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Beautiful Puglia

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Altamura: an ancient beauty of Puglia

Nestled in the heart of Puglia, Altamura is a hidden beauty that invites travelers to explore its rich history, captivating sights, and mouthwatering cuisine. With its ancient charm and distinctive character, this enchanting city offers a unique experience for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

In this blog post, we will delve into Altamura’s captivating history, highlight its best things to do and see, explore what it is famous for, provide tips on how to get there, and indulge in the delightful local cuisine.

History of Altamura

Altamura boasts a history that spans thousands of years, making it an intriguing destination for history enthusiasts. The city was originally founded by the ancient Italic tribes and later flourished under Roman rule. However, its true claim to fame lies in its well-preserved medieval architecture and the remarkable Altamura Man, a prehistoric skeleton discovered in a nearby cave.

During the Middle Ages, Altamura thrived as an important center for commerce and art, leaving behind a legacy of stunning architecture. The magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta , built in the 13th century, stands as a testament to the city’s rich artistic heritage. Its impressive rose window and intricately carved reliefs make it a must-visit attraction.

Best Things to Do and See

Explore the altamura cathedral.

Also known as the Cattedrale di Altamura or the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is a magnificent Romanesque-style cathedral located in the historic center. The cathedral’s construction dates back to the 13th century, and it showcases the distinctive architectural style of Apulian Romanesque. The façade of the cathedral is adorned with ornate decorations and sculptures, reflecting the skilled craftsmanship of the era. The main entrance features a Romanesque portal with intricately carved reliefs.

The cathedral’s bell tower stands tall next to the main structure. It is an impressive example of medieval architecture and provides a panoramic view of Altamura from the top. Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. The interior of the Altamura Cathedral is equally captivating. The cathedral features a Latin cross-shaped floor plan with a nave and two side aisles. The vaulted ceiling is supported by robust columns, and the walls are adorned with frescoes depicting religious scenes.

Visit the Altamura National Archaeological Museum

Here you will learn about the Altamura Man : an ancient human skeleton dating back over 130,000 years. In 1993, during construction work in a cave known as “Lamalunga” near Altamura, a remarkable discovery was made. A partial skeleton was found embedded in the cave’s calcareous concretions. The remains were determined to be a Neanderthal individual who lived approximately 130,000 years ago. This discovery, known as the Altamura Man or the “Homme of Altamura,” is one of the most complete and best-preserved Neanderthal skeletons ever found.

The Altamura Man is significant because it provides valuable insights into the life and characteristics of Neanderthals, an extinct species closely related to modern humans. The remarkably preserved skeleton allows scientists to study various aspects, such as physical attributes, lifestyle, and cultural practices of Neanderthals.

Wander through the Historic Center

The historical center features a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys lined with medieval buildings. The architecture reflects the city’s long history, with influences from different periods, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. The well-preserved facades, arches, and courtyards provide a unique atmosphere.

The heart of Altamura’s historical center is Piazza Duomo , the square where the Altamura Cathedral is located. This bustling square is surrounded by beautiful buildings and offers a lively ambiance. It’s a great place to sit at a café, people-watch, and soak in the surroundings. Altamura’s historical center is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks. Apart from the cathedral, you can find other churches, palaces, and civic buildings with architectural and artistic significance. Exploring these sites provides insights into the city’s past and the cultural traditions of the region.

Pane di Altamura (Bread of Altamura)

The bread of Altamura, known as “Pane di Altamura” is a culinary treasure that holds a special place in Italian gastronomy. Renowned for its exceptional quality, distinct flavor, and centuries-old tradition, it has been awarded the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status by the European Union, ensuring its authenticity and uniqueness.

The bread of Altamura is made using only four ingredients: durum wheat semolina, water, salt, and natural yeast. The use of durum wheat semolina, locally grown in the fertile plains surrounding the city, gives the bread its characteristic golden color and distinctive aroma. The dough is left to rise naturally for several hours, allowing the flavors to develop fully. Pane di Altamura has a distinctive shape, typically round with a flat top, and a dense, compact crumb. The crust is thick, rustic, and slightly charred, offering a delightful crunch when bitten into. Its texture is firm and chewy, making it an ideal bread for dipping in olive oil or enjoying with local cheeses and cured meats.

One of the secrets to the exceptional quality of Pane di Altamura lies in the traditional wood-burning ovens used for baking. These ovens, made of stone or brick, are heated with hardwood, infusing the bread with a unique smoky flavor and giving it its characteristic crust. One remarkable feature of the bread of Altamura is its long shelf life. Thanks to its low moisture content and the natural fermentation process, the bread can stay fresh for up to a week. This quality has historically made it an essential food for long journeys and a staple for the local farmers and shepherds.

