Otranto

A stunning walled port city on the Adriatic coast known for its mosaic cathedral floor and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It marks the easternmost point of Italy.

Things to do

• Visit Otranto Cathedral — See the remarkable 12th-century floor mosaic depicting the Tree of Life.
• Explore Aragonese Castle — Walk the ramparts for panoramic sea views.
• Swim at Baia dei Turchi — A pristine beach north of town reachable by a short pine-forest walk.
• Stroll the Old City Walls — The intact medieval walls circle the historic centre—visit at sunset.
• Day trip to Punta Palascia — Visit Italy's easternmost lighthouse just a few kilometres south.

Food to try

• Ciceri e Tria — Pasta with chickpeas, half fried and half boiled—a Salento classic.
• Alici Marinate — Fresh anchovies marinated in lemon juice, olive oil and parsley.
• Pasticciotto Leccese — Flaky pastry filled with custard cream, popular throughout the Salento region.
• Ricci di Mare — Sea urchins served raw on the shell, a local seafood delicacy.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Cathedral — Cover shoulders and knees before entering—it remains an active place of worship.
• Arrive Early in Summer — Otranto gets very crowded in July and August; visit beaches by 9am for tranquillity.
• Learn About the Martyrs — The cathedral houses skulls of 800 locals killed in 1480; ask locals respectfully before photographing.