Castel del Monte - Discovering Italy

Travelling to Castel del Monte

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Castel del Monte, a pretty good destination in Italy (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Castel del Monte and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Castel del Monte, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Italy, here's everything to know about Castel del Monte for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Castel del Monte

Castel del Monte is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the region of Puglia, southern Italy. Built in the 13th century, it is a unique fortress of medieval architecture, and it is considered one of the most important buildings of the Middle Ages. The castle is characterized by its octagonal shape, and its interior is decorated with beautiful frescoes. Castel del Monte was built by Frederick II, the Holy Roman Emperor, as a hunting lodge and is known for its mysterious and iconographic symbolism. Today it is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction in the region.

What to visit in Castel del Monte

Castel del Monte is a famous medieval castle located in the Puglia region of southern Italy. Here are some of the main tourist attractions in the area and some information about each: 1. Castel del Monte - This is the main attraction in the area, and for good reason. This 13th-century castle was built by Emperor Frederick II and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's unique on an architectural and symbolic level, as it's octagonal shaped and each side has eight rooms. The interior has rooms with stunning mosaic decorations. 2. Norman-Swabian Castle - Located in the heart of the village of Castel del Monte, this castle dates back to the 12th century and was built by the Normans. It underwent significant changes over the years, with the most notable restorations carried out by the Hohenstaufen emperors, Swabian-Norman mix, hence the name. 3. Alta Murgia National Park - This national park is a beautiful and unspoiled natural area that's perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities. You can see different wildlife along the rock formations of the Murgia plateau, including eagles, foxes, wild rabbits, and more. 4. Andria - The town of Andria, situated on the hilltops near Castel del Monte, is a charming medieval town that's worth exploring. There are several restaurants offering the local specialties and a beautiful cathedral to visit. 5. The Trulli of Alberobello - This is a short drive from Castel del Monte, but probably one of the most known landmarks of the whole southern Italy. Alberobello boasts peculiar cone-shaped houses made with dry stone, called "trulli". A place with a unique atmosphere that will make you feel like you are in a dreamy world.
Castel del Monte is a gem from a historical and cultural perspective, a breathtaking scenery, and lots of outdoor activities in the surrounding areas. It’s no wonder that this is a must-visit destination while in the Puglia region.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Italy, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Castel del Monte.

When to go on holiday to Castel del Monte

The best time to visit Castel del Monte, Italy is during the spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) when there are fewer tourists and the weather is mild. In the summer (July-August), the temperatures can be very hot and crowded with tourists. During the winter (December-March), the weather is quite cold and many of the attractions may be closed. However, if you are interested in skiing or winter sports, then this could be a good time to visit. Ultimately, the best time to visit Castel del Monte depends on your personal preferences and activities planned.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Castel del Monte

Castel del Monte is located in the Puglia region of southern Italy. Here are some ways to get there: 1. By Car: You can rent a car in Bari or nearby cities and drive to Castel del Monte. The castle is located about 50 km west of Bari, and you can take the SS170 and SP234 to get there.
2. By Public Transportation: The closest train station to Castel del Monte is Andria, which is about 15 km away. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the castle. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bari to Castel del Monte.
3. By Guided Tour: Many tour companies offer day trips from Bari or other nearby cities to Castel del Monte. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or navigate public transportation on your own.
I hope this information helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Castel del Monte, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Castel del Monte

Castel del Monte is a stunning medieval hilltop town located in the region of Apulia, Italy. Here are some typical foods you must try when visiting Castel del Monte: 1. Burrata - This is a fresh Italian cheese that is made from mozzarella and cream. The outside is a firm mozzarella cheese, while the inside is a soft, creamy, and delicious surprise.
2. Orecchiette - This is a pasta type that is particularly typical of the Apulia region. It is hand-made and has the shape of a small ear, hence the name of "orecchiette." It is often served with tomato sauce or broccoli rabe.
3. Focaccia barese - This is a flatbread typical of the region of Apulia. It is made with flour, water, olive oil, and yeast, and is often topped with cherry tomatoes, olives, and oregano.
4. Involtini - This dish is made with thinly sliced meat, often veal or beef, that is rolled up with a filling made from breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, and garlic and then cooked in tomato sauce.
5. Taralli - These are dry, crunchy, and ring-shaped biscuits that are eaten as a snack or served as an appetizer. They are made with flour, olive oil, and white wine and are often seasoned with fennel seeds or black pepper.
6. Agnello con patate - This is a typical meat and potato dish of the region. It consists of roasted lamb with potatoes, herbs, and occasionally vegetables such as onions and carrots.
7. Zeppole - These are small, round doughnuts that are fried and sprinkled with sugar. They are often served with a filling made from vanilla custard.
Enjoy your culinary adventure in Castel del Monte!
You can find general info about typical foods in Italy here.

