Welcome to Brindisi, a historic port city on Italy's beautiful Adriatic coast. This charming destination serves as a gateway to the sun-drenched Puglia region, often referred to as Italy's 'heel'.
Major cruise lines like MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, and other premium lines frequently call here, offering passengers an authentic Italian experience away from the larger, more crowded ports.
Brindisi's appeal lies in its rich Roman history, its walkable seaside promenade, and its proximity to unique UNESCO World Heritage sites, making it a memorable stop on any Mediterranean itinerary.
Brindisi's rich history is on full display within a short distance of the waterfront. A must-see are the Roman Columns (Colonne Romane), which mark the ancient end of the famous Appian Way and offer spectacular views of the harbor.
Explore the formidable Swabian Castle of Brindisi (Castello Svevo), a 13th-century fortress built by Emperor Frederick II that guards the port's entrance.
Wander through the old town to find the beautiful Cathedral of Brindisi (Duomo di Brindisi), a Romanesque church with an ornate mosaic floor. For a deeper dive into the area's past, visit the Archaeological Museum 'Francesco Ribezzo', which houses important artifacts from the region's Greek and Roman eras.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Many cruisers use Brindisi as a base to explore the stunning Puglia region. One of the most popular day trips is to Lecce, known as the 'Florence of the South' for its magnificent Baroque architecture, located about 40 minutes away by train or car.
A must-see is Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique conical-roofed 'trulli' houses. This iconic town is approximately an hour's drive from the port.
Another fantastic option is Ostuni, the 'White City,' a dazzling hilltop town of whitewashed buildings offering panoramic views of the Adriatic coastline, just a 40-minute drive from Brindisi.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Cruise ships dock at the Costa Morena pier, which is located in the industrial outer harbor, about 2-3 kilometers (1-2 miles) from Brindisi's historic city center.
It is not recommended to walk from the pier due to the distance and industrial surroundings. Cruise lines almost always provide shuttle services to a convenient drop-off point at the edge of the old town, near the main waterfront promenade.
Taxis are also readily available for those who prefer a direct transfer. The port terminal itself has limited amenities, but the city center is where you'll find all the shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The official currency in Brindisi and throughout Italy is the Euro (€). US dollars are not accepted for transactions, so you will need to have Euros for your visit.
ATMs, locally known as 'Bancomat', are widely available in the city center for cash withdrawals. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are commonly accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases, market stalls, or cafes.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Brindisi is generally considered a safe city for tourists to explore. The main tourist areas, including the waterfront promenade and the historic center, are welcoming and can be explored independently with confidence during the day.
As in any European city, it is wise to be mindful of your belongings and watch out for pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas or around the train station. Sticking to well-lit streets after dark is a sensible precaution, but there are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Brindisi enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, making it a pleasant destination throughout the main cruise season from spring to fall. Summers (June to August) are typically hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F).
The shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are often considered ideal, with milder temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Rainfall is minimal during the summer months but can be more frequent in spring and autumn. Visitors should pack light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes, with a light jacket recommended for evenings or for travel outside of peak summer.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
From the cruise pier, the most convenient way to reach the city center is via the shuttle bus provided by your cruise line, which typically drops passengers near the main promenade.
Taxis are also available at the port terminal; always confirm the fare before starting your journey.
Once in the city center, Brindisi is very walkable, and most key sights are easily explored on foot. For traveling to nearby towns like Lecce or Ostuni, train travel from the central station (Stazione di Brindisi) is an efficient and popular option for independent explorers.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The main shopping thoroughfares in Brindisi are Corso Garibaldi and Corso Roma, pedestrian-friendly streets lined with a variety of shops. Here you'll find popular Italian fashion brands, shoe stores, and charming local boutiques.
For authentic souvenirs, look for local Puglian products. Excellent choices include regional olive oil, wine like Primitivo or Negroamaro, and handcrafted orecchiette pasta.
Beautifully painted ceramics and terracotta items are also a specialty of the region. Prices in stores are fixed, and haggling is not a common practice.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
From Brindisi, explore the elegant town of Martina Franca, celebrated for its exquisite Baroque architecture and charming, whitewashed old town. Stroll through winding alleys to discover ornate palaces and the beautiful Basilica di San Martino.
