Weekend in Brindisi

Two marble columns marking the end of the Appian Way, ancient Rome’s main road to the east. One original column stands 19 metres tall; the other was moved to Lecce in the 1600s.

Tip: Visit at golden hour for the best light on the carvings. The pedestal has reliefs of Roman gods and sea monsters often missed in a quick glance.

One of a pair of ancient Roman marble columns marking the end of the Appian Way. Stands in the old town near the harbour. The single surviving column is about 18m tall, with carvin

Tip: Go at sunset when the light hits the marble nicely. The smaller column opposite is a medieval copy – skip it.

One of a pair of ancient Roman columns marking the end of the Appian Way. The surviving column stands 19 metres tall with marble capital, overlooking the harbour.

Tip: Go at sunset when the light hits the column and the waterfront. It's on a busy roundabout so watch the traffic crossing for photos.

Two towering marble columns marking the end of the Appian Way. One original and one reconstructed column stand at the top of a grand staircase overlooking the harbour.

Tip: Visit at sunset for a great view over the harbour. The pavement around the base can be uneven; watch your step.

Moderate-sized archaeology museum housed in a former convent. Displays local Messapian, Greek and Roman artefacts – pottery, jewellery, and a set of well-preserved Roman surgical tools.

Tip: First Sunday of the month is free for everyone. On weekdays it's already free, so check their Facebook for any temporary closures.

Tree-lined promenade along the inner harbour with views of ferries, fishing boats, and the old town. Benches, a small playground, and maritime atmosphere. Popular for evening strolls.

Tip: Bring binoculars to spot birds on the salt marshes at the far end. There’s a public tap with drinkable water halfway along.

Paved walkway along the inner harbour with views of the castle, docks, and passing ferries. Benches, palms, and a gentle sea breeze.

Tip: Start at the Roman Column and walk south to the Aragonese Castle for a solid 20-minute stroll with changing views.

One of a pair of ancient Roman marble columns that once marked the terminus of the Appian Way. The remaining column stands about 19 metres tall, with decorative carvings. Located n

Tip: Visit in late afternoon for good light on the carvings; the other column is in Lecce.

A wide, palm-lined promenade running along the inner harbour, passing the Aragonese Castle on a small island and ending at the Roman Columns.

Tip: Bring a bottle of water from a local shop; the few cafes along the route are pricey. The benches near the castle have the best shade.

A circular 11th-century Crusader church built on the model of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Inside, pull up the weathered capitals and the central dome’s quiet acoustics.

Tip: Go during a weekday morning. It's often empty, and the custodian may let you into the tiny crypt if you ask nicely in Italian.