The historic center of Otranto, named Centro Storico, showcases the impressive 11th-century Cattedrale di Santa Maria Annunziata. This cathedral boasts a Chapel of the Martyrs and an exquisite medieval mosaic floor. The military architecture during the 15th century is represented by the Aragonese Castle in this area. Additionally, visitors can find frescoes that showcase Apulian Byzantine art inside the Church of San Pietro.
The Laghetto Cave di Bauxite is a stunning, secluded hiking area with vibrant red rock cliffs and emerald green waters. Located on the site of an old cave, it is an important source of bauxite, a rock used in the production of aluminum. The lake itself is exceptionally beautiful, as are the surrounding hiking paths that lead to the sea. Parking spaces are available nearby for a small fee.
Beautiful and unique...Bauxite is a rock and important aluminium ore, the lake is exceptionally beautiful, as is the entire surrounding area, whose path also leads to the sea. Parking spaces are available nearby for a small fee.
The surrounding area invites you to go hiking. Highly recommended.
Rita Rosaria Oliva — Google review
Beautiful place. Not far from city center (20 min. walk)
Iman Berbar — Google review
Geen echte toeristische attractie, maar zeker een aanrader als je in de buurt bent van Otranto. Indrukwekkende rode bauxiet steen met een meertje in het midden.
(Translated by Google)
Not a real tourist attraction, but definitely recommended if you are near Otranto. Impressive red bauxite stone with a small lake in the middle.
Fred Prakken — Google review
Amazing place and well worth checking out
Gypsyduo — Google review
Zeker even stoppen bij dit kleine pareltje. De kleuren zijn echt prachtig. Verwacht geen enorme spot, het is één soort krater. Er is een parkeerplaats op een paar minuten lopen.
(Translated by Google)
Definitely stop at this little gem. The colors are really beautiful. Don't expect a huge spot, it's one kind of crater. There is a car park a few minutes walk away.
Fieke Obrian — Google review
Nice hiking spot
John Camposeo — Google review
In Salento - in southern Italy - a few km southeast of Otranto, you can make a trip to Mars while staying on Earth in a unique natural setting. In fact, the lake is a quarry from which bauxite was extracted, a mineral from which aluminum is obtained
The quarry was used between 1940-1976 when it was decommissioned
It took on this aspect when it ceased to operate. A pond with emerald green water has been formed with water infiltrations of one of the many aquifers
The earth is red fire for the presence of the mineral, the vegetation and the color of the water give a unique experience.
We are a stone’s throw from Capo d'Otranto, where the distance between Italy and Albania is at least 70km. Good weather conditions allow you to see the Albanian coast in front.
You can enjoy this area with my customized hiking, boat/dinghy and bike guided tours along this stretch of coast, available high quality road bicycle and boat/dinghy rentals. (Check out my profile)
Gennaro de Concilio - Veloce Bike Rental — Google review
Worth visiting
Xander Van Rompaye — Google review
Amazing spot- much bigger than it looks in the photos and incredible colours.
Baia dei Turchi is a secluded tourist beach located in the town of Otranto, Puglia. The area is known for its pristine white buildings and full amenities, including family-run delis serving up spicy focaccia. While Otranto's main sandy drag may be popular among visitors, those seeking a more peaceful experience can venture a few kilometers north towards Casino dei Turchi.
After a twenty minutes walk on a wild woods path, you arrive to this dreamy bay. There's not much people, the sand is white and silky, the water is crystal aquamarine and in some points light blue and emerald green. The bay is long and allows to take walks on the beach. I have travelled a lot but I can assure you I have never been in a place in which sea water and the sand are so paradisiacal.
Chiara Zen — Google review
Amazing beach!
Be careful though: they will tell you that there is no parking by the beach to force you to pay 5€ and take their shuttle but off season, you can easily come and park for free in the pinewood where the shuttle drops you.
Fannie Decerf — Google review
I went in September 2023 and there is three car parks. There is a FREE one that is the closest to the beach.
The first car park you see has car park attendants demanding you to stop for parking and cost 5 euros. Ignore them and turn left into the road directing you to the beach.
The second car park has a charge for 3 euros. Also ignore as you can continue along the paved road.
The third and last car park is FREE and fits about 50 cars and is untimed. Check out that car park first and if no spots then turn back to the other car parks.
Note the walk if you stop at the first car park is at least 20 minutes until the beach which is crazy. So get to the free and closest car park
The beach has soft sand, and water is nice. Nice for a day lying down to relax
Mylee Trinh — Google review
The area is windy but it's nice. The private area with ombrelloni has crazy prices. So we decided to stay at the free beach. From the first parking area you have to walk about 15 min but its easy.
