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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Taranto.
“Explore the cultural and historical treasures of Taranto, a city brimming with hidden gems waiting to be unearthed, like a sparkling jewel box waiting to be opened.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Taranto:
1. Castello Aragonese
Castello Aragonese is a fortified castle that stands on a small island in the Gulf of Taranto, connected to the mainland by a bridge.
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s towers, walls, and courtyards as you learn about its rich history. Visit the municipal museum housed in the castle, showcasing ancient artifacts and exhibits on the city’s cultural heritage.
Don’t miss: Take a guided boat tour around the castle to appreciate its strategic location and stunning views of the sea.
Insider travel tips: Plan to visit during the cooler months of spring or autumn for a more comfortable experience. Wear comfortable shoes as there are lots of stairs and uneven walkways.
2. National Archaeological Museum of Taranto
The National Archaeological Museum of Taranto is a museum that showcases ancient Greek artifacts excavated from the nearby archaeological sites.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a vast collection of fascinating exhibits, including intricate pottery, ornate jewelry, and stunning sculptures. There are also informative displays on the ancient Greek colonies in Southern Italy and the history of Taranto.
Don’t miss: One of the most impressive exhibits in the museum is the collection of intricate gold jewelry, including ornate earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
Also, make sure not to miss the impressive marble sculpture of the Greek god Apollo.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit the museum early in the morning to avoid crowds.
3. Taranto Cathedral
Taranto Cathedral is a Romanesque cathedral dedicated to Saint Cataldo, located in the historic city center of Taranto, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the facade, which features reliefs and sculptures depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
Inside, visitors can see the cathedral’s beautiful Baroque altar, made of polychrome marble, and the crypt, which contains the remains of Saint Cataldo.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning ceiling frescoes by Baroque artist Francesco Solimena and the impressive 18th-century organs.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit during the annual Feast of Saint Cataldo in May, when the cathedral comes alive with local festivities and processions.
Remember to dress modestly and respectfully as it is a religious site. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history and art of the cathedral.
4. Ponte Girevole
Ponte Girevole, meaning “Swing Bridge” in English, is a unique mechanical bridge located in the city of Taranto, Italy. It connects the city center with the old town and the harbor.
What to see or do: Witness the fascinating operation of the bridge as it swings open to allow passage for large ships. Take a stroll along the bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the city.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the bridge in action. The schedule is posted at the bridge and varies depending on the demand for ship passage.
Insider travel tips: Arrive a few minutes early to secure a good spot to watch the bridge in action.
It is also a good idea to wear comfortable walking shoes as the bridge is quite long and there are a few stairs to climb.
5. Museo Diocesano
Museo Diocesano is a museum located in the heart of Taranto that displays a collection of artistic, religious, and cultural artifacts.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, ancient religious objects, and precious liturgical vestments. The museum also features a section dedicated to the stunning architecture of the local churches and palaces.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the section dedicated to the stunning Baroque-style sculptures, where visitors can admire the works of famous local artists such as Giuseppe Sammartino and Matteo Bottiglieri.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning to avoid crowds, and take advantage of the audio guide to learn about the fascinating history and context of each piece.
Take your time to admire the intricate details and hidden symbols in the artworks, and don’t forget to check out the panoramic terrace for a breathtaking view of the city.
6. Parco Archeologico Storico di Saturo
Parco Archeologico Storico di Saturo is an archaeological park located near Taranto, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of an ancient Greek-Roman city that dates back to the 4th century BC. The park includes ancient ruins of houses, streets, and public buildings, as well as a theater and thermal baths.
Don’t miss: The mosaic floors in the House of the Dolphins and the House of the Athletes are some of the most well-preserved remains in the park and definitely worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as the park is fairly large and can take a few hours to explore.
7. Palazzo Pantaleo
A historic palace located in the heart of Taranto, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture and intricate details of the palace, featuring Baroque and Rococo styles. The building also houses a museum with collections of ancient pottery, coins, and archaeological finds.
Don’t miss: Take a stroll through the beautiful inner courtyard, adorned with frescoes, sculptures, and fountains. It’s a great spot to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in the history and culture of Taranto, be sure to stop by Palazzo Pantaleo.
Plan to spend a few hours exploring the museum and palace, and bring comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and uneven surfaces to navigate.
Also, consider visiting the palace during off-peak hours or purchasing tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
8. Taranto Underground City
Taranto Underground City is a network of ancient tunnels and chambers located beneath the city of Taranto, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can take guided tours of the underground city and explore the various interconnected passageways and rooms, which were originally built by the ancient Greeks and expanded upon by subsequent civilizations.
Don’t miss: Highlights of the tour include the well-preserved Roman cistern, the ancient Jewish catacombs, and the underground oil presses used by the medieval Knights Templar.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as the underground passages can be narrow and uneven.
9. San Domenico Maggiore Church
San Domenico Maggiore Church is a historic and stunning Catholic church located in the heart of Taranto, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful Baroque architecture of the church, with its elaborate facade and grand interior featuring marble columns and intricate frescoes.
