
Arco Scoppa
Ostuni, the 'White City' of Puglia, enchants with its dazzling whitewashed buildings and labyrinthine alleys, offering a unique Mediterranean charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Arco Scoppa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ostuni, the 'White City' of Puglia, enchants with its dazzling whitewashed buildings and labyrinthine alleys, offering a unique Mediterranean charm.
"Glorious arch, highly decorated, hiding and protecting the entry or the way to the cathedral, great work."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ostuni's hilly terrain and cobblestone streets demand comfy footwear for exploring.
📸 Capture the White City
The whitewashed buildings create a stunning visual. Don't forget your camera!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Arco Scoppa
Entrance to Ostuni Cathedral
A magnificent stone arch, once wooden, marking the historic entrance to the cathedral. A popular spot for people-watching.

Ostuni Cathedral (Duomo)
Piazza del Duomo
Majestic architecture with a stunning rose window, offering a glimpse into Ostuni's rich history.

Historic Center Alleys
Centro Storico
Get lost in the charming, whitewashed alleys, discovering hidden courtyards and picturesque corners.

Zaccaria Cave
Outskirts of Ostuni
Explore fascinating underground formations and unique geological wonders in this impressive cave system.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the White City Charm
Navigating Ostuni's Hills
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ostuni's hilly terrain and cobblestone streets demand comfy footwear for exploring.
📸 Capture the White City
The whitewashed buildings create a stunning visual. Don't forget your camera!
🚗 No Car Needed
Ostuni has a train station and shuttle buses, making it accessible without a car.
📍 Explore Beyond the Center
Venture to places like the Zaccaria Cave for a different kind of adventure.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ostuni's hilly terrain and cobblestone streets demand comfy footwear for exploring.
📸 Capture the White City
The whitewashed buildings create a stunning visual. Don't forget your camera!
🚗 No Car Needed
Ostuni has a train station and shuttle buses, making it accessible without a car.
📍 Explore Beyond the Center
Venture to places like the Zaccaria Cave for a different kind of adventure.
🍽️ Savor Local Flavors
Try the orecchiette and enjoy aperitivo in the historic center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ostuni's breathtaking 'Città Bianca' aesthetic and its charming, labyrinthine historic center. The Arco Scoppa and Cathedral are highlighted as must-see architectural gems. While the beauty is undeniable, some find the crowds, especially in the evenings, can detract from the experience.
"This is the most beautiful church I have seen on this travel🫶"
D M
"Glorious arch, highly decorated, hiding and protecting the entry or the way to the cathedral, great work.
The side of the cathedral has real windows, whereas the entrance side has blocked off partitioned arches, awesome."
Con Stroulios
"Once upon a time, this arc was made of wood but in the 17th century, the original wooden structure was replaced with stone. This arc is the entry to the Ostuni church and it is intricately designed. I really enjoyed seating on the church steps and people watching. This arc created a popular square for people to hang out and pass through."
Asal Ganji
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ostuni is accessible by train, with its station located about 2.5 km from the historic center. Frequent shuttle buses connect the station to the 'centro storico'. Many visitors also arrive by car, but parking can be challenging within the old town. The nearest airports are Brindisi (BDS) and Bari (BRI).
Yes, Ostuni is very walkable, especially its historic center. However, be prepared for steep inclines and cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes are essential.
Absolutely! As mentioned, the train station and shuttle buses make it easy to reach and explore Ostuni without a personal vehicle.
Parking in Ostuni's historic center is very limited. It's best to use designated parking lots on the outskirts and walk or take a shuttle into the old town.
Wandering through the whitewashed alleys of the 'centro storico' is the best way to experience Ostuni. Don't miss the Arco Scoppa and the Cathedral.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance tickets required to wander through the streets of Ostuni or visit most of its public squares. Entry to the Cathedral and specific attractions like the Zaccaria Cave may have associated fees.
Opening hours for Ostuni Cathedral can vary. It's advisable to check locally or online for the most up-to-date information, especially outside of peak tourist season.
Arco Scoppa is a public archway and does not have an entry fee. It's a beautiful architectural feature that leads towards the Cathedral.
There is typically a fee to enter the Zaccaria Cave. Prices can vary, so it's best to inquire at the cave entrance or check their official website if available.
Yes, guided tours are available in Ostuni, offering insights into its history and architecture. You can often find options for walking tours that cover the historic center and key landmarks.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire historic center is a photographer's dream! Key spots include Arco Scoppa, the Cathedral, the narrow whitewashed alleys, and viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for photographing Ostuni's white buildings. Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds.
Drone regulations can be strict in historic Italian towns. It's essential to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in Ostuni.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the narrow streets and overall cityscape. A standard zoom lens will cover most needs. Don't forget a polarizing filter for those bright, sunny days.
Arco Scoppa is perfect for framing shots of the Cathedral entrance or capturing people passing through. The intricate stonework of the arch itself is also a great subject.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss trying 'orecchiette', a traditional Puglian pasta, often served with cime di rapa (turnip greens). Seafood is also abundant and delicious.
The historic center offers many charming trattorias and restaurants. Look for places serving local specialties like orecchiette. Many offer delightful views.
While traditional Puglian cuisine is hearty, you can often find vegetarian options, especially pasta dishes with vegetable sauces. Vegan options might require specific requests.
Aperitivo is a pre-dinner drink accompanied by small snacks. It's a popular social ritual in Ostuni, enjoyed in many bars and cafes, especially in the evening.
Prices can vary. Restaurants in the main tourist areas might be pricier, but you can find more affordable and authentic options by exploring slightly off the beaten path.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the 'Città Bianca'
This unique architectural style creates a dazzling visual spectacle, especially under the bright Italian sun. The whitewashed walls not only reflect light but also create a sense of spaciousness and purity. Many visitors find the experience of simply getting lost in these streets to be the highlight of their visit, discovering hidden courtyards, artisan shops, and charming cafes. The visual consistency is so strong that it makes for incredibly photogenic surroundings, with the stark white contrasting beautifully with the blue sky and colorful bougainvillea.
Arco Scoppa: A Historic Gateway
Today, the Arco Scoppa remains a focal point for visitors. It's a popular spot for photography, offering a dramatic frame for the Cathedral and the surrounding piazza. Many people enjoy sitting on the Cathedral steps nearby, people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere of this historic square. The intricate stonework of the arch itself is a testament to the craftsmanship of the era, adding to its historical and aesthetic appeal.
Exploring Ostuni's Natural Wonders
Beyond the caves, the Puglian landscape surrounding Ostuni is characterized by olive groves and the proximity to the Adriatic coast. While Ostuni itself is inland, the sea is not far, offering opportunities for coastal excursions. The region is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, making it a popular destination for summer holidays.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit