Gallipoli is one of those places that captures your heart the moment you arrive. Nestled on a small island along the sun-kissed Ionian coast of Puglia, this charming town effortlessly combines centuries of history with Italian elegance and Mediterranean beaches. Picture yourself wandering through a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses and baroque churches, all embraced by crystal-clear waters. The name Gallipoli, derived from Greek, means “beautiful city,” and it more than lives up to that name.
From its ancient olive oil mills and medieval castles to its lively beaches and picturesque harbors, Gallipoli is brimming with character. The town’s rich history as a hub for olive oil production and trade is still alive today, seen in the underground mills and historic harbor that have shaped its past. At the same time, it’s a dream destination for sun worshippers, offering pristine sandy beaches that are perfect for relaxation. Whether you’re drawn by the town’s fascinating history, its sparkling waters, or the irresistible Italian cuisine, Gallipoli offers something for every traveler.
In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey to the best spots in Gallipoli. From historic landmarks and hidden gems to insider tips on the top beaches and breathtaking views, you’ll see why Gallipoli is an absolute must-visit destination on your Puglia itinerary.
What is Gallipoli Known for?
Gallipoli is a city overflowing with history, charm, and the laid-back Mediterranean vibe. The name itself, meaning “beautiful city” in Greek, is a perfect reflection of what this captivating destination offers. The historic center sits on a small island, connected to the mainland by a 16th-century bridge. Narrow winding streets, whitewashed houses, and elegant baroque churches give Gallipoli an almost fairy-tale charm. The island’s unique setting means the city is surrounded by water, offering breathtaking views from its ancient city walls.
Gallipoli has long been a hub of maritime activity. In ancient times, it was a key port city, strategically positioned along the Ionian Sea. By the medieval and Renaissance periods, it had evolved into an important trading center, thanks in large part to its olive oil exports. This oil wasn’t just for cooking; it also served as lamp oil. The underground olive oil mills still stand today as a testament to this prosperous era. Visitors can explore these mills, offering a fascinating glimpse into the hardworking craftsmanship of the past.
But Gallipoli isn’t just a city of rich history. It’s also a favorite beach destination, drawing sunseekers and beach lovers from all over. Spiaggia della Purità, located right at the foot of the historic center, is one of the town’s most popular urban beaches. Surrounding Gallipoli, you’ll find other beautiful beaches renowned for their soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. By day, you can unwind on the shore and swim in the inviting sea; by night, the old town is the perfect place to sip an aperitivo while enjoying spectacular views of the sparkling waters.
Top 10 Things to Do in Gallipoli
#1 Centro Storico, The Old Town
Gallipoli may have many attractions, but it’s the timeless charm of its old town and its unique setting that truly captivate visitors. The heart of Gallipoli rests on a small island, connected to the mainland by a picturesque 16th-century bridge.
Take a leisurely stroll through a maze of narrow streets, where whitewashed houses and baroque balconies create a beautiful backdrop. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon hidden squares, quaint artisan shops, and cozy trattorias offering mouthwatering local delicacies. The town may be small, but as you explore, you’ll find yourself back at the edge, where the city walls meet the sea. From this spot, enjoy sweeping views of the sparkling Ionian Sea. Be sure to stop and admire the magnificent churches and historic palaces that grace every corner, each adding to the town’s rich, captivating atmosphere.
#2 Cathedral of Saint Agatha
At the heart of the old town stands the awe-inspiring Cattedrale di Sant’Agata, a true masterpiece of 17th-century Baroque architecture. The façade, built from local carparo stone, is beautifully adorned with intricate statues of saints, with Saint Agatha, the patron saint, taking center stage.
Step inside, and you’ll find the cathedral is a veritable treasure chest of art, showcasing works by renowned artists like Giovanni Andrea Coppola and Nicola Malinconico. We were particularly struck by the vast, breathtaking paintings that seem to cover nearly every inch of the interior, adding a sense of grandeur and history. The cathedral is also home to the sacred relics of San Fausto, further enriching its spiritual and cultural legacy.
#3 Castello Angioino-Aragonese
At the entrance to the historic center stands the imposing Castello Angioino-Aragonese, almost completely surrounded by the sea. This 13th-century fortress, strengthened by both the Angevins and the Aragonese, was originally built to defend the city and its thriving harbor.
