Discover the Best Hotels in Ostuni
Ostuni, a stunning hilltop town in Puglia, is gaining traction as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views. This charming locale, often referred to as the "White City,"(La Città Bianca in Italian), boasts whitewashed buildings and narrow streets that offer countless Instagram-worthy moments. (Barese: Ostune; Salentino: Stune) is a city and comune, located about 8 km from the coast, in the province of Brindisi, region of Apulia, Italy. The town has a population of about 32,000 during the winter, but can swell to 200,000 inhabitants during summer, being among the main towns attracting tourists in Apulia. It also has a continuous British and German immigrant community and an industrial zone. The region is a producer of high quality olive oil and wine.
You’ll Discover a range of accommodations, from ultra luxurious hotels to boutique stays that perfectly capture the essence of why travelers are drawn to Ostuni.
Finding the right hotel in Ostuni can elevate anyone's experience, making it easier to explore nearby attractions like ancient olive groves and beautiful beaches. The vibrant culinary scene complemented by amazingly awesome and inexpensive local wines adds another layer to your stay. Local wines are among the best Italy has to offer.
Ostuni is a wanderer’s dream with winding streets immersive in its rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
Top Attractions
Ostuni’s top attraction is simply being there. The city is a maze of beautiful paths and spledid buidlings. One of the must-visit spots is the Ostuni Cathedral, known for its stunning Romanesque style and beautiful façade. This landmark lets visitors soak in the views of the surrounding area from its elevated position. Its the perfect starting point before getting lost into the maze of streets and corridors.
Next, the Old Town is a maze of narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings, and charming boutiques. It’s perfect for wandering and snapping some Instagram-worthy photos.
For a touch of nature, The "Piana degli Ulivi" (Plain of Olives) near Ostuni in Puglia, Italy, is known for its high concentration of ancient olive trees, some dating back 3,000 years, and is a region where you can experience the history and culture of olive cultivation.
Lastly, don’t miss the Piazza della Libertà, where street performers and local events create a lively atmosphere. It epitomizes the heart of Ostuni’s social scene. A perfect evening spot to relax before strolling off to dinner.
Cultural Vibes and Events
Ostuni is all about life, culture, and tradition. Puglian Passion lists The vibrant Feast of the Assumption in August is a highlight. During this time, locals celebrate with parades, music, and traditional dancing, giving visitors a true taste of Puglian culture.
Art lovers should check out local galleries featuring works from talented regional artists. Ostuni has many galleries that hosts art exhibitions showcasing contemporary pieces alongside traditional crafts.
Terrachevive.com has great offerings in Gastrotourism including Ostuni olive oil tastings, cured meats farms, cooking classes and locally produced wines.
Getting There
Navigating Puglia by car or public transport is easy but requires some pre-planning. See the section on renting a car. Public transport is reliable, with trains connecting major towns like Ostuni, Bari, and Lecce However, schedules and connections may damper your itinerary and buses can be tricky, as schedules vary.
Car rentals are popular for those wanting to explore the countryside and hidden gems. With flat roads and wide highways, a car rental offers a lot more flexibility. The are parking lots around the outer ring to leave your rental car since no cars are allowed in the city.
In Ostuni, a walk through its narrow streets is a must, as it's quite compact. Bike rentals can be found throughout the city where you can enjoy the scenic routes. During high season you’ll be walking your bike more than riding unless you venture outside the city and bike around the outer ring.
Weather and Packing Tips
Puglia’s climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. For summer trips, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and hats are essentials. Travelers should expect high temperatures in the upwards of 30°C (86°F) in July and August, reaching 95 degrees.
Fall and spring are mild, with perfect tempertures requiring only a light wind breaker to get by.
Ostuni Hotels
Ultra Luxury Stays and Destination Weddings
For travelers seeking an upscale experience, Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & SPA offers lavish amenities. Guests can indulge in spa treatments while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The elegant design blends modern luxury with traditional Puglian styles. Paragon 700 is perfect for a memorable destination wedding in Italy.
