Top 10 Must-See Places in Brindisi

Situated on the Adriatic coast in the Italian region of Puglia, Brindisi is a city shaped by its history, its port, and its deep connection to the Mediterranean. Although it is sometimes slightly overshadowed by better-known destinations in the region, such as Bari, Lecce, Ostuni, it is well worth including on any trip through southern Italy.

Its historic centre is home to historic churches, grand palaces, and fascinating archaeological ruins, while the waterfront offers one of the most pleasant walks in the city. What is more, its location makes it an ideal base for exploring other corners of Puglia.

If you are planning a trip and want to know what to see in Brindisi, take note of these top spots and our suggested one-day itinerary.

1. The Port of Brindisi

The Port of Brindisi is one of the places that best showcases the city's rich history. For centuries, it served as a strategic hub for Mediterranean trade and maritime routes, and even today, it remains one of the city's key focal points.

The harbour area is the perfect spot to start your visit. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, watch the boats coming and going, and soak up the views as you head towards some of the city's main landmarks.

2. The Roman Columns

If you are looking for the top landmarks to see in Brindisi, the Roman Columns are an absolute must.

Located right next to the grand staircase leading down to the port, they are considered one of the iconic symbols of the city. During the Roman era, Brindisi, then known as Brundisium, held immense strategic importance thanks to its key position on the Adriatic.

The columns mark the end of the ancient Appian Way (Via Appia), one of the most important Roman roads, which connected Rome to the south of Italy.

Although only one of the columns remains standing today, the site still gives you a fantastic sense of just how important Brindisi was in ancient times.

3. Scalinata Virgilio

Right next to the Roman Columns you will find the Scalinata Virgilio, a grand staircase connecting the upper part of the city to the port.

It is one of those spots that is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. From here, you can enjoy lovely views over the harbour and take in one of Brindisi's most iconic vistas.

Plus, its location makes it very easy to combine with a visit to the Roman Columns and the waterfront promenade.

4. Piazza Duomo and Brindisi Cathedral

We continue our route through the historic centre until we reach Piazza Duomo, one of the prettiest and most important squares in the city.

Here you will find the Cathedral of St John the Baptist (Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista), originally built during the Norman period and later restored over the centuries. Its interior reveals various stages of Brindisi's rich history.

Piazza Duomo itself is also well worth a relaxed walk, surrounded as it is by historic buildings that form one of the city's key architectural highlights.

Among them, the Portico of the Knights Templar stands out, linked to Brindisi's role as a major gateway for pilgrims and travellers heading to the Holy Land.

5. Palazzo Granafei Nervegna

Another historic building to add to your list of things to see in Brindisi is the Palazzo Granafei Nervegna.

Located right in the heart of the historic centre, this palace now serves as a cultural and exhibition space. Its architecture and central location make it a fascinating stop as you wander through the old town's streets.

Indeed, one of the best ways to get to know Brindisi is simply strolling between its squares, churches, and palaces, taking a detour off the main avenues to discover some of its quieter, hidden corners.

6. San Pietro degli Schiavoni Archaeological Area

Brindisi boasts a rich Roman past, and the San Pietro degli Schiavoni archaeological area is one of the top spots to discover it.

Situated right in the centre of the city, it preserves the remains of ancient Brundisium and offers a glimpse into what part of the Roman town once looked like.

It is a particularly rewarding visit if you want to explore a different side to Brindisi and understand why the city played such a crucial role in Ancient Rome's trade and military routes.

7. Monument to the Italian Sailor

From the centre, you can also head over to the Monument to the Italian Sailor (Monumento al Marinaio d'Italia), located opposite the port.

Unveiled in the 20th century, this structure is shaped like a giant ship's rudder and pays tribute to Italian sailors.

Besides its historical interest, the site offers a different perspective of Brindisi and the harbour. To get there, you can use local transport or pop over by car, which is particularly handy if you are driving along other parts of the coast.

8. Castello Alfonsino and Forte a Mare

Brindisi's strategic importance is especially clear in its coastal fortifications. Standing out among them is the Castello Alfonsino, also known as Forte a Mare.

The fortress is set on the island of Sant'Andrea at the entrance to the harbour, built specifically to defend the city against sea attacks.

Its unique position makes it one of the most striking features of Brindisi's landscape. Before planning your visit, it is worth checking opening times and access conditions, as these can vary.

9. Church of Santa Maria del Casale

Located just a few kilometres from the historic centre, the Church of Santa Maria del Casale (Chiesa di Santa Maria del Casale) is one of Brindisi's most interesting religious buildings.

Built in a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, it is particularly famous for its fine frescoes and intricate interior decoration. Situated close to Brindisi Airport, it makes a great first or last stop if you are flying into the city.

What is more, if you have a hire car, you can easily add it to a driving tour around the outskirts of the city.

10. The Appian Way and Brindisi's Roman Past

To round off our list of top places to see in Brindisi, we must return to the Appian Way (Via Appia).

This ancient Roman road linked Rome with Brindisi, transforming the city into one of southern Italy's most vital hubs. In fact, reaching Brindisi meant arriving at one of the main ports for continuing a journey onwards to the East.

Because of this, you will come across plenty of references to the city's Roman legacy throughout your visit. Following in the footsteps of the Appian Way is a fantastic way to understand the history of Brindisi beyond its individual monuments.

Top Tips for Visiting Brindisi

To get the most out of your trip, it is best to set aside at least one full day for Brindisi, and allow extra time if you want to explore the surrounding area.

The historic centre is easy to explore on foot, so you won't need a car to visit the main landmarks. However, having a vehicle makes a world of difference if you are planning a proper road trip through Puglia to visit nearby highlights such as Ostuni, Lecce, or the coastal beaches.

If you are hiring a car, do keep an eye out for the ZTLs (Zone a Traffico Limitato or Limited Traffic Zones) in Italian city centres to avoid driving into restricted areas.

With DoYouItaly, you can compare a range of car hire options and pick the best vehicle for your trip.

Brindisi: A Must-See Stop in Puglia

Its Roman heritage, stunning churches and palaces, coastal forts, and historic connection to the Appian Way make Brindisi an ideal destination if you want to experience a different side of Puglia.

Now that you know what to see in Brindisi, all that is left to do is plan your itinerary, wander through its historic centre, soak up the atmosphere at the port, and head off to discover some of the region's most beautiful nearby destinations.