The castle boasts a square design, featuring three round towers and a watchtower. The Rivellino, a watchtower added to the castle in 1522, is one of its most striking elements. Today, visitors can wander through the castle’s ancient walls, enjoying sweeping views of the sea, while discovering the fascinating history of Gallipoli and its strategic importance over the centuries.
#4 Fontana Greca, The Greek Fountain
Just steps away from the bridge that links the old town with the newer parts of the city, you’ll come across the Fontana Greca. Despite its name, which might lead you to believe it hails from ancient Greece, this fountain actually dates back to the Renaissance. The front of the fountain is beautifully decorated with bas-reliefs that tell captivating mythological stories, such as the transformations of Dirce, Salmacis, and Byblis. On the back, the coat of arms of Gallipoli takes center stage, accompanied by the insignia of King Charles III of Spain, adding a regal touch to this charming and historic landmark.
#5 Church of San Francesco d’Assisi
At the edge of the historic center stands the Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi, a church originally constructed in the 13th century and later renovated multiple times.
It’s definitely worth a visit for its lovely interior, where the standout feature is an exquisite stone nativity scene. This masterpiece, created by the sculptor Stefano da Putignano in the late 16th century, captures the artistry and craftsmanship of its time. The nativity scene adds a distinctive charm to the church, offering a glimpse into both the religious and cultural heritage of the region.
#6 Underground Olive Oil Mill Frantoi Ipogei
Beneath the ancient streets of Gallipoli, the Frantoi Ipogei—underground olive oil mills—offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s long history of oil production. Carved from the region’s tuff stone, these mills date back to the 16th century and played a crucial role in producing high-quality lamp oil, known as ‘lampante.’ This oil once illuminated the streets of cities across Europe. The steady, cool temperature underground made it the perfect environment for oil production.
A visit to the Frantoio Ipogeo di Palazzo Granafei gives you the chance to uncover the ingenious techniques and tough working conditions of the past. It’s said that guided tours are available, and we highly recommend taking one. Without a guide, we found it challenging to fully grasp the significance of what we were seeing and how the mills operated. The brochure we received offered only limited information, making a guided tour all the more valuable.
#7 Porto Antico, Old Port of Gallipoli
The Porto Antico, or Old Harbor, is the heart and soul of Gallipoli’s rich maritime history. Situated beside the bridge that connects the island to the mainland, and nestled between the imposing castle and the Chiesa del Canneto, this harbor has been an essential trade hub for centuries.
Today, the harbor is a lively and picturesque sight, where vibrant fishing boats unload their fresh catches next to sleek, modern yachts. From the quay, near the Chiesa del Canneto and the Greek fountain, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of the harbor, with the historic town and castle providing a magnificent backdrop.
#8 Walk Along the City Walls
Taking a leisurely stroll along the ancient city walls of Gallipoli is an absolute must during your visit. These strong, timeworn walls, built centuries ago to defend the city from invaders, still surround the historic center and offer sweeping views of the sparkling azure sea and the charming city. As you wander, you’ll pass through narrow, picturesque streets, glimpse historic churches, and discover cozy cafés that invite you to linger.
A perfect stop along the way is at Il Bastione, a charming terrace nestled at the foot of the city walls. Here, you can savor fresh, local seafood specialties while soaking in the stunning views of the sea – the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Gallipoli.
#9 Spiaggia della Purità (Beach of Purity)
Spiaggia della Purità is the iconic city beach of Gallipoli, nestled along the island and at the foot of the historic center. With its soft, golden sands and crystal-clear waters, it’s a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike. The beach offers a breathtaking view of the ancient city walls and the charming white houses that line the streets, creating a postcard-perfect setting for a day of relaxation or a leisurely stroll.
But Spiaggia della Purità is just one of the many beautiful beaches in the Gallipoli area. Just a short distance away, you’ll find Baia Verde, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and sparkling turquoise waters, and Punta della Suina, a peaceful cove surrounded by aromatic pine trees. During our stay, we chose to camp at Camping La Masseria, which boasts its own private beach just 3 kilometers from the old town. Plus, a free shuttle bus from the campsite made it easy to explore Gallipoli’s charming streets and historic sites.
#10 Isola del Campo (Island of The Field)
Isola del Campo is a small, unspoiled island nestled just off the coast of Gallipoli. It’s home to a historic lighthouse that once guided sailors safely through the waters. While the island itself isn’t accessible to the public, it provides a stunning view from the city, particularly at sunrise and sunset, when the warm light casts a golden glow over the landscape, creating a truly magical scene.