The church also houses many important works of art, including paintings and sculptures by prominent artists from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chapel of the Rosary, which features a stunning altarpiece by Luca Giordano, one of the most important painters of the Baroque period in Italy.
Also, make sure to check out the various chapels and side altars, each with their own unique decorations and artworks.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting the church early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds. Make sure to dress appropriately, as it is a religious site.
If possible, try to attend a mass or religious service to fully experience the atmosphere of the church.
10. Pino Pascali Museum
The Pino Pascali Museum is an art museum located in Taranto, Italy.
It is dedicated to the works of Pino Pascali, one of the most prominent and innovative Italian artists of the 20th century.
What to see or do: The museum features a wide range of Pascali’s works, including sculptures, installations, paintings, and drawings.
Visitors can admire his unconventional use of materials, such as rubber, ropes, and stuffed animals, as well as his exploration of themes such as nature, consumerism, and war.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is Pascali’s famous “Tent,” a large-scale installation resembling a military tent, made entirely of rubber.
Another must-see work is “The Hare,” a life-size sculpture of a hare that seems to defy gravity, as it is suspended in mid-air with a single wire.
Insider travel tips: -Audio guides are available in English and Italian to provide more information about Pascali’s life and artwork.
11. New Castle of Taranto
The New Castle of Taranto, also known as the Aragonese Castle, is a majestic fortification that stands on a small island at the entrance of the harbor of Taranto, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the imposing castle, its ramparts, and courtyards, while taking in the beautiful views of the sea and the city.
Inside, you can visit the exhibition of the Italian Navy or take a guided tour to discover the various functions of the different areas of the castle, as well as its fascinating history.
Don’t miss: The impressive drawbridge that connects the castle to the mainland, and the small cove with crystal clear waters on the island’s opposite side, which is ideal for swimming.
Insider travel tips: Visit the castle during sunset for breathtaking views of the city and the sea. Also, check the castle’s schedule in advance to see if there are any special events or concerts being held.
Finally, bring a hat and sun protection, as the site can be quite exposed and sunny.
12. Seaside Promenade
Seaside Promenade in Taranto is a picturesque walkway that runs along the edge of the Mediterranean sea in southern Italy.
What to see or do: The promenade is perfect for strolling, jogging, or just relaxing by the sea. You can take in the stunning views of the turquoise waters and the white sandy beaches.
You’ll find numerous benches and shaded areas along the promenade to sit and admire the scenery.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the Castello Aragonese, an ancient fortress situated at the water’s edge. The castle has a rich history that dates back to the 15th century.
Insider travel tips: Grab a bite at one of the seaside restaurants and enjoy the fresh seafood.
The best time to visit the promenade is during the summer months, as the weather is warm and the sea is perfect for a refreshing swim.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water during the hotter months.
13. Mercato Ebraico (Jewish Market)
Mercato Ebraico, or the Jewish Market, is a historic market located in the heart of the old town of Taranto in southern Italy.
What to see or do: The market is a vibrant and bustling place, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing, household goods, and souvenirs.
Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets and take in the colorful sights and sounds of this lively marketplace.
Don’t miss: Be sure to sample some of the local specialties, such as the Taralli, a type of crunchy breadstick made with olive oil and white wine, or the Marzapane, a soft almond paste candy.
Insider travel tips: Visit the market early in the day for the best selection of fresh produce and seafood. Don’t be afraid to haggle with the vendors, as it is a time-honored tradition in this market.
And while you’re in Taranto, be sure to also explore the city’s stunning historic center, which features a maze of winding alleyways and charming piazzas.
14. Museo Federic II
Museo Federic II is a historical museum located in the city of Taranto, Italy.
What to see or do: The museum offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural history of Taranto, with a particular focus on the city’s relationship with the Norman Emperor Frederick II.
Exhibits include archaeological artifacts, art pieces, and historical documents.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the impressive collection of coins on display, as well as the intricate mosaics and frescoes that have been painstakingly restored to their original beauty.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the museum, it’s recommended to hire a guide who can provide detailed explanations of the exhibits. Additionally, be sure to visit the rooftop terrace for stunning views of the city and the sea.
15. Isola di San Pietro – Taranto
Isola di San Pietro is a small island located off the coast of Taranto in southern Italy.
What to see or do: The island is a nature lover’s paradise with stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and rugged landscapes.
There are also several historic sites to explore, including the 16th-century Fortino di San Giovanni and the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a beautiful church built in the Baroque style.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the island is Cala Lunga, a beautiful white-sand beach with turquoise waters that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Another must-see is the panoramic view from the Belvedere di Punta Sottile, which offers breathtaking vistas of the island and the surrounding sea.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the island’s natural beauty, take a boat tour around the coast and stop at some of the secluded coves and bays that can only be reached by sea.
Also, be sure to try some of the delicious local seafood dishes at the island’s restaurants, which offer fresh catch of the day.