Amazing Things to do in Ostuni: Puglia’s White City

Ostuni, known as la città bianca, is one of those small towns in southern Italy that quickly stole my heart. The maze of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, lively piazzas, and some of the best views in Puglia gave the town a charm that felt both timeless and welcoming. We actually based ourselves here while exploring Puglia, and it turned out to be one of the best places to see the region. In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Ostuni, along with my favorite spots and experiences.

This post contains affiliate links where I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Your support helps me continue to provide valuable travel tips and recommendations. Find out more here.

Below are helpful resources to make your travel planning easier and stress-free:

🌟 Check out Airport in Puglia Italy? The Best Travel Guide blog post!

Looking for quick Hotel suggestions? Here are the top picks:

Affordable Stay: Hotel La Terra
Ideal for Location: Il Sogno delle Benedettine
Best Luxury Hotel: La Sommità Relais & Chateaux
Top View: Bartago Luxury House
Great for Families: Masseria Grieco

Unique Experiences to Book

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Ostuni Italy: for all budgets

A little about city of Ostuni

Known as the White City of Puglia, Ostuni sits on a hilltop and can easily be spotted for its bright white walls that stand out against the countryside. This ancient town has a rich history that goes back over a thousand years, and I could really feel it walking through the maze-like streets.

The old town is full of arches, staircases, and winding alleys that twist and turn in every direction. As I walked around, I saw tiny boutiques, family-run cafés, and cozy wine bars that make the city feel timeless and full of unique charm.

Outside the old streets, there are endless groves of olive trees around Ostuni, some of the oldest in southern Italy. For me, it’s not just a great day trip—it’s also the perfect base for exploring more of the region. We stayed in Ostuni for a few nights, and it was absolutely perfect.

The town isn’t too small or too big, and there are plenty of things to do and lots of restaurants to try. Since it sits on a hilltop, I found so many spots with amazing views of the countryside and the Adriatic Sea. The combination of all these things makes Ostuni such a memorable place to visit.

Amazing Things to do in Ostuni:

1 – Take a Walking Tour of Ostuni

One of the best ways to really get to know Ostuni is by taking a walking tour. Exploring with a local guide gives you more than just beautiful views. You’ll learn the history, fun stories, and little details you might miss on your own.

Walking tour is a comfortable way to see the highlights of the White City while learning what makes it so special. Plus, you can ask your guide for tips and recommendations to make the rest of your trip even better.

🌟 Check out PUGLIA Ultimate Itinerary: The Best Travel Guide blog post!

2 – Relax in Piazza della Libertà

At the center of the old town of Ostuni is Piazza della Libertà, the city’s main square and the perfect place to spend some time. Right in the middle is the colonna di Sant’Oronzo the town’s patron saint. Nearby is also the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi.

The square is very lively, with both locals and visitors enjoying an aperitivo, kids running around, and the vibe is super laid-back. We sat here for an aperitivo ourselves, and it was the perfect spot to relax. At night, the square lights up and gets even busier. Grab some gelato and just people-watch.

3 – Visit Ostuni Cathedral (Duomo di Ostuni)

Ostuni Cathedral is a 15th-century Gothic cathedral located at the highest point of town and is one of the most famous landmarks in Ostuni.

What stands out is the rose window, one of the largest in Puglia, with 24 rays that symbolize Christ as the Sun. It has a detailed Gothic style façade, with floral carvings and arches, and is beautiful to see up close.

Inside, the space is calm and peaceful, a nice contrast to the busy streets outside. And from its hilltop spot, I thought it had some of the best views of Ostuni.

4 – Explore the Historic Center (Centro Storico)

The historic center of Ostuni is the city’s main attraction and where you’ll spend most of your time.

Located at the top of a hill, the city center is a maze of narrow alleys, stone arches, and staircases surrounded by bright white houses. It feels like stepping back in time, with small shops, cafés, and wine bars on every corner.