The bread of Altamura holds significant cultural importance in the city’s traditions. The annual “Festa del Pane” (Bread Festival) celebrates the bread-making heritage of Altamura, featuring processions, music, dance, and, of course, plenty of opportunities to taste the renowned Pane di Altamura.

How to Get There

Altamura is easily accessible from various cities in Italy. The nearest major airport is Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport , which offers domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can reach Altamura by train or bus. Alternatively, if you are traveling by car, Altamura is conveniently located along the A14 highway, making it accessible from other parts of Italy.

What to see nearby

Near Altamura, there are several remarkable attractions and destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the main things to see and visit:

Matera: Just a short distance away, Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient cave dwellings, known as the Sassi. Explore the fascinating cave houses, churches, and winding streets that make Matera a unique and captivating destination.

Alta Murgia National Park: Located close to Altamura, this national park offers breathtaking landscapes of rolling hills, rocky plateaus, and ancient ruins. Enjoy hiking or biking trails, visit prehistoric sites, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park.

Gravina di Puglia: This charming town, situated along the deep ravine of Gravina, boasts an impressive historical center with ancient churches, medieval architecture, and panoramic views. Don’t miss the iconic Ponte della Gravina, a bridge that spans the ravine.

Castel del Monte: A short drive brings you to this iconic medieval castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Built by Emperor Frederick II, the castle’s unique octagonal shape and impressive architecture make it a must-visit attraction.

Grotte di Castellana: Explore the mesmerizing underground world of the Castellana Caves, located a short distance from Altamura. These vast limestone caves feature stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and awe-inspiring formations.

Trani: Situated on the Adriatic Sea, Trani is a picturesque coastal town with a beautiful harbor, an impressive Romanesque cathedral, and a charming historic center. Enjoy the seaside promenade, sample fresh seafood, and soak in the relaxed coastal atmosphere.

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Beaches in Bari: best beaches to visit

Bisceglie: what to do and see, visiting barletta, best things to do in bari.

• Countries/Regions
• Onda Travel Italia, Altamura

How to get to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura by Bus or Train?

See onda travel italia, altamura, on the map.

Directions to Onda Travel Italia (Altamura) with public transportation

The following transit lines have routes that pass near Onda Travel Italia

How to get to Onda Travel Italia by Bus?

Click on the Bus route to see step by step directions with maps, line arrival times and updated time schedules.

From Stazione di Ruvo di Puglia, Ruvo Di Puglia

From cattedrale di ruvo di puglia, ruvo di puglia, from municipio di gioia del colle, gioia del colle, from piazza san filippo neri, gioia del colle, from comune di cassano delle murge, cassano delle murge, from stazione di gioia del colle, gioia del colle, from ruvo di puglia, ruvo di puglia, from ospedale miulli, acquaviva delle fonti, from i tavoloni, gravina in puglia, from castello normanno-svevo di gioia del colle, gioia del colle, how to get to onda travel italia by train.

Click on the Train route to see step by step directions with maps, line arrival times and updated time schedules.

Bus stations near Onda Travel Italia in Altamura

• Altamura - Via Vittorio Veneto 55, 1 min walk, VIEW
• Altamura - Via Santa Teresa 25, 1 min walk, VIEW
• Altamura - Via V.Veneto (Capolinea S. Teresa), 1 min walk, VIEW
• Altamura Via Vittorio Veneto, 1 min walk, VIEW
• Altamura - Via V.Veneto 72 (Cap. Fronte S. Teresa), 2 min walk, VIEW
• Altamura - Viale Martiri 1799 5, 3 min walk, VIEW
• Altamura - Piazza Zanardelli 8, 9 min walk, VIEW
• Altamura - Piazza Zanardelli 21, 9 min walk, VIEW

Train stations near Onda Travel Italia in Altamura

• Altamura, 14 min walk, VIEW

Bus lines to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura

• 650.02, Irsina-Gravina-Altamura-Matera 15.05, VIEW
• 650R.12.3, Matera-Altamura 14.20, VIEW
• 650R.12.4, Matera-Altamura 14.20, VIEW
• 650R.12.5, Matera-Altamura 13:20 (Capolinea), VIEW
• 650R.12.6, Matera-Altamura 14.20, VIEW
• 650.01.01, Irsina-Gravina-Altamura-Matera 06.25, VIEW
• 650R.12.20, Matera-Altamura 13.20, VIEW
• 650R.12.21, Matera-Altamura 12.20, VIEW
• 650R.12.3.01, Matera-Altamura 13.20, VIEW
• 650S.12.3.01, Matera-Altamura 13.20 Sabato, VIEW
• 650R.12.3.02, Matera-Altamura 13.20 Lunedì, VIEW
• 650R.12.3.03, Matera-Altamura 13.20 Sabato, VIEW
• 650R.12.4.01, Matera-Altamura 13.20 Sabato, VIEW
• 650R.12.5.01, Matera-Altamura 13.20, VIEW
• 650R.12.5.03, Matera-Altamura 13.20 Sabato, VIEW
• 650R.12.6.02, Matera-Altamura 14.20, VIEW
• 650R.12.6.03, Matera-Altamura 13.30, VIEW
• 650R.12.20.01, Matera-Altamura 13.20 Sabato, VIEW
• 650R.12.21.01, Matera-Altamura 14.20, VIEW
• 650R.12.21.02, Matera-Altamura 13.20 Sabato, VIEW

What are the closest stations to Onda Travel Italia?

