone, winding streets of Taranto Vecchia, and a lively local atmosphere make Taranto a memorable stop.

What to do in Taranto for a day?

With just one day in Taranto, start with a visit to the Aragonese Castle, a striking 15th-century fortress that reveals the city’s military and maritime past and offers sweeping views over the sea. Then, explore the National Archaeological Museum, home to one of Italy’s finest collections of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts.

Stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town and take in the character of this historic quarter. Walk along Lungomare to enjoy the sea breeze before going to a local trattoria to enjoy fresh seafood dishes like cozze alla tarantina or antipasti. Finish your day at Palazzo del Governo, where the views of the city and coastline are the perfect way to wrap up your visit.

How many days should you spend in Taranto?

Two to three-day city breaks or weekend getaways in Taranto is ideal for a relaxed visit. This gives you time to enjoy the top things to do in Taranto, savor local dishes, and take in the coastal scenery.

If you want to explore nearby towns or immerse yourself in the wider Apulian region, consider staying for five days. This allows for a deeper look at Taranto's history, culture, and surroundings.