The centro storico is also where you’ll see many of Ostuni’s landmarks, including the cathedral and Piazza della Liberta. The higher you go, the better the views. At the top of the hill, you’ll see the countryside stretching out to the Adriatic Sea.

Getting lost in the old streets was one of my favorite parts of visiting Ostuni.

🌟 Check out Monopoli Beaches: Beautiful Spots to Explore in Italy blog post!

5 – Walk Along Via Cattedrale

The main street in Ostuni’s old town is Via Cattedrale, and it runs from Piazza della Libertà at the bottom of the hill all the way up to the cathedral. The street has small shops, cafés, and gelato places all along the way, so there’s always something to stop for.

We ended up on this street multiple times as we explored the town. It’s lively, easy to navigate, and a great way to get a feel for the old town.

6- See La Casa con la Porta Blu (The House with the Blue Door)

This is one of Ostuni’s most photographed places La casa con la porta blu, or the house with the blue door. This bright blue door stands out against the town’s whitewashed walls and makes a perfect photo backdrop. It’s located in the historic center. While it’s just a house, the contrast of colors has made it a popular stop for visitors exploring the White City.

7 – Walk Along the City Walls

Ostuni’s city walls are another feature that makes the town unique. Built many centuries ago to protect the historic center, the walls still circle the old town today.

I walked outside the walls and loved the panoramic views of the whitewashed buildings, the olive groves, and the Adriatic coast. This gave me a different perspective of the White City, and it was also a great place for photos, especially at sunset.

It’s a simple but memorable way to see Ostuni from another angle while appreciating its history.

🌟 Check out Is Alberobello Worth Visiting? All you need to know blog post!

8 – Stay Overnight in Ostuni

Spending the night in Ostuni is a great way to experience the town more fully than a quick visit. When the day-trippers leave, the streets become quiet and peaceful. You can enjoy the White City at a slower pace.

Ostuni was one of our home bases, and we spent a few nights here. In the evening, we walked around, had dinner, and saw the town lit up—it was one of my favorite parts of staying in Ostuni. If you have the time, it’s worth planning to spend the night instead of just stopping by for the day.

9 – Browse the Local Shops and Markets

Ostuni has many local shops and small markets where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade goods. I loved visiting these places, its a fun way to experience daily life in the town and see what the locals buy.

You’ll also find local olive oil, cheeses, and local wines, which are great if you want to take a taste of Puglia home with you. Exploring the local products here adds to the experience of visiting Ostuni.

10 – Take a day trip to nearby Towns:

Alberobello

One of the most famous towns in Puglia, Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site that truly looks like a fairytale. The town is known for its trulli houses, which are white stone huts with cone-shaped roofs that make it feel completely unique.

The main districts, Rione Monti and Aia Piccola, are lined with hundreds of trulli. Some have been turned into shops, cafés, and small museums, while others are still lived in today. Walking here, truly felt like i was in a fairytale!

It’s only about 40 minutes from Ostuni, so it’s an easy day trip. Alberobello can be crowded, especially in the summer, but it’s definitely worth visiting at least once for its unique charm.

Polignano a Mare

A seaside town perched on dramatic cliffs with some of the best views of the Adriatic. Polignano a Mare is pretty famous for Lama Monachile, a small beach nestled between two cliffs. The turquoise water there looks amazing from above.

The town also has many restaurants for fresh seafood. Between the views, the food, and the atmosphere, it’s one of the most unforgettable towns to visit near Ostuni.

Locorotondo

One of the prettiest small towns in southern Italy, with whitewashed streets, flower-filled balconies, and a relaxed vibe. Locorotondo has a circular old town, which is how it got its name.

What makes it especially unique are the cummerse roofs—traditional pitched roofs that you’ll notice as you walk through the town.

Since it’s located on a hilltop, Locorotondo also has some of the best views over the valley, with ancient olive groves and trulli houses spread across the countryside.

🌟 Check out MATERA Ultimate Travel Guide to Ancient City in Italy blog post!

Cisternino

Cisternino is known for its fornelli. These are butcher shops where you choose your meat, and they grill it fresh for you on the spot. The old town has small piazzas, narrow alleys, and whitewashed houses that create a cozy feel.

