WHAT TO DO
EXPLORE PESCHICI
The most alluring part of Peschici is the centro storico (historic centre) which is located within medieval walls. Access to the historic centre is through an arch with a tower that the inhabitants of Peschici call Porta del Ponte, in memory of the drawbridge that closed the village. Corso Garibaldi, which leads to the Porta del Ponte is the lively heart of the town, where locals go for their evening passeggiata.
Through the arch, a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets unfold around the Church of Sant’Elia, an architectural gem dating back to the 13th century and restored in the 18th century – where the bride and groom will be exchanging their vows!
Within the narrow streets, awaiting to be discovered, are whitewashed houses, craft shops, breathtaking sea views and numerous shops with local products.
Don’t forget to visit the town medieval castle (and museum), as well as buy a love lock and place it on the balcony fence of the castle!
EAT & DRINK
Peschici and the Gargano region in general are mostly known for fresh seafood. In Peschici, raw seafood, crudo, is one of their specialties. Don’t shy away from crudo platters which include oysters, squid, fish, shrimp, langoustines and clams! Other items to try are the Paposcia and Caciocavallo cheese.
Restaurants
Porta di Basso – This restaurant in the historic centre of Peschici recently earned a Michelin star. The menu is mostly seafood, Apulian, and contemporary, which can be enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the sea or inside the dining space.
Trabucco di Monte Pucci – This seafood restaurant is partially on a Trabucco (ancient fishing machine) which provides a scenic and romantic view of the sea.
Osteria Pane & Vino – In the outskirts of Peschici, this restaurant has an outdoor section under centuries old olive trees, offering local cuisine based on grilled meat and vegetables.
Al Trabucco Da Mimì – A winner of Alessandro Borghese’s hit show 4 Ristoranti, it’s a great place for a seafood lunch, an aperitif, a romantic dinner or an after-dinner cocktail.
For those with a sweet tooth
Gelateria Pina Gel – We recommend the lemon gelato!
EXPLORE THE REGION
THE GARGANO
The Gargano is a mountainous area in the northernmost part of Puglia. Due to its geographical location, bathed on 3 sides by the Adriatic Sea, it is also called “the spur of Italy”. In addition to wooded areas with lush pine forests and mountainous landscapes, you will find a spectacular coast full of white limestone cliffs, sea caves, long sandy beaches and villages overlooking the sea. The variety of the landscape is one of the salient features of this territory.
In the area there are also 2 UNESCO sites: Monte Sant’Angelo and the Umbra Forest.
Boat Tours to visit the Gargano coast between Peschici and Baia di Campi depart from Peschici Marina every day at 9 AM weather permitting. Tickets can be bought at Hotel D’Amato reception or Tour delle Grotte store in historic centre (Corso Garibaldi, 57).
PADRE PIO SANTCTUARY
One of Italy’s sacred Catholic pilgrimage sites, the Sanctuary of Saint Padre Pio sits in San Giovanni Rotondo.
St. Padre Pio was a priest and friar in the Capuchin order, known for exhibiting the stigmata, performing miracles and bilocating. He was beatified (1999) and canonized by St. John Paul II in 2002.
The sanctuary, decorated with splendid mosaics and a beautiful organ, holds Padre Pio’s preserved body on display.
