Brindisi – Italy

Brindisi, also known by its latin name Brundisium, is located in the “heel” of Italy, in the Apulia region. This picturesque town, located along the Adriatic Sea is full of coastal Italian charm. Due to its strategic location on the Adriatic Sea, Brindisi has played an integral role in the development of culture and trade between Italy and the Middle East. Its mix of colorful and whitewashed houses situated against the crystal blue waters make this quaint town a popular cruise destination. Roman influence can still be observed today in the old town by the presence of the Roman Column which marks the end of the traditional Appian Way. Nearby, are the popular and stunning cities of Alberobello and Matera, which also make great excursions from the cruise port for those passengers wanting to explore more of the Apulia region.

POINTS OF INTEREST

A nice area to explore is the promenade which runs along the seafront, offering beautiful views of the port of Brindisi. From the port you can see the Aragonese Castle, also known as as the “Red Castle”, which was historically used for defense of the city. The Swabian Castle, which can still be visited today, is located in the heart of Brindisi and has housed some important political figures.In the town center you can also find the Tempio di San Giovanni al Sepolcro, a unique 12th century church made of stone. For those passengers looking to get outside the city center, the pleasant Torre Canne beach is located approximately 40 minutes by car from the port. Whether you choose to stay in town or explore the surrounding area, your stop in Brindisi will be well spent.

NOT TO BE MISSED
The State Nature Reserve of Torre Guaceto can be found about 25 kilometers from the port. At this protected marine area visitors can see natural wildlife in both wetland and marine climates. Native flora and fauna including olive trees that date back hundreds of years grow here and an exploration of the Reserve proves to be a unique way to experience the Puglia region.

The nearby town of Lecce, only a 30 minute drive from the port is often referred to as the “Florence of the South” due its ornate baroque architecture. The town, which was inhabited by the Greeks, produces Lecce Stone, a type of limestone known around the world. Be sure to check-out this hidden gem of the Puglia region.

The town of Alberobello, famous for its traditional “trulli” houses is located within a 1 hour drive of the port of Brindisi. In this small town, the characteristic houses date back to the 14th century. The houses, made of dry limestone blocks stacked on top of one other, have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to Alberobello will be unlike any other stop on your vacation.

The Italian port town of Brindisi, a Mediterranean Cruises destination, boasts a characterful ancient centre, home to a vast array of treasures. Sites such as the 11th-century Duomo and Alfonsino Castle are architectural jewels just waiting to be discovered. The perfect starting point for visiting other destinations, namely Lecce, Ostuni, and Alberobello, Brindisi delivers culture, colour and Italian romance along its palm-fringed streets and seafront promenade.

Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including:

Lecce, the ‘Florence of the South’
Ostuni, the ‘White Town’ by the Sea
Alberobello

Discover beautiful Lecce, not far from Brindisi, on a Cruise excursion. Affectionately named ‘the Florence of the South’, the town is known for its amazing feats of Baroque architecture. Take in the vibrant Piazza St. Oronzo, the ancient Roman Amphitheatre, the richly decorated Church of the Holy Cross, and the ornate Celestine Convent. Explore Lecce’s labyrinth of charming streets before learning about papier-mâché, a local art.

Take a Cruise excursion to the enchanting whitewashed town of Ostuni, a short distance from Brindisi. Its picturesque medieval centre overlooks an endless expanse of olive trees in the glorious Itria Valley. Discover brilliant white houses along winding pebbled paths and the 15th-century Ostuni Cathedral with its Gothic style architecture. Then, partake in a delicious olive oil tasting session in a traditional mill before a relaxing drive back to the port.

Enrich your travel experience with a Cruise excursion to charming Alberobello. Forming the famous ‘heel’ of Italy’s boot, the town is resplendent with hundreds of iconic stone houses. Known as ‘trulli’, these historical dwellings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour the streets to see their conical roofs, whitewashed walls, pretty pot plants, and trailing vines. Visit the trullo church of Sant Antonio and discover the fascinating history behind Alberobello’s magical architecture. Learn about the curious symbols painted on the roofs before returning to port through the countryside.