In the evenings, the streets smell of grilled meat. Locals get together outside to eat, chat, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. From the edge of town, you’ll also see panoramic views across the Valle d’Itria, with olive groves and trulli scattered through the countryside.

🌟 Check out Capri Itinerary: How to See the Amalfi Coast Gem blog post!

Martina Franca

A little bigger, but filled with baroque architecture, winding alleys, and a lively historic center. Martina Franca has elegant palaces and the grand Piazza Plebiscito, home to the Basilica di San Martino. It’s a great stop if you want something less touristy but still full of character.

Lecce

Often called the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is known for stunning baroque churches and historic squares. The city is built with a soft local limestone, which gives its buildings a warm golden color and allows for the detailed carvings you’ll see everywhere.

It’s a must if you love history and architecture, and it feels a little different from anywhere else in Puglia.

Valle d’Itria

This is one of the most famous areas in Puglia, and it’s the beautiful countryside that stretches between towns like Ostuni, Locorotondo, Alberobello, and Martina Franca. It’s often called the “Trulli Valley” because of the hundreds of traditional trulli houses (those little white huts with conical roofs) scattered across the landscape.

Monopoli

Nestled along the Adriatic coast of Puglia, Monopoli is a seaside gem that combines history, lively local life, and coastal charm. This harbor town is full of whitewashed buildings, colorful fishing boats, and lively piazzas. It is the perfect place to experience that authentic southern Italian vibe.

Monopoli’s historic centre is a maze of narrow alleys, lined with stone churches, charming cafes, and local boutiques. At the heart of it all is Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, a busy square where locals get together for espresso in the morning and aperitivo in the evening.

Matera

A little farther from Ostuni, but absolutely worth the trip, Matera is one of the most fascinating towns in southern Italy. It’s famous for ancient cave dwellings, known as the Sassi di Matera, where homes, churches, and restaurants are carved directly into the rock.

Walking through the old quarters feels like stepping back in time, and the views across the stone landscape are unforgettable. Matera is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and was named a European Capital of Culture. It’s a place full of history and character.

11 – Have Aperitivo at Borgo Antico Bistrot

Italy is the best place to enjoy aperitivo, and if you are in Ostuni, Borgo Antico Bistrot is the ideal place for it. It is located right in the historic center and has a unique layout along a zig-zag incline street. It has outdoor seating and amazing views of the White City and the surrounding countryside.

The atmosphere is super relaxed, the cocktails are great, and it’s the best way to relax in the evening. We had some food and drinks here one night and loved sitting outside with the view—it was the perfect way to end the day.

12 – Stop at Piazzetta Martiri delle Foibe

This is a small square in Ostuni that is both a memorial site and a scenic viewpoint. From Piazzetta Martiri delle Foibe, you can see some of the best views of the White City, with its maze of whitewashed houses and the surrounding countryside. It’s a quiet place to pause for a moment, take some photos, and enjoy a different perspective of Ostuni.

🌟 Check out Best Luxury Beach Clubs in Puglia, Italy: Guide blog post!

13 – Relax at Spiaggia di Torre Pozzella

If you love a good beach, this is one of the most unique and beautiful beaches near Ostuni on the Adriatic Coast. Spiaggia di Torre Pozzella is made up of five small sandy coves, which are separated by rocky outcrops.

The clear turquoise water is perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Overlooking the beach is the 16th-century Aragonese watchtower, which adds a touch of history to the stunning coastal views.

What makes it special is the wild setting. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and ancient juniper trees, it feels peaceful and less crowded than many other beaches. We spent time here swimming and relaxing, and it quickly became one of my favorite spots by the sea.

🌟 Check out Sorrento in One Day: Ultimate Itinerary to Lemon Town blog post!

14 – Try Pasticciotti Tradizionali

Make sure to try pasticciotti tradizionali, a local pastry that’s popular all over Puglia. We had them in Ostuni and they were delicious. These little tarts have a buttery crust and are filled with custard cream. I had one with an espresso, and it was perfect. You can get them in bakeries all around town, and they’re a must if you want a taste of local life.

