A charming province on the heel of Italy
This glittering port town in Italy's Puglia region is located on the Ionian Sea, right on the heel of the country's boot. Gallipoli crosses from the mainland onto a small island, where the city's Centro Storico (old town) sits, protected by the remains of 14th-century walls. The contrast with the slightly more modern heart of the city across the 16th-century Ponte Cittavecchia offers two differing experiences. Decide whether you prefer to book your Gallipoli vacation rental in the urban center, or in an historic piazza. You're in Italy! Any choice is the right one.
A vast array of sites to match the vast and storied history
With so much history in and around Gallipoli, there are plenty of museums to explore and sites to see. Tour the Hypogeum Oil Press at Palazzo Granafei, which once produced most of the city's lamp oil and is now open to the public. Visit the Castello Angiono, a fortress set atop Byzantine fortifications and potentially dating back to 11th century. Spend a day in the Museum Civico E. Barba Gallipoli, which features exhibits ranging from art to history to science. Stroll down Corte Gallo, a sort of open-air exhibit, displaying artifacts from life in Gallipolli.
A true Italian feast for all five senses
Gallipoli's Centro Storico is an attraction in and of itself, thanks to its charming piazzas, picturesque architecture, and well-preserved ruins. Make time for the 17th-century Catania Cathedral, a gorgeous example of Baroque style. Spend mornings around the port, which is still used daily by local fishermen serving their catches to the surrounding restaurants. Taking in the daily street scenes is a main part of the city's charm, so no matter where you book your Gallipoli vacation rental, ensure you let yourself regularly soak in the daily sights, sounds, and smells.
Delicious weather, delicious wine, delicious food
Like all of Puglia, Gallipoli enjoys a mild and pleasant climate for much of the year. The main travel season is from May through October, when most of your days are sunny, warm, and dry. Keep in mind that Gallipoli (and most of Italy) closes down for much of August, but it more than makes up for this with huge celebrations surrounding Easter, Carnival, and a variety of religious feasts throughout the year. Winters in Gallipoli can be chilly, gray, and rainy, but the beautifully adorned museums and churches, as well as the delicious cuisine, should keep you occupied.
A little limestone island, shining in the sea
Built across Italy's heel onto a limestone island in the Ionian Sea's Gulf of Taranto, Gallipoli serves as a port town that still functions as a working fishing harbor. Just outside of the old town's walls, you'll find Spiaggia della Purita, a sandy beach where private boats can dock in the harbor. Boat tours from Gallipoli can also take you out to Sant'Andrea Island, where you can swim in the crystal clear waters, or hike through the forests. Back on the mainland, you'll find miles of sandy beaches along the shores, too
Traveling to and around Gallipoli
The nearest airport is in Papola Casale Airport (BDS), located 41.6 mi (67 km) from the city center.
If you prefer to travel by train, Gallipoli Station, Gallipoli via Salento Station and Gallipoli via Agrigento Station are the main stations in the city.
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