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Nardò was one of our go-to spots for a nice dinner out during our month in Puglia. Despite being a bit off the beaten path, and certainly quieter and smaller than some of the other towns on this list, Nardò has a pretty impressive selection of restaurants and cafes to offer you.
If you’re a fan of stunning Baroque buildings, people watching, and authenticity, you’ll fall in love with the charm of this little town. Nardò is a perfect encapsulation of the charm of Puglia overall in that there’s no “reason” you should go there aside from just… being there.
It’s a lovely town, it’s beautiful, the people are nice, and there’s good food. Why wouldn’t you make a point to check it out?
Keep scrolling to read about my ideal itinerary for one perfect day in Nardò.

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The Best Things to Do in Nardò, Italy
A Half-Day Itinerary Guide
REAL TALK: Puglia, like literally so many parts of Italy, can come under strain from overtourism. I beg you, BEG YOU, to not be an asshole when you’re traveling around Italy (or anywhere). I mostly like to assume that if you’re here on my blog, I can trust that you want to help preserve, rather than spoil, the integrity of wherever you’re traveling… but still. I would feel irresponsible if I didn’t still give a little reminder that if you plan to make the locals lives hell, you should stay home!
The thing with Puglia is that it’s kind of hard to do a proper “day trip” anywhere because everything is going to close in the middle of the day, so you just have to account for that. That’s why I decided to do two half-day itineraries, depending on if you want to arrive in the morning or evening.
Arrive in the Morning
Start Your Morning in Nardò with Markets or Museums
If you’re lucky enough to be in Puglia when Nardò is having its monthly Antique Market, I highly recommend making the trip to Nardò for it. It takes place along Via XX Settembre on the first Sunday of each month. Like most (if not all) markets in Puglia, it starts in the morning, and closes up shop around 1 or 2 in the afternoon. We really enjoyed exploring the market, and found a lot of gems here, like a film camera, some artwork, and records.
If you won’t be able to make it to Nardò for the antique market, never fear! There are surprisingly a decent number of small museums in Nardò, so if you’re someone who likes a local museum, pay attention here!
- Museum of Memory and Hospitality: This museum commemorates Nardò’s role in sheltering Jewish refugees after World War II.
- Museum of the Sea: Dedicated to the region’s maritime heritage, this museum showcases the historical and cultural significance of the sea to Nardò’s coastal communities.
- Children’s Archaeological Museum: A family-friendly museum that introduces children to archaeology through hands-on exhibits and interactive displays exploring Nardò’s ancient past.
- Diocesan Museum: Located within the historic center, the Diocesan Museum houses religious artifacts, artworks, and sacred objects that trace the rich history of Nardò’s ecclesiastical heritage.
- Nardò Museum of Prehistory: This museum offers a fascinating look into the prehistoric history of Nardò, featuring artifacts and exhibits from local archaeological excavations.
- Museum of Rural Civilisation and Popular Traditions: Celebrating Nardò’s agricultural roots, this museum displays tools, crafts, and artifacts that highlight the rural life and customs of past generations.
Get Lost in Nardò’s Baroque Centro Storico
Before you head to lunch, you should wander the centro storico to work up an appetite. Nardò’s historic center, in particular, is a great example of Baroque architecture, with historic churches, and charming squares. Many would say to start at Piazza Salandra, the heart of the old town but I think you should end here for lunch actually.
You can also visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Church of San Domenico to admire stunning frescoes and intricate stonework, and wander the small alleyways and see the little shops and vendors all through the town. Be sure to say hello to the cat colony, and if you’re lucky give them some pets.
Indulge in Lunch and People-Watch at Piazza Salandra
Grab lunch at Caffè Parisi in the Piazza Salandra. This is the best spot to people-watch, and it’s also a stunning square in its own right. More to the point, Caffè Parisi is simply a vibe.
We originally sat down after the antique market, hot, sweaty, and in desperate need of water and caffeine. After ordering our obligatory caffè leccesi, we actually pulled our phones out to search for where we might want to have lunch.
It was at this point that we noticed a few other parties arriving, seemingly meeting up for a lunch they planned to have at the cafe. That was enough for us! When the waitress returned with our coffees, we let her know we’d also like to order lunch… and voilà.
Within seconds, another waiter arrived and quite literally snapped a white table cloth in the air, flung it over our table, and laid it with silverware.
We feasted on melon and prosciutto, pucce (Puglian sandwiches), and a few huge plates of pasta – and frankly it ended up being the highlight of our day!
Soak Up the Sun: Head to a Nearby Beach
At this point in the day, Nardò is gonna start closing up shop, which means it’s time for you to either head home for a nap, or head to the beach.
There are several excellent beaches nearby, including Porto Selvaggio and Lido Conchiglie. For our favorite beach in Salento, though, you’ll want to head to Lido Sabbioso at Torre San Giovanni beach. Read more about all of the best beaches in Puglia here.