The closest stations to Onda Travel Italia are:

• Altamura - Via Vittorio Veneto 55 is 27 meters away, 1 min walk.
• Altamura - Via Santa Teresa 25 is 37 meters away, 1 min walk.
• Altamura - Via V.Veneto (Capolinea S. Teresa) is 59 meters away, 1 min walk.
• Altamura Via Vittorio Veneto is 68 meters away, 1 min walk.
• Altamura - Via V.Veneto 72 (Cap. Fronte S. Teresa) is 68 meters away, 2 min walk.
• Altamura - Viale Martiri 1799 5 is 199 meters away, 3 min walk.
• Altamura - Piazza Zanardelli 8 is 646 meters away, 9 min walk.
• Altamura - Piazza Zanardelli 21 is 646 meters away, 9 min walk.
• Altamura is 1088 meters away, 14 min walk.

Which Bus lines stop near Onda Travel Italia?

These Bus lines stop near Onda Travel Italia:  353.A03 , 353.R07 , 359.R02 , 364.R09

Which Train lines stop near Onda Travel Italia?

These Train lines stop near Onda Travel Italia:  R

What’s the nearest train station to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura?

The nearest train station to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura is Altamura. It’s a 14 min walk away.

What’s the nearest bus stop to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura?

The nearest bus stops to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura are Altamura - Via Vittorio Veneto 55, Altamura - Via Santa Teresa 25, Altamura - Via V.Veneto (Capolinea S. Teresa) and Altamura Via Vittorio Veneto. The closest one is a 1 min walk away.

What time is the first Train to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura?

The R is the first Train that goes to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura. It stops nearby at 4:57 AM.

What time is the last Train to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura?

The R is the last Train that goes to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura. It stops nearby at 11:36 PM.

What time is the first Bus to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura?

The 353.A01 is the first Bus that goes to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura. It stops nearby at 4:55 AM.

What time is the last Bus to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura?

The 353.R03 is the last Bus that goes to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura. It stops nearby at 1:15 AM.

Public Transit to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura

Wondering how to get to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura, Italy? Moovit helps you find the best way to get to Onda Travel Italia with step-by-step directions from the nearest public transit station.

Moovit provides free maps and live directions to help you navigate through your city. View schedules, routes, timetables, and find out how long does it take to get to Onda Travel Italia in real time.

Looking for the nearest stop or station to Onda Travel Italia? Check out this list of stops closest to your destination: Altamura - Via Vittorio Veneto 55; Altamura - Via Santa Teresa 25; Altamura - Via V.Veneto (Capolinea S. Teresa); Altamura Via Vittorio Veneto; Altamura - Via V.Veneto 72 (Cap. Fronte S. Teresa); Altamura - Viale Martiri 1799 5; Altamura - Piazza Zanardelli 8; Altamura - Piazza Zanardelli 21; Altamura.

Bus: 353.A03 353.R07 359.R02 364.R09 Train: R

Want to see if there’s another route that gets you there at an earlier time? Moovit helps you find alternative routes or times. Get directions from and directions to Onda Travel Italia easily from the Moovit App or Website.

We make riding to Onda Travel Italia easy, which is why over 1.5 million users, including users in Altamura, trust Moovit as the best app for public transit. You don’t need to download an individual bus app or train app, Moovit is your all-in-one transit app that helps you find the best bus time or train time available.

For information on prices of Bus and Train, costs and ride fares to Onda Travel Italia, please check the Moovit app.

Use the app to navigate to popular places including to the airport, hospital, stadium, grocery store, mall, coffee shop, school, college, and university.