Antonio Ahimsa — Google review
Pros: beautiful beach, fine sand and shallow water (good for children). Cons: expensive parking (5-7€), long walk through the pine forrest (depending on where you park, it can be 200m to 1000m). The closest to the beach parking is not open before 8am so if you’re an early riser, manage accordingly.
FLX Dan — Google review
One of the best picture perfect beaches in Salento, We can’t wait to come here in the summer again
Alper Ozdemir — Google review
Truly stunning, water was amazing, clear, aqua blue, warm and the sand so soft. It did take a little bit of a 15 minute walk to get there though. As we parked at the beginning of a road, then had to walk about 1 km to reach it through road, bush and finally down the small cliff face. All worth it and didn’t get out of the water for an hour it was that good.
Melissa Edwards — Google review
Great beach, though overpriced seats if you come for a couple hours, 30 euros for 2 seats. No shower, no real toilet, only portable stuff because it's super remote.
The beach is like a dream. Sand, clean, super safe, starts with a bath and then you can swim pretty far. Waves very mellow with southern wind.
Chiel van Ewijk — Google review
Lovely sandy beach split naturally into small coves by the curved rocks. There’s a car park just 5 mins walk away through the woods for €5 a day. Not much down there in terms of facilities or refreshments so best to come prepared. Water is shallow a fairly long way out - great for swimming
Jamie — Google review
Beautiful beach! We stopped by in July 2023 and it was very hot this day so there were quite a lot of people on the beach. Renting a parasol and two sunbeds was 30 € but essential as the sun was strong. The sand gets super hot so make sure to bring sandals or similar. The sand was great quality and the water was very clear with gentle waves when we visited.
Gard Karlsen — Google review
First of all, you need to walk around 1 km to the beach from the parking. But every step is totally worth it. There are some guys who are asking 5 to 7 Euros for parking... We were just parking next to the road just like the locals. We asked some Italians and they said it is okay ... So I guess you can safe that money for the parking. The beach itself is really nice the water is clear. We went in the evening so it was not that crowded. I think with sunshine and on the weekends it might get crowded. I think the sunrise could be very nice there
Jo T — Google review
Fantastic beach near Otranto. Water is Crystal clear, sand is soft and comfortable, and the beach is surrounded by rocks and beautiful trees.
Not that much infrastructure there, as it is in a natural protection reserve. Parking far away, but with a shuttle included in the 4euros. Count, after the stop of the shuttle, on one kilometer walk, difficult to access for small children or person with disabilities
gerald stubbe — Google review
Amazing beach nearby Otrando ! Warmly recomended! You van live a car nearby for free or you can park your car in the park neqr the beach where you have to pay. To get to the beach you will walk through the forest where you can hear cycadas! After a -10 minute walk you will reach an amazing wide sand beach where water is crystal and bkye and green. The beach was crowded byt you can stroll and find place for yourself ! On the beach you will find a beach bar which serve cold beer 3 euro, diffrent types of coffee 2 euro and cold proseco wine 2 euro and some types of panini . Warmly recommeded . Spiaggia fantastica vicino Otrando! Parcheggio a pagamento vicino spiaggia. Passeggiarre 10 minuti attraverso la foresta alla spiaggia. Tu ascolta cicale in una foresta. La spiaggia è ampia. Il mare è cristalino. un bar è alla spiage servire birra freda, proseco freda, caffè e gelato è panini.Reccomando caldamente.OO
Iwona Wojsznis-Gruszka — Google review
Beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear water, and deserted in September.
Multiple access points through the forest, depending on which parking area you come from. Absolutely not wheelchair accessible or suitable for strollers, but otherwise rather friendly pathway for anyone able to walk.
Kelly O — Google review
One of the most suggestive and amazing wild beach in Salento coast. There are just few bathhouse, it is suggested bring your own equipment for enjoying the sea. Parking car located very close to the beach (free also).
Vincenzo Prestera — Google review
Such a great beach! The water is warm and very clean. If you want to take a spot with an umbrella and two beach beds, it costs 25€ for the whole day and is totally worth it :)
The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Annunziata, located in Otranto, Italy, is a unique 11th-century cathedral that boasts elaborate floor mosaics and an underground crypt containing the remains of martyrs. Constructed by the Normans, it incorporates elements of Romanesque, Byzantine and early Christian styles with their own. The cathedral has undergone various renovations over time but still retains its original charm.
