Trani is a lively seaport filled with beautiful limestone architecture. White buildings cascade down to the Adriatic Sea, where you’ll find a picturesque marina dotted with yachts and fishing boats. Stroll around the historic district, enjoy fresh seafood and bask in the Mediterranean sunshine.
Things to do in Trani
The historic centre is a maze of winding streets and sun-drenched piazzas lined with palm trees. Much of Trani is built from cream-coloured limestone, which has earned the city its “Pearl of Puglia” nickname. A walk around the historic Jewish quarter reveals the city’s rich cultural heritage. Scolanova Synagogue is one of the oldest in South Italy and features a beautiful barrel-vaulted ceiling.
Walk down to the marina to admire luxury yachts and watch brightly-painted fishing boats cruise into the harbour. The marina is dotted with waterfront bars where you can enjoy a glass of wine and a seafood platter.
Trani Cathedral enjoys a beautiful seafront setting and dates back to the 13th century. The white limestone façade looks striking against the azure water of the Adriatic. Descend into the crypt supported by Romanesque columns and climb the belltower for sweeping views over the city and the Adriatic Sea.
Local cafes and trattorias will tempt you with delicious Apulian food. Try local specialties like grilled octopus, “zuppa di cernia” grouper soup and “frutti di mari” pasta tossed with clams, mussels, clams and scallops. If you don’t eat seafood, try traditional dishes like cavatelli pasta shells topped with salted ricotta. For dessert, enjoy Apulian sweets like “torta colonne” cherry tart and “fruttone” pastries filled with quince jam.
Getting around Trani
Trani is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The train from Bari to Trani takes 30 minutes, and the train station is a 15-minute walk from the waterfront and historic centre. Bari International Airport is a 30-minute drive away.