Mattinata Travel Guide

Read our travel guide to Mattinata, Italy. Learn about the best places to visit, cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Mattinata

Welcome to Mattinata, a picturesque town located in the Foggia province of Apulia, in Southern Italy. With a population of just over 7,000 people, Mattinata is known for its stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, historic sites, and mouth-watering cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Mattinata has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Mattinata

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mattinata has a rich history, and it is evident in the many museums and historical sites that the town has to offer. Here are a few places you must visit if you’re interested in culture and history:

  • Santuario di San Michele Arcangelo: This ancient church, built in the 10th century, was destroyed over the centuries, and then rebuilt in the Baroque style. The castle-like construction with its high-rise tower certainly catches the eyes of any visitor.
  • Grotta delle Meraviglie: The “Cave of Wonders” is a natural landmark located about 5km from Mattinata. It is a stalactite and stalagmite-rich cave, with 810 meters of well-preserved rooms. The cave guides tourists throughout wooden stairs, and reveals a beautiful underground lake that will leave you in wonder.
  • Centro Storico: Mattinata’s historic center is a beautiful neighborhood with paved streets, white houses, and old mansions. Don’t forget to visit the Church of San Francesco and enjoy scenic views of Mattinata’s coastline

Natural Attractions of Mattinata: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mattinata is located in the beautiful and mountainous Gargano National Park, which provides a breathtaking backdrop for your outdoor adventures. Here are some natural attractions to explore:

  • Baia delle Zagare: This beautiful seaside spot is located about 3km north-west of Mattinata. It is considered one of the most beautiful bays in Italy, and the beach is surrounded by cliffs with some natural caves that you can explore.
  • Monte Saraceno: Hiking enthusiasts will fall in love with Monte Saraceno, the highest peak in Gargano National Park. With an elevation of just over 1400 meters, it provides hikers with a challenging climb but provides a stunning panoramic view of Mattinata and its surroundings.
  • Foresta Umbra: A beautiful forest situated in the heart of the Gargano mountain range. Hikers can explore the area with guided tours or on their own, while nature lovers can explore on horseback through the forest.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mattinata

Outdoor enthusiasts will have their hands full in Mattinata, with its various hiking and biking routes. Here are a few options:

  • Monte Saraceno: The mountain peak provides various challenging hiking routes, ranging from medium difficul to extremely challenging. Make sure to bring enough water and snacks.
  • Conca di Ruggier: Hikers can explore this ancient valley while taking in beautiful views of the coast and nearby forests. Medium difficulty.
  • Le Radici: You can also rent an electric mountain bike and go on a moderate, off-road exploring journey down this gorgeous coastal route.

Best Things to Do in Mattinata: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Mattinata:

  • Food and Wine Tours: Experience the unique taste of local Apulian cuisine and fine wines by tasting dishes such as orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, and fresh seafood.
  • Water Activities: Head out to the Adriatic Sea to enjoy activities such as swimming, windsurfing, and other water sports.
  • Traditional Festivals: Witness traditional events and celebrations such as the Feast of San Michele in September in the historic center.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mattinata

Day 1: Arrive in Mattinata, check in at your hotel, and explore Mattinata’s city center.

Day 2-3: Discover the natural wonders of Gargano National Park such as Baia delle Zagare beach, hiking in Monte Saraceno and mystical rides in Foresta Umbra.

Day 4-6: Visit cultural and historical sites like Santuario di San Michele Arcangelo, Centro Storico and churches. Enjoy a food tour and taste various local dishes and wines.

Day 7: Depart from Mattinata.

Food and Drink Scene of Mattinata

When it comes to culinary delights, Mattinata has a lot to offer. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Orecchiette alle cime di rapa: Local pasta with turnip greens, olive oil, garlic, and chili.
  • Burrata: Freshly made mozzarella filled with cream or butter. It goes exquisitely with almost every other food you can imagine.
  • Seafood: Mattinata is near the coast, meaning that there are plenty of delicious seafood options to try. Fried calamari and grilled octopus are among the best.

