Amusement parks in Salento - here are the most beautiful ones

What to do during a vacation in Apulia? What to see?

If you are wondering what are the most beautiful places to visit or are looking for advice on what to do and where to go even with children in tow, a good answer is amusement parks!

In Salento, among water parks, adventure parks and wildlife parks suitable for both adults and children, there is no shortage of alternatives to the classic day at the beach! Then, if you are willing to travel a few more miles or want to plan a stop during the long crossing of Puglia (from Foggia to S. Maria di Leuca is a good 400 km!), you can expand the list with amusement parks in the Bari and upper Brindisi area. Pen and paper, then, here are our tips.

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Splash water park in Gallipoli

A historic aquapark for Salento, for 30 years a top destination for those on vacation in Puglia, chosen by an average of 300 thousand visitors each season. Gallipoli's Splash is located on the Ionian coastline Gallipoli - S. M. al Bagno, in Rivabella, a few kilometers from the beaches of Gallipoli and Nardò. It provides waterslides, waterfalls, castles and doughnuts for playing in the pool. Also for children's fun is the Fabilandia area, with inflatables, far west train, trampolines, enchanted castle, space shuttle, mini cars, basketball, beach volleyball court. A day at Splash in Gallipoli also offers DJs, speakers, dancers, street performers. And between games you can rest in the green areas between umbrellas and sunbeds or grab a bite to eat in the restaurant/pizzeria inside.

If you are planning to spend a stay in Salento and don't want to miss all the fun of the spalsh water park, look among our vacation rentals in Gallipoli for the housing solution that best suits your needs.

Amusement parks in the province of Brindisi

Carrisiland Acquapark and Amusement forest

Cellino San Marco (Brindisi)

Pirates of the Caribbean-themed aquapark and amusement park for the little ones, with shows and cartoon areas where children can meet fairy tale favorites. The park, 200,000 square meters of attractions, is located in Cellino San Marco, on s.p. 51 in the direction of Oria, 30 km from Lecce. A 60-hectare forest offers various fairy tale-themed environments, with a Wild West saloon, Indian village, Tarzan village, Hansel & Gretel, ponies, and a rodeo. Grown-ups, on the other hand, can stroll through the park and breathe in clean air and Mediterranean essences at their leisure, refreshment in the picnic areas. The water park, on the other hand, is all Pirates of the Caribbean themed and offers solariums, sunbeds, whirlpools, waterfalls, pools, magic castle waterslides, multipista, wave pool.

Naughty Donkey Adventure Park

Ostuni (Brindisi)

Sport and fun! The Ciuchino Birichino Adventure Park in Ostuni, in the upper Salento region, is developed in a private area of more than 80 hectares with trails suspended in centuries-old trees, survival, trekking, orienteering, walking, carriage rides and a variety of sports activities dedicated to nature lovers of all ages. The goal is to combine knowledge and respect for nature with the wholesome fun of sports, the excitement of climbing trees and flying through the foliage of majestic oak trees, exploring the forest, walking with horses, archery and yoga in a centuries-old forest. Ciuchino Birichino is located in Ostuni, on s.p. 17 Ostuni Cisternino and is 3 km from the center of the white city.

Zoo Safari Fasanolandia zoo and amusement park

Fasano (Brindisi)

One of the largest zoos in Europe, a great classic of Apulian amusement, active since 1973. The safari zoo in Fasano, in the province of Brindisi, and Fasanolandia, an amusement park just a stone's throw away, are two really recommended stops for those on vacation in Puglia. The car, RV or bus route inside the zoo allows visitors to see lions, tigers, giraffes, bears, camels and many other species from around the world in semi-freedom. By taking the footpath, on the other hand, gorillas, chimpanzees, gibbons, baboons and lemurs, as well as lycaons and large birds, can be observed from very close range. A scenic little train on rails, then, takes visitors to the Lake of the Large Mammals, the park's most picturesque corner with islets and waterfalls, home to waterfowl, seals, white rhinos, hippos, brown bears, polar bears and, neatly arranged on the islets, the very agile white-handed gibbons. Also in the park is a reptile aquarium, a Madagascar room, laboratory for scientific, sensory, tactile and interactive experiences, and a sector dedicated to ocean fauna. Fasanolandia, on the other hand, is an amusement park located a very short distance away, also in Fasano, with more than 25 attractions for young and old alike.