Onda Travel Italia Address: Corso Umberto I, 37 70022 Altamura street in Altamura

Attractions near Onda Travel Italia

• Onda Travel di Dambrosio Onofrio
• Cellulopoli
• Carulli Francesco
• Direnzo Giuseppe
• Pizzeria Alfredo
• Country Pizza Sideri Adolfo
• B&B le Residenze
• La Reina Empanadas Ristorante
• Il Panzerotto Re Umberto I
• Unione Provinciale degli Agricoltori
• Pino Foto di Sciannandeno Giuseppe
• Loiudice Vito Rocco
• Cornacchia Salumi
• Alta Communication
• Unione Generale Lavoro Coltivatori - Altamura
• Di Giacomantonio Dott. Raffaele
• Radio Regio Stereo Onlus
• Pepe Domenico

How to get to popular attractions in Altamura with public transit

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Public transit lines with stations closest to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura

Train lines with stations closest to onda travel italia in altamura.

• R Altamura-Gravina
• R Bari Centrale-Altamura
• REG Matera Sud-Bari Centrale

Bus lines with stations closest to Onda Travel Italia in Altamura

Altamura - via vittorio veneto 55, altamura - via santa teresa 25, altamura - via v.veneto (capolinea s. teresa), altamura via vittorio veneto.

• Onda Travel Italia

Viaggi, Crociere, Tour, Viaggi di gruppo e tutto quello che non immaginereste.

Phone Number : +390802374837

Website : www.ondatravelitalia.it..

Categories : Travel agency

Opening Hours :

Address : Corso Umberto I, 37, 70022 Altamura

GPS Coordinates : 40.82532 , 16.55429 Altamura, Metropolitan City of Bari, Apulia, Italy

Facebook : facebook.com/579553192403996

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Travel Agencies nearby

Companies and places nearby, what hotels, hostels and apartments are located near onda travel italia.

There is a list of nearest hotels: B&B Le Residenze located at Corso Umberto I, 41, in 15 meters east . B&B Design your Home located at Via Ss Trinità 14, in 20 meters northwest . La Casetta di Zia located at Corso Umberto I 50, in 58 meters northeast . Dolce Pane residenze di charme located at via F. TERRANOVA N.10, in 97 meters northeast . San Francesco Bed & Breakfast located at Vico Sant'Andrea, 6, in 129 meters northwest . Casa Farella B&B in mini Apartments Altamura located at Via Crocifisso 78, in 134 meters north . La Dimora degli Svevi located at Corso Federico II di Svevia nr. 105, in 180 meters northwest .

Your can find and book more hotels, hostels and apartments on our interactive hotels map .

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Visit Altamura: the complete guide

Altamura is a small town in the province of Bari that despite its small size is known throughout the country thanks to its bread Altamura PDO, the IGP lentil, and for the discovery of Homo neanderthalensis occurred in these areas.

The history of Altamura is very ancient, so much so that it dates back to the Neolithic age, a period in which populations of Neanderthal men settled in the area. The city is inextricably linked to the name of Emperor Frederick II who, once arrived in the area of Altamura and found a ruined city decided to repopulate the city by asking the peasants of neighbouring countries to move to this area, giving them in exchange for privileges. The city was born, therefore, exactly like that. You might decide to spend a weekend in Altamura or discover it in passing with one of our tours: ⇒   Walk the Camino Materano  in 7 or 9 days

⇒   Cycling holidays in Italy: Unesco tour

⇒ Puglia on Gravel bike: from Bari to Matera

⇒ Discover Matera and the north of Puglia

What to see in Altamura

We have prepared a list with the things not to be missed in Altamura to fully enjoy the beauties of this charming village nestled in the Apulian Murgia. Why not decide to dedicate a day to discovering the beauties of Altamura?

• Altamura Cathedral;
• Palazzo Baldassarre;
• Piazza Duomo;
• Dinosaurs of Altamura (yes....dinosaurs!!).

And now let's start together to discover the most suggestive places in Altamura!

Altamura Cathedral

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is a very old church dating back to 1232 and was erected at the behest of Emperor Frederick II. The church in Gothic style, with all the pointed arches is the first and oldest monument in Altamura. The thing that characterizes more the church is that this was built on an old pagan temple dating back to the Saracens of which it is still possible to see the remains. As far as the architecture of the church is concerned, this is characterized by two symmetrical bell towers built, however, in different eras and which are also visible outside the city of Altamura. The interiors, instead, are more austere, composed of three naves and a wooden ceiling decorated with golden stuccoes. Particularly noteworthy is the altar at the end of the nave made of marble and where you can see a depiction of the Virgin of the Assumption.

Palazzo Baldassarre

Walking through the streets of Altamura you cannot miss the Baldassarre Palace , one of the greatest examples of civil construction in the city. It was built between the end of the 16th century and the beginning of the 17th century by the Baldassarre family who also made numerous changes over the years. The palace was private property of the family until 1900, when it passed into public hands. Currently inside the palace is an info point and a museum display on the subject of human evolution, where it is possible to admire the fossil skeleton of the Altamura Man, one of the most important finds dating back to the Neolithic period because it is the oldest Neanderthal on which it has been possible to perform palaeogenetic analyses.