For a truly authentic culinary adventure, a Cesarine experience connects you with a local home cook for a private meal or cooking class. You will learn to prepare regional dishes and enjoy genuine Puglian hospitality in a local's home.
Visit Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to see its iconic and enchanting trulli houses. Wander through the cobblestone streets of this fairytale-like village to see the unique cone-roofed stone huts up close.
Discover Polignano a Mare, a stunning town built on sheer limestone cliffs overlooking the brilliant blue Adriatic Sea. Its charming historic center opens to breathtaking sea-view terraces and the famous cove beach, Lama Monachile.
Embark on a cycling tour through the Regional Park of the Coastal Dunes and travel back 4,000 years at the Dolmen of Montalbano. You will then visit a historic oil mill to discover the stages of processing extra virgin olive oil. The tour concludes with a tasting of this renowned local product.
Discover three significant villages in Puglia from the comfort of an air-conditioned minivan. Your professional driver will share information about the history of the towns and the best places to visit. At the end of the tour, enjoy the flexibility of choosing to return to either Brindisi or Lecce.
Discover what it feels like to breathe underwater on this introductory scuba diving experience in Brindisi. Guided by an expert instructor, you will dive into transparent waters to a maximum depth of 6 meters, surrounded by fish and colorful corals. Commemorate your exciting adventure with a special "Baptism of the Sea" certificate marking your first dive.
Immerse yourself in nature at a scenic trullo, where you will discover the history of the ancient Susumaniello grape. You will relax with a basket full of local wine and gastronomic delicacies from the area. The tasting includes taralli, focaccia, homemade bread, fresh cheeses, and traditional cold cuts.
Perfect for those with limited time, this smart e-bike tour offers a fantastic glimpse into the Itria Valley. Starting from Martina Franca, you will ride along typical country roads to the town of Locorotondo. After a quick passage through its historic center, you will return to Martina Franca.
Join a local chef to learn how to prepare five typical dishes of the region using fresh, locally produced ingredients. This class offers insight into the traditional way of life of the area's inhabitants. Get ready for a relaxed, fun experience where you will feel like part of a large Pugliese family.
Discover the historic centers of Martina Franca and Locorotondo on an e-bike tour through the Itria Valley's trulli and vineyards. You will visit a local dairy to learn how burrata, mozzarella, and caciocavallo are made by hand. The experience culminates in a delicious tasting of the best Apulian cheeses.
Explore the waters near the bay of Brindisi on a guided dive suitable for all experience levels. Whether you are a certified diver or wish to try breathing underwater for the first time, this tour can accommodate you. Under the guidance of qualified instructors, you will discover seabeds with fantastic colors.
Join a Cesarina, one of Italy's home cooks, for a hands-on class where you will learn to make two different pasta dishes and the iconic Tiramisu. You will master the art of rolling 'sfoglia' (fresh pasta) by hand and preparing the dishes from scratch. This small-group experience begins with a welcoming Italian Aperitivo, offering a great way to experience Italian culture.
Immerse yourself in a private pasta and tiramisu-making class inside a welcoming Italian home. Your Cesarina host will reveal the secrets for preparing two iconic pasta recipes and the classic tiramisu dessert from scratch. Afterward, taste the fruit of your labor for lunch or dinner, accompanied by local wines, in an experience suitable for the whole family.
Take a cycling tour through the scenic countryside of Martina Franca to see the region's unique farm animals. You will get to know the majestic Murgese horse and the local black Puglia pig. The tour also includes a visit to a cow farm where you can taste the locally produced cheeses.
Enjoy the charm of the Valle d'Itria on a guided e-bike tour through its breathtaking landscapes. You will have time to explore the romantic alleys of Locorotondo and walk through the elegant village of Martina Franca. The route will take you past ancient olive groves, vineyards, trulli, and historic farms.
Visit a local farm where you will learn about the harvest and the rural Apulian way of life. Your host will show you their products before you enjoy a tasting of local wine. This will be accompanied by traditional foods like frise, cheeses, dried vegetables, and biscuits.