Amazing mosaics which are surprisingly well-preserved even though these are still accessible to the public. The ceilings are also a sight to see. Rich in history and detail - made me wish there were more descriptions about the different features of the Cathedràl. Definitely worth the trip to Otranto 👍
Strawberry Fields — Google review
Throughout our week Puglia tour we saw dozens of beautiful Churches, but this one counts in top 3.
It's set in the center of old town Otranto dating back to 11c.
A rather simple stone facade hides amazing Tree of Life mosaic spread over the entire Church floor.
Another Church highlight is the beautiful wood carved ceiling, as well the skulls and bones Chapel of the Martyrs.
After paying hefty entry fees in Lecce Churches, I was pleasantly surprised entry here is free
Dejan Braki — Google review
Great and impressive old monument with a huge mosaic work...
David naftalis — Google review
Otranto Cathedral has three interesting points (I would say: hits) - floor mosaics made by fra Pantaleone, crypt with interesting columns and relics of Otranto martyrs. It's free to enter but there is long siesta (12-30 - 15-30)
sibeaster — Google review
Great cathedral in a great city with a great history. Love the floor mosaic. So beautiful. It does close for the hours of riposo so keep that in mind.
stella luna — Google review
Here is a place where you can see how ages ago people learned of the Bible. The mosaics told the story of the tree of life and the division of Heaven and Hell.
Having survived the conversion to a Mosque and back most of the frescoes were destroyed... butfor some reason they left the images of Mary... and a few of Christ on the cross.
János Szablya — Google review
The Cattedrale di Otranto combines a Byzantine and Romanesque style. It was built by the Normans. Nearly 800 civilians and clerics were killed by the Turks who had besieged the town. Their bones are arranged inside the chapel. There are impressive frescoes and mosaics. In the basement, there is the crypt with plenty of columns with different styles of capitals and materials. A priest who met spoke Grico!
Georgia Gallou — Google review
Glorious and a real surprise.
We were passing through Otranto and went to see the Cathedral.
We entered through the Crypt where we were greeted by incredible organ music.
The church itself is amazing. Filled with history and different influences, it boast both a spectacular ceiling and jaw-dropping floor. The floor is a tree of life mosaic, populated by mythical beasts.
Worth a visit 1000 %.
Natalija Sitnikova — Google review
A real surprise, the Arbor vitae mosaic is great, weird little animals - I found the ceiling design even better - but the biggest mad thing about the place is the remains of the 800 Martyrs, well worth a (creepy) videos t
Tim Soutar — Google review
A must-see monument in Otranto, originally dating from the 9th century when Otranto was a hellenic town and part of the East Roman empire ruled over by the Roman emperor in Constantinople/Byzantium/modern Istanbul. The basilica, seat of the bishop of Otranto, is laid out in the Roman basilica style with one center and two lower side naves. The flat wooden ceiling over the center nave is ornately decorated. A marvelous mosaic covers the entire church floor. There is also a crypt below the main church.
Michael Stemmeler — Google review
If you want to experience all the crazy flowers that faith and religion brings with it in their purest form, you should go to the cathedral of Ortranto. You can see the influences from occitania, which today are portrayed as esoteric and superstitious. You can see the blood that was shed in the form of hundreds of thousands of skulls below in the crypt and you can smell the Catholic stench everywhere.
Probably one of the best if not the best beach in the area.The waters are very clear and have that green/blue amazing colour.There are several beach bars in the area that you can get a sunbed and between it has space if you are using your own umbrellas. The food is brilliant with the usual italian quality. The only problem would be to find a parking space as it can get very busy and it has limited spaces.
Ioannis Louizos — Google review
Amazing beach. So clear and beautiful coast! Want to come every year 😍
Fion Wang — Google review
The beach is very clean with almost white sand and crystal clear waters, you can choose out of many different Lidos and beach activities. On the weekends during the peak season it is very packed and crowded so I would recommend to come early or the reserve a spot upfront. Ask in your hotel for collaborations and with the different beach clubs, sometimes you’ll get better prices.
Niko — Google review
Best beach we visited in our week in Otranto! Lots of Lidos but there is a great spiaggia libera right at the mouth of the lake and we found few people there and had a beautiful day. Park at "parcheggio dei turchi" for €3.50 all day and it's an easy hike to find the beach.
Katie Klug — Google review
Came here in October. Tourist season long over, the sun shining as beautifully as ever. This is one of the prettiest beaches I have seen in Europe. If at all possible, come here when the crowds are gone and explore. There are far more magical corners to be found if you are willing to take a walk...
Alex Masselink — Google review
Beautiful beach with clean caribbean water but extreamly crowded in high season. Some unpleasent expirience with the staff on the beach entrance too.
