3 days in Vieste
Vieste Travel Guide: Discovering a Hidden Gem on the Gargano Peninsula
We arrived to Vieste from Bari and stayed here for the next three days from our two week holiday. Vieste, a charming and less touristy town located on the Gargano Peninsula in Puglia, is the perfect spot for travelers seeking a peaceful coastal escape. Famous for its whitewashed buildings, crystal-clear waters, and delicious cuisine, Vieste offers an authentic Italian experience away from the crowds. With a maze of narrow streets, incredible coastal views, and some of the best seafood in the region, Vieste is a destination to savor slowly.
This was our third time visiting Vieste, there is something about this little place that draws us back to it. We stayed in such a lovely air b&b, about 100m from our favourite restaurant box 19. There was also a lovely little playground close to us, where we loved to take our little boy. In the evenings before dinner, there was a carusel in the park, which was a must little activity for the little one. Also, it was nice to see that all the same old restaurants are still up and running all these years later, which stands as a testament for their quality.
Exploring Vieste: The Whitewashed Town
Vieste’s historic center, perched on a rocky promontory jutting into the Adriatic Sea, is characterized by narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and winding staircases. Strolling through the old town feels like stepping back in time, with charming streets that invite you to explore.
Begin at the Vieste Cathedral, a 12th-century Romanesque church located in the heart of the old town. Its beautiful bell tower and historic interior make it a worthwhile visit.
Castello Svevo, an imposing medieval castle built by Frederick II, dominates the landscape and offers panoramic views over the coast. The castle is still used for military purposes, but parts of it are accessible to visitors.
Pizzomunno Beach, named after the large limestone monolith that rises from the sand, is a lovely spot to relax. The golden sandy beach and turquoise waters provide an ideal setting for sunbathing and swimming.
As you wander through the historic district, you'll also encounter quaint shops selling local products like olive oil, handmade ceramics, and traditional Puglian pastries.
Vieste & the delicious food
Culinary Delights
Vieste is a food lover’s paradise, with its culinary scene focusing on fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and traditional Puglian flavors. Restaurant box 19 is our favourite seafood restaurant of Vieste, either order the lobster pasta or the fish soup and you will not be dissapointed. I mean, just look at the size of the fish soup in the image above? We also ate at La Ripa, that had a delicious tasting menu (slightly more fine dining) and Al Dragone, another great restaurants that has been around all the years we have visited Vieste.
Seafront and Beaches
Vieste’s location on the Gargano Peninsula means it's surrounded by some of the most stunning coastline in Italy. The town offers a range of beautiful beaches to suit all preferences:
Spiaggia del Castello: Located close to the town center, this sandy beach stretches for several kilometers and is popular for its gentle waves and family-friendly atmosphere. The iconic Pizzomunno rock is located here, adding to the beach's picturesque appeal.
Baia delle Zagare: About 30 minutes from Vieste by car, this beach is famous for its sea stacks—tall, rocky formations that rise from the clear water. The beach is framed by high cliffs, making it one of the most scenic spots on the peninsula.
Cala San Felice: A more secluded option, Cala San Felice is a small cove with turquoise waters surrounded by lush greenery. It's a great place for a quiet swim or snorkeling.
Things to See and Do Around Vieste
While Vieste itself has plenty to offer, there are also excellent day trips and excursions to enjoy in the surrounding area:
Visit the Foresta Umbra: Located in the heart of the Gargano National Park, this lush forest is a great escape for nature lovers. Enjoy a hike or a bike ride through the trails, where you can spot wildlife like deer and wild boars.
Boat Tour to Sea Caves: The coast around Vieste is dotted with stunning sea caves and grottoes, which can be explored by boat. Local boat tours will take you into these magical spots, where you can see impressive rock formations and swim in crystal-clear waters.
Excursion to Monte Sant’Angelo: A short drive from Vieste, this historic hilltop town is famous for the Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major pilgrimage destination. The town's medieval atmosphere and spectacular views are worth the visit.