Piazza Duomo

Walking around Altamura you cannot miss Piazza del duomo (or Piazza Duomo): the nerve centre of the city. This square was also created in 1494 by Frederick II who decided to buy and demolish some houses in order to create a square. The square then became the main place for the weekly market of the city. Today the square is the favourite meeting point for all citizens who love to walk along the course or eat and drink something in the bars and clubs that surround it.

Dinosauri di Altamura

On 10 May 1999, a group of geologists commissioned to carry out sedimentological research discovered thousands of footprints on the surface of Cava Pontrelli. The palaeontologist Umberto Nicosia was immediately informed of this very important discovery, and he recognised dinosaur footprints in them that could be dated around 85 million years ago. Over the years, this exceptional discovery led to the realisation of a project ( dinosauridialtamura.it ) to restore the area, valorise and preserve the footprints.

What to do in Altamura - the Slow Active Tours proposal

Once you have discovered the wonders hidden in the narrow streets of Altamura, the time has come to get to the heart of the sounds and smells of this ancient village. For this reason we have prepared a list with the things to do in Altamura that you absolutely cannot miss!

The Pulo of Altamura is one of the largest closed basins of karstic origin in the Murge area. The basin is located at 477 m above sea level and has a maximum diameter of about 500 meters. Over the years much has been speculated about the origin of the Pulo , but the most likely theory is that the pit was caused by the effect of rain on the limestone soil of the Murge. Precisely because of this karst terrain were born numerous caves that have been the home of some specimens of homo sapiens during the Neolithic period. A truly unmissable destination for all lovers of trekking and walking!

MUDIMA - Diocesan Museum Matronei Altamura

In the center of Altamura, right inside the cathedral, you can visit the MUDIMA, that is the Diocesan Museum Matronei Altamura. The museum, created in 2016 by Monsignor Giovanni Ricchiuti, occupies the upper floors of the cathedral and aims to preserve and display artifacts and statues dating back to the Middle Ages and the later period of 1400 and 1500. Moreover, inside the museum it is possible to find and consult relics and notarial letters present in the cathedral.

Historical centre of Altamura

Altamura is a city rich in history and culture, so what better way to visit it than strolling through the city streets and getting lost in the alleys of the area? The city offers attractions full of curiosities and excellent opportunities for every kind of visitor, young and old. In addition, you can take the opportunity to taste the delicacies that Altamura has to offer in one of the bakeries that teem in the city.

Cammino Materano

For all trekking enthusiasts, but also for those who want to challenge their limits, the materano path is the one for you. It is a wonderful path that joins the cities of Matera and Bari on foot and guess what? It passes right through Altamura! So, you have no more excuses, backpack on your shoulders and off you go. So you have no more excuses, backpack and go on a nice trip in a group or even on your own !

Festival and Popular Events of Altamura

If you find yourself in Altamura in September, you absolutely cannot miss the festival Sui sentieri del fungo cardoncello . This is a festival in which the best chefs and the most famous local food companies come together to create delicious dishes with only one rule: the cardoncello mushroom is the protagonist! Still in the culinary field, between the 12th and 14th of October you cannot miss Le Vie Del Pane  an event that is not simply a festival, but an opportunity to promote the PDO bread symbol of the Murge and to put it in contact with all the PDO products of the other consortia. An occasion of dialogue and good food in the name of Italian culinary excellence . As far as the religious side is concerned, on the other hand, the feast of St. Joseph ( San Giuseppe ) on March 19 is not to be missed by anyone from Altamura or elsewhere. For this occasion, the feast is celebrated in the cathedral and from here begins the procession that runs through all the streets of the city. During this day the town is full of stalls that keep the bread that is supposed to be blessed by the patron saint parading through the town.

Typical dishes of Altamura

The gastronomic tradition of Altamura is strictly connected to the tradition of the Murge area, therefore olive oil, orecchiette (small "ears" shaped pasta) and meat, which is often the main dish of the region, often appear. Another product exquisitely typical of the Murgia area, but famous all over the world is the bread of Altamura PDO . In these areas you can taste this delicacy almost everywhere, but how to recognize it? The real Pane di Altamura is prepared with only 4 basic ingredients: durum wheat flour, sourdough, salt and water. At the end, the bread will have a golden aspect, characterized by the typical "overlapping", with a crust about three millimetres high and a regular and soft crumb. Obviously, its aroma is unmistakable. Bread from Altamura has a very ancient history, so much so that Pliny defined it as the "best bread in the world". In ancient times bread was kneaded privately in homes and then baked in public ovens where every family, in order to recognize its own bread, marked it. Today bread is commercialized in almost every part of Italy in the typical shapes Accavallata  and Cappello di Prete  and it is sold and commercialized only fresh and in loaves of bread having a minimum weight of 0,5 kg. Today the traditional bread of the Alta Murgia is a Slow Food Presidium . A tasty and healthy product that you absolutely must try, you will not regret it!

