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Arco Scoppa

4.7
·219 reviews·Ostuni, Italy

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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Even better in person!!

Arco Scoppa

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(219 reviews)

"Glorious arch, highly decorated, hiding and protecting the entry or the way to the cathedral, great work."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Arco Scoppa

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.

Instagram
Ostuni Cathedral (Duomo)

Ostuni Cathedral (Duomo)

Piazza del Duomo

Majestic architecture with a stunning rose window, offering a glimpse into Ostuni's rich history.

Reddit
Historic Center Alleys

Historic Center Alleys

Centro Storico

Get lost in the charming, whitewashed alleys, discovering hidden courtyards and picturesque corners.

TikTok
Zaccaria Cave

Zaccaria Cave

Outskirts of Ostuni

Explore fascinating underground formations and unique geological wonders in this impressive cave system.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the White City Charm

Ostuni, the 'Città Bianca', dazzles with its whitewashed buildings. Wander its labyrinthine alleys and soak in the Mediterranean vibes. Arrive early to beat the crowds and capture that iconic white city magic. TikTok

Navigating Ostuni's Hills

Be prepared for inclines and steps as Ostuni is built on a hill. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring its charming, narrow streets. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Magical atmosphere, lively squares
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

un día en la Città Bianca 🤍✨ #travel #puglia #italia #ostuni
@marcelagarciacp
22.6K likes • 217.3K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Ostuni's hilly terrain and cobblestone streets demand comfy footwear for exploring. TikTok

📸 Capture the White City

The whitewashed buildings create a stunning visual. Don't forget your camera! TikTok

اٹلی کا خوبصورت شہر Ostuni، وزٹ کرنے کے لیے ویڈیو آخر تک دیکھیں۔ Ostuni is one of the most stunning cities in Puglia, famous for the dazzling effect of its whitewashed houses. It is a genuine and charming example of Mediterranean architecture. Known all over the world as the “white city”in Italy it stands on a hill a few kilometres from the sea. #ostuni #puglia #italy #travel #tiktok #europe #trav...
@uauvlogs
22.1K likes • 843.4K views
Ostuni - Recap about today 🌿 Le nostre tappe: - Piazza della Libertà - Colonna di Sant’Oronzo - Centro storico - Arco Scoppa - La casa con la porta blu - Da Gabò per aperitivo - @osteriadeltempopersostuni per pranzo Ma ve ne parlo meglio domani, amici!
tinaraucci_
0 likes • 1.2K views

🚗 No Car Needed

Ostuni has a train station and shuttle buses, making it accessible without a car. TikTok

📍 Explore Beyond the Center

Venture to places like the Zaccaria Cave for a different kind of adventure. TikTok

“Welcome to the beautiful White City of Ostuni, Italy.” If you are heading to Italy, make sure you visit the charming city of Ostuni.” I fell in love with the “ Arco Scoppa”, ambiance and the culture of this mesmerizing white city located in Puglia Italy. Ostuni is known as the “White City” in auglio Italy as its buildings are whitewashed with lime. This is believed to reflect sunlight and keep. ...
chanelgal26
1K likes • 5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Ostuni's hilly terrain and cobblestone streets demand comfy footwear for exploring. TikTok

📸 Capture the White City

The whitewashed buildings create a stunning visual. Don't forget your camera! TikTok

🚗 No Car Needed

Ostuni has a train station and shuttle buses, making it accessible without a car. TikTok

📍 Explore Beyond the Center

Venture to places like the Zaccaria Cave for a different kind of adventure. TikTok

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Try the orecchiette and enjoy aperitivo in the historic center. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(219 reviews)

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

Stunning whitewashed architecture
Charming historic alleys
Beautiful Arco Scoppa

What People Dislike

Evening crowds
Steep inclines

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'. TikTok 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. TikTok

Absolutely! As mentioned, the train station and shuttle buses make it easy to reach and explore Ostuni without a personal vehicle. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Arco Scoppa is a public archway and does not have an entry fee. It's a beautiful architectural feature that leads towards the Cathedral. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for photographing Ostuni's white buildings. Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTok

The historic center offers many charming trattorias and restaurants. Look for places serving local specialties like orecchiette. TikTokInstagram Many offer delightful views. TikTok

While traditional Puglian cuisine is hearty, you can often find vegetarian options, especially pasta dishes with vegetable sauces. Vegan options might require specific requests. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ostuni can be a delightful destination for families, though it requires some planning. The historic center's winding alleys are fun for kids to explore, like a real-life maze. TikTok However, be mindful of the many steps and inclines, so a sturdy stroller or carrier might be necessary for younger children. TikTok The Zaccaria Cave offers an exciting adventure for older kids, providing a unique natural experience. TikTok Look for restaurants that offer simpler pasta dishes, and consider visiting during the shoulder seasons to avoid the peak summer heat and crowds.

🚶 Solo Travelers

Ostuni is a fantastic choice for solo travelers, offering a safe and engaging environment. The compact historic center is easy to navigate, and the friendly atmosphere makes it easy to strike up conversations. TikTok Many cafes and piazzas, like the one around Arco Scoppa, are perfect for solo travelers to relax, people-watch, and enjoy a coffee or aperitivo. Reddit Consider joining a walking tour to learn more about the city's history and meet fellow travelers. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Ostuni is a photographer's paradise. The endless whitewashed streets, punctuated by colorful flowers and blue doors, offer endless compositions. TikTok+1 The Arco Scoppa and Ostuni Cathedral are iconic landmarks that demand to be captured. InstagramReddit Aim for the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic light, and don't shy away from the narrow, winding alleys for unique perspectives. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of the 'Città Bianca'

Ostuni's nickname, 'Città Bianca' (White City), is no exaggeration. Its historic center is a mesmerizing maze of narrow, winding streets lined with buildings uniformly whitewashed with lime. This tradition, dating back centuries, was originally a practical measure to reflect the intense Puglian sun and keep interiors cool, as well as to ward off plague. TikTok Wandering through these alleys feels like stepping into a different era, with every corner revealing a new picturesque scene, often adorned with vibrant flowers and blue doors. TikTok The effect is so striking that Ostuni is often compared to a Greek island. TikTok

This unique architectural style creates a dazzling visual spectacle, especially under the bright Italian sun. TikTok 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. TikTok 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. TikTok

Arco Scoppa: A Historic Gateway

The Arco Scoppa is a significant historical landmark in Ostuni, serving as a grand entrance to the town's magnificent Cathedral. Instagram Originally constructed from wood in the 17th century, it was later replaced with the more durable stone structure that stands today. Reddit This archway not only marks a transition into a sacred space but also created a popular gathering point in the piazza, where locals and visitors alike would congregate. Reddit

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. Instagram Many people enjoy sitting on the Cathedral steps nearby, people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere of this historic square. Reddit The intricate stonework of the arch itself is a testament to the craftsmanship of the era, adding to its historical and aesthetic appeal. Reddit

Exploring Ostuni's Natural Wonders

While Ostuni is famed for its urban beauty, its surroundings offer natural attractions as well. The Zaccaria Cave, located on the outskirts of the town, is a remarkable example. TikTok This cave system features impressive stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing the slow, natural artistry of geological formations over millennia. TikTok Exploring its passages can be an adventurous experience, with some areas requiring a bit of crawling to navigate. TikTok

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. TikTok+1 The region is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, making it a popular destination for summer holidays. TikTok

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