The Spur of Italy - wild nature, pristine coastline, and ancient forests
National Park / Coastal Region
Gargano
A mountainous promontory with dramatic coastline, pristine beaches, the ancient Umbra Forest, and charming whitewashed villages.
Must-See Attractions
Don't miss these highlights
Vieste
Main resort town with beautiful beaches, historic center, and dramatic coastal cliffs
Gargano Coast & Sea Caves
Spectacular coastline with hidden coves, sea caves, and crystal-clear waters - best seen by boat
Note: Boat tours from Vieste or Peschici
Foresta Umbra
Ancient beech forest covering 10,000 hectares - the green lung of Southern Italy with hiking trails
Monte Sant'Angelo
UNESCO World Heritage town with sanctuary dedicated to Archangel Michael, perched on mountain
More Places to Visit
Additional attractions worth exploring
Peschici
Half dayCharming white town perched on cliff overlooking the sea with narrow streets and beaches
Vico del Gargano
2-3 hoursHistoric village known as 'Village of Love' with medieval streets and citrus groves
Tremiti Islands
Full day tripArchipelago with pristine waters, marine reserve, and unspoiled nature
Baia delle Zagare
Half dayStunning beach with white pebbles and dramatic rock formations (Faraglioni)
Manfredonia
2-3 hoursGateway town with Swabian castle and archaeological museum
Must-Try Foods
Local specialties you can't miss
Fish Soup (Zuppa di Pesce Garganica)
seafoodRich seafood soup with various fish and shellfish - Gargano signature dish
Octopus Dishes
seafoodOctopus prepared various ways - in salad, grilled, or in sandwiches
Strascinati Pasta
pasta dishHandmade pasta similar to orecchiette, often served with cuttlefish sauce
Trabucco-Caught Fish
seafoodFish caught using traditional trabucchi (ancient fishing platforms)
Panino con Polpo
street foodOctopus sandwich - popular beach snack
Caciocavallo Podolico
cheeseAged cheese from Podolica cows raised in Gargano mountains
Recommended Experiences
Make the most of your visit
Boat Tour of Sea Caves
Explore spectacular sea caves, hidden coves, and dramatic rock formations along the coast
Hiking in Foresta Umbra
Explore ancient beech forest on marked trails, spot wildlife, enjoy cool mountain air
Trabucco Dining Experience
Dine on fresh fish at traditional trabucco (ancient fishing platform converted to restaurant)
📌 Unique to Gargano - atmospheric seaside setting
Beach Day - Vieste or Peschici
Relax on some of Puglia's most beautiful beaches with crystal-clear water
Monte Sant'Angelo Pilgrimage
Visit UNESCO World Heritage sanctuary and explore medieval mountain town
Day Trip to Tremiti Islands
Ferry to pristine islands for swimming, snorkeling, and nature
📌 Book ferry in advance
Scenic Drive along Coast
Drive the panoramic coastal road with breathtaking views and photo stops
📌 Car required
Sunset at Pizzomunno Rock
Watch sunset at iconic white rock formation in Vieste
Practical Information
Plan your visit
Best Time to Visit
May to June, September (July-August very crowded and hot)
Average Stay
4-7 days (large area to explore)
Getting There
- ✈️ Bari Airport (130 km to Vieste) or Foggia Airport (closer but smaller)
- 🚂 Train to Foggia, then bus to coastal towns
- 🚗 Car highly recommended for exploring the region
Insider Tips
Local advice for visitors
Car is essential - public transport very limited
Book accommodation well in advance for July-August
Combine beaches with mountains and forests for variety
Allow at least 4-5 days to properly explore the region
Coast road can be winding - take motion sickness precaution if needed
Trabucchi restaurants are unique - book ahead
Tremiti Islands require full day - check ferry schedules
Foresta Umbra is cooler than coast - bring light jacket
Many beaches are accessible only by boat or steep paths
Visit Monte Sant'Angelo early to avoid heat and crowds
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