Brindisi
Latest page update: 11 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The port city of Brindisi is the capital of the eponymous province of Brindisi. With a population of around 87,000 inhabitants, it serves as a vital port city connecting Italy with Greece and other Mediterranean destinations.
Brindisi is most famous for its strategic maritime importance throughout history, dating back to ancient times. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, including Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and delicious seafood cuisine. |
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Brindisi: Puglia's historic port city
Brindisi, capital of the province of Brindisi, is a vibrant coastal city rich in history and maritime charm. Its main attraction is the iconic Brindisi Harbour, a bustling port overlooking the sparkling Adriatic Sea, serving as a gateway to the Mediterranean. The city's historic centre boasts elegant palaces, lively squares, and charming streets lined with shops and cafes.
Visitors can explore the impressive Swabian Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the sea, or wander through the atmospheric Roman columns of the ancient Via Appia. Nearby, the picturesque Salento coastline beckons with its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Brindisi promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty in Puglia.
Visitors can explore the impressive Swabian Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the sea, or wander through the atmospheric Roman columns of the ancient Via Appia. Nearby, the picturesque Salento coastline beckons with its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Brindisi promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty in Puglia.
Comune di Brindisi
Province: Brindisi
Region: Puglia Population: 82,268 (in 2024 - source) Size: 328 km² Highlights: Scalinata Virgiliana, cathedral, Piazza Santa Teresa Close by: Ostuni, Cisternino, Locorotondo, Alberobello, Lecce Recommended accommodation: Executive Inn Boutique Hotel |
Public transport: ferries, central train station, local buses
By train: Ostuni (24 mins), Cisternino (32 mins), Monopoli (47 min) |
By car: Lecce - 29 mins (39 km), Taranto - 52 mins (74 km)
Fly to: Brindisi Airport - 8 minutes by car (4 km) |
What are the most popular activities in Brindisi and the local area?
Brindisi:
Nearby Attractions:
- Roman Column: Visit the iconic Roman Column, standing tall in the city centre, believed to be a symbol of the end of the Appian Way, an ancient Roman road.
- Brindisi Cathedral: Explore the Brindisi Cathedral, a beautiful Romanesque church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, featuring stunning architecture and intricate interior decorations.
- Archeological Museum: Discover the artifacts and history of the region at the Archeological Museum, housing a collection of ancient relics, including pottery, sculptures, and coins.
- Lungomare Regina Margherita: Take a leisurely stroll along Lungomare Regina Margherita, a scenic waterfront promenade lined with palm trees, cafes, and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
- Castle of Brindisi: Explore the Castle of Brindisi, a medieval fortress overlooking the harbour, offering exhibitions on local history and maritime heritage.
Nearby Attractions:
- Ostuni: Visit the nearby "White City" of Ostuni, famous for its whitewashed buildings, winding streets, and stunning panoramic views from its hilltop location.
- Alberobello: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Alberobello, known for its unique trulli houses, traditional Apulian dwellings with conical roofs.
- Lecce: Discover the baroque architecture and rich history of Lecce, often called the "Florence of the South," with its ornate churches, palaces, and picturesque piazzas.
- Otranto: Visit the coastal town of Otranto, known for its beautiful beaches, historic castle, and stunning mosaic floor in the Cathedral of Otranto.
- Salento Coastline: Enjoy the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Salento coastline, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
What are the best restaurants in Brindisi?
- Trattoria Terra Nostra: Located in the heart of Brindisi's historic centre at Via Posidonia 12, this trattoria offers a cosy atmosphere and a menu showcasing traditional Apulian cuisine. Diners can enjoy dishes like orecchiette with broccoli rabe, grilled meats, and homemade desserts.
- Osteria del Tempo Perso: Situated on Via Francesco Crispi 44, this osteria is known for its welcoming ambiance and excellent food. Specializing in seafood, it offers dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole, grilled fish, and seafood risotto.
- La Tavernetta: Found on Via Colonne 36, this restaurant offers a charming setting and a menu featuring both seafood and meat dishes. Guests can savour specialties like grilled octopus, beef tagliata, and homemade pasta in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Ristorante Le Colonne: Located on Via Colonne 25, this restaurant boasts a prime location overlooking the sea. It offers a diverse menu with a focus on seafood, including dishes like seafood linguine, grilled fish, and shellfish platters.
- Trattoria Da Armando: Situated at Via Sant'Elia 7, this trattoria is popular among locals and visitors alike for its authentic Apulian cuisine. Diners can enjoy traditional dishes such as orecchiette with tomato sauce and ricotta, lamb stew, and homemade desserts.
Brindisi Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Brindisi?
- Grande Albergo Internazionale: Situated in the heart of Brindisi, Grande Albergo Internazionale offers guests a central stay close to the town's main attractions. This historic hotel provides elegant rooms with modern amenities and stunning views of the harbour. Guests can explore Brindisi's historic centre, including the Roman Column, the Archeological Museum, and the Swabian Castle, all within walking distance from the hotel.
- Hotel Orientale: Located near Brindisi's seafront promenade, Hotel Orientale offers guests a convenient seaside stay with easy access to the town's beaches and waterfront attractions. This hotel provides comfortable rooms with amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Guests can relax on the nearby sandy beach, stroll along the promenade, and explore Brindisi's marina area and historic centre.
- Hotel Colonna: Positioned near Brindisi's railway station, Hotel Colonna offers guests a convenient stay with easy access to transportation links. This hotel provides modern rooms with amenities such as air conditioning and satellite TV. Guests can explore Brindisi's commercial district, visit nearby shopping areas and entertainment venues, and enjoy dining at the hotel's restaurant serving Italian cuisine.
- Hotel Nettuno Brindisi: Situated near Brindisi's port area, Hotel Nettuno Brindisi offers guests a convenient stay close to the town's ferry terminal and waterfront attractions. This hotel provides comfortable rooms with amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Guests can explore Brindisi's maritime history at the nearby Museo Archeologico Provinciale Ribezzo, relax at nearby cafes and restaurants, and enjoy walks along the waterfront promenade.
- B&B Le Colonne: Located in Brindisi's historic centre, B&B Le Colonne offers guests a central stay close to the town's main sights. This bed and breakfast provides cosy rooms with a homely atmosphere. Guests can explore Brindisi's narrow streets, visit landmarks such as the Church of San Giovanni al Sepolcro and the Church of Santa Maria del Casale, and sample local delicacies at nearby trattorias and cafes.
What are the closest airports to Brindisi?
Brindisi Salento Airport (BDS):
15 minutes by car (6 km)
Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (BRI):
1 hour 21 minutes by car (133 km)
15 minutes by car (6 km)
Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (BRI):
1 hour 21 minutes by car (133 km)
What's the main train station in Brindisi?
Stazione di Brindisi
- Located in Brindisi city centre
- High-speed trains connect to Bari with journey times of around an hour
- Regional trains between Brindisi and Lecce take 20 minutes
What ferry connections are there for Brindisi?
Ferries from Brindisi cross the Adriatic Sea to destinations in Greece and Albania.
What private transfer options are there for Brindisi?
A private transfer from Brindisi Airport to Brindisi city centre takes around 15 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Where can I rent a car to visit Brindisi?