Spectacular underground cave system - one of Italy's most beautiful natural wonders
Natural Wonder
Castellana Grotte
Home to the stunning Grotte di Castellana - a major karst cave system with 3,348 meters of formations, 122 meters deep, and chambers with names like 'Monument Caves' and 'White Cave'. A UNESCO-recognized natural wonder with constant 14-18°C temperature.
Must-See Attractions
Don't miss these highlights
Grotte di Castellana (Castellana Caves)
Spectacular underground karst cave system with 3,348 meters of passages and chambers - one of Europe's most impressive
Note: Tours available in multiple languages with certified guides
More Places to Visit
Additional attractions worth exploring
Black Cave (Grotta Nera)
30 minutes (on tour)First major chamber with dark formations - named for its coloring from mineral deposits
White Cave (Grotta Bianca)
30 minutes (on tour)Most impressive chamber with brilliant white stalactites and stalagmites - centerpiece of tours
Monument Caves (Grotta dei Monumenti)
15 minutes (on tour)Chamber with towering formations resembling monuments - impressive size and scale
Owl Cave (Grotta della Civetta)
15 minutes (on tour)Chamber with formations resembling an owl - seen on longer tours
Little Paradise (Piccolo Paradiso)
15 minutes (on tour)Small beautiful chamber with delicate formations and underground lake
Must-Try Foods
Local specialties you can't miss
Fresh Pasta al Tartufo (Truffle Pasta)
pasta dishFresh local pasta with truffle sauce - specialties found in restaurants
Bombette di Castellana
meat dishLocal version of stuffed meat rolls - grilled specialty
Orecchiette with Local Sauce
pasta dishTraditional pasta with various sauces made from local ingredients
Countryside Restaurant Specialties
main dishTraditional Apulian farm cuisine at countryside restaurants
Recommended Experiences
Make the most of your visit
Grotte di Castellana - Long Tour (3km)
Comprehensive 100-minute tour through main chambers including White Cave - most immersive experience
Grotte di Castellana - Short Tour (1km)
50-minute tour of main highlights for those with limited time
Cave and Restaurant Combo
Cave tour followed by lunch at countryside restaurant with Apulian specialties
Photography Tour of Caves
Special photography-focused tour with extended time in chambers for best shots
Practical Information
Plan your visit
Best Time to Visit
April to October (caves open year-round, always 14-18°C)
Average Stay
Half day to 1 day
Getting There
- ✈️ Bari Airport (55 km away, 1 hour drive)
- 🚂 Train to Castellana Grotte station, then walk/taxi to cave entrance
- 🚗 Easy car access, parking available near cave entrance
Nearby Destinations
Insider Tips
Local advice for visitors
Book cave tours online to avoid long queues at entrance
Wear sneakers with good grip - cave floor can be slippery
Caves maintain 14-18°C year-round - bring a light jacket
Photography is allowed - bring tripod for best shots in low light
Long tour (3km) is recommended for complete experience
Best time to visit is spring or early fall for comfortable weather
Combine with countryside restaurant lunch at nearby traditional farms
Allow 3-4 hours for cave tour plus meals and other attractions
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