Our suggestion? Stop for a weekend in Salento and visit both amusement parks in the Valle d'Itria: here you will find all our vacation rentals in Brindisi close to the amusement parks to ensure a few days of relaxation.

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Amusement parks in the province of Bari

Miragica amusement park

Molfetta (Bari)

Just outside the borders of Salento, 20 km from Bari, Miragica is an amusement park with attractions and sets to entertain the whole family. It's worth a stop and a fun break. From calmer rides for children ages 3 and up, such as the Carousel with castles and carriages or The Prankster's Town, to more adrenaline-pumping rides like the Girabugia or the Senzafiato, Miragica offers 21 attractions to spend a few hours in a fairy world. A few meters away there's also an Outlet Center for shopping, which never hurts.

Indiana Park adventure park

Castellana Grotte (Bari)

A beautiful oak forest on the outskirts of the town of Castellana Grotte, just a few kilometers from the villages of Cisternino, Alberobello and Polignano a mare. The park features thrilling acrobatic courses suspended among the trees, truly suitable for everyone. Tibetan bridges, climbing nets, ropes, swinging logs, catwalks and extra-long cables give life to the thrilling tyroleanes, to fly from tree to tree. For children under the age of 6, 9 trails have been equipped in the Quercino Park area, 8 trails for children ages 6 to 11 and 5 for teens and adults.

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The dinosaur park prehistoric park

Castellana Grotte (Bari)

A prehistoric park with realistic reproductions of dinosaurs from the Jurassic era, sounds and movements of amphibians, primordial fish and reptiles. The Dinosaur Park in Castellana Grotte, in the province of Bari, is practically an open-air museum with life-size animals, fossils and thematic trails divided by eras of prehistory. Children are sure to be amazed, and parents will be happy to combine a fun experience with a very informative time as well.

Acquapark Egnatia - water park

Monopoli (Bari)

In Monopoli, on the coast road to Savelletri, Acquapark Egnazia is a large water park where fun is guaranteed. Welcoming you is aenormous swimming pool capable of accommodating 800 people, giant ocean waves, areas for sports activities (soccer, basketball, volleyball, fitness, elastic beds, etc.), shopping booths, picnic areas, video games, and entertainment at all hours of the day for adults and children. In addition, greenery, dombra areas, and foggers will know how to cool off even the most torrid days.

If then at the end of the long day in the amusement park you need to stop and rest or if you want to plan your vacation in the surroundings, here you will find the most beautiful villas for rent in Bari. Choose the one that best suits your desires and enjoy the fun-filled vacation.

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News

VIPs in Salento: Borghese and Chiambretti, Fedez and Littizzetto on Apulian beaches