Krasimir Argirov — Google review
The beach is very clean with almost white sand and crystal clear waters, you can choose out of many different Lidos and beach activities. On the weekends during the peak season it is very packed and crowded so I would recommend to come early or the reserve a spot upfront. Ask in your hotel for collaborations and with the different beach clubs, sometimes you’ll get better prices.
Marco Paladino — Google review
Crystal clear water, wide beach, amazing place for vacation!
Punta Palascìa Lighthouse is a remote 19th-century historical landmark situated at the easternmost point of Italy's peninsula. The lighthouse provides light to guide people and is known for its beautiful location with stunning views of the Albanian coast and mountains on clear days. It is suggested to visit during sunrise as it offers wonderful colors and a natural background.
The eastern most area of Italy. On sunny clear days you can also spot the albanian coast and mountains.
Simona Pergola — Google review
Interesting spot. There is a hike of 10-15 minutes from where you park the car to the tower below. A stunning view of the sea. Just see the easy pics I did :)
Doris Karapici — Google review
Nice walk to the lighthouse. It was quite windy and it was not open to go inside.
Eric Hirsch — Google review
Long walk down, we went there to watch the sunrise, but unfortunately it was really cloudy. Great viewing point. Only negative point is that the mystery is kinda diluted by the military camp which you have to walk past. Also, no real parking places, you just have to park you car on the side of the road.
kevin van der welle — Google review
Stunning scenery with a nice hiking trail 🥾
Ogy Kovachev — Google review
This is the most " Easern" tip of the whole if Italy. As we visited it in May, there were hardly any other tourist in the area . So for us it was a nice stop in our trip down the Southern coast of Italy.
Willem van Aken — Google review
Amazing and magnificent landscape around the east point of Italy. Highly recommended when you travel with car.
Nothingnew — Google review
At the easternmost point of Italy there is one of the five lighthouses protected by the European Union. It is the Lighthouse of Punta Palascia. It was designed in 1863 by the engineer Achille Rossi, when the Italian government drew up a program of lighthouses, which refused the ministerial model for lighthouses of the fourth order. It was abandoned in the 1970s, however, it has been reopening since 2008. They say that on New Year's a lot of people visit the area to see the first dawn of the year, because it appears there before the rest of the country. Nice view!
Georgia Gallou — Google review
Beautiful!!!
Worthy to visit this place. We drove around 2 hours from Monopoli and arrived. Nice weather but very very windy.
We had a picnic. Very enjoying.
Great pictures with the Faro.
And also met nice Spanish/Italian visitors and had a nice conversation.
The lighthouse is to bring light to people.
Linda Cheng — Google review
It's good to visit to be at the most easterly point of italy.
Looks like a big refurbishment going on here.
Tony Ackroyd — Google review
Amazing place! Suggested to visit at sunrise timing. Wonderful colors and nature background!
Vincenzo Prestera — Google review
the most advantageous part of Italy. a frequented place for taking photos of the lighthouse. Unfortunately, the parking lot is not marked. you can easily miss.
The serene Alimini Lakes is a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities such as canoe rentals, swimming, hiking and picnicking. The vast expanse of the lake is perfect for strolling or jogging with its cool water that connects to the ocean. The peaceful surroundings offer a tranquil experience without being overcrowded by tourists.
What a beauty spot to visit. Just North of Otranto. Nice scenic spot, the lake and air rounding area is spectacular, parking is a bit tight but free. Well worth a visit if you are in Otranto which I highly recommend as a holiday destination
frank keenaghan — Google review
Nice lakes... peaceful - December late afternoon. Hard to get down to the lakes in other places.
Nice walks in woods though rather littered.
Ulrike Chesney — Google review
(Translated by Google) Very beautiful place, nature, a real pleasant break with appreciable landscapes. We enjoyed visiting it out of season because we were alone.
We were able to land on the bench at the start of the course but didn't see any other vantage point for a picnic.
On the other hand, what a disappointment to find so much waste that seems really old ...
Watch out for the road to the parking lot, you have the impression of going to the end of the world, rocky road.
(Original)
Endroit très beau, nature, une vraie pause agréable avec des paysages appréciables. Nous avons pris plaisir à le visiter hors saison car nous étions seuls.
Nous avons pu nous poser sur le banc au début du parcours mais n’avons pas vu d’autre point de vue pour un pique-nique.
Par contre, quelle déception de trouver autant de déchets qui semblent vraiment anciens...
Attention pour la route vers le parking, on a l’impression d’aller au bout du monde, route en caillou.
