The picturesque city of Brindisi is brimming with historical monuments, cultural attractions, delicious food, and fun activities. From age-old churches to its vibrant nightlife and lively harbor, here are 15 things to do in Brindisi to help you plan your perfect trip.
Last year, I spent a few weeks exploring the southeastern Italian province of Puglia and fell in love with the region. It is both incredibly laid-back and full of interesting things to see and do, and Brindisi is no exception.
Whether you want a relaxing city break or an action-packed adventure, there’s something for everyone in this bustling Mediterranean city. Next time you find yourself in this beautiful corner of Europe, make sure to check out these top things to do and places to visit in Brindisi:
Brindisi is home to several medieval castles. One of the most impressive sights is the 13th-century Swabian Castle. Another notable mention is Castello Alfonsino di Brindisi (also known as the Aragonese Castle or Forte a Mare), located on a small island called Sant’Andrea guarding the ancient harbor.
The castle, mostly built in the 1500s and later reinforced by the Spanish, was designed to defend against Venetian and Turkish attacks. You can join a guided castle tour that takes you to both Castello Alfonsino and the nearby Monument to the Italian Sailor.
The historic center of Brindisi is perfect for exploring on foot. Here, you’ll find important sights such as the Swabian Castle, the Monument to Virgil, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the Church of Saint Mary of the Announcement, and Piazza della Vittoria.
Exploring Brindisi’s heart on your own is easy, but joining a walking tour can enrich your experience. There are several tours available including a private tour led by a knowledgeable local guide, or a historical tour in an electric golf cart for those with limited mobility.
Brindisi’s harbor, constructed over 2,000 years ago, served as an important trading post for the Roman Empire and other powers. The harbor is well-known for its two towering Roman columns, of which only one remains standing today. These columns are believed to mark the end of the Via Appia, a road that once connected Brindisi to Rome. You can join a two-hour guided tour of the harbor area, which includes visits to the Piazza Duomo, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the Provincial Archaeological Museum F. Ribezzo, and the Granafei Nervegna Palace.
Piazza del Popolo is a small, charming square perfect for relaxing after exploring the tourist attractions. It features a life-size statue of Caesar Augustus and shady benches ideal for people-watching. Nearby streets offer shops selling genuine, locally-produced goods.
Corso Roma, a main commercial street, is lined with shops, cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s a great spot for an afternoon stroll, showcasing a blend of elegant historical Baroque townhouses and modern buildings.
The Museo Archeologico Provinciale di Brindisi houses incredible artifacts, including sculptures from Greece and Rome dating back to 300 BC. The museum is focused on archaeological artifacts from Roman times, with some pieces from the Etruscans and Magna Graecia. This museum appeals to all ages and is a great family destination.
Chiesa Santa Maria al Casale, one of Brindisi’s most famous and unusual churches, boasts a nearly 800-year old distinctive patterned exterior and beautiful 14th-century frescoes inside. It’s located near Brindisi airport and accessible by bus.
Ostuni and Lecce are two charming historical towns near Brindisi. Ostuni, known as “The White City,” features white-washed buildings and narrow streets with family-owned restaurants, cafes, and shops. Lecce is famous for its ancient Roman ruins and Baroque buildings, including two of Italy’s most impressive Baroque churches.
A food tour is an excellent way to experience Brindisi’s cuisine. You can sample traditional dishes, visit markets and artisanal shops, and learn about the region’s culinary history. Alternatively, a cooking class offers a hands-on experience in a traditional Puglian home.
Caffè Olympia in the old city is a great place to relax with an espresso. They also serve ice cream and various snacks. For beach lovers, Spiaggia di Torre Pozzelle and Lido Cala Materdomini are great spots nearby for a swim in the Adriatic Sea.
For cocktails, head to Spirito, one of the best bars in Puglia known for its inventive drinks inspired by local flavors. It’s a must-visit for an excellent night out.
Puglia is known for its high-quality olive oil, and Brindisi has several places where you can taste and buy it. Azienda Agricola Liberace and Cantasole are two great spots for olive oil tasting.
For fresh fish and seafood, Mare Blu Pescheria is the place to go. They open at 8 am, and their fritto misto makes for an excellent takeaway lunch.
Here are a few itineraries to help you make the most of your time in Brindisi:
1-Day Itinerary: Explore the historic center and waterfront in the morning, visit the Castello Alfonsino and Swabian castle, stroll down Corso Roma, rest in Piazza del Popolo, visit the archaeological museum, take a cooking class, and end the day with drinks at Spirito.
2-Day Itinerary: Spend the first day as above. On day two, visit the Church of Santa Maria del Casale, tour an olive farm, and enjoy the sunset at the waterfront.
3-Day Itinerary: Follow the 2-day itinerary and add a day trip to Ostuni or Lecce.
Week-Long Itinerary: You can explore all the activities mentioned at a relaxed pace, spending a full day at the beach, and taking day trips to both Lecce and Ostuni.
For accommodation, consider staying in the historical center for easy access to attractions. Alternatively, you might want to stay in Materdomini, close to the ancient harbor and beaches.
Popular restaurants include Ristorante Secca 48 for local specialties, Arabella for fresh seafood, and Hanami for sushi and Asian fusion.
Brindisi is accessible via international flights, train from other Italian cities, or boat from Greece and Albania. Once there, most destinations are walkable, and local buses, Uber, or taxis are options for longer journeys.
Commonly asked questions:
Brindisi is known for its waterfront, ancient harbor, and fresh seafood. The best time to visit is from May to September, with fewer crowds in May and September.
While you can see most Brindisi attractions in a day, it’s best to spend 2-3 days to properly enjoy the city. Brindisi is generally safe, but take usual precautions, especially at night.
The best beaches near Brindisi include Lido Cala Materdomini and Spiaggia di Torre Pozzelle. Seafood and orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe are popular local dishes.
Brindisi offers a wealth of attractions, blending historical sites, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities without the crowds of more popular destinations, making it a great option for an authentic southern Italian experience.