Eating and drinking in Altamura

Among the many restaurants in the center of Altamura, we recommend some that are worth trying: Restaurant/pizzeria Binario 24 , in Piazza Stazione 24. The excellent dishes as well as the excellent pizza make Binario 24 one of the best restaurants in Altamura. The deliciousness of the dishes, then, is accompanied by the excellent and wide wine list. What to say? The perfect place to spend a pleasant evening dedicated to good taste; Il Teatro del Gusto , in Piazza Mercadante, 9. Small and elegant bistro in the heart of Altamura. In this magical place you can taste a variety of gourmet sandwiches and thousand-flavors focaccia , but also numerous first courses and quality meats. The real highlight of the restaurant is definitely the friendly staff that makes meals very pleasant; Panificio Di Gesù , in Via Eleonora de Fonseca Pimentel 17. In this bakery just outside the historic center, it is said that the best focaccia in Altamura is served. In addition to this, in this place you can try the famous bread of Altamura and many delicious baked goods. Descriptions would be superfluous at this point, the only thing you can do is taste!

Altamura awaits you for a tour full of art and taste!

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Things to Do in Altamura, Italy - Altamura Attractions

Things to do in altamura, explore popular experiences, ways to tour altamura.

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Altamura, Italy - town in Apulia best known for its cathedral

Visit Altamura

Altamura is an important historical town situated in the heart of the Puglia (Apulia) region of south-east Italy best known for its cathedral and Museum of Archaeology.

Established as a settlement since ancient times, it is part of a traditional agricultural centre between the Upper Murgia and Basilicata regions that developed around the ancient settlement of the “Peucezi” people.

This ancient settlement was originally surrounded by megalithic walls built in the 5th - 3th century BC, and parts of which are still visible in the road called 'Corso Umberto I'. See history of Altamura for a more detailed guide to the ancient origins of the town.

Explore Altamura

Start your visit in Cathedral Square . In the middle of the square there is a 'monument to the fallen' from 1799 by sculptor Arnaldo Zocchi.

Altamura Cathedral

Altamura Cathedral is at the heart of the city and was built between 1232 and 1242 by Frederick II of Swabia, who dedicated it to the Virgin.

The façade, dominated by its two towers, has a portal that dates from the 14th century, and is carved with scenes from the New Testament while the rose window dates from the 16th century.

The rose window in the facade is a rare example of 14th century Apulian style and there is also a Gothic portal, probably from the early 15th century. It is rich with decorations and sculptures, contained in a projecting porch supported on two stone lions, redone in 1533 and guarding the entrance to the Cathedral.

Carved on the arches of the portal there are 22 scenes of Jesus’ life from birth until the death and resurrection.

Inside the church you can also admire the stone pulpit of 1545, the choir of 1543, which consists of 68 stalls walnut wood and stone, and, above all,  the crib of 1587, a work of master Altobello Persio (1507-1593).

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Other Altamura highlights

In the 'Corso Federico II of Swabia' is the Greek Church of San Nicola dei Greci . The portal, built in 1576, is carved with scenes from the Old and New Testaments, while the interior contains Baroque altars and a wood ceiling.

At the Porta Matera you can visit the Church of Saint Maria del Soccorso , today called “San Francesco di Paola” (dating from the 16th -18th century), annexed to the monastery that was expanded in 1872.

On the 16th century cloister capitals you can see the Farnese coat of arms (six golden lilies on an azure field, with the addition of a silver cross on a red field). Note also the balcony overlooking the garden which is very well decorated.

The 16th century church and convent of San Domenico in the Piazza Zanardelli opens on to public gardens. The interior of the Church has paintings and marble altars and a tiled floor from the mid-18th century.

Continuing along the “Via Corte d’Appello”, which leads from Piazza Duomo to Piazza Don Minzoni are the 17th century monastery and Church of Santa Chiara which now gives hospitality to a community of nuns.

Altamura Museum

While you are here you should also visit the Altamura Municipal Museum which is an impressive archaeology museum with many artefacts from the region dating back up to 2500 years.

The museum is in five sections arranged on two floors, to cover the paleolithic, prehistoric, archaic, classical and Hellenistic Ages. The Exhibition Hall, with an exhibition of the 'Prehistory of food' is open to the public, and in the porch there is a small section with some Roman funeral inscriptions.

On the back of the building there are some remains of archaeological excavations conducted in various locations near Altamura. Among the most famous archaeological remains of Altamura are the Man of Altamura*. The archaeological find, uncovered in the cave of “Lamalunga” is one of the most extraordinary paleo-ontological discoveries in Europe.

