
Castello Svevo Trani
A 13th-century Swabian castle on the Adriatic coast, offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval history and art.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Limited opening hours

Castello Svevo Trani
Best Time
Limited opening hours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century Swabian castle on the Adriatic coast, offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval history and art.
"An impressive 13th-century Swabian castle, a must-visit in Trani with amazing views."

🎯 Check Opening Days
The castle is only open twice a week: Tuesdays and Saturdays. Plan accordingly!
📸 Capture the Views
The outdoor walkways offer stunning sea and harbor vistas. Don't miss them!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seaside Fortress Views
Outdoor walkway and towers
Breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and Trani's picturesque harbor.

Medieval Architecture
Exterior and courtyards
An imposing 13th-century Swabian castle, one of the best-preserved in the region.

Queen's Art Collection
Upper floors
Discover art from Margherita of Savoy, one of Italy's last queens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Days
The castle is only open twice a week: Tuesdays and Saturdays. Plan accordingly!
📸 Capture the Views
The outdoor walkways offer stunning sea and harbor vistas. Don't miss them!
🎟️ Entry Fee
Admission is €7. Consider it for the history and views.
✨ Special Events
Look out for unique events like the 'Incendio del Castello' for a magical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Days
The castle is only open twice a week: Tuesdays and Saturdays. Plan accordingly!
📸 Capture the Views
The outdoor walkways offer stunning sea and harbor vistas. Don't miss them!
🎟️ Entry Fee
Admission is €7. Consider it for the history and views.
✨ Special Events
Look out for unique events like the 'Incendio del Castello' for a magical experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Trani
Combine your castle visit with the nearby cathedral and charming port.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Castello Svevo Trani as an impressive and well-preserved medieval fortress with stunning seaside views. The art collection adds cultural value, and the knowledgeable staff enhance the experience. Some find the interior a bit empty, but the outdoor walkways and historical significance make it a must-visit in Trani.
"The castle is right on the water and makes for a lovely photo. We basically had the castle to ourselves, only seeing two other people while there. Queen Marguerite's art collection is on display inside and the history of the castle is really interesting."
Alison Cole
"Beautiful castle with lots of history to unveil , particularly liked pictures of queen Margherita."
MIHAEL SIMONETA
"It’s was so beautiful to walk around the walls of the fortress 🙌
We watched the 12-minutes video about the castles and went for a walk on its walls.
A great way to pass an hour in Trani
The inside is a bit null"
Paz Levi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Castello Svevo Trani is located right by the harbor in the heart of Trani. You can easily reach it by walking from the town center or the train station. Parking is available nearby, though it can be busy during peak times.
Yes, Trani has a train station that connects to major cities in Puglia. From the station, it's a short walk to the castle.
Trani is best explored on foot. The castle, cathedral, and harbor are all within easy walking distance of each other.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The castle has very limited opening hours, typically only on Tuesdays (9 AM-1 PM & 3 PM-6 PM) and Saturday mornings (9 AM-1 PM). Always check the latest schedule before your visit.
The entry fee is €7 per person.
Information on online ticket purchases is not widely available. It's best to plan to buy tickets upon arrival during their limited opening hours.
Yes, guided tours are often available, offering deeper insights into the castle's history. You can also opt for a self-guided visit.
Local legends suggest the castle is haunted by two ghosts, adding a layer of mystery to its rich history.
📸 📸 Photography
The outdoor walkway and the castle towers offer incredible panoramic views of the sea and Trani's harbor, perfect for photography.
Drone footage of the castle and its surroundings is popular, showcasing its impressive scale and seaside location.
While the interior might be less visually striking than the exterior views, the art exhibition offers opportunities for unique shots.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
The castle was built in 1233 by Frederick II of Swabia, a significant figure in medieval Italian history.
It's one of the best-preserved Swabian castles, built to guard the coastline and project imperial power. It has also served as a royal residence and prison.
Inside, you can explore the castle's structure and view an art collection featuring works from Margherita of Savoy, one of Italy's last queens.
Yes, legends speak of secret rooms, a mysterious underground passage to Castel del Monte, and even ghosts.
This is a spectacular annual event, usually in August, where the castle is illuminated with lights and fireworks, creating a magical medieval atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a day when the weather is pleasant for exploring the outdoor areas. While the castle itself might not have extensive play areas, the surrounding harbor offers space for kids to run around. Combining the castle visit with a gelato stop in Trani can make for a perfect family outing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Golden hour, just before sunset, can cast a warm, magical glow on the castle, enhancing its textures and colors. Drone photography is also popular here, offering unique aerial perspectives of the fortress and its seaside setting. While the interior art exhibition might not be the primary draw for all photographers, it does offer opportunities for capturing details and historical artifacts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Over the centuries, the castle's role evolved. It transitioned from a military bastion to a royal residence, and at times, a prison. This rich history has led to numerous legends, including tales of secret passages and spectral inhabitants, adding an air of mystery to its formidable stone walls. Exploring the castle offers a tangible connection to these historical narratives and the lives of those who inhabited it.
Today, Castello Svevo Trani is a public museum, inviting visitors to step back in time. While some find the interior to be sparsely furnished, the art exhibition featuring the collection of Margherita of Savoy, one of Italy's last queens, provides a fascinating cultural layer. The true magic, however, often lies in the breathtaking views from its ramparts, offering a unique perspective on Trani and the shimmering sea beyond.
Experiencing the 'Incendio del Castello'
The event typically takes place in August and draws significant crowds, eager to witness the magical spectacle. The castle, illuminated and set against the dark sea, becomes the focal point of a truly unforgettable evening. It's a chance to experience Trani's vibrant traditions and immerse yourself in a festive, historical atmosphere.
Attending the 'Incendio del Castello' offers a unique perspective on the castle, moving beyond its historical structure to embrace its role as a venue for community celebration. It's a highly recommended experience for those visiting Trani during the summer months, promising a night of wonder and excitement.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit