Taranto’s old town
Start on the old-town island among lanes, palaces and sea views. Look for Vicolo del Bacio and follow Via Duomo at a relaxed pace. Palazzo Pantaleo and Palazzo d’Ayala Valva add to the urban history; check current access before planning interior visits.
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San Cataldo Cathedral
San Cataldo brings together centuries of history, with a Baroque façade, columns and a decorated ceiling. If accessible, explore the chapel of San Cataldo and the crypt. Respect religious services and check current visiting hours.
Open in Google Maps ↗San Cataldo · Comune · Official information ↗
The Aragonese Castle
Reach the Aragonese Castle beside the channel at the end of the island. Its waterfront towers tell the story of the city’s changing defences. The Italian Navy provides free guided visits: check slots and booking instructions on the official website. Nearby Piazza Castello also contains the columns of the Doric Temple.
Open in Google Maps ↗Castello Aragonese · Marina Militare · Official information ↗
The swing bridge
Cross the swing bridge dedicated to Saint Francis of Paola, linking the island and the newer town. Enjoy the channel and another view of the castle. The bridge opens for navigation requirements; witnessing it is a bonus, rather than an event guaranteed at a fixed sightseeing time.
Open in Google Maps ↗MArTA and the Gold of Taranto
Allow time for the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto, MArTA. Finds, ceramics and the celebrated Gold of Taranto reveal the city and Magna Graecia. Choose your visit to suit the time available and check the museum’s website for tickets, exhibitions and hours.
Open in Google Maps ↗MArTA · Orari e biglietti · Official information ↗
Peripato Gardens and the waterfront
After the museum, pause among the trees and paths of the Peripato Gardens, overlooking the Mar Piccolo. If time allows, continue to Lungomare Vittorio Emanuele III on the Mar Grande for another coastal perspective before dinner.
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TARANTO
What to eat in Taranto
Mussels take centre stage: try cozze alla tarantina or tubetti pasta with mussels. Other flavours include fish, burrata, taralli, pettole, pucce and panzerotti, with bombette as a meat option. Finish with carteddate, fried sweets with honey or cooked grape must. Choose a venue along the route and check its menu and availability.
BEFORE YOU GO
From Bari by train and bus
Reach Bari Centrale from Oceanomare and search Trenitalia for trains to Taranto, checking the return journey too. From Taranto station, continue towards the centre on foot or by urban bus; consult AMAT routes and stops for your visit date. From other cities, Italo offers train + Itabus combinations to Taranto: check departure point, transfer and final stop on its official website. Travel is separate from the walking route. Bring water and comfortable shoes; necropolis sites or the Crypt of the Redeemer need separate planning.