Sandra Bonnaire — Google review
Very nice, calm place, not so many people
monsanbia — Google review
Cool lake that segways into the ocean. Go for a stroll or jog!
David Walby — Google review
(Translated by Google) Generated by the continuous erosion of the sea, it offers a beautiful panorama. Surrounded by a rich rocky band covered with thick pine forests and Mediterranean scrub.
You can see it from the street and there is ample parking for cars. Behind you are long stretches of sand and a crystal clear sea
(Original)
Generato dalla continua erosione del mare offre un panorama bellissimo. Circondato da una ricca fascia rocciosa ricoperta da folte pinete e macchia mediterranea.
È possibile vederlo dalla strada e vi è un ampio parcheggio per le auto. Alle spalle lunghe distese di sabbia ed un mare cristallino
Pierluigi Stefanizzi — Google review
(Translated by Google) The place deserves so much but is not adequately valorised and protected. The transit ban is not respected, the signs need to be redone, a non-existent picnic area although indicated on the signs, scattered rubbish.
However, it remains a place rich in fauna and flora, far from the chaos of the beaches. Several hours must be dedicated to be able to walk the various paths that run along the lake.
The most "known" point is the bench with a panoramic view, not far from a car park. Free entry.
(Original)
Il luogo merita tanto ma non è adeguatamente valorizzato e protetto. Il divieto di transito non viene rispettato, la segnaletica è da rifare, area picnic inesistente seppur indicata nella segnaletica, rifiuti sparsi.
Rimane comunque un luogo ricco di fauna e flora, lontani dal caos delle spiagge. Vanno dedicate diverse ore per poter percorrere i vari sentieri che costeggiano il lago.
Il punto più “conosciuto” è la panchina con vista panoramica, poco lontana da un parcheggio per auto. Ingresso gratuito.
Giusy Sausa — Google review
(Translated by Google) Beautiful experience, place surrounded by nature. Free parking, Mr. Lucio's water bikes are definitely worth trying. We didn't book but it is recommended to do so for the bike ride.
(Original)
Bellissima esperienza, luogo immerso nella natura. Parcheggio gratuito, sicuramente sono da provare le bici d’acqua del signor Lucio. Noi non abbiamo prenotato ma è consigliato farlo per il giro in bici.
Antonio Nuzzo — Google review
(Translated by Google) Enchanting, uncontaminated place, not easy to reach as the access points are limited, rich in fauna and flora, little frequented (fortunately). Absolutely worth protecting. Absolutely worth seeing.
(Original)
Luogo incantevole incontaminato, non facile da raggiungere in quanto i punti d'accesso sono limitati, ricco di fauna e flora, poco frequentato ( per fortuna). Assolutamente da proteggere. Assolutamente da vedere.
The Aragonese Castle of Otranto, constructed in the 15th century, offers tours of its chambers, halls, and tunnels. The castle holds historical significance due to its construction during a time when Otranto was highly populous and important. Exhibits within the castle include a collection of Neolithic artifacts from a nearby cave as well as modern paintings that relate mainly to The Divine Comedy. A rooftop viewpoint provides stunning views for visitors.
Big shout-out to Andrea, who explained the castle history and exhibits with passion and intelligence. The exhibits include a collection of Neolithic artifacts from a nearby cave, explanations of the castle’s history, an exhibition of imaginative modern paintings mostly relating to The Divine Comedy, and a rooftop viewpoint. I really enjoyed my visit.
Greg Abbott — Google review
The Aragonese Castle in Otranto was built during the Spain rule in late 15 c. It occupies a commanding position above the old town protecting the harbor entrance. It's a classic turret castle with a moat around it.
Great views of the old town and entire bay from the tower
Dejan Braki — Google review
The castel of otranto and walls inclose the old city which dates from the 1500,s is a wonderful imposing structure which has many walk ways and view points to see, inside you can visit the turrets, and theres many rooms with artworks, the view fron the very top is amazing which you can see otranto fully, not very busy so is relaxing, the old town has many shops, bars and has a turkish eastern europiean feel to it, with narrow streets and cobble stone walkways.
Plenty to like, and night life has many clubs and bars.
Cost 12 euros to vist but children are free.
Great exlerience.
