Otranto is an ancient fortified town located in the far southeastern corner of Puglia, Italy. The town’s mixture of history and culture makes it a fantastic place to explore, and there are plenty of things to do in Otranto.
Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s historic sights and experience its culture, gorge on delicious food, relax on a sunny Mediterranean beach, or all of the above, you’ll find enough places to visit in Otranto to keep you busy for at least a few days.
The town is home to a stunning Old Town but receives fewer tourists than some of the other more popular destinations in Puglia. This is one of the things that I like most about it, as it’s possible to explore the town without having to contend with crowds of other visitors.
Best Things To Do in Otranto
Otranto is a fairly small town but it has a lot more to offer than its size may suggest. Here’s my pick of the top things to see and do in Otranto and the surrounding area:
1. Take a Walking Tour of the Town
One of the first things I like to do whenever I explore a new destination is to take a walking tour. This is a great way to orient and familiarize yourself with the place, and the guides have a wealth of local knowledge, tips, and recommendations that you might not find out otherwise.
This highly-reviewed walking tour is run by a friendly and knowledgeable local guide who will show you some hidden gems and a few of their favorite places, in addition to the classic tourist attractions in Otranto.
It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Otranto!
2. Discover the Centro Storico
The historical center of Otranto (or Centro Storico, in Italian) is incredibly well-preserved, with twisting streets and alleyways, ancient monuments, and several beautiful churches to get lost amongst.
It’s a paradise for history buffs, with a series of prehistoric houses located near the harbor, and a number of ancient Greek ruins scattered here and there. Even if you’re not big into ancient history, it’s still a stunning place to explore and is wonderfully atmospheric.
Be sure to take your time wandering the cobbled streets, checking out the many hidden little squares and passageways, and soaking up the atmosphere. Don’t forget to bring your camera – it’s extremely photogenic!
Address: Centro Storico, 73028 Otranto LE, Italy
3. Visit the Cathedral of Otranto (One of the Most Famous Places to Visit in Otranto)
