- The city is home to the only significant dolphin population in the Gulf of Taranto, which researchers have monitored for decades.
- Taranto hosts one of the largest naval bases in Italy, deeply influencing its urban layout and local economy.
- The local 'cozze tarantine' (mussels) are cultivated in the Mar Piccolo using traditional methods that date back centuries, taking advantage of unique underwater freshwater springs called citri.
- Taranto was a powerful Spartan colony known as Tarentum, and it remains the only Spartan colony ever founded outside of Greece.
- The city center is physically divided into an old island district and a modern peninsula, connected by the swing bridge, the Ponte Girevole.
About Taranto
Taranto, known as the 'City of Two Seas,' is a major maritime hub situated on the Gulf of Taranto where the Mar Grande and Mar Piccolo meet. This strategically significant port features the historic Borgo Antico, home to the formidable Castello Aragonese which guards the canal linking the two basins. Visitors can explore deep regional history at the Archaeological Museum of Taranto or enjoy the coastal views near the Sailor Monument. The city represents a unique industrial and naval landscape, blending ancient Greek foundations with a distinct Mediterranean character.
Highlights of Taranto
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Historical places
Walk through the fortress that has guarded the city's strategic canal since the Byzantine and Aragonese eras.
Museums
Examine one of the most important collections of Magna Graecia artifacts, including the famous Gold of Taranto.
Places of interest
Observe the massive statue honoring the city's long-standing tradition as a center for the Italian Navy.
Parks
Trace the remnants of ancient Greek fortifications that once protected this powerful Spartan colony.
Temples
View this concrete-brutalist religious structure designed by Gio Ponti, which serves as a striking modern architectural landmark.
Parks
Relax in this historic cliffside park that offers elevated views overlooking the Mar Grande.
Places of interest
Experience the central gathering point of the modern city, surrounded by prominent 19th-century architecture.
Top things to do in Taranto
The 158 highest-rated places in Taranto, ranked by travellers.
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Historical places
Castello Aragonese, also known as Castel Sant'Angelo, is a fortress located at the entrance of the Borgo Antico in Taran...
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Museums
The Archaeological Museum of Taranto (MArTA) is one of the most important archaeological museums in Southern Italy, hous...
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Parks
4
Places of interest
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Places of interest
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Beaches and ponds
7
Temples
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Historical places
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Beaches and ponds
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Parks
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Beaches and ponds
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Temples
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Temples
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Temples
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Temples
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Temples
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Temples
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Places of interest
19
Historical places
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Museums
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Temples
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Historical places
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Venues
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Temples
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Temples
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Temples
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Temples
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Historical places
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Temples
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Taranto on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Taranto
May to June or September to October, when the weather is warm but avoids the extreme humidity and heat of the peak mid-summer months.
2-3 days to explore the historical old town, the naval harbor, and the nearby coastal archaeological sites.
The city is best explored on foot within the compact old town and by bus or taxi for reaching attractions on the modern mainland.
Stay in the Borgo Antico for immediate access to historic sites or the Borgo Umbertino for proximity to shopping, restaurants, and the main harbor transport links.
Mid-range; generally more affordable than major northern Italian tourist hubs, particularly regarding dining and local accommodation.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 158 curated attractions in and around Taranto, ranked by traveller ratings.
Castello Aragonese is the highest-rated place to visit in Taranto right now.
The largest category is temples, with 58 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Rome, Milan, Galatina.
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