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I did not have high hopes for Cisternino. We arrived here in the evening because of a dinner reservation and I was in a horrible mood.You know the vibe when you’re traveling and like…everything just goes wrong? I was annoyed and anxious and sad and worried we shouldn’t have made the trip and the list goes on. It was made worse by the fact that we showed up to our reservation to find out there had been a mistake, and we actually couldn’t sit to eat.
We ended up eating at what I unfortunately would describe as a disgusting hamburger restaurant, which we only wound up at because we were worried about being turned away from more places as the night went on.
Anyway, as I cried into my burger I thought I would for sure not be writing about Cisternino, but on the contrary, we ended up having a lovely evening, despite the agonies.
We discovered a very cool wine bar, caught some incredible sunset views, had gelato in a sea of locals watching the Euros, and more. Sometimes you just need the pure joy of life in a small Italian town to turn your night around!
Keep reading to hear all about this magical town that made me a true lover of the Puglian peninsula.
- Things to do in Cisternino
- 1. Wander Through Cisternino’s Old Town
- 2. Savor Local Flavors at a Braceria
- 3. Stop for an Aperitivo at Vineria del Borgo
- 4. Explore Nearby Gems & Quintessential Puglian Trulli
- 5. Shop Like a Local at Cisternino’s Markets
- 6. Take in Breathtaking Views of the Itria Valley
- 7. Join the Festivities at Cisternino’s Sagre
- Where to Eat in Cisternino
- Where to Stay in Cisternino
- When to Visit Cisternino
- Frequently Asked Questions:
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Things to do in Cisternino
Real Talk:
Puglia—like so many parts of Italy—is feeling the pressure of overtourism. And while I want to believe that if you’re here on my blog, you’re the kind of traveler who cares about leaving places better than you found them… I still have to say it:
Don’t be an asshole when you travel. Not in Puglia, not in Italy, not anywhere.
I’ve seen too many visitors treat locals like background characters or behave like the region exists solely for their vacation. So here’s your friendly-but-firm reminder:
If you’re going to make people’s lives harder, please just stay home.
1. Wander Through Cisternino’s Old Town
The heart of Cisternino is the charming Old Town. It’s here that you’ll find a labyrinth of whitewashed buildings, stone streets, tunneled walkways with low ceilings, and flower-adorned balconies.
Wandering through the narrow alleys is the best way to fall in love with Cisternino and discover its hidden courtyards, historic churches, and beautiful piazzas.
While there isn’t a ton to “see” here, you can make sure you see Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, where you’ll find the beating heart of the town’s social life!
Want Some Context for Your Visit? Take a Walking Tour!
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2. Savor Local Flavors at a Braceria
One of Cisternino’s most unique experiences is dining at a braceria, a butcher shop where you can choose your own cuts of meat to be grilled and served on the spot.
The tradition is rooted in the town’s rich agricultural past and is a great way to access a true slice of local life. This is also the ideal way to sample some local specialties like bombette (cheese-stuffed pork rolls) or grilled sausage, all paired with local wine.
If you’re a foodie, this is an essential stop. For the best experience, I recommend Rosticceria Antico Borgo di Menga Piero, Al Vecchio Forno, or Zio Pietro.
Insider Tip
Restaurant reservations are an absolute must in Puglia during the high season.
If you don’t speak Italian, never fear! Many restaurants are on Whatsapp, meaning you can send them a text and use Google Translate to communicate.
Read more about my advice for dining out in Puglia.
3. Stop for an Aperitivo at Vineria del Borgo
This one (very cool) wine bar was such a find that it gets its own place on the list!!
Located right on the pedestrianized Corso Umberto, you pretty much can’t miss it – there will almost certainly be a few groups of trendy 20-somethings hanging out in front.
For one, the wine recommendations here are perfect, but even better, the plate of focaccia and charcuterie we ordered ended up being more food (and 10x better) that we expected. Plus, the staff were incredibly friendly and even sent us away with a free tote bag!
4. Explore Nearby Gems & Quintessential Puglian Trulli
Cisternino is perfectly situated for exploring other charming towns in the Itria Valley, such as Locorotondo, Martina Franca, and Ostuni. Each town offers its own unique attractions—Locorotondo’s circular old town, Martina Franca’s baroque architecture, and Ostuni’s striking whitewashed buildings.
But it isn’t only the destinations in this part of Puglia that make it special. A short drive through the countryside reveals rolling hills dotted with trulli houses and olive groves, making the journey pretty great too.
Check out a few of my favorite experiences in the Cisternino countryside below, as well as my full guide to the best towns to visit in the Valle d’Itria.
5. Shop Like a Local at Cisternino’s Markets
For a truly local experience, visit one of Cisternino’s open-air markets, where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and handmade goods.
The most popular market day is Monday, when vendors line the streets with stalls selling everything from food to clothes and household items. It’s a great way to sample local products and get a feel for daily life in this small town. Markets in Cisternino are also a good spot to pick up souvenirs or enjoy a snack while people-watching.
If you happen to be able to visit on the third Sunday of the month, you can time your visit with the monthly antiques market! Catching these kinds of markets is always one of my favorite things to do while traveling.
6. Take in Breathtaking Views of the Itria Valley
One of the highlights of Cisternino is the stunning panoramic view of the Itria Valley that you can enjoy from several vantage points in town. The best spot is Belvedere di Piazza San Marconi, where the landscape unfolds into a patchwork of olive groves, vineyards, and the iconic trulli houses that dot the countryside.