Is Castel del Monte an expensive destination for tourists?

Castel del Monte is not generally considered to be one of the most expensive destinations in Italy, especially when compared to major tourist destinations like Rome, Florence, or Venice. However, as with any travel destination, prices can vary depending on the time of year, accommodations, and activities you choose. It's also worth noting that Castel del Monte is located in a less touristy part of Italy (Puglia), which can make travel costs more affordable overall. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices for flights, accommodations, and activities before planning your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Castel del Monte

Castel del Monte is located in the Apulia region of Italy. The best areas to find accommodation to visit Castel del Monte are: 1. Andria: This is the nearest town to Castel del Monte and offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels and bed and breakfasts.
2. Barletta: This town is located just a short distance from Castel del Monte and offers a variety of accommodation options.
3. Trani: This charming coastal town is located 20 km from Castel del Monte and offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses.
4. Bari: The capital of the Apulia region, Bari is the largest city near Castel del Monte and offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget to luxury.
5. Monopoli: This beautiful seaside town is located about 50 km from Castel del Monte and offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels and apartments. It's important to note that it's best to have a car when visiting Castel del Monte, as public transportation to the castle can be limited.
You can check hotel prices at Castel del Monte here:
Booking.com

Is Castel del Monte a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Castel del Monte in Italy is generally a safe place for tourists. Italy as a whole is a relatively safe country for travelers. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to exercise basic safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding dangerous neighborhoods, and keeping an eye on your valuables. It's also a good idea to stay up-to-date on any current safety warnings or advisories from the local authorities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Italy here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Castel del Monte.

What type of travelers will enjoy Castel del Monte the most?

Castel del Monte, located in southern Italy, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors interested in history and architecture. While it is not specifically geared towards any one type of traveler, it can be a great destination for those who are interested in exploring historical landmarks and cultural sites.
Couples might particularly enjoy Castel del Monte as it is a beautiful and romantic spot to visit. It offers a great opportunity to explore the castle together while admiring the stunning views. Young people can definitely enjoy visiting Castel del Monte, especially those interested in architecture and culture. There are useful audio guides in different languages, which make the experience more engaging and enjoyable.
Families with older kids can also enjoy Castel del Monte. They can learn about the Renaissance, the architecture and the way of life in the 14th century. However, it may not be a suitable destination for families with young children as the castle requires a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
All in all, Castel del Monte is a great destination for anyone who is interested in history, culture, and architecture and is willing to spend some time exploring a stunning medieval castle.

How to get around Castel del Monte

The best way to move around Castel del Monte is by using a car or a taxi. There are no public transportation options to get to the castle, and the surrounding area can be difficult to explore on foot. It's recommended to rent a car or hire a taxi to fully appreciate the beauty of the region.

What to see around Castel del Monte

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Castel del Monte, Italy: 1. Trani – a beautiful port town with a stunning cathedral 2. Bari – a bustling coastal city with a charming historic district 3. Alberobello – a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its unique trulli houses 4. Matera – another UNESCO-listed town renowned for its stunning cave dwellings 5. Polignano a Mare – a stunning cliffside town overlooking the Adriatic sea 6. Ostuni – a beautiful whitewashed hilltop town with stunning views 7. Grotte di Castellana – famous for its breathtaking underground caves 8. Lecce – a historic town with unique baroque architecture These are just a few suggestions to get you started!
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