Antonio Falzone — Google review
A must see when in Otranto, go all the way to the top for a great views
Andy Salib — Google review
All the review photos that people are putting up are from the free viewpoints that aren’t in the castle. The top of the castle is closed to visitors and the castle itself is underwhelming. For €12 per person, this is potentially the worst value castle in Italy. Save the money. See the mote and viewpoints for free from outside the castle. If you’re a couple, that €24 buys lunch with wine instead. You’re welcome. 😂
GOTR Media LLC — Google review
Beaufiful building with magnificent views over Otranto and its harbour. Friendly staff. It's better to visit the castle "Forte a Mare" being accompanied by a guide to show you around and better understand it. As well the interior of the castle hosted the Banksy's exhibition in 2021 during my visit there. Really interesting and impressive
Ana Kërtusha — Google review
The imposing and impressive castle, the Castle of Otranto has 3 towers and a moat. It hosts exhibitions. It is well maintained.
There is a book: "The Castle of Otranto", a gothic novel by Horace Walpole (1764).
Georgia Gallou — Google review
Small castle with some permanent but mini history exhibitions. I was there end of April just bumped into a small temporary exhibition of Chagall
Polonita G — Google review
Beautiful piece of history with nice exhibitions.
Great views from the top across Otranto
Charlie Abel — Google review
The old centre of town with a nice Castle wall walk and lots of interesting streets within the walls that contain many restaurants and shops. A great place to visit at night.
Gary Fisher — Google review
You pay 12 euros just to see the views and some exhibitions but the most important thing which is the historial explanations are nowhere. Besides It has been too modernized and the essence of the Castle is lost . Thus, It is such a high price to pay for exhibitions which have nothing to do with the Castle
Piedad Idáñez Escosa — Google review
Imposing fortress, a witness of the city's history. It is easy to visiting and has good views of the harbor and old town.
The Lido Balnearea Beach in Otranto is a high-end seaside establishment featuring comfortable lounger rentals and an outdoor dining experience that includes à la carte restaurant options and a sushi bar. The beach club boasts pleasant music, and the staff is friendly and professional. The overall atmosphere is elegant, making it an ideal spot for upscale relaxation by the sea.
Really nice Beach Club! Very good music, courteous staff 👍
Ralf Eiwell — Google review
Avoid this place during weekends, especially during July and August. It is simply overcrowded and super noisy. Also, if you like attention to details and fine dining, this is not a place for you. On the other hand, if you don't mind fast-food kind of quality and overpriced, quick lunch then you might like it.
Pavlos Hadjipavlis — Google review
Wij hebben hier op het strand gelezen. Bedjes, parasol + parkeren was 33 euro. We hebben geluncht in het restaurant. We moesten best een tijdje wachten tot we het eten kregen, hij bleek het uiteindelijk vergeten zijn door te geven. Het eten kwam daarna snel en was lekker!
(Translated by Google)
We read here on the beach. Beds, parasol + parking was 33 euros. We had lunch in the restaurant. We had to wait quite a while until we got the food, but in the end it turned out that he forgot to pass it on. The food came quickly after that and was tasty!
Sam Guttenberg — Google review
Unfortunately, we came here when a volleyball tournament was on. The DJ was the most terrible I’ve ever heard. The sound was jacked up to ear blasting, then turned off, then quiet... all in the same song. Sometimes the song was introduced then 30 seconds later switched to another. Sometimes half the song was on full volume, then barely heard. It was a complete mess. It was dreadful and frustrating after 4 hours of this happening.
The food was underwhelming and expensive- beware. The wine was nice, the beach was clean.
I would not come back.
Scarlett D — Google review
Awful place, overcrowded, sun beds so close you can smell the person next to you... Avoid at all costs!
Manlio Papaccio — Google review
Nice food, nice beach, nice staff.
Faruk Bayrak — Google review
Beste Strand!
Personal sehr nett.
(Translated by Google)
Best beach!
Staff very nice.
Jules Pk — Google review
Lovely beach, warm sea great for swimming beds brolly table 10 euro. Spotlessly clean. Good toilets showers, great cafe bar selling meals wine beers ice cream Sushi. Some stalls on site selling holiday clothes and gifts.
Roberta Gault — Google review
Vanuit ons hotel Basiliani in Otranto met shuttle busje naar dit strand gegaan!!! Een echt Italiaans strand vol bedden en parasols, schoon, lekker zwemwater!! Het horeca gedeelte is wat massaal met buffet restaurant of a la carte maar dan heb je meteen een hele maaltijd!! Voor een middagje prima om hier naartoe te gaan!
(Translated by Google)
From our hotel Basiliani in Otranto we took a shuttle bus to this beach!!! A real Italian beach full of beds and umbrellas, clean, nice swimming water!! The catering area is a bit crowded with a buffet restaurant or a la carte, but then you immediately have a whole meal!! Great to go here for an afternoon!
Daan Niehof — Google review
First of all, I’ll give 5 stars for the restaurant!
