Altamura
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Latest page update: 20 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Altamura
Altamura has a modest selection of established hotels, serving both visitors to the historic centre and those exploring the wider Alta Murgia area. Properties are generally well reviewed for comfort, convenience and their location close to the town’s main attractions.
Hotel San Nicola is a central choice set in a historic building, offering comfortable rooms, dining facilities and consistently positive guest feedback (€€). Ibis Styles Gravina in Puglia is a modern option just outside Altamura, featuring spacious rooms, a pool and reliable reviews for both business and leisure travellers (€€). Another option is Hotel Svevia, located near the centre of town, with well-appointed rooms, on-site dining and good ratings for service and value (€€).
Hotel San Nicola is a central choice set in a historic building, offering comfortable rooms, dining facilities and consistently positive guest feedback (€€). Ibis Styles Gravina in Puglia is a modern option just outside Altamura, featuring spacious rooms, a pool and reliable reviews for both business and leisure travellers (€€). Another option is Hotel Svevia, located near the centre of town, with well-appointed rooms, on-site dining and good ratings for service and value (€€).
Where is
Where is Altamura?
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The city of Altamura is famous throughout Italy for the quality of its bread; upon entry you'll be greeted with a sign saying "Benvenuti nella Città del Pane" (Welcome to the City of Bread).
Apart from its culinary expertise, this is a beautiful, small city with a population of around 70,000. At its heart is an elegant Romanesque Cathedral dating back to the 13th century which is worth a visit alone. |
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Around the cathedral you'll find lots of bars, restaurants and no shortage of shops, Altamura translates as "High Wall" in English and the same city wall still stands today. Archways in the walls lead to the medieval centre where the city's history is celebrated with various flags and banners.
Lying just at its edge, Altamura is well-positioned for visits to the Alta Murgia National Park while the closest town to the west is Gravina in Puglia which is highly recommended. From here you can also skip south across the regional border to Basilicata where you'll find the UNESCO World Heritage site of Matera just 20 kilometres away.
Lying just at its edge, Altamura is well-positioned for visits to the Alta Murgia National Park while the closest town to the west is Gravina in Puglia which is highly recommended. From here you can also skip south across the regional border to Basilicata where you'll find the UNESCO World Heritage site of Matera just 20 kilometres away.
Comune di Altamura
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Province: Metropolitan City of Bari
Region: Puglia Population: 70,108 (in 2024 - source) Highlights: bread, cathedral Size: 431 km² |
Elevation: 450 metres
Close by: Gravina in Puglia, Alta Murgia National Park, Bari Nearest train station: Gravina in Puglia (14 km) Fly to: Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (47 km) Recommended accommodation: Fuori le Mura |
What People Ask About Altamura, Puglia
Is Altamura worth visiting?
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Discover
Discover Altamura
Altamura is a historic town located in the southern Italian region of Puglia, within the Province of Bari. It sits on the Murgia Plateau, surrounded by rugged landscapes and rolling hills. Known for its medieval charm, Altamura is particularly famous for its well-preserved historical centre, where ancient stone buildings and narrow, cobbled streets create a picturesque atmosphere. The town is also renowned for its traditional Altamura bread, made from durum wheat and baked in wood-fired ovens, a symbol of its rich culinary heritage.
Altamura offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from exploring the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which dates back to the 13th century, to discovering the prehistoric remains in the nearby caves of the Murgia. The town is an ideal base for hiking and cycling, with its scenic countryside offering numerous trails that wind through the natural beauty of the region. Local markets provide a chance to sample fresh, regional produce, while the town’s lively squares and cafes offer a taste of local life. Visitors can also take a tour of the archaeological museum to learn more about the town's fascinating past.
Altamura is close to several noteworthy destinations. Just a short drive to the south, the ancient city of Matera is famed for its stone-carved dwellings and UNESCO World Heritage status. To the north, the charming town of Gravina in Puglia offers its own rich history, with a beautiful cathedral and picturesque ravines. A little further west, the famous Castel del Monte stands as one of Puglia's most iconic landmarks, an impressive 13th-century fortress with a unique octagonal design. Altamura’s central location makes it a perfect starting point to explore the diverse landscapes and historic sites of the region.
Altamura offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from exploring the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which dates back to the 13th century, to discovering the prehistoric remains in the nearby caves of the Murgia. The town is an ideal base for hiking and cycling, with its scenic countryside offering numerous trails that wind through the natural beauty of the region. Local markets provide a chance to sample fresh, regional produce, while the town’s lively squares and cafes offer a taste of local life. Visitors can also take a tour of the archaeological museum to learn more about the town's fascinating past.
Altamura is close to several noteworthy destinations. Just a short drive to the south, the ancient city of Matera is famed for its stone-carved dwellings and UNESCO World Heritage status. To the north, the charming town of Gravina in Puglia offers its own rich history, with a beautiful cathedral and picturesque ravines. A little further west, the famous Castel del Monte stands as one of Puglia's most iconic landmarks, an impressive 13th-century fortress with a unique octagonal design. Altamura’s central location makes it a perfect starting point to explore the diverse landscapes and historic sites of the region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
Altamura's historic center is a major attraction for tourists, with its well-preserved medieval charm. The Altamura Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is a stunning example of Apulian Romanesque architecture.
Its construction began in the 13th century and was completed in the 14th century. The cathedral's interior boasts beautiful frescoes and a magnificent rose window.
Another significant site to visit is the Palazzo Vescovile (Bishop's Palace), which features a lovely courtyard and houses the Diocesan Museum. The museum displays a collection of religious artifacts, paintings, and sculptures.
