Giovinazzo is a small harbor town on the Adriatic coast, and it turned out to be one of the most delightful surprises of our trip to Puglia. After reading about a quaint fishing village, we didn’t expect to stumble upon such a charming and historic gem. Just eighteen kilometers from Bari, Giovinazzo feels like stepping back in time—a peaceful escape from the buzz of larger cities. With its narrow alleyways, stone houses adorned with green shutters, and a picturesque harbor filled with fishing boats, the town has an irresistible charm.
Here, you’ll experience a more authentic side of Italy. Visitors can lose themselves in the maze of cobblestone streets, take in sweeping sea views along the Lungomare, or admire the impressive cathedral and centuries-old city walls. Giovinazzo isn’t just a lovely place to explore; it also makes a perfect base for discovering the rest of Puglia.
This blog will guide you through the highlights of Giovinazzo and show you why this hidden gem deserves a spot on your Puglia itinerary.
What Makes Giovinazzo Special?
Giovinazzo is a captivating coastal town, known for its medieval charm, historic harbor, and stunning seaside setting. Its roots trace back to the Middle Ages, and this heritage is still visible at every turn. The compact historic center feels like a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, flanked by weathered stone houses with colorful green shutters. Along the Lungomare di Giovinazzo—the waterfront promenade that hugs the coast—you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
What sets Giovinazzo apart is its ability to combine old-world charm with a sense of peace and authenticity that’s hard to find in more tourist-heavy destinations. Still relatively undiscovered, the town remains blissfully quiet compared to other highlights in Puglia. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, take a deep breath, and soak up the simple pleasures of Italian life.
Where Is Giovinazzo Located?
Giovinazzo is nestled in the sun-drenched region of Puglia, in southeastern Italy—a region celebrated for its endless coastline, charming villages, and rich history. Perched right on the Adriatic Sea, it’s just eighteen kilometers from Bari, the vibrant regional capital. Thanks to this central location, Giovinazzo is easy to reach and offers a peaceful retreat from the busier towns nearby.
From Giovinazzo, you can reach Molfetta—a town with a historic center and the Romanesque Duomo di San Corrado—in less than half an hour. A little farther north lies Trani, a picturesque fishing town famous for its stunning cathedral that seems to rise straight from the sea. And then there’s Bari, practically on the doorstep, with its ancient city walls, lively markets, and the iconic Basilica of Saint Nicholas—perfect for a day trip.
Giovinazzo’s location also makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider region of Puglia. The town sits close to the Strada Statale 16, a major route that connects you to Puglia’s most famous sights. The dramatic cliffs of Polignano a Mare (50 minutes), the unique trulli houses of Alberobello (1 hour), the coastal beauty of Monopoli (1 hour), and the Baroque splendor of Lecce (2 hours) are all within easy reach by car. Even Matera, famed for its ancient cave dwellings and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just an hour’s drive away.
Top Things to Do in Giovinazzo
#1 Centro Storico – The Old Town
The Centro Storico of Giovinazzo is a place where history lingers in every corner. This medieval heart of the town is a labyrinth of narrow, winding alleyways paved with smooth, worn stones. Traditional limestone houses with green shutters and delicate wrought-iron balconies line the streets, exuding timeless charm. Parts of the old center are still enclosed by ancient city walls, remnants of a past when the town was fortified against invaders.
Wandering through the Centro Storico feels like stepping back in time. Small squares appear unexpectedly, framed by historic facades and inviting cafés. The narrow streets open up to reveal architectural treasures, including remnants of the original walls that once protected Giovinazzo from pirate raids. With its nearly car-free layout, the district offers a tranquil atmosphere that makes exploring even more enjoyable. It’s the perfect place to slow down and let the magic of this medieval setting sink in.
#2 Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta
The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta is undoubtedly one of Giovinazzo’s most remarkable landmarks. Built in the 12th century, this impressive cathedral sits atop a gentle rise, offering views of the Adriatic Sea. Its imposing limestone facade and symmetrical design make it a striking example of Apulian-Romanesque architecture, a style that defines much of the region’s historical beauty.
Step inside, and the atmosphere changes. The interior is simple yet elegant, with arched ceilings and sturdy stone columns creating a sense of calm and grandeur. It’s a place that invites quiet reflection, whether you’re admiring the details of its design or simply taking in the serene surroundings. The cathedral is free to visit, but it’s a good idea to check the opening hours in advance, especially during the quieter months of the year.
#3 The Old Harbor
The old harbor is the soul of Giovinazzo and one of its most picturesque spots. In the Middle Ages, this harbor played a vital role in trade, bustling with activity as ships arrived loaded with olive oil, wine, and grain. Today, it still serves local fishermen, offering a glimpse into the town’s maritime traditions. Small, colorful fishing boats bob gently in the water, creating a postcard-worthy scene against the backdrop of historic buildings and stone walls.
The harbor is also the starting point of a scenic promenade along the coast. It’s a perfect spot to sit by the water, watch the fishermen at work, and soak in the peaceful rhythm of life in this charming seaside town.
#4 Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II is the largest and liveliest square in Giovinazzo. Named after Italy’s first king, this elegant square is the beating heart of the town. Shaped like a trapezoid, it’s surrounded by stately palaces built by noble families in the 18th and 19th centuries. At its center stands the Triton Fountain, a striking sculpture featuring mythological sea creatures that immediately draws the eye.
The square buzzes with activity throughout the day. In the morning, locals gather for a coffee or a chat, while visitors admire the architecture and soak up the atmosphere. We enjoyed an Italian espresso and two cannoli for just €3.50 at one of the terrace cafés—sitting among the locals and watching the world go by was a highlight of our visit.
As evening falls, the square transforms into a lively meeting place, filled with laughter and conversation. It’s the perfect spot to experience the rhythm of daily life in Giovinazzo, while you’re sipping an aperitivo at a café.
#5 Ancient City Walls and Torrione Aragonese
Giovinazzo’s ancient city walls stand as proud reminders of its medieval past. Built and strengthened between the Middle Ages and the 15th century, these fortifications once encircled the entire old town, protecting it from pirate raids and other threats. While parts of the walls have disappeared over time, several sections remain intact, offering glimpses into the town’s storied history.
One of the most impressive features is the Torrione Aragonese, a sturdy round tower built during the reign of the Aragonese in the 15th century. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, it served as a watchtower, guarding the coast and signaling the approach of ships. Today, it’s a fascinating landmark that transports visitors back to a time when Giovinazzo’s survival depended on its defenses.
Walking along the remaining stretches of the walls, you can almost imagine the lives of the townspeople who once relied on these massive structures for protection. It’s an experience that blends history with breathtaking sea views, making it a must-see during your visit.
#6 Lungomare di Giovinazzo
The Lungomare di Giovinazzo, the town’s beautiful seaside promenade, is one of the most scenic spots for a leisurely stroll. Stretching along the Adriatic coast, it offers sweeping views of the turquoise waters and rugged cliffs that define this part of Puglia’s coastline.
One particularly enchanting section of the Lungomare runs just outside the old city walls, hugging the shore. Behind the cathedral, a small bridge leads to the start of the pathway—look out for the signs to guide you to its start. From there, the walk takes you along the imposing walls and eventually loops back toward the old town’s narrow streets.
It’s an ideal place to enjoy the sea breeze and snap a few photos. Visit in the early morning, when the light shimmers on the water, or in the evening, as the sun sets behind the horizon.
