Things to do in Nardò and around

At Palazzo Tafuri, we are happy to be your gateway to a wide range of handpicked activities to make your holiday a memorable one.

Wellness in Nardò: Spa, pool & the nearby nature and sea

When you want a break from the fast pace, stay at the hotel and let us spoil you. Take a plunge in our pool or relax in our Spa. You can also join one of our personal trainers for a sunrise yoga session.

Our staff can arrange a peaceful boat or catamaran trip so you can sunbathe, snorkel, dive, or enjoy a swim in the open sea. The region offers several pedestrian and cycling paths that lead to postcard-worthy views at the Porto Selvaggio Nature Reserve and the Palude del Capitano. You can walk or bike throughout the entire area.

Outdoor sports in Salento: sea, nature & open-air adventures

Are you looking for something sportier and more adventurous? If the sea is calling, the nearby beaches are a paradise for surf, kite, and wing foil enthusiasts (on windy days, of course). Or experience the crystal-clear coastline in a kayak. For those who love to stay active, there is no shortage of activities: enjoy a sun-drenched tennis or paddle match, a round of golf in the beautiful countryside of Salento, a friendly volleyball game, or go trail running in the surrounding natural reserve and hike up a cliff for a stunning view.

Slow travel & scenic routes

Perhaps you prefer to slow things down with a leisurely horseback ride through one of the many olive groves or along the marvellous sandy beaches in the area. We can also organise a vintage car tour through the beautiful countryside and charming little towns nearby—a unique way to discover the authentic character and hidden gems of our region.

Local heritage & cultural traditions to discover

Would you rather immerse yourself in local culture and regional traditions? Nardò has it all and we offer plenty of trips that reveal some of its best-kept secrets. Explore the historic center with its baroque architecture and charming piazzas on a guided tour, or get creative with ceramics and carta pesta (Salento’s unique form of papier-mâché) workshops.

Food & wine tasting experiences in Puglia

No trip to Puglia is complete without a tasting tour. We can organize a visit to a local winery, where you can sample robust reds and crisp white wines, not to mention the rosatos this region is so famous for. Alternatively, set off on a tasty excursion to discover the best local olive oils, cheeses, and traditional cuisine in the region.

In Nardò, as well as in the neighbouring towns of Copertino and Leverano, you can explore famous Apulian wineries and taste their Negroamaro, Primitivo, and Susumaniello wines. And if you like beer, there are local microbreweries to explore for craft beers on tap.
For cheese lovers, there are lovely masserie to visit and enjoy some fresh ricotta and mozzarella. Here in Nardò, we have the renowned Masseria Bellimento and Masseria Brusca. When you visit, be sure to try their goat cheeses. The masserie are also worth visiting for their typical historic farm architecture.

Family-friendly holidays in Salento

Families, and especially kids, are going to love all that Palazzo Tafuri has to offer. From mornings spent at the pool and in our Spa, to afternoons at the beach or a trip to Porto Selvaggio Park. Art workshops like ceramics painting for kids or a cooking class, there is something for every age group and no shortage of adventures. Try a pony ride, painting or simply let the little ones indulge in some children’s games.

All of these activities are either at the hotel or just moments from the Palazzo’s front door, and our reception team is always ready to help you choose and plan your perfect day.

In our “Palazzo Tafuri’s guide to exploring Salento & beyond” section, you’ll find more inspiration and tips for exploring the broader area. We’ve also included our top recommendations for the “Best beach spots and beach clubs” in southern Puglia.