Hidden Gems for Ostuni

Find great things to do in Ostuni

Ostuni is a beautiful hilltop city in southern Italy. It’s whitewashed walls and houses in the old town with winding staircases, narrow alleys and beautifully decorated, colorful window frames make you think you’re somewhere in Greece. Ostuni is a city for explorers, and a place to be enjoyed at your leisure over a couple of days. If possible, try to come during off season to ensure the best experience. In our travel guide you will find great things to do in Ostuni.

1. Hidden Gem Ostuni: Cremeria alla Scala

This gelateria is definitely the best in the whole of Apulia. Cremeria alla Scala opened in 2003 and has absolutely sensational, all-natural, artisan gelato. Each individual flavor delivers on both taste and texture. Pistachio and Sant’Oronzo (mandarin orange and almond) are the house specialties that you definitely have to try. Their fruit sorbets are made out of fresh fruits and are also phenomenal. Cremeria alla Scala is in an amazing location on Via Tamborrino, which is actually a pedestrianized square on the edge of the old town. Here you can just sit, relax and enjoy your scoops of ice cream.

Cremeria alla Scala / © Instagram: kateflores_

2. Hidden Gem Ostuni: Alberobello

Even if this place is not a hidden gem, you should make sure to visit it. The small town was made a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unusual trulli districts, the characteristic white-washed conical-roofed houses of the area. Trulli are conical stone huts built using drywall construction, a prehistoric building technique that is still used in the region today. Instead of using mortar, the stones are layered on top of each other. Technically, it is hard to construct a multi-storey trullo. There are only few two-storey trulli in the town. As plenty of trulli have been converted into guest houses, you could also spend a night here. One tip: make sure to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Alberobello / © Instagram: imakilleremisk

3. Hidden Gem Ostuni: Borgo Antico Bistro

At the foot of one of the most suggestive staircases in the historic center and with a breathtaking view of the olive groves, you will find the Borgo Antico Bistro in Ostuni. This is a great spot for relaxing outside and enjoying the view of the sea. Here you can taste delicious aperitifs, consisting of samples of typical Apulian dishes such as: the acquasale, stuffed aubergines, bean puree with bread crust and sauteed cornaletti peppers, fresh focaccia cooked in a wood stove and a variety of local meats and cheeses, which are selected from the best producers. We recommend ordering sharing platters along with an Aperol Spritz. All in all: authentic, fresh and tasty.

Borgo Antico Bistro / © Instagram: siane7

4. Hidden Gem Ostuni: Masseria Il Frantoio

A farmhouse situated on an ancient olive grove. The menu is seasonal and includes regional products. You can choose between several delicious, rustic Italian classics, with a gourmet twist. You will get the real “Italian” feeling as soon as you sit in their beautiful backyard, drink a glass of the regional wine and enjoy your dinner. You really can enjoy life here.