This small coastal town on Italy's Gargano Peninsula has narrow medieval lanes, white limestone cliffs, and clear Adriatic waters. Local fishermen still bring fresh catch daily to the harbor.
Vieste rises from a white limestone promontory in Italy's Puglia region, at the edge of the Gargano Peninsula. In the medieval center, you'll find an 11th-century cathedral and winding streets that lead to cliff-edge viewpoints. The 26-meter Pizzomunno rock stands by the beach, while limestone caves dot the coastline. Two long sandy beaches extend on either side of town, with spots for swimming, diving, and windsurfing.
The Medieval Center
White stone houses line the narrow alleys of Vieste's center, connected by small arches and passages. Walk through Via Judeca, the former Jewish quarter, which sits above limestone cliffs. The streets lead to several squares with Adriatic views, including Piazza Petrone overlooking the southern coast. Look up to spot the 'mignali' - small galleries and balconies decorating house facades, often with basil plants adding color to the white walls.
Beaches and Coast
Castello Beach stretches south of town, while San Lorenzo Beach extends to the north. The Pizzomunno monolith marks Castello Beach, with locals telling stories of a fisherman turned to stone while waiting for his love. Take boat trips to explore limestone formations, including the Two Eyes Cave and Round Cave. Stop at Baia delle Zagare, where two limestone stacks rise from blue-green waters.
Swimming and Water Sports
You can rent windsurfing and kitesurfing equipment at both main beaches. Local diving centers run trips to nearby reefs and underwater caves. Along the coast, wooden fishing platforms (trabucchi) still catch fish using pulley systems and nets - some open for demonstrations during summer months.
Day Trips Around Gargano
Boats leave daily for the Tremiti Islands, where you can swim and dive around rocky coves. Drive 30 minutes inland to walk through the Umbra Forest's oak and beech trees. Regular buses connect to nearby towns like Peschici, with its hilltop castle, and Monte Sant'Angelo, home to a UNESCO-listed cave sanctuary.
Historical Sites
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta combines Romanesque architecture with a Baroque bell tower, dating from the 11th century. The Norman Castle sits on the headland - while closed to visitors, you can walk around its walls for views of both coastlines. Near the cathedral, stop at the Chianca Amara stone, marking the site of a 1554 pirate raid.
Food and Markets
Browse the morning market on Via Jenner for Gargano oranges and local olive oil. Restaurants serve fresh seafood caught that morning, including grilled octopus and sea urchin pasta. Try caciocavallo cheese aged in the area's limestone caves. Small farms in the countryside welcome visitors to taste and buy olive oil pressed on site.
