A Travel Guide to Ostuni, Puglia
In this guide: Aperitivo | Beautiful sunsets | Beaches | Olive Oil | Burrata and PastaOstuni – the famous “White City” or "La Città Bianca" of Puglia is one of those places that instantly charmed us. From the winding cobbled streets lined with vibrant flowers, to tiny bars tucked into alleyways where you can perch on a cushion with an aperitivo as the sun goes down, it’s pure magic.
We only spent a short time here during our 2019 Puglia road trip, but we instantly fell in love. While it’s been a few years since our visit (and we’re sure some gems have popped up since), here are some of our recommendations on what to do in Ostuni.
Sunset Views in Ostuni
One of the most magical ways to experience Ostuni is with a walk at sunset. As the day winds down, the golden light bathes the whitewashed buildings of the old town, creating a soft glow that brings the city to life in a whole new way. We especially loved wandering around the Duomo and Cinta Muraria in the old town at this time of day; the peaceful atmosphere and historic charm made it feel truly special.
For an even better view, head up Corso Vittorio Emanuele II to the panoramic terrace at Piazzetta Martiri delle Foibe. From here, you get an unforgettable vista over the old town and the olive groves stretching out towards the sea. The combination of historic architecture, natural beauty, and golden hour light makes this one of the most scenic and memorable parts of any visit to Ostuni.
Apertivo O’Clock at Borgo Antico Bistrot
📍 Borgo Antico Bistrot; Via Fina, 8, 72017, Ostuni, Italy
This is the sunset spot. Perched along a zig-zagging street, the terrace seating offers front-row views over Ostuni’s white rooftops. Grab an Aperol Spritz and watch golden hour do its thing. No reservations – just turn up and soak it in but do expect a wait for a table as a result. They also serve local dishes if you want to stay for dinner; it’s a bistro after all.
🕒 Open daily until 11 pm
Dine at Osteria Piazzetta Cattedrale
📍 Largo Arcid Teodoro Trinchera, 7, 72017 Ostuni BR
A cosy, family-run restaurant with a spot in the Michelin Guide for its excellent value and quality. Run by a lovely husband-and-wife duo, the kitchen delivers refined yet regional dishes using top-notch Puglian produce. Housed in what was once an old cellar, the osteria is located just steps from the stunning 14th-century cathedral.
🕒 Open daily: 12–2:30 pm and 7–11 pm | Closed Tuesdays
📞 +39 0831 335026
📲 WhatsApp: +39 339 7651080
Sweet Treats: Bar Pasticceria Gelateria da Ciccio
📍 Via A. Diaz, 66/A, 72017 Ostuni (BR)
With scoops served since 1964, this local favourite is where to go for classic Italian gelato done right. Whether you're after a simple stracciatella or something nutty and rich, it’s all made with care. You’ll likely find locals queuing up for their afternoon fix. They also do great pastries if you’re in the mood for a second round of sugar.
📞 +39 0831 302291
Fresh Pasta at Pastasciutta
📍 Via Tamborrino 15, 72017, Ostuni Italy
Pastasciutta is a small, casual spot that serves an impressive range of fresh pasta, all made in-house and cooked to order. You’ll find everything from classic tagliatelle to vibrant spinach and beetroot pasta, all beautifully displayed and full of colour. The menu lets you pair your pasta of choice with a selection of sauces, and everything is full of flavour and made with care.
It’s quick, affordable, and ideal for a laid-back but delicious meal in the heart of the White City.
Osteria del Tempo Perso
📍 Via Gaetano Tanzarella Vitale, 47, 72017 Ostuni BR, Italy
We didn’t have time to eat here, but this cave restaurant in the heart of the Old Town looked incredible. One of Ostuni’s most iconic dining spots, known for rich regional cooking in a unique setting carved into rock. Add it to your list and book online.
🕒 Open daily: 12.30–2:30 pm and 7–10.30 pm | Closed Mondays
La Mela Bacata Lounge Bar
📍 Vico Pergola, 15/17, 72017 Ostuni BR, Italy
This was once a dreamy little spot for outdoor drinks with a view, though it may now be closed. If you find something that’s replaced it in the same location, do let us know; we’d love to go back and see what’s taken its place. Given the location, I’m sure it was snapped up quickly by another business!
Burrata at the Beach – Punta Penna Grossa
📍Contrada Pennagrossa, 72012 Riserva Naturale di Torre Guaceto, Carovigno BR, Italy
Punta Penna Grossa was one of our favourite beaches in Puglia – wide, peaceful, and with plenty of space to stretch out and relax (although if you’re here in the summer, make sure you come early to get a good spot).
Just a 30-minute drive from Ostuni, it sits within the Torre Guaceto nature reserve and feels wonderfully untouched. We made the most of it by ordering some fresh burrata and tomatoes (how Puglia!), and sat by the sea enjoying every bite. Simple, local, and delicious, a perfect beach day before continuing our road trip.
Olive Oil from Masseria Il Frantoio
Ostuni is surrounded by olive groves and is the place to buy some of the region's DOC 'Collina di Brindisi olive oil direct from producers.
Masseria Il Frantoio, nestled in the countryside near Ostuni, is renowned for its exceptional organic extra virgin olive oils, produced from centuries-old olive trees cultivated on its 72-hectare estate. The farm boasts over 4,200 olive trees, many of which are over 100 years old, and has been dedicated to organic farming since 1991.Ostuni Map
Ostuni Map
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It might’ve been a fleeting visit, but Ostuni left a lasting impression. We’ll definitely be back.
Have a favourite spot in Ostuni? Drop it in the comments or send us a DM on Instagram. We love hearing your finds.