It’s the perfect place to take a break, snap some photos, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of rural Puglia. The sunset views from here are especially beautiful.
7. Join the Festivities at Cisternino’s Sagre
Cisternino is known for hosting traditional sagre, or food festivals, celebrating local produce and cuisine. The town comes alive during these events with food stalls, live music, and street performances.
Popular sagre in Cisternino include the Sagra della Bombetta (late July or early August), where you can indulge in the town’s signature grilled pork, and the Sagra della Frittella (typically mid-August), dedicated to the local fried bread snack. If you’re visiting during festival season, attending a sagre is a fantastic way to experience Puglian culture firsthand.
Where to Eat in Cisternino
Cisternino has no shortage of delicious spots to grab a bite, whether you’re craving local specialties or just looking for a cozy place to unwind. From casual eats to something a bit more refined, there’s a little of everything here. Check out these spots for a taste of what the town has to offer!
- Vineria del Borgo – A cozy wine bar offering a fantastic selection of local wines paired with small plates in a laid-back, on-trend setting.
- DoppioZero – A modern pizzeria serving creative takes on traditional Puglian dishes alongside their delicious pizzas, all in a vibrant atmosphere.
- Rosticceria Antico Borgo di Menga Piero – A beloved spot for casual dining where you can enjoy Cisternino’s famous bombette and other local grilled meats.
- Osteria Piatti Chiari – A charming osteria known for its homemade pastas and traditional Puglian comfort food served in a welcoming, intimate space.
- Zio Pietro – A popular braceria specializing in classic Italian dishes and grilled meats, offering hearty, flavorful meals with a focus on local traditions.
- Al Vecchio Fornello – A butcher shop turned restaurant where you can pick your meat and have it grilled to perfection in the heart of Cisternino’s old town.
- Home Restaurant Giù Mangi – A unique home restaurant, where guests are invited into the chef’s own home to enjoy a family-style meal made with local, seasonal ingredients, providing a truly personal and authentic dining experience.
- Micro – A vegetarian restaurant offering fresh, plant-based dishes in a trendy, relaxed setting, perfect for those looking for creative and wholesome options in Cisternino.
Where to Stay in Cisternino
Whether you want to stay right in the heart of Cisternino or prefer a peaceful retreat in the nearby countryside, I’ve got you covered with two great options. One offers the convenience of staying in town, while the other immerses you in nature – but they’re both plenty high in charm factor! For more countryside escapes, check out my article Find the Perfect Masseria in Puglia.
€€ | 3-Bed/2-Bath House in Town Center | Impeccable Design
Casa u Bùrie is a beautifully designed holiday house in the heart of Cisternino, offering comfort and style with a spacious terrace, complete with a jacuzzi overlooking the rooftops. Perfectly located for exploring the Itria Valley, this modern apartment is ideal for a relaxing and memorable stay.
Photo: Booking.com
€€ | 4 Star | Restored 1800s Trulli | Fine-Dining Restaurant
Borgo Canonica is a stunning property offering a unique stay in beautifully restored trulli, surrounded by serene olive groves. Guests love the peaceful pool area and the elegant, well-maintained grounds. While some have noted inconsistent service, others praise the friendly staff and exceptional food, especially the breakfasts and dinners. Ideal for a relaxing getaway, Borgo Canonica combines rustic charm with stylish luxury, making it perfect for unwinding after exploring nearby Puglia hotspots like Ostuni and Alberobello.
Photo: Booking.com
When to Visit Cisternino
The best time to visit Cisternino is from May to October. Spring and early fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring the old town and enjoying the countryside. July and August are busier but bring lively festivals and warm evenings. For a quieter visit, September is ideal with warm days and fewer tourists. Avoid winter, as many places close, and the town becomes very quiet.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long to spend in Cisternino?
To fully enjoy Cisternino, plan to spend around half a day exploring its charming old town and indulging in the local food scene.
The compact size of the town makes it perfect for a relaxed half-day trip, but staying overnight or making it your base for the region will offer a chance to experience its slow pace and dine at a traditional braceria, where you can savor locally grilled meats.
Which is better, Locorotondo or Cisternino?
Both Locorotondo and Cisternino offer unique experiences, so which is better depends on your travel style. Locorotondo is famous for its circular old town and whitewashed houses, offering a more polished, picture-perfect look with panoramic views over the Itria Valley.
Cisternino, on the other hand, has a more rustic, authentic vibe with its narrow alleys and traditional bracerias where you can enjoy local cuisine. If you prefer a quieter, more local experience, Cisternino might be the better choice. But for those who love scenic beauty and architecture, Locorotondo could steal your heart.
What is Cisternino known for?
Cisternino is best known for its charming, whitewashed old town, with narrow alleyways, picturesque piazzas, and authentic Puglian atmosphere.
The town is particularly famous for its butcher shops that double as restaurants, called bracerie, where visitors can select fresh cuts of meat to be grilled on the spot.
Cisternino is also part of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy” network and offers stunning views over the Itria Valley, making it a favorite for travelers seeking a slower, more traditional Puglian experience.
How far is Cisternino from the beach?
Cisternino is about 20-25 kilometers (12-15 miles) from the Adriatic coast, making it an easy drive to the nearest beaches like Torre Canne or Savelletri.
You can reach the coast in roughly 30 minutes by car, offering a convenient option to combine a beach day with exploring Cisternino’s historic streets.
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Ready to explore Cisternino?
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