Borghese and Chiambretti: an unexpected encounter on the beaches of OtrantoThe meeting between Alessandro Borghese and Piero Chiambretti was undoubtedly one of the most curious and amusing moments of this Salento summer. The two were spotted together on the beach in Otranto, immortalized in a social post by Borghese himself. The well-known chef and TV host, the face of "4 Restaurants," shared with his followers a photo showing him under the umbrella with the comedian and presenter from Turin, commenting ironically: "When you least expect it! Me take a bath with Chiambretti!".This meeting was a pleasant surprise for both of them, who decided to spend a few moments together, captivated by the beauty of the Salento sea. The chef's love for Salento is well known and his bond with this land continues to grow, confirming it as a favorite destination for his vacations.READ ALSO: Otranto: the most beautiful beaches of the Adriatic.Fedez: the DJ set that lights up Gallipoli's PrajaSalento is not only sea and relaxation, but also fun and music. Among the most anticipated events of summer 2024, Fedez's DJ set at Gallipoli's Praja, scheduled for Friday, August 2, stands out. Federico Leonardo Lucia, better known as Fedez, is not only a successful rapper and TV personality, but also a real trend setter and social star, with over 14 million followers on Instagram and 4 million monthly listeners on Spotify.His performance at Praja, one of Salento's top clubs, managed by Musicaeparole, is a must-see event for music and nightlife lovers. Fedez, with his charisma and hits, is ready to make the audience go wild on the notes of his new single "Sexy Shop," made in collaboration with Emis Killa. A song that is already blowing up on radio stations and summer playlists, consecrating itself as one of the summer 2024's catchphrases.READ ALSO: Gallipoli discos: the best of Salento's movida.Luciana Littizzetto: a relaxing break in the heart of SalentoNot only music and unexpected encounters, but also moments of relaxation. Among the well-known faces spotted this summer in Salento is Luciana Littizzetto. The Piedmontese comedian, host and actress chose the province of Lecce for a rejuvenating break. After a year of intense work, Littizzetto decided to treat herself to a few days of tranquility, away from the spotlight, to enjoy the natural beauty and welcoming climate of Salento.VIPs in Puglia for summer 2024Many other VIPs were spotted in Puglia over the course of the summer, including: Antonio Conte, who took some time off in Porto Cesareo, Bruno Vespa for his son's wedding in Oria, Fiorello and Gianni Morandi, in Gallipoli, Stefano Accorsi in Leverano, and Teo Mammuccari inTricase.Salento, therefore, once again confirms itself as one of the favorite destinations for Italian VIPs. Between crystal clear sea, exclusive events and a unique atmosphere, this corner of Puglia continues to attract and enchant. A summer of fun and relaxation, with exceptional protagonists who, also this year, have chosen to live in Salento.Do you also want tips to live a VIP Summer in Salento? Click here!BarbarHouse has an extensive catalog of vacation homes and villas in Italy.Its offer covers all kinds of needs: from apartments in the city or in historic centers to villas by the sea, and even budget and luxury accommodations such as hotels, residences and B&Bs.Authors: the BarbarHouse editorial staff
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Guides

Salento Sea

What is the most beautiful sea in Salento?Bay of Turks (Lecce)When the sea of Puglia calls, Salento does not go unprepared and responds with one of its most beautiful beaches: Baia dei Turchi, another splendid gem set in the region's most coveted and beloved beach destinations of Italian summers.READ ALSO:Baia dei Turchi free beachWhere is the most beautiful sea in Puglia?The most beautiful beaches in Puglia, discover them all: Baia dei Turchi, Otranto. Punta Prosciutto, Porto Cesareo. Porto Selvaggio, Nardò. San Pietro in Bevagna, Manduria. Torre dell'Orso, Melendugno. Grotta della Poesia, Roca Vecchia. Porto Badisco, Otranto. Cala dell'Acquaviva, Marittima.Where to go to sea in Salento today? Rivabella in Gallipoli Beaches of Lido Pizzo Otranto Torre dell'Orso San Foca San Cataldo Frigole CasalabateWhat is the best area in Salento?Among all the places to visit in Salento we recommend: Lecce, Brindisi, Otranto, Ostuni, Castro, Galatina, Nardò, Copertino, Leverano, Specchia, Presicce, Giurdignano, Maglie, Martano, Matino, Ruffano, and Parabita.READ ALSO: Villagesand villages in Salento.What is the most beautiful place in Salento?The most beautiful beaches in Salento Punta Prosciutto, Porto Cesareo (LE) Porto Selvaggio, Nardò (LE) Torre Lapillo, Porto Cesareo (LE) Le Due Sorelle, Torre dell'Orso (LE) Punta della Suina, Gallipoli (LE) Cala dell'Acquaviva, Marina di Marittima (LE) Cave of Poetry, Melendugno (LE) Beaches of Castro Marