Castro (Puglia)
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Latest page update: 19 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The seaside town of Castro is situated on the Adriatic Coast, in the Province of Lecce. It has a population of around 2,500 residents and the main highlights are the Castello Aragonese, Punta Mucurune and the beach.
Nearby places of interest include Santa Cesarea Terme, Andrano, Porto Badisco and Tricase. |
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What People Ask About Castro
Where is Castro located?
What is Castro known for?
Can you swim in Castro?
What is the Grotta Zinzulusa?
How do you reach Castro?
Related links
Discover
Discover Castro
Castro, located in the Apulia region, is a small town perched on the Adriatic coast, offering stunning sea views and a rich history. Known for its limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming atmosphere, Castro is a perfect destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of southern Italy. The town’s quaint streets, historic buildings, and proximity to the sea make it a peaceful yet fascinating place to visit.
Castro is famous for its beaches, particularly Spiaggia di Castro Marina, where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the rocky coastline. The town is also home to the Castro Caves, ancient sea grottos that can be explored by boat, offering a unique natural experience.
For those interested in local history, the Castello Aragonese, a medieval castle overlooking the sea, offers insight into Castro’s past and provides panoramic views of the coastline. Visitors can also enjoy the local restaurants, which serve fresh seafood and traditional Apulian cuisine, as well as explore nearby natural reserves such as the Parco Naturale Regionale Costa Otranto for hiking and birdwatching.
Castro is famous for its beaches, particularly Spiaggia di Castro Marina, where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the rocky coastline. The town is also home to the Castro Caves, ancient sea grottos that can be explored by boat, offering a unique natural experience.
For those interested in local history, the Castello Aragonese, a medieval castle overlooking the sea, offers insight into Castro’s past and provides panoramic views of the coastline. Visitors can also enjoy the local restaurants, which serve fresh seafood and traditional Apulian cuisine, as well as explore nearby natural reserves such as the Parco Naturale Regionale Costa Otranto for hiking and birdwatching.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Castro
- Castro Marina: Castro Marina is the coastal area of the town, known for its crystal-clear waters and rocky shoreline. The marina offers scenic spots for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling, particularly around the small coves and inlets. It’s also a pleasant place for a seaside walk, with a few cafés and restaurants offering sea views and fresh seafood.
- Castello Aragonese: The Castello Aragonese stands on the upper part of Castro and dates back to the 12th century, with later modifications by the Aragonese in the 15th century. The castle offers panoramic views over the Adriatic and houses an archaeological museum with finds from the area, including items linked to the legend of Aeneas’s landing on the coast.
- Cattedrale di Castro: This modest but significant cathedral is located in the historic upper town. Built in the 10th century and later modified, it features a simple façade and a peaceful interior with traces of medieval frescoes. It stands on the site of a former Greek temple, underlining the town’s long and layered history.
- Grotta Zinzulusa: Just outside Castro, the Grotta Zinzulusa is one of the most famous sea caves along the Salento coast. Guided tours lead visitors through its dramatic chambers, filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. The cave is named after formations resembling hanging rags, or “zinzuli” in local dialect, and provides a fascinating mix of geology and legend.
- Boat Excursions Along the Coast: From Castro’s harbour, visitors can take boat trips to explore the dramatic coastline, including other caves such as Grotta Romanelli and Grotta Palombara. These excursions offer opportunities for swimming in hidden coves and learning more about the natural features and stories of this stretch of Puglia’s coastline.
Castro Tours and Activities
Comune di Castro
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Province: Lecce
Region: Puglia Population: 2,352 (in 2024 - source) Size: 4 km² Highlights: Castello Aragonese, Punta Mucurune, beach Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025 Close by: Santa Cesarea Terme, Andrano, Porto Badisco, Tricase |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Castro
- Hotel La Roccia (Located by the sea, 1 km from Castro centre)
Located right by the Adriatic Sea, Hotel La Roccia offers stunning views and a large terrace equipped with sun loungers and parasols. The rooms are modern, with air conditioning and minibars, ensuring a comfortable stay. The hotel is highly praised for its cleanliness and the helpfulness of its staff. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range) - Hotel Ristorante Panoramico (300 m from Castro centre, walking distance to the sea)
This hotel is a short walk from the sea and features a panoramic terrace with an outdoor saltwater swimming pool. The rooms are spacious and well-maintained, and the on-site restaurant provides a scenic dining experience. Guests have highlighted the cleanliness and the excellent service from the staff. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range) - Hotel Piccolo Mondo (2 km from Castro centre, overlooking the Mediterranean)
Set on a cliff with views of the Mediterranean Sea, Hotel Piccolo Mondo offers a variety of amenities, including a large pool and tennis courts. Guests can enjoy the private creek and the delightful breakfast options. The attentive staff is highly appreciated, and early check-in and check-out options are available. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end) - Hotel Orsa Maggiore (Located in Castro Marina, 3 km from Castro centre)
Hotel Orsa Maggiore is situated in Castro Marina, offering panoramic views of the coast and being surrounded by olive groves. The rooms are modern, and the hotel features a swimming pool and a restaurant. Guests appreciate the stunning views and the friendly staff. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range) - Hotel Euromare (500 m from Castro Marina Beach)
Just a short walk from Castro Marina Beach, Hotel Euromare offers comfortable rooms with minibars and air conditioning. The hotel features a garden, free private parking, and a shared lounge. Guests particularly enjoy the friendly staff and their assistance with bookings and local information. Price Guide: €€ (affordable)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Castro
- Tuna Lounge Restaurant: Situated near the marina, Tuna Lounge Restaurant offers a variety of seafood and Mediterranean dishes. The outdoor seating area provides views of the bay, enhancing the dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Underground Fish Restaurant: Located in the heart of Castro Marina, this restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, including tuna tartare and homemade orecchiette. The elegant setting and attentive service make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Isola del Sole Castro: Found near the seafront, Isola del Sole offers a variety of seafood and Mediterranean dishes, including fried shrimp and calamari. The self-service option and sea views make it a convenient spot for a casual meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Friggitoria Porto Vecchio: Situated near the port, this establishment specializes in fried seafood and traditional Italian snacks. The casual setting and quick service make it a great spot for a light meal by the water. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- 37 Nodi Fish E Food: Located in front of Castro’s bay, 37 Nodi offers a variety of seafood and Mediterranean dishes, including puccia with local ingredients. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff provide a pleasant dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Castro Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Castro
- Santa Cesarea Terme (approx. 5 km southeast of Castro): A picturesque town known for its thermal springs and beautiful coastal scenery, Santa Cesarea Terme offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The town is famous for its Thermal Baths and the Villa Sticchi, a beautiful early 20th-century villa. Visitors can also relax on the charming seafront promenade and explore nearby beaches.
- Andrano (approx. 10 km southwest of Castro): A small town with a rich history, Andrano is home to the Castello di Andrano, a 16th-century castle offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The town also has the Chiesa Madre, a beautiful church with a baroque interior, and is a great base for exploring the nearby countryside and coast.
- Porto Badisco (approx. 10 km southeast of Castro): A small, tranquil bay known for its crystal-clear waters, Porto Badisco is a hidden gem perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing by the sea. The bay is also close to the Grotta dei Cervi, an ancient cave with prehistoric paintings, making it a fascinating destination for history and nature lovers.
- Tricase (approx. 15 km southwest of Castro): A charming town with a historical centre full of narrow streets and traditional buildings, Tricase offers several key attractions, including the Chiesa Madre and the Piazza Pisanelli. The town is also known for its proximity to the beautiful beaches of Tricase Porto and the surrounding countryside, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
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 Castro
By Rail: Castro does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Maglie, approximately 20 km away. From Maglie, local buses or taxis are available to reach Castro, with the journey taking around 25 minutes.
By Road: Castro is approximately 45 km southeast of Lecce, with a driving time of around 50 minutes via the SS16 road. From Lecce, follow signs to Castro along the SS16.
Nearest International Airport:
By Road: Castro is approximately 45 km southeast of Lecce, with a driving time of around 50 minutes via the SS16 road. From Lecce, follow signs to Castro along the SS16.
Nearest International Airport:
- Brindisi Airport (Aeroporto del Salento): Located about 95 km northeast of Castro, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via the SS613 road. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a train to Lecce, then proceed as described above.