Local Beverages

  • Primitivo Wine: This is an intense and fruity red wine originated around the area of Manduria, in Apulia.
  • Negroamaro Wine: Typically a medium-bodied wine with vivid ruby garnet hue, Negroamaro is often characterized by aromas of dried fruit and hints of Mediterranean herbs like thyme.

Where to Stay in Mattinata: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mattinata has a variety of accommodation options to suit every need and budget. Here are some of the best options to consider:

  • Hotel Baia delle Zagare: A luxurious hotel located around Baia delle Zagare, providing beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.
  • Masseria Cielogreco: An authentic farmstead-cum-bed-and-breakfast located near the Foresta Umbra forest, providing delicious food and serene views.
  • Albergo Il Porto: A budget-friendly hotel, located near the scenic port and Centro Storico, great rates for those on a budget.

What to Buy in Mattinata: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bring a piece of Mattinata back with you by purchasing some local products and souvenirs such as:

  • Ceramic Pottery: Mattinata has a long history of handmade pottery. Look for olive oil pots or plates with colorful designs.
  • Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: The region of Apulia is known for producing some of the finest and purest olive oils in the world, make sure to buy some freshly produced in Mattinata.
  • Biscotti: Try some of the local baked goods such as almond and chocolate biscotti or taralli, a crispy, savory snack.

Local Culture and Customs of Mattinata

The people of Mattinata are friendly and very hospitable. Italian is the official language, but many of the locals speak English. Locals are deeply tied to their roots in Gargano and often celebrate traditional festivals and holidays such as the Feast of San Michele.

Best Time to Visit Mattinata

The best time to visit Mattinata is in the months between May to September. Although summers can be warm in Mattinata, the sea breezes make it quite mild for tourists. Don’t forget to keep your sunscreen handy!

Do’s and Don’ts of Mattinata

Do:

  • Learn some of the Italian language to help you communicate with locals
  • Take in the beautiful natural scenery
  • Try the local cuisine and wine

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural beauty of the landscape
  • Leave your valuables unattended
  • Forget to dress appropriately for certain cultural or religious sites

Safety and Health

Safety in Mattinata

Mattinata is a safe town but as always, tourists should take precautions to avoid any petty thefts. It’s essential to make sure you keep your valuables safe and never leave them unattended.

Health in Mattinata

Travelers planning to visit Mattinata need to be aware of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the town has no history of any concerning health issues. Always make sure to get regular vaccinations when visiting a new region and drink plenty of water to avoid heat exhaustion.

Getting to Mattinata: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mattinata

The closest airport to Mattinata is the Bari International Airport, about 112km away. Another option is the Brindisi Airport, which is 133km away. From either airport, you can rent a car or take a train to reach Mattinata.

Bus Stations Near Mattinata

The Foggia bus station is 50km away from Mattinata and serves as a connection to all nearby destinations. There is a regular bus you can ride that takes you directly to town.

Other Options

There are also car rentals, taxis, and ferry services available. Visitors can choose the ideal transportation option to suit their needs.

How to Get Around in Mattinata

The best way to explore Mattinata is on foot as it’s a small town. Hiring a car or bike is a great option to explore the nearby region. There are also buses and taxis, but they might not be frequent.

Where to Go Next from Mattinata: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mattinata is located in the heart of Gargano National Park and near several beautiful towns and cities. Here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Matera: Drive about 180km to one of the most remarkable cities in southern Italy. You will feel lost in time due to the ancient architecture and artistic rock dwellings.
  • Bari: Located around 100km away, the capital city of Apulia, offers plenty to do for travelers.
  • San Giovanni Rotondo: A small town located around 20km from Mattinata, well known for the Padre Pio Sanctuary and religious events.

Conclusion

Mattinata is an extraordinary destination, where visitors can experience the best of national parks, history, culture, food, and stunning coastal beauty. With so much to do and see, it’s a destination that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re traveling solo, with your family, or a group of friends, Mattinata has something for all kinds of adventurers.

Faraglione Faraglione Chiesa SS.Maria della Luce Chiesa SS.Maria della Luce Abbazia SS. Trinità Monte Sacro Abbazia SS. Trinità Monte Sacro Roman villa Agnuli Roman villa Agnuli Monte Saraceno necropolis Monte Saraceno necropolis