🌟 Check out How to Spend the Best 2 Days in Dubrovnik: Itinerary blog post!

15 – Visit Masseria Il Frantoio

Masseria Il Frantoio is a historic farmhouse located just outside Ostuni. It is surrounded by olive groves and the Puglian countryside. This farmhouse dates back to the 16th century and has an underground olive mill (the “frantoio”) that shows the area’s long tradition of olive oil making.

Today, it’s both a hotel and a working organic farm. You can stay in rustic rooms, taste local olive oil, and enjoy regional dishes made with homegrown ingredients.

Visiting a masseria like this is one of the best ways to experience local life in Puglia. The peaceful setting, the food, and the history provide an authentic glimpse into the region’s culture. Plus, you are still close to Ostuni and the sea.

Final Thoughts on Ostuni Italy

Ostuni really is one of the highlights of Puglia. Between the whitewashed old town, lively piazzas, and amazing views of the Adriatic coast, it’s a place that feels both historic and full of energy. For me, spending a few nights here was the best way to enjoy it. It’s not just a day trip, but as a town with its own rhythm and charm.

I hope this travel guide helps you plan your visit and shows why Ostuni, the “White City,” deserves a spot on your itinerary. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or just to enjoy the atmosphere, Ostuni is a place that leaves a lasting impression.

Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Ostuni

When is The Best Time to Visit Ostuni?

Choosing the right time to visit can really shape your Puglia experience. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

April, May, September, October: Shoulder Season

Spring and early fall are some of the best times to visit Ostuni and Puglia region. The weather is warm but not too hot, the beaches and streets are not as crowded, and prices are a little lower. It’s a great balance if you want good weather without the summer rush.

June – August: High Season

The summer months are the high season in Ostuni, and the busiest. The town is full of energy, with events, long sunny days, and tons of people out in the piazzas and on the beaches. It’s the most lively time to go, but also the busiest and with higher prices.

November – March: Offseason

In the winter, Ostuni is very quiet, and some attractions, shops, and restaurants may close or have limited hours. However, if you’re not a fan of crowds and don’t mind cooler weather, this can be a quiet time to explore. J

How to get to Ostuni Italy:

Getting to Ostuni is pretty simple, and there are a few different options depending on how you plan to travel around Puglia. Here’s what you should know:

By Plane

The nearest airport is Brindisi Airport, which is just a short drive from Ostuni. Bari Airport is another option, though it takes longer to reach the town. From either airport, you can rent a car or take public transport connections to get to Ostuni.

By Car

We took a road trip, and I think it’s the easiest way to explore Puglia. A rental car gives you the freedom to see Ostuni and all the nearby towns at your own pace. Google Maps worked well for me, which made driving simple. When we stayed overnight in Ostuni, we parked just outside the old town in a lot. While taking day trips to other towns, we were able to find either parking lots or street parking.

By Public Transport

If you don’t want to drive, you can also reach Ostuni by train. The Ostuni train station is a few miles from the historic center. You’ll need a short taxi or bus ride to get into town. This option is affordable and is a good choice if you’re using public transport during your trip.

Is Ostuni safe to visit?

Puglia, as a region, felt pretty safe, especially the smaller towns. As with any place, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Language: Do I need to speak Italian?

Italian is the official language, but many locals in Puglia understand and speak basic English, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few Italian phrases like “Grazie” (thank you) and “Per favore” (please) goes a long way and adds to the experience.

Need inspiration for your next trip? Check out some of my other posts:

Travels with MR

Growing up between Europe and New York, I was always drawn to new places and how they made me feel. After visiting over 25 countries, that love has only grown. I enjoy finding great places to visit, stay, and eat—and I’m someone who really loves planning and staying organized. Through this blog and on Instagram, I share my travel tips, personal experiences, and ready-to-go itineraries to help you plan memorable trips.

More About me