Things to Do in Taranto

A Romanesque cathedral dating from the 11th century, with a Baroque facade and a crypt housing the relics of Saint Cataldo. Free to enter during opening hours.

🕐 Monday to Saturday, 08:30–12:00 and 16:00–19:00; Sunday 08:30–13:00 and 16:00–20:00.

💡 Don’t miss the marble floor mosaics near the altar — they’re original and patterned like a medieval carpet. The crypt is often quiet, and you can see the saint’s tomb. Dress modestly.

One of Italy’s top archaeological museums, housing Greek and Roman artefacts from Magna Graecia, including gold jewellery, pottery, and statues. The museum is free on the first Sunday of each month.

🕐 Tuesday to Saturday, 08:30–19:30; Sunday 08:30–13:30; closed Monday.

💡 Head straight to the second floor for the 'Ori di Taranto' gold collection — it’s the highlight. Allow 1–2 hours. Entry is €8 normally, but free on first Sundays.

The historic centre on the island of the old city, with narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, small churches, and fish-drying balconies. Free to wander any time.

🕐 Always open.

💡 Start at Piazza Fontana and aim for the waterfront along Via Duomo. The best views are from the quayside near the Ponte Girevole. Go early morning to see fishermen mending nets.

A 15th-century fortress built on an island connected to the old town by a bridge. You can walk around the exterior and across the drawbridge for free, or pay a small fee to tour the ramparts and interior courtyards.

🕐 Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00–13:00 and 14:00–18:00; closed Monday.

💡 Entry is cheap (€2–€5 depending on exhibitions), and the sunset view from the ramparts over the Mar Grande is worth every cent. Go on a weekday morning to avoid queues.

A large regional park on the outskirts of Taranto, featuring deep limestone ravines (gravine) with ancient caves, chapels, and diverse wildlife. Entry is free, though some guided tours cost a small fee.

🕐 Dawn to dusk; no gate. Check local notices for seasonal path closures.

💡 The best section is the Gravina di Riggio — a short walk from the car park. Bring sturdy shoes and water; there’s no shade. Wildflowers are spectacular in spring.