We had lunch here 2 times, amazing! We had grilled octopus ( the best i’ve ever had), seafood pasta (the sauce was very smooth and nice), seabass and the best Sushi everrr, trust me! We tried 2 sushi platters (30,50 pieces) each time everything was so fresh and tasty, I m literally dreaming about that sushi!
You should definetely try this restaurant, even if you don t want to stay at their private beach, just come for the food!
About the beach, in my point of view 50 euros for 2 sunbeds in the prive area where they don t even give you a bottle of water in that price, it’s too much so it doesn t really worth the money…In the normal area it’s 25€/2 sunbeds but you should know that is very very crowded. The beach itself it s beautiful and clean.
Alexandra — Google review
Balnearea is a managed portion of a long stretch of beach about 10 minutes by car north of Otranto. By managed I mean that the whole area is filled with loungers and umbrellas (at the time of writing, $20-$35 for 2 loungers + 1 umbrella, depending the area of the beach, who you ask, and your negotiation skills). Also, bar service and private showers / change rooms are available at a cost. You are not obliged to rent any of these facilities and can lie on your own towel on the sand if you can find an available spot near the water. In July/August the beach is crowded like a can of sardines, which is exactly what some people love and others abhor. The water is wonderful; crystal clear and clean, with fine white sand at the bottom. This is one of the busiest beaches between Brindisi and Otranto, but it is lovely once you're in the water.
Andreas Mollerup — Google review
This lido is a zoo! Reminds me of Coney Island. Parking is a nightmare, as police will ticket your car as there is very limited parking provided by Balnearea. Way too many beach lines, too loud to relax and packed liked a football stadium. Restaurant food is blah— nothing special.
Very charming historic center, with good restaurants (slightly overpriced), bars, ice creams. And small shops selling beautiful handcrafts. Worth visiting in the evening.
L V (Traveler) — Google review
This review is for the paid art exhibit in the tower. First, the tower has been beautifully restored. It wasn’t clear from signage that what you’re actually seeing is a temporary art exhibit. There wasn’t much to it and it’s very dark inside, so hard to read the limited interpretive material. For 5 euros per person, I was a bit disappointed.
M S — Google review
From the moment we entered, the employee at the reception was unfriendly, arrogant and showed a lot of attitude. Since I have already learned my lesson regarding tourist rip-offs in Puglia and since the employee only gave us a sheet o paper to read about the exhibition, with no photos whatsoever, I peeked into the main – and obviously only – exhibition room, simply to get an idea how big the exhibition is. It seemed to consist of only one room. My suspicion was later confirmed when reading other reviews. I then asked the employee if he could tell me what the exhibition is about and if there are photos of the works of art to be seen. He tried to find some facebook page about the artist.
My rating is not about the exhibition which I obviously have not seen, but about the unprofessional and unfriendly Torre Matta »Museum«.
Neysan Rohani — Google review
Torre Matte is interesting but very small. It is not worth five Euro to enter unless you are interested in the art exhibit (which I was not).
Glen Maxfield — Google review
Nice museum and you could appreciate a breathtaking panorama from the top of the tower
Edoardo Spertingati — Google review
Was fine. Other more impressive places in the city
Ed E — Google review
Good
Said Talaa — Google review
11
Bar La Torre Lungomare degli eroi Original Otranto
Having just arrived in Otranto, hungry and in need of a drink mid afternoon (ie after lunch but well before dinner) we saw this place and that it offered food. The location couldn’t be better, looking out over the harbour.
Excellent food, good drinks, fair prices. Definitely recommend.
Conrad Hart-Brooke (chb) — Google review
Bad restaurant. I will never go back. I went to this place with 4 friends and none of us spoke fluent Italian. We ordered 4 dishes, 3 side dishes, a beer, a sparkling water and a natural water. Me and another person at the table ordered fresh fish, and it was stating the value of €6 on the menu. When we went to pay the bill, they charged us €48 for EACH DISH of fish. I asked and they said the price was per 100 grams but they hadn't told us that before, and they said that each fish weighed 800 grams. I left a photo of the tiny fish dish that was served so you can see that it wasn't even 400 grams. They took €30 off our bill because I asked them to resolve the situation. When we went to check the rest of the purchase, they had added 2 beers and 2 sparkling waters, and we only ordered 1 beer and 1 sparkling water. The restaurant managers are rude and acted as if we were in the wrong. It would be better to eat a sandwich sitting on a bench somewhere.
Alice Baeta — Google review
Nice place, nice view! We tried pucce and dishes with octopus.
