Perched on three hills with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, Ostuni is world-famous as the “White City.” Its iconic whitewashed houses, gleaming in the Mediterranean sun, create a fairytale atmosphere that captivates every traveler. Strolling through its labyrinthine historic center, you’ll discover hidden stairways, vibrant blue doors, and flower-filled balconies at every turn. Beyond its walls, the landscape is a sea of centuries-old olive trees, some thousands of years old, stretching down to the crystal-clear waters of the coast. Whether exploring its Gothic cathedral, sampling local olive oil, or simply getting lost in its narrow streets, Ostuni offers an authentic Apulian experience that blends history, nature, and timeless charm.
A stunning example of Gothic-Romanesque architecture featuring one of the largest rose windows in Europe.
The heart of the city, home to the Baroque Column of Sant’Oronzo and the Palazzo Municipale.
The ancient defensive walls offering a spectacular 360-degree view of the olive groves and the sea.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Ostuni is the capital of “green gold”; a tasting at a local masseria is a must.
Orecchiette with Turnip Tops: The classic Puglian pasta dish, served here with the freshest local ingredients.
Fave e Cicoria: A traditional cream of fava beans with wild chicory, representing the authentic peasant cuisine.
Bombette: Succulent meat rolls stuffed with cheese, typical of the nearby Valle d’Itria grill houses.
Discover the best of the White City and its surroundings with these top-rated tours:
Brindisi Airport (BDS) is the closest, only 35km (30 mins drive) away.
The station is 2km from the center; a local shuttle connects it to the Old Town.
The historic center is strictly pedestrian and quite steep – wear comfortable shoes!
Historically, the houses were whitewashed with lime to bring more light into the narrow streets and, during the 17th century, to prevent the spread of the plague due to lime’s natural disinfectant properties.
The coast (Ostuni Marina) is about 7-8 km away. You can reach beautiful beaches and marinas like Villanova or Rosa Marina in less than 15 minutes by car or local bus.
Yes, the historic center is compact and can be easily explored in half a day, leaving you time for a traditional lunch or an olive oil tasting in a nearby masseria.
The “Old Town” is located on a hill with many stairs, slopes, and cobblestones. However, the main street (Via Cattedrale) is more accessible, and Ape Calessino (Tuk-Tuk) tours are a great alternative to see the sights without walking.
The best panoramic view of Ostuni is from the “Corso Vittorio Emanuele II” or the “Piazzetta Martiri delle Foibe,” where you can see the white cluster of houses against the blue sky and sea.