* The skeleton is that of an adult male, height from 160 to 165 cm, whose skull has elements of the Neanderthal population, and forms of the Homo erectus (400,000 years ago).

Relax in Altamura

Altamera is known as the 'city of bread' and its bread making traditions and reputation has existed for centuries. In 37 BC Horace told travellers that it is "far the best bread to be had" and advised travellers to stock up before they leave. Modern day travellers would be well advised to do the same.

The bread is so good, along with the foccachia, mozarella and a local mushroom, that Altamura's McDonalds restaurant was forced to close after just two years - unable to compete with the local foods!

The "bread of Altamura", is a course-grain bread made from wheat flour and baked in old wood-burning ovens. The town is also known for a traditional peasant dish made of stale bread - the so-called “cialledda”.

Other typical local dishes include the “orecchiette” and "capunti" mushroom, "u cutturidde" (boiled lamb with wild herbs) and the lamb of the “rezzaule”. Also to be tasted locally are the asparagus, "carboncelli" and "chicory", “ricotta”, and the almond sweets, the "griselle" and "mustazzèle" (mixed with grape wine and figs).

The so-called “Father Peppe” (a liqueur made from walnuts infused) is the most famous liquor in Altamura. In general, local wines are very 'vigorous'.

You can find more local travel ideas in the Puglia guide .

Map of Altamura and places to visit

Altamura places to visit.

Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its fascinating troglodyte centre in the Sassi-di-Matera area.

Ruvo di Puglia

Ruvo di Puglia has an attractive old centre and and attractive Romanesque cathedral.

Bitonto is a pretty town with some important museums and archaeological sites.

Largely unknown to tourism, Tricarico contains a good number of fascinating palazzos and churches

Bari is a coastal city with an interesting historic centre.

Martina-Franca

Martina-Franca is a pretty hilltop town with beautiful baroque buildings.

...or see all our recommended places to visit in Puglia

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Tag: Altamura

Puglia: italy’s best kept secret.

Exploring Puglia and Basilicata, 2 lesser visited regions of Italy

Italy is, without a doubt, my favourite European country to visit. I’ll never forget my first visit, taking a city break to Rome, my breath taken away each time I turned a corner only to be met by more beautiful buildings or ancient ruins.

Since then, I’ve been to many of the main cities and tourist destinations there – Milan, Lake Garda, Florence, Venice, Bologna, Naples and the Amalfi Coast…but when my friend moved to the country to take up a teaching position in a small town in the South, it gave me the opportunity to explore a lesser known part of this beautiful country.

My friend had moved to the town of Altamura which lies in the region of Puglia, known in English as Apulia, sitting in the ‘heel’ of Italy’s ‘boot’. To get there, I flew to Bari, the principle city of the area. Bari is mainly known for its port. It is possible to catch the ferry from here to a variety of other European countries including Greece and Croatia as well as there being a number of cruises departing from here. As the one of only 2 cities in the region with an, albeit small, international airport, it is also seen as the gateway to the stunning coastline of this part of Italy.

While I would spend time exploring the city of Bari during my visit to the region, today, after arriving early and with the rest of the day to spare, my friend was taking me to her favourite nearby seaside town, Polignana a Mare. For a small fee, I dropped my suitcase at Bari station’s left luggage and we hopped on a local train for the 50 minute ride down the coast.

Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is a charming seaside town perched on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea. We walked through the winding, narrow streets, visiting some of the small boutique gift shops along the way to the clifftop viewpoint offering beautiful views across the bright, blue sea. Looking back towards the town, we could see the small, white pebble beach of Cala Porto below.

After drinks at one of the many cafe bars in the town, we took a stroll down to the beach enjoying the late afternoon sunshine before walking back to the station and returning to Bari.

From Bari, it was another 90 minute train journey on the local train to Altamura where my friend had a small apartment on the outskirts of the town. The following day, she took me on a tour of the area starting with a walk through the city gates onto the ‘Corso’ – the main street running through the medieval town. Along here, lies the beautiful Altamura Cathedral dating back to the 13th century.

After looking around the cathedral, we walked through the maze of back streets leading off the Corso to a small bakery at the Santa Chiara Monastery where we bought some traditional Altamura cakes. Tette delle monache – which literally translates as “nun’s breasts”! – are soft, filled cakes.

We tried one filled with nutella and one filled with pistacchio and went to sit in the park o the edge of the city to eat them before having a further wander around the town.

Altamua is famous for its bread, so much so that it is often referred to as the ‘City of Bread’, so I couldn’t spend the day there without trying some. The bread, ‘Pane di Altamura DOP’ is baked in a ‘forno antico’ or antique oven, the oldest of which, Forno Antico Santa Chiara, dates back to 1423.