Begin with a visit to a vibrant local market and traditional food shops with your Cesarina host. Then, immerse yourself in a private cooking class at her home, where you will learn the secrets of three authentic Brindisi recipes. Finally, taste everything you have prepared, accompanied by a selection of local red and white wines.
Experience authentic Apulian welcome and conviviality by dining at the home of a local. You will taste the authentic cuisine of the region while talking about food, travel, and life stories. This is a chance to socialize with your host and other guests from around the world.
Enjoy a full immersion in nature featuring products made directly on the land. Listen to stories of agricultural life and discover the passion that goes into the harvest. This experience is designed to be a genuine encounter with authentic Puglia.
This tour provides an authentic experience, immersing you in the true essence of Salento's culture and way of life. The itinerary includes off-the-beaten-path attractions and hidden gems, fostering a connection with the local community. You will also enjoy a unique culinary adventure that prioritizes the use of locally sourced ingredients.
Take a fascinating guided tour exploring the complete dairy-making process, from fresh delights to expertly aged cheeses. The family members who run the farm will share the secrets of their craft, which have been passed down through generations. You will witness firsthand how the farm operates in harmony with nature, from the cows' grazing grounds to the final product.
Explore the most iconic locations of the Itria Valley with this comfortable van transfer for a small group. You can discover the main attractions at your own pace using professional audio guides, available in six languages. For a complete immersion, the tour also includes a tasting of local olive oil and other typical products.
Embark on a spectacular e-bike tour through the beautiful landscapes of the Valle d'Itria. You will ride along a portion of the scenic Apulian Aqueduct cycle path on authentic country tracks. The tour concludes with a stop in a beautiful district for a tasting of local dishes like orecchiette and mozzarella, accompanied by a good glass of wine.
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Last updated on June 13, 2025
Most cruise lines offer shuttle buses from the Costa Morena terminal to Brindisi's city center, which is the most convenient way to reach main attractions; taxis are also available. Once in the center, many sights are easily walkable.
Must-see attractions include the Roman Columns, the scenic Lungomare Regina Margherita (waterfront promenade), and the Swabian Castle (Castello Svevo). The Duomo (Cathedral) and the Tempio di San Giovanni al Sepolcro are also short walks into the historic center.
Try local Apulian specialties like orecchiette pasta, fresh seafood, and burrata cheese at trattorias along the lungomare or in the historic center. Pair your meal with regional wines like Primitivo or Negroamaro.
The local currency is Euro (1 USD = 0.86 EUR). ATMs (Bancomat) are widely available in Brindisi's city center for withdrawing Euros and generally offer better exchange rates than currency exchange offices. Inform your bank of your travel to ensure card compatibility.
Cruises typically visit from spring to autumn, featuring warm, sunny Mediterranean weather; summers are hot, so pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. Spring and autumn are milder, so a light jacket or layers are recommended.
Nearby beaches include Spiaggia di Punta Penne, accessible by local bus (e.g., line 4 from the city center) or a short taxi ride. For a more pristine experience, the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve is accessible by taxi or pre-arranged transport.
Cruise lines offer excursions to famous Apulian towns like Alberobello (Trulli houses) and Lecce (Baroque architecture). Independent exploration of Brindisi is easy; for nearby towns, consider local trains or pre-booked private tours for more flexibility.
Corso Garibaldi and Corso Roma are the main shopping streets for clothing and general goods. For local souvenirs, explore smaller shops in the historic center for Apulian ceramics, olive oil, wine, and taralli (savory biscuits).
The stunning Baroque city of Lecce is about a 30-40 minute train or car ride away and is a highly recommended day trip. Ostuni, known as the 'White City,' is also within a similar travel time and offers picturesque views.
Brindisi was the ancient Roman port of Brundisium, marking the terminal point of the famous Appian Way (Via Appia), a vital road connecting Rome to southeastern Italy.
Prices are roughly steady throughout the year. On average Brindisi is fairly inexpensive compared to other ports. See the graph below for the average cost per day by month.
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