Its construction began in the 13th century and was completed in the 14th century. The cathedral's interior boasts beautiful frescoes and a magnificent rose window.
Another significant site to visit is the Palazzo Vescovile (Bishop's Palace), which features a lovely courtyard and houses the Diocesan Museum. The museum displays a collection of religious artifacts, paintings, and sculptures.
The City of Bread
Altamura is renowned for its traditional bread, known as "Pane di Altamura." It is a protected designation of origin (PDO) product and has been baked in the town for centuries. Visitors can enjoy the delicious bread and learn about its ancient baking techniques.
Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Alta Murgia National Park, which surrounds Altamura. The park offers scenic landscapes, ancient trails, and the opportunity to observe the local wildlife.
For those interested in archaeology, the Altamura Man (Homo Neanderthalensis) is a must-see attraction. This well-preserved Neanderthal skeleton was discovered in a nearby karst cave and provides valuable insights into human history.
Altamura's picturesque streets are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants where visitors can savor the local cuisine, including traditional Apulian dishes like orecchiette pasta and burrata cheese.
Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Alta Murgia National Park, which surrounds Altamura. The park offers scenic landscapes, ancient trails, and the opportunity to observe the local wildlife.
For those interested in archaeology, the Altamura Man (Homo Neanderthalensis) is a must-see attraction. This well-preserved Neanderthal skeleton was discovered in a nearby karst cave and provides valuable insights into human history.
Altamura's picturesque streets are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants where visitors can savor the local cuisine, including traditional Apulian dishes like orecchiette pasta and burrata cheese.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Altamura
- Centro Storico di Altamura lies enclosed within medieval walls, its streets winding among stone palaces, arches, and narrow alleys paved with pale limestone. The town radiates southern elegance, with ornate façades and glimpses of bustling piazzas. Small courtyards reveal artisan workshops and hidden chapels. Walking here offers a journey into a place where history and daily life intertwine.
- Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta stands as Altamura’s crowning jewel, built by Emperor Frederick II in the 13th century. Its Romanesque façade is adorned with delicate carvings and twin bell towers. Inside are elaborate altars and fine sculptures. The cathedral remains a powerful symbol of the town’s medieval heritage.
- Museo Archeologico Statale showcases Altamura’s ancient past, with artefacts from prehistory through the Roman era. Highlights include tools, pottery, and finds linked to the famous Altamura Man. Exhibits tell stories of ancient civilisations. The museum reflects the region’s deep archaeological significance.
- Piazza Duomo serves as Altamura’s lively heart, surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and local bakeries famed for traditional bread. The square hosts markets, concerts, and cultural festivals. Cobblestones and the cathedral’s façade create an elegant backdrop. It’s the perfect place to savour daily life in Altamura.
- Guided historical and culinary tours in Altamura lead visitors through medieval streets, artisan shops, and bakeries producing the town’s renowned DOP bread. Local guides share stories of emperors, craftsmen, and culinary traditions. Tours often include tastings of focaccia, cheeses, and Puglian wines. Exploring reveals Altamura’s blend of history, artistry, and authentic regional flavour.
Tours and Activities
Altamura Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Altamura Photo Gallery
Puglia Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Puglia
1. Lecce
2. Alberobello
3. Otranto
4. Gallipoli
5. Polignano a Mare
6. Monopoli
7. Vieste
8. Trani
9. Giovinazzo
10. Castel del Monte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Puglia
1. Lecce
2. Alberobello
3. Otranto
4. Gallipoli
5. Polignano a Mare
6. Monopoli
7. Vieste
8. Trani
9. Giovinazzo
10. Castel del Monte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Puglia
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Altamura
By Rail: Altamura has its own train station on the Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL) line, which links the town to Bari and Matera. Journey times to Bari Centrale are typically around 1 hour and 30 minutes, with connections available throughout the day. The station is located about 1 kilometre from the centre and can be reached on foot or by local transport.
By Road: Altamura is approximately 45 kilometres southwest of Bari and is well connected by the SS96 road. The town is also about 20 kilometres from Matera, offering convenient access between the two destinations. Several public car parks are situated within walking distance of the historic centre.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Altamura is approximately 45 kilometres southwest of Bari and is well connected by the SS96 road. The town is also about 20 kilometres from Matera, offering convenient access between the two destinations. Several public car parks are situated within walking distance of the historic centre.
Nearest International Airports:
- Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport: Situated around 50 kilometres to the northeast, this is the closest airport to Altamura. The drive takes approximately 50 minutes via the SS96, with train connections available from Bari Centrale via the FAL line.
- Brindisi – Salento Airport: Located roughly 140 kilometres southeast of Altamura, this airport can be reached in about 2 hours by car. The route mainly follows the SS7 and SS96 roads.
Private Transfers
Altamura Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and straightforward way to travel to or from Altamura, offering flexibility and direct service to your chosen destination. You’ll be collected by a local, professional driver and driven in comfort without the need to manage luggage across different connections or drive yourself.
Both Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport and Brindisi Airport are easily reached by road, with private transfers available for both arrivals and departures. It’s also possible to arrange transfers to nearby destinations such as Matera and Gravina in Puglia, or to other towns and cities across Puglia for longer journeys.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Both Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport and Brindisi Airport are easily reached by road, with private transfers available for both arrivals and departures. It’s also possible to arrange transfers to nearby destinations such as Matera and Gravina in Puglia, or to other towns and cities across Puglia for longer journeys.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