2101 Villa Sorrentino by Perle di Puglia
An entire Villa with stunning grounds to host your desination wedding for an unforgettable vacation. The Villa sleeps 11 guests and offers outdoor dining against a poolside backdrop.
Another top-tier option is the Grand Hotel Masseria Santa Lucia, nestled near the Adriatic coast. It features spacious rooms, fine dining, and beautiful gardens. This hotel is perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring historic Ostuni. Guests can grab a bite to eat at the restaurant and visit the spa to be pampered with massages, body wraps, or facials. A bar/lounge, a fitness center, and a hot tub are other highlights.
For a luxurious experience, staying at places like La Terra Hotel is a solid choice. It's set high on the hill, offering stunning views and easy access to the beautiful sights of Ostuni. Guests rave about the amenities and picturesque settings.
Boutique Gems
Those searching for unique experiences should check out Masseria Salinola. The Masseria estate is complete with an amazing restaurant offering local specialties in a captivating and well apointed room. A sun filled terrace for breakfast. The Masseria has a working organic farm producing almost solely for the property restaurant and local shop. Masseria Salinola is a great option for a home base for day trips to surrounding towns.
Masseria Salinola
Is a super charming boutique hotel that provides guests with a farm stay vibe, surrounded by olive groves. Visitors can also participate in cooking classes.
Also on the list is Hotel Monte Sarago, a stylish boutique hotel with contemporary design. Its rooftop pool offers a fantastic view of the White City, making it a great spot for sunsets. The friendly staff ensures a personalized experience, making visitors feel at home. The Puglia coast is just 10 minutes’ drive away. Rooms are decorated in a contemporary Mediterranean style and have modern bathrooms. Some have a balcony with panoramic views. The panoramic restaurant "Attico Rooftop 225" is open as bar and restaurant. Lacus Spa is available on request.
Hotel Monte Sarago is just outside
the historical city where the views from the hotel’s terrace and many of the rooms are spectacular
Budget-Friendly Spots
Palazzo Le Cupole offers affordable yet comfortable accommodations. This apartment is a great choice for a stay in Ostuni. The Apartment offers up nice touches like rainfall showerheads and espresso makers, along with refrigerators and dining tables. It’s perfect for those wanting to explore without breaking the bank.
Another excellent choice is Agriturismo Salinola, where guests can enjoy affordable rates while immersing themselves in the local agrarian culture. It provides a relaxing atmosphere, complete with home-cooked meals straight from their farm.
There are a few sweet spots to chill by a pool. Many hotels in Ostuni offer relaxing pools, like Blu Cielo Terra - Arcuève perfect for lounging after exploring. Those looking for a pool experience should definitely check these listings.
Is it worth making Ostuni a home base for day trips?
Ostuni Historic Centre is not the best home base exploring Puglia. Its central location allows easy day trips to nearby towns like Polignano a Mare and Alberobello but there are easier, more accessable towns to use as a home base to hit all the nearby towns. Instead, Stay outside the historic town in the surrounding area to make as a homebase for excursions.
What’s a perfect amount of time to stay in Ostuni?
A stay of 2 nights and 3 days if staying within the historic center is perfect for enjoying Ostuni’s highlights. This timeframe allows visitors to explore its historic center, local shops, and enjoy some scenic views without feeling rushed and is enough time to soak in the vibe.
Can I explore Ostuni on foot, or will I need wheels to get around?
Ostuni is super walkable, especially in the historic areas. Visitors can easily wander the narrow streets and discover local gems. For venturing further out into the countryside or nearby beaches, renting a car is recommended.
Is Ostuni one of the must-see places when traveling around Puglia?
Ostuni is often considered a must-see when exploring Puglia. Known as the "White City," its unique architecture and stunning landscapes make it a great stop. Travelers often leave with unforgettable memories from this picturesque town.
Ostuni at a distance as the sun sets
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