Where to Stay in Taranto: Old Town or Borgo Nuovo?
Where to stay in Taranto: the Old Town island, seafront hotels in Borgo Nuovo, budget B&Bs and practical tips for choosing the right area.
Foto: Bernard Gagnon (CC0) — Wikimedia Commons
Why choosing the right area matters in Taranto
Taranto is a unique city, split between the Old Town — an island connected by bridges — and the nineteenth-century Borgo Nuovo facing the Mar Grande. The city of two seas, washed by the Mar Grande and the Mar Piccolo, offers very different experiences depending on where you stay. The MArTA (National Archaeological Museum), the Aragonese Castle and the cultural renaissance of the Old Town make this destination increasingly attractive.
Best areas to stay
Old Town (Island)
The ancient heart of Taranto is an island between the two seas, reachable via the Swing Bridge and the Stone Bridge. In recent years, charming B&Bs, restored historic residences and small boutique hotels have appeared in the medieval alleys. Staying here means waking up among Romanesque church bell towers and the scents of the fish market. Prices: 45-80 euros for a double.
Borgo Nuovo and seafront
The nineteenth-century quarter stretches along via D'Aquino (shopping) and the lungomare Vittorio Emanuele III overlooking the Mar Grande. Here you will find higher-category hotels, elegant restaurants and evening life. It is the most convenient area for those arriving by train (the station sits at the boundary between Borgo and Island). Budget: 60-110 euros.
Lama and San Vito
The coastal areas east of the city offer beach facilities and seaside residences, perfect for combining cultural visits with beach time. Connected to the centre by AMAT buses in 15-20 minutes. Ideal for families in summer.
Station area
Practical but less characterful, offering business hotels and budget B&Bs. Useful for one-night stays or as a base for exploring the Ionian coast.
Types of accommodation
- **Historic residences and B&Bs in the Old Town** — The most authentic experience, in restored noble palaces overlooking the seas.
- **3-4 star hotels in the Borgo** — Modern comfort, often with a panoramic terrace and partner parking.
- **Holiday apartments** — Numerous on both sides of the city, excellent for week-long stays.
- **Masserie in the hinterland** — 15-20 minutes by car, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, perfect for those seeking silence.
- **Hostels and shared rooms** — Budget option in the Old Town, where new facilities welcome young travellers.
Tips for saving money
- Taranto's Holy Week (the Rites of Holy Week) causes prices to spike: book months ahead or take advantage of May-June.
- Look for accommodation with direct sea access in the Old Town: some have small terraces over the Mar Piccolo.
- Parking is a problem in the Borgo: choose accommodation with a garage or use the free parking along the Mar Piccolo.
- Off-season (September-May) rates drop by 30-40% and the weather remains pleasant.
Which area to choose based on your trip
- **Romantic couple** — Old Town, for the evocative atmosphere of lantern-lit alleys and views over both seas.
- **Cultural traveller** — Borgo Nuovo, close to MArTA and the Aragonese Castle.
- **Family with children** — Lama or San Vito, with equipped beaches and spaces for little ones.
- **Food lovers** — Old Town, steps from the fish market and raw seafood trattorias.
- **Budget travellers** — Station area or hostels in the Old Town.
Getting around
Central Taranto (Island + Borgo) can be walked in 20 minutes. AMAT buses connect the coastal areas and outskirts. For the beaches of Campomarino or the Salento coast you need a car or regional train.
Discover more about Taranto
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Where to Stay in Taranto?
The recommended time is April, May, June, September and October, when it is less crowded.
Is Where to Stay in Taranto crowded?
Where to Stay in Taranto is a very quiet destination compared with the more touristy ones.
Where is Where to Stay in Taranto?
Where to Stay in Taranto is located in Taranto, Puglia, Italy.