Georgia Gallou — Google review
Such a nice place to stop and have a bite to eat, has a lovely view, good service and nice food.
Will walker — Google review
A nice bar with a great location, but unfortunately, the service was lacking. The drinks didn't taste very good.
Angela Ciancio — Google review
Nice bar, great view 👌
Lolita — Google review
Best antipasti EVER and amazing service. Lina is the best server, very helpful and kind. Highly recommended place with marvelous view to the Adriatic Sea.
Maria Ines De Villena — Google review
Our regular breakfast spot. Such nice people. Thank you for being so welcoming and such a great location
Lido Riva del Sole is a wonderful beach destination that offers sun loungers, cabanas, and umbrellas for visitors to enjoy. The bar-restaurant serves tasty snacks ranging from piadina to panino until bruscetta, while the DJ sets and parties add excitement to the atmosphere. The staff are incredibly friendly, and parking is included with hot showers available for guest use. Special beers and excellent coffee are also on offer.
Another amazing beach in Puglia but this time on the Adriatic!
beautiful lido Riva del sole in Alimini
Great location with beautiful surrounding
Crystal clear beach …decent food
Basem M.EID — Google review
More like Lido(wn) in Cigarettes.
- Staff were very nice
- Plenty of free parking on site.
- Crystal clear water
- Black sand
Giving 2 stars as the sunbed area was very dirty with dozens of cigarettes butts scattered all around the sunbeds in the sand. We even had an upturned ashtray on the empty sunbed beside us for our entire stay (4 hours). It wasn't even that busy (maybe 4-5 beds were being used in our area with the palm leaf umbrellas).
Andrew Abbott — Google review
Staff are nice and there’s loads of parking but the beds were dirty and cigarette butts everywhere including an upturned ashtray on the beds beside us.
Kerrie Glynn — Google review
Normal beach,a little expensive,restaurant,showers...clean water.
Tiberiu Prunes — Google review
It's a nice and amazing place because expecially the beach
Rejoice Godwin — Google review
- Extremely friendly staff
- Tasty snacks from piadina to panino until bruscetta
- parking included
- hot shower
- special beers
- excellent coffee
- relatively clean beach
- family business
Lio Delhaye — Google review
40€ for two sunbeds and umbrella 😡😡😡😡😡😡That is absolutely unacceptable.
Largo Porta Alfonsina is a significant entrance through the town walls, constructed after the Ottoman invasion. It leads to the historic center, where you can find the Monument to the Martyrs of Otranto, a poignant statue by Italian sculptor Antonio Bortone honoring those who lost their lives. The area comes alive in August with vibrant lights and decorations, creating a captivating atmosphere.
Nice place to visit, it has a beautiful evening vibe.
Bahareh — Google review
Nive gate to the old town of ontranto...
kirkdis — Google review
(Translated by Google) This door is very interesting because it is different.
(Original)
Molto interessante questa porta perché è diversa.
Vanessa Meschiatti Parizotto — Google review
(Translated by Google) Truly beautiful historic center, in August it is colored with a thousand lights and decorations.
(Original)
Centro storico veramente bello, in agosto si colora con mille luci e addobbi.
Mattia Marcon — Google review
(Translated by Google) entering from Porta Terra, Largo Porta Alfonsina opens up, but you are not yet in the city
(Original)
entrati da porta Terra si apre largo porta Alfonsina, ma non si è ancora in città
Fabrizio Pivari — Google review
(Translated by Google) It is a wonderful complex of buildings and Otranto is also a very beautiful little jewel box with its historic old town.
(Original)
Csodálatos épületegyüttes és Otranto is nagyon szép kis ékszerdoboz a történelmi óvárosával.
Zoltan Vegvari — Google review
(Translated by Google) I think the eastern door near the crazy tower is more picturesque
(Original)
Ritengo più pittoresca la porta orientale vicino alla torre matta
Gi Gi — Google review
(Translated by Google) Alfonso of Aragon, Duke of Calabria, liberator of the city of Otranto from the Turks of Achmet Pasha, gives his name to the entrance door to the old city. The door, wonderful, is however rather remodelled. The beach, full of life on summer evenings, when it is occupied by children playing, is ventilated and open to the sea.
(Original)
Alfonso d'Aragona, duca di Calabria, liberatore della città di Otranto dai turchi di Achmet Pascià, dà il suo nome alla porta d'ingresso alla città vecchia. La porta, stupenda, è tuttavia piuttosto rimaneggiata. Il largo, pieno di vita nelle sere d'estate, quando è occupato dai bambini che giocano, è ventilato e aperto sul mare.