Ostuni Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Ostuni
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Ostuni, nestled in the enchanting region of Trulli in southern Italy, welcomes your family with its dazzling whitewashed walls and winding cobblestone streets. Known as the “White City,” Ostuni glows under the Apulian sun, offering breathtaking views of olive groves that stretch to the Adriatic Sea. As you stroll through Piazza della Libertà, the heart of town, you’ll find charming gelaterias and family-run trattorias serving fresh local fare. The majestic Ostuni Cathedral, with its intricate rose window, invites you to pause and soak in centuries of history together.
Just a short drive from Ostuni, the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic coastline beckon. Spend your days at Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve, where gentle waves and sandy beaches create the perfect playground for children. Here, you can kayak along the coast, explore nature trails, or enjoy a family picnic by the dunes. For a change of pace, venture inland to the lush Valle d’Itria, where cycling paths wind through vineyards and the iconic trulli houses of Alberobello await your discovery.
Ostuni and the Trulli region shine year-round, but spring and early autumn offer mild temperatures ideal for outdoor adventures. Families love the vibrant weekly markets, where you can sample local cheeses and olives, and the evening passeggiata—a leisurely walk through the town as the sun sets behind the hills. Whether you’re building sandcastles by the sea or exploring ancient stone villages, Ostuni promises a warm, memorable escape for all ages.
Nearby cities
Carovigno
Discover Carovigno in Salento—where your family can picnic under olive trees, explore ancient castles, and play on golden beaches kissed by the Adriatic breeze.
Mola di Bari
Discover Mola di Bari in sunny Puglia—where your family can savor seaside strolls, splash on sandy beaches, and picnic by the sparkling Adriatic coast.
Porto Cesareo
Discover Porto Cesareo in Salento, Italy—where your family can swim in clear waters, explore sandy beaches, and savor seaside sunsets together all summer long.
Lecce
Discover Lecce in Salento, Italy—where your family can stroll sunlit piazzas, savor gelato, and play in olive groves under the warm Mediterranean sky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Ostuni has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Ostuni, Italy, known as La Città Bianca for its dazzling whitewashed buildings, offers families a magical blend of history, culture, and Mediterranean beauty. Children will love exploring the labyrinthine old town, while parents can savor local olive oils and wines at charming trattorias. The Adriatic coast, just minutes away, boasts crystal-clear beaches perfect for swimming and sandcastle building, and the nearby archaeological park of Egnazia provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient Apulian civilization.
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To plan a balanced itinerary in Ostuni, start your day exploring the whitewashed labyrinth of the Centro Storico, where you can wander narrow alleys, visit the stunning Ostuni Cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views from Piazza della Libertà. In the afternoon, head out to the olive groves and rolling hills surrounding the city for a guided bike tour or a hike. Don’t miss a sunset visit to the nearby Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve for swimming or snorkeling along the Adriatic coast.
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Many properties in Ostuni, especially within the historic whitewashed old town and the scenic countryside dotted with trulli, cater to longer stays by offering kitchens and laundry facilities. Travelers can expect well-equipped apartments and charming villas, often featuring modern amenities amid traditional stone architecture. Whether staying near the iconic Piazza della Libertà or in the olive groves surrounding the city, visitors will find accommodations designed for comfort and convenience, perfect for extended visits to this Puglian gem.
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During a 3-day winter getaway in Ostuni, you can wander the enchanting whitewashed streets of the Old Town, where the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta stands gracefully atop the hill. Enjoy a cozy meal of orecchiette pasta in a local trattoria, then explore the nearby olive groves and ancient masserie that dot the countryside. Don’t miss a visit to the Archaeological Park of Santa Maria d’Agnano or a relaxing afternoon at a spa in the Valle d’Itria.
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If you’re visiting Ostuni during the summer, Torre Guaceto Beach stands out for its natural beauty and reliable lifeguard presence, making it a safe choice for families. Pilone Beach, located within the Parco Regionale delle Dune Costiere, also offers lifeguard services, ensuring peace of mind while you enjoy the Adriatic’s clear waters. These beaches are popular for their fine sand and organized lido facilities, perfect for a relaxing and secure seaside experience.
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During the colder months, Ostuni comes alive with festive charm, particularly during the Christmas season when the historic old town glows with twinkling lights and artisan markets fill Piazza della Libertà. Visitors can enjoy the traditional “Mercatini di Natale,” where local crafts and Pugliese delicacies are on display. In early January, the Epiphany is celebrated with processions and live nativity scenes, adding to the magical atmosphere that makes Ostuni a delightful winter destination.
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A couple visiting Ostuni should budget around 150 to 200 euros per day to enjoy the best of this charming Apulian town. This estimate covers a comfortable stay in a boutique guesthouse in the historic white-washed old town, delicious meals at local trattorias where you can savor orecchiette pasta and fresh seafood, entrance fees to attractions like the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and a leisurely aperitivo in Piazza della Libertà. Transportation and small souvenirs are also included in this daily budget.
