The charm of Ostuni lies in its white architecture and flowered narrow lanes. Streets and steps winding up and down offer glances out to the sea. You will find many places to sit, eat and enjoy the panoramic views which span across the countryside to the Adriatic Sea. Ostuni is known as La Città Bianca (The White City). Colorful flowers and green succulent plants make for a visually stunning appearance in contrast to the white buildings. Ostuni Puglia, is one city definitely worth a visit when in this region! Read on to discover Ostuni’s highlights as well as my favorite Ostuni hotel and restaurants.
Get lost in Centro Storico! The city’s lively hub is Piazza Liberta. Grab a seat and savor an espresso in the morning. In the evening it is filled with strollers, shoppers and late diners. Ostuni becomes abuzz with activity at night. Soak in the atmosphere at one of the many local cafes and restaurants for apertivo and after dinner music and drinks.
Directly off Piazza Liberta, follow the sloping steps down to Via Vito Tamborino. It consists of a piazza with plenty of shops and eateries. You’ll hear music in the air and see a beautiful view to the sea.
The Duomo di Ostuni (Basilica Concattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta) is an easy short walk from Piazza Liberta. There is a little square in front that sometimes has a live band. And always has tables for the gelato shop next to it. There is also a beautiful arch opposite the church, making the scenery simply lovely!
Ostuni Puglia Eats
The Puglia region has certain local vegetables and traditional dishes that are excellent.
First of all, the typical pasta in Ostuni is Orecchiette. It actually originates from Puglia, dating back to around 1500. A typical orecchiette dish is made with turnip greens and a flavorful sauce. Sometimes with anchovies and breadcrumbs added.
Second, mashed fava bean puree and chicory is a rich and flavorful dish – I really loved it.
Next, a Bombette. YUM! A thin sliced pork cutlet topped with breadcrumbs and cheese. Then rolled and baked into a Bombette. Delish!
Finally, Stracciatella is a traditional Italian cheese which is the creamy center of burrata cheese. It is extremely popular in Puglia and is amazingly delicious! We are crazy about it!
Osteria del Tempo Perso
The absolute best restaurant we had the pleasure of dining at was Osteria del Tempo Perso. Everything about it was fantastic! The food was delicious, the atmosphere divine and the staff was wonderful. We tried all the traditional foods and other dishes which were excellent. You must make reservations, especially in July and August.
Address: Via Gaetano Tanzarella Vitale 47
Antico Borgo Bristot
Antico Borgo Bristrot is a great hot spot for eats and drinks. This unique eatery is built into zig-zag multi-level steps. The view overlooks the countryside to the sea. It is the perfect place for an apertivo. Moreover the food is delicious! Everthing we had at out table of four was excellent. I would say that it is best for lunch or a light dinner. No reservations are accepted, first come, first served.
Address: Via Fina 8
Ostuni Italy Drinks
Bar Perso
We loved the seats conveniently located on the steps of the alleyway. In addition there are a few tables lower down. All have a stunning view. Very cute place with good drinks and music.
Riccardo Caffe
Riccardo Caffè in Ostuni is a great spot for an aperitivo. We just love outside seating with lounge chairs on the steps.
Ostuni Italy Hotels
This is an Ostuni Hotel that I highly recommend. It is a wonderful place where we stayed for two nights; Vico Bianco Raro Villas. We had the Superior King Room # 5 (La Terra Junior Suite) with terrace. It definitely exceeded my expectations. I absolutely loved Vico Bianco. Not only was our room, terrace and bathroom terrific. But so was the rooftop lounge area, patios and lobby. The included breakfast was excellent – as well as the staff! Moreover, the location is perfect – just steps away from Piazza Liberta.
In summary, in order to fully explore the many wonderful restaurants, cafes, bars and shops, I recommend spending 2 days in Ostuni. However, the whole city can be seen in a day, making it perfect to combine with Locorotundo, Polignano a Mare, Aberobello and Lecce, as well as other areas in Puglia.
Ostuni Italy is certainly charming!
