Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Italy / Apulia - Puglia / Brindisi
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| | | Take a one night city break |  | Why go on holiday to Brindisi?
If you're on a tour of Italy's southern Puglia region, Brindisi may offer a useful one night city break holiday. Despite the launch of low cost fares to Brindisi, there's no escaping the fact that this is essentially a busy port town that's mainly used as a jumping off point for ferry trips to Greece. Stick around long enough however and you'll discover it has a small historical heart.
How much will it cost?
Look out for Ryanair deals. Prices for a night in a three star hotel in mid June cost around £46 per night.
When should I go?
In summer, temperatures reach 24C and in winter hover between a moderate 8C-10C.
Who is it for?
Travellers looking to hop over to Greece on the ferry who want to recharge their batteries first. Holidaymakers on a driving tour of Puglia who need to make a pit stop. It'll probably disappoint if you're looking for a cultural, short break holiday.
What are the must-sees?
For the Romans, Brindisi was the end of the line – quite literally. The Via Appia, an imperial highway which stretched cross-country from Rome ended at this seaside town and was demarcated by two great columns. Today, only a pair of pedestals remain.
Nevertheless, check out the historic quarter where a modest 11th century cathedral stands in the Piazza del Duomo. Nearby is an archaeological museum.
The town's main sight is a bit of a mouthful to pronounce – the Chiesa di Santa Maria del Casale, near the airport. Built more than 700 years ago, this original Romanesque church has both Gothic and Byzantine touches. To get there, take the airport bus.
Brindisi's other major attraction is the stocky-looking Castello Svevo. You'll be impressed by its grandeur but forget about taking a closer look – the building is occupied by the military and bristles with Keep Out signs.
What will I spend?
Prices vary enormously around the country but as a rough approximation: a litre of petrol 65p; small beer £2.50; roll of film £2.50-£3; moderate restaurant meal £15.50; a four-mile taxi ride £9.50.
Any festivals?
Every May is the Corpus Domini festival, which has its roots in the Middle Ages and the era of Muslims and Crusaders. On the day of the Feast of Corpus Domini, a solemn procession proceeds through the streets of the town, led by a bishop on a white stallion escorted by an entourage of knights. Upon arrival at the beach, the bishop blesses the sea. Celebrations follow with light shows and fireworks.
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| | Fact File : Brindisi |
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| | | Brindisi | | Did you know?
Brindisi's history has been scarred by invasion, plague and earthquake.
Language
Italian
Visas
None required for UK citizens.
Getting there
Ryanair and Alitalia offer services from the UK.
Flying time from London
Three hours.
Getting around
A free minibus transports travellers with a boat ticket between the old and the new ferry terminal. Allow plenty of time to board your ferry, especially in the summer when the port area is jammed with traffic.
Currency
The Euro.
Costs
Prices vary enormously around the country but as a rough approximation: litre of petrol 65p; small beer £2.50; roll of film £2.50-£3; moderate restaurant meal £15.50; four-mile taxi ride £9.50.
Weather
In summer, temperatures reach 24C and in winter hover between a moderate 8C-10C.
Time difference
One hour ahead of GMT
International dialling code from the UK
00 39
Voltage
220V 50Hz, but some places still use the old 125V system - check with your hotel or landlord.
Opening hours
Shops open at 8am, shut at 1pm for a long lunch and then reopen at 3-4pm till 7-8pm. Banks open 8.30am-1.30pm and 2.45pm-4.30pm Mon-Fri.
Health - Before you go
No vaccinations needed. The UK has a reciprocal agreement with Italy regarding healthcare. To take advantage of this you will need to get an EHIC form from any UK post office and make sure you understand how to access this health care when away.
Health - When you are there
A new law states that all foreigners have the same right as Italians to emergency health care. That, plus your E111 form, gives you good access to care. Take the E111 form to the local Unita Sanitaria Locale (USL) office and they will give you the information you need. However, many Italian public hospitals are underfunded, so you may prefer to take out travel insurance so you can use a private clinic.
Warnings
Brindisi is a thieves' paradise in the summer so carry valuables in a money belt and don't leave anything of importance in your car. Women should not walk alone at night.
Emergency
Police - Tel 113. British Embassy in Rome: Via XX Settembre 80a. Tel: 06 482 54 41.
Customs
Siestas are the norm so expect shops to shut between 1pm-4pm. There are strict dress codes for places of worship all over Italy, so be as considerate as possible. People look at each other a lot more than they do in the UK, both men and women. This is normal - Italians take a lot of trouble to look good, they expect it from others and like to admire the results of all that grooming. Men will flirt: be polite. If they're hassling you, be firm, otherwise enjoy it.
Pets
Italy is a qualifying country for the Pet Travel Scheme but there are stringent requirements and documentation to fulfil prior to taking a pet on holiday. This can take some time to organise. Check with your vet.
Tipping
You are not expected to tip on top of restaurant charges or taxi fares. Restaurants usually have a cover charge that includes bread, olive oil and water.
Tourist office
Italian State Tourist Board: 1 Princes St, London W1R 8AY. Tel: 020 7408 1254. Brochure line: 09001 600 280 (calls cost 60p per minute).
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| | Available rental properties in Brindisi |
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