Taranto, Italy

One of the most prominent landmarks is the Aragonese Castle, a formidable fortress guarding the entrance to the old town, located just across the famous swing bridge. It's easily reachable from the typical cruise shuttle drop-off point.

A short walk from the castle is the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto (MArTA). This world-class museum houses an extraordinary collection of artifacts from the Magna Graecia period, including the famous 'Ori di Taranto' gold collection.

Exploring the Città Vecchia (Old Town), an island connected by two bridges, offers a glimpse into the city's long history with its narrow, winding alleyways. Finally, don't miss seeing the Ponte Girevole (Swing Bridge) in action as it opens to allow naval ships to pass between the city's two bays.

A popular day trip from Taranto is to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique conical-roofed houses called trulli. It is located approximately 45 kilometers away, which is about a one-hour drive.

Another incredible destination is Matera, known for its ancient cave dwellings and also a UNESCO site. Matera is about 70 kilometers from the port, requiring a drive of roughly 1.5 hours.

For those interested in local crafts, the town of Grottaglie is renowned for its ceramics district and is only a 30-minute drive from Taranto.

The Taranto cruise port, known as Falanto Cruise Port, is situated within the large commercial harbor called Mar Grande. It is not located within walking distance of the main city attractions. The port is approximately 3-4 kilometers from the historic center (Città Vecchia) and the main shopping district.

Due to the industrial nature of the port area, walking is not recommended. Cruise lines almost always provide shuttle bus services to a convenient drop-off point near the Aragonese Castle. The cruise terminal itself is a modern facility, but amenities like shops or restaurants are found in the city center, not in the immediate port vicinity. Ships dock directly at the pier, so tendering is not required.

The official currency in Taranto is the Euro (€). US dollars are not accepted for transactions, so it is necessary to use Euros for all purchases.

ATMs, known locally as 'Bancomat', are widely available throughout the city center and are the most convenient way to obtain cash. Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are commonly accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases at cafes or local markets.

Taranto is generally considered a safe city for tourists, but visitors should exercise standard precautions. Be mindful of your belongings and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like markets and tourist sites, to avoid pickpockets.

While the Città Vecchia (Old Town) is fascinating to explore during the day, some of its narrow, less-traveled alleys can feel deserted. It is advisable to stick to the main thoroughfares, especially after dark. For the most part, independent exploration of the main attractions during daylight hours is safe and enjoyable.

Taranto enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The main cruise season from spring through autumn offers pleasant to hot weather.

In spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), temperatures are comfortable, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (60-77°F). Summers (June-August) are very hot and sunny, with average temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).

Passengers should pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially for summer visits. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings or visits during the shoulder seasons.

Transportation from the cruise port to the city center is necessary as the terminal is located in a commercial port area. Cruise lines typically offer shuttle buses to a central drop-off point, which is the most convenient option.

Public transportation is managed by AMAT, with bus routes connecting the port area to the city. Taxis are also available, but it is advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Ride-sharing services are not as common or reliable in Taranto compared to larger Italian cities.

The primary shopping area in Taranto is along Via d'Aquino and the surrounding streets in the modern Borgo Umbertino district. Here you will find a mix of well-known Italian brands, boutiques, and department stores.

For unique souvenirs, look for local Puglian products such as high-quality olive oil, regional wines, and handmade pasta. A particularly popular item is the artisanal ceramics from the nearby town of Grottaglie, which are often sold in specialty shops. Prices in stores are fixed, and bargaining is not a common practice.