We looked inside the bakery to meet the baker and watch the bread being placed into the oven to bake before taking a seat out in the courtyard and ordering a selection of bread and cheese dishes for lunch.

That afternoon, we took a stroll to the National Archaeological Museum of Altamura. This small museum had a range of exhibits showing its collection of artefacts from the area dating back thousands of years. There was also an interesting exhibition on the ‘Man of Altamura’, the fossil of a neanderthal man found in a nearby cave.

That evening, we returned to Altamura’s Corso which was now bustling with life as the locals visited the many shops, cafes and bars lining the street or paraded up and down the street deep in conversation with their family and friends. We called into a local restaurant for a delicious pizza.

We began the next day with a ‘cornetti’ breakfast at Stile Libero , a cafe on the outskirts of town – possibly the best nutella filled pastry I had ever tasted! Then we walked the short distance to Altamura station to catch the train out to the city of Matera.

Matera is actually just across the border of Puglia, in the region of Basilicata. After a 40 minute train journey from Altamura, we arrived in the ‘new’ part of town and took the short walk down to the historic centre. The main square at the entrance to the centre was flanked by a variety of restaurants, cafes and tourist information centres all of which we initially bypassed to walk to the nearby viewpoint over Matera’s ‘Sassi’.

The Sassi di Matera, is made up of two districts of the city built into the caves. Once known for its poverty and slums, the area has been regenerated over the last few decades with Unesco declaring it a World Heritage site in 1993.

The first view of the ‘Sassi’ is absolutely breath-taking. Before going to explore further, we signed up for a tour of Matera’s Underground. We booked the tour at one of the tourist information booths in the square and had only a short wait until the next English-speaking tour. The tour was quite short and once down in Matera’s underground, there wasn’t a lot to see but it was interesting to hear about how the city overcame difficulties in supplying water to its residents and seeing parts of the system used.

After dinner at a cafe bar in the main centre, I took a walking tour of the Sassi. This was a great way to see the area and learn about its past. As part of the tour we visited a ‘casa grotta’ reconstruction to see a cave dwelling which had been set up as it would have been when it was once lived in by large families 60 years or more ago and the tour also allowed us entry into some parts of the Sassi only accessible on a tour including an old church built into the caves.

Matera is a great place to just wander around and it is easy to lose yourself in the winding maze of streets built into the caves. There a are a variety of museums, galleries and churches to explore in the city and we visited a photography exhibition that we just happened to stumble upon as we walked through the city as well as taking a look inside the Cathedral of Saint Mary della Bruna and Saint Eustace.

We took another trip out of Altamura the next day, this time, back to the region’s capital, Bari. Bari is a charming Italian port on the Adriatic Sea and we began our visit with a stroll along the waterfront and along the old city walls stopping for drinks overlooking the sea.

The highlight of our visit to Bari was a walk around its Old Bari or Bari Vecchia with its maze of narrow streets winding past medieval buildings and opening out into busy squares and courtyards.

We visited the Basilica di San Nicola then made our way back to the main square, Piazza Mercantile where we had dinner at one of its many restaurants and grabbed an gelato for dessert.

Bari offers a great mix of the old and the modern and we made our way back to the main station along Via Sparano, the main shopping street in the newer part of the city where we found all the usual high street stores including Sephora, H&M, Zara and Pandora.

Gravina di Puglia

My final trip out from the town of Altamura was a solo trip to Gravina di Puglia. My friend was busy working and recommended I take the 10 minute train ride out to this town which, similarly to Matera, is built into a series of caves.

We’d already been one evening for dinner at one of its restaurants, Sottofondo , which randomly specialised in oven baked potatoes with a variety of fillings. We had views of the caves from the restaurant terrace and it looked like an interesting town to explore further.

Unfortunately, and unknown to me, Gravina seemed to close down on a Monday and within minutes of my arrival just before midday, everything closed its doors – churches, shops, restaurants, cafes and museums, all closed!

Despite this shutdown, I was still able to happily spend a few hours just wandering around, seeing the Cathedral from the outside, wandering around the narrow maze of streets and enjoying beautiful views of the cliffs and caves surrounding the area.

On my way back to the station, I took a detour across the viaduct at the entrance to the town which spans Gravina creek and leads to the ancient remains of the Madonna della Stella church. From here there were also amazing views of the town of Gravina built into the cliffs opposite.

It was a shame I had inadvertently visited this historic town at a time when many of its attractions were closed but it had still been worth a visit.

While the region of Puglia and its ancient towns and cities don’t get the publicity that major cities like Rome and Milan or regions such as Tuscany and Amalfi get, I’d definitely recommend visiting the region and exploring its less touristy and very much authentically Italian towns.

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19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

Read Next: Things To Do on Socotra

To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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