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Arrive in the Evening
Wind Down with an Evening Wine Tasting
Nardò is home to a lovely winery called Schola Sarmenti, whose amazing wine we didn’t get to try onsite but did get to taste at our favorite local restaurant in Matino, where we stayed for the summer.
They host 2-hour wine tastings both in the early afternoon and early evening throughout most of the year, so this is a wonderful, relaxing, local way to kick off the perfect evening in Nardò!
Catch a Festival or Market
If you’re in Nardò in July, you can aim to time your dinner reservation with being able to catch some shows at the Circonauta, Nardò’s annual circus festival! The whole town transforms into a playground for different circus acts, and it’s a super unique and local experience.
We happened upon the town setting up for the festival on our first visit, completely by accident, so we made sure to grab a program and come back for a few shows later in our trip! We came to discover the Circonauta is a fixture of Nardò’s summer, so don’t miss it if you’ll be around.
Nardò also plays home to the annual Salento Wine Week during the final week of June, which features tastings, speakers, pairing demonstrations, and more. This is one we just missed but will definitely make an effort to attend next year!
Finally, if you don’t happen to come during a bigger festival you may very well still luck out and catch an evening market taking place on the main thoroughfares of the centro storico. Ultimately, no matter what’s happening, the vibes should be on point!

Unwind with an Aperitivo and Stroll Through Town
If you want to do the whole thing in reverse, I recommend arriving in Nardò around 5pm or 6pm to be able to walk around the town and still have time for an aperitivo before dinner.
See the section above (about the morning in Nardò) for my top tips for what to see in the the centro storico, but if you come in the evening you can really just let the vibe take you where it will! In the evening, Puglian towns come alive and it’s really a sight to see.
Our go-to spot for an aperitivo – right next door to the lovely Caffè Parisi – is Circolo L’azzardo. Once again, this place is perfect for people-watching, but also makes a mean aperol spritz and even has a few snacks available by request.

Insider Tip
There was no menu at Circolo L’azzardo but don’t be afraid to ask if they have anything available to eat!
Grab Dinner at One of Nardò’s Excellent Restaurants
Dining in Nardò is actually one of the town’s main draws – and it’s easy to see why! After your aperitivo, discover the vibrant restaurant scene here at any number of top-rated spots. From rustic trattorias to chic, modern spots, here are a few of my top picks:
- Cardinal Food & Spirits – A chic spot in Nardò for inventive cocktails and refined dishes, Cardinal Food & Spirits combines modern culinary flair with an intimate ambiance perfect for a memorable evening.
- Antica Macelleria Fai – Known for its fresh, local meats and rustic charm, this former butcher shop turned restaurant offers a true taste of Nardò’s traditional cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting.
- Trattoria San Giuseppe Cenobio – This warm trattoria delivers authentic Pugliese flavors with hearty, homemade dishes and a charming ambiance that feels like dining with family.
- Il Cortile – Tucked away in a beautiful courtyard, Il Cortile serves creative Italian fare with fresh local ingredients, making it ideal for a delightful outdoor dining experience.
- Tafuri Restaurant – Tafuri Restaurant at Palazzo Tafuri offers a refined blend of Pugliese and French-inspired cuisine, set in an elegant courtyard for an elevated dining experience.
- Il Girone dei Golosi – With its warm, rustic setting that feels like a true taste of home, Il Girone dei Golosi invites you to savor Puglia’s most beloved traditional dishes.
Where to Stay in Nardò
Nardò has become an epicenter of cool design, creative energy, and amazing food, making it a natural magnet for young, hip travelers looking to stay somewhere with style and soul.
Here are a few standout places to settle in and experience the town’s unique vibe – but don’t forget to check out my full guide to the best hotels in Nardò, too!

€ | Bright, Airy Rooms | Antique Furnishings
Set within the heart of Nardò’s historic center, Palazzo Personè is a charming B&B blending authentic old-world charm with modern comforts. Spacious rooms feature vintage decor, and the thoughtful renovation maintains its historic soul. Perfect for travelers who appreciate staying in a place that feels like a step back in time while being steps away from the town’s vibrant piazzas and cafes.
Photo: Booking.com

€€ | Elegant Artistic Retreat | Lush Garden with Rustic Chic Pool
Palazzo Muci is a beautifully restored boutique hotel in the heart of Nardò, offering an enchanting mix of history and contemporary elegance. Each room is exquisitely furnished with thoughtful details, while the serene garden and green tile pool provide a peaceful escape. With friendly staff and an artful ambiance throughout, from the reading room to the breakfast area, this palazzo promises an unforgettable stay filled with style and tranquility.
Photo: Booking.com

€€€ | Luxurious Palazzo Oasis | Rooftop Bar & Spa
Palazzo Tafuri is a breathtaking boutique hotel located in the heart of Nardò. This beautifully restored palace blends historic charm with modern elegance, offering spacious suites, high ceilings, and a serene spa. Guests rave about the rooftop bar, perfect for sunset drinks, and the exceptional dining experience, featuring local cuisine. With attentive staff and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious escape in southern Italy. Perfect for romantic getaways or indulgent stays.
Photo: Booking.com
FAQs about Nardò, Italy
Is Nardò, Italy worth visiting?
Nardò is absolutely worth visiting for its unique, authentic charm that stands out among Puglia’s more popular destinations.
It’s a bit more off the beaten path, it’s affordable and it’s less touristy, providing great value for accommodations and food. Plus, for such a small town, it has a shocking number of good restaurants and cafes, making it an ideal spot to return to.
As a base, Nardò is ideal for day trips to Lecce, Gallipoli, and the Ionian Coast. With its warm small-town feel, rich culture, and beautiful surroundings, Nardò is a gem waiting to be explored.


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Ready to explore Nardò, Puglia?
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