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Taranto

Taranto, Puglia, Italy

Discover Taranto: Ancient History Meets Modern Charm in Puglia's Hidden Gem Nestled in the heart of the "heel" of Italy's boot, Taranto, Puglia, offers a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunnin…

#historical city#coastal town#Mediterranean Sea#ancient architecture#cultural heritage

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Taranto.

Top Hotels in Taranto

Top Flights to Taranto

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Taranto.

Tours

Explore the Old Town of Taranto

Discover the historic heart of Taranto with its ancient architecture, narrow streets, and rich cultural heritage.

Taranto National Archaeological Museum Visit

Explore Italy's rich history through a diverse collection of ancient artifacts and exhibits at the museum.

Stroll Along the Lungomare Vittorio Emanuele III

A scenic waterfront promenade ideal for a relaxing walk, offering stunning views of the sea and city.

Walking Tour of the Aragonese Castle

Visit the majestic Aragonese Castle and learn about its strategic military history.

Visit the Ponte Girevole

Witness the engineering marvel of the rotating bridge that connects the old and new city of Taranto.

Shopping

Shopping in Via Di Palma

Shop till you drop in Taranto’s main commercial street, lined with a variety of shops and boutiques.

Explore the Local Markets

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting vibrant markets and tasting local delicacies.

Outdoor

Kayaking on the Mar Piccolo

Enjoy a kayaking adventure for a unique perspective of the city's beautiful coastal environment.

Bike Tour of the Città Vecchia

Bike through the old city of Taranto, exploring its historic sites and enjoying the local culture.

Fishing Excursion on the Ionian Sea

Experience traditional fishing on the Ionian Sea and learn fishing techniques from local experts.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Taranto.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Taranto, Puglia, Italy, is '0.2 million'.

Languages

Italian, Italian

Average weather

Taranto

Jan

12°5°

Feb

13°5°

Mar

15°7°

Apr

18°10°

May

22°14°

Jun

27°18°

Jul

30°21°

Aug

30°21°

Sep

27°19°

Oct

22°15°

Nov

17°10°

Dec

13°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Taranto.

What people love

Taranto, located in the region of Puglia, Italy, offers a unique travel experience with several pros:

Historical and Cultural Attractions: Taranto boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times, with sites such as the Aragonese Castle, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Spartan and Roman ruins. History enthusiasts will appreciate exploring the city's archaeological treasures.
Beautiful Coastline: Taranto is situated on the coast of the Ionian Sea, providing visitors with stunning views and opportunities for seaside relaxation. The city's beaches, such as Lido Gandoli and Lido Azzurro, are popular destinations for sunbathing and swimming.
Gastronomic Delights: Puglia is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and Taranto is no exception. Visitors can indulge in fresh seafood dishes, local olive oils, wines, and traditional regional specialties like orecchiette pasta and burrata cheese.
Authentic Italian Experience: Taranto is a less touristy destination compared to other cities in Italy, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in authentic Italian culture and daily life. Visitors can interact with locals, explore traditional markets, and enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere.
Convenient Location: Taranto serves as a strategic base for exploring other attractions in Puglia, such as Alberobello, Ostuni, and Lecce. Additionally, the city is well-connected by train and bus, making it easy to travel to nearby destinations.

Overall, traveling to Taranto offers a blend of history, culture, beautiful landscapes, culinary experiences, and a genuine taste of Italian life.

What to know

Traveling to Taranto, located in the region of Puglia, Italy, may have a few cons:

Pollution: Taranto has been known for its industrial activities, particularly the steel industry. This has resulted in environmental pollution in the area, which may affect air and water quality. Visitors with respiratory issues or concerns about pollution may want to take this into consideration.
Industrial Landscape: The industrial landscape of Taranto, dominated by factories and industrial infrastructure, may not offer the picturesque views that some travelers seek. This may detract from the overall experience for those looking for more natural or scenic destinations.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Compared to more popular tourist destinations in Italy, Taranto may have a more limited tourist infrastructure. This could mean fewer options for accommodations, dining, and activities tailored to tourists, which may impact the overall travel experience.
Crime: Like any city, Taranto may have its share of crime, including petty crimes like pickpocketing. Travelers should take common-sense precautions to ensure their safety and belongings are secure while exploring the city.
Language Barrier: While some locals may speak English, there may be instances where language barriers could pose challenges for travelers, especially in more local or non-touristy areas. Having some knowledge of basic Italian phrases may be helpful in navigating daily interactions.

It's important to note that these cons are relative and may not apply to every traveler. Despite these potential drawbacks, Taranto also has its unique charms and attractions that may appeal to those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience in Italy.

Taranto, located in the region of Puglia in southern Italy, has a rich and complex history that stretches back to antiquity. Here is a detailed overview:

Ancient History

Foundation: Taranto was founded in 706 BC by Greek settlers from Sparta. It became one of the most important and prosperous cities of Magna Graecia, the group of Greek colonies in southern Italy.
Economy and Culture: The city thrived due to its strategic position for trade and its fertile lands. It was known for its production of purple dye, olives, and wines. Taranto was also a cultural center, home to philosophers and artists.
Archytas: One of the most notable historical figures from Taranto is Archytas, a philosopher, mathematician, and statesman who was a contemporary and friend of Plato. He is credited with significant contributions to mathematics and mechanics.

Roman Era

Roman Conquest: Taranto came under Roman control in 272 BC after a series of conflicts known as the Pyrrhic Wars. The city, known as Tarentum in Latin, became an important Roman port and was integrated into the Roman Republic.
Decline: During the Roman period, Taranto experienced a decline in economic and cultural significance, partly due to competition from the emerging power of Rome and the military conflicts that affected the region.

Medieval Period

Byzantine and Lombard Rule: After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Taranto was contested by various powers, including the Byzantines and the Lombards. It became part of the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century.
Saracen Invasions: In the 9th century, Taranto was captured and heavily damaged by Saracen (Arab) invaders, contributing to further decline.
Norman Conquest: The city was rebuilt and revitalized under Norman rule in the 11th century, becoming part of the Kingdom of Sicily.

Modern Era

Aragonese and Spanish Rule: In the late Middle Ages, Taranto was under the control of the Aragonese and later the Spanish. During this time, the city was fortified with new defensive structures.
Napoleonic Period: In the early 19th century, Taranto came under French control during the Napoleonic Wars but was later integrated into the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.

20th Century to Present

World Wars: Taranto played a strategic role during both World Wars due to its naval base. It was the site of the Battle of Taranto in 1940, where the British Royal Navy launched a successful attack against the Italian fleet.
Post-War Development: After World War II, Taranto developed into an industrial hub, particularly in steel production and shipbuilding.

Important Landmarks

Castello Aragonese: This imposing castle was originally built by the Byzantines and later expanded by the Aragonese in the 15th century. It stands as a symbol of the city’s military history.
Cathedral of San Cataldo: This Romanesque cathedral, dating back to the 11th century, is dedicated to San Cataldo, the patron saint of Taranto.
Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Taranto (MArTA): One of the most important archaeological museums in Italy, it houses a vast collection of artifacts from the city’s Greek and Roman past.

Taranto's history is a testament to its importance as a cultural and strategic location throughout various periods, reflecting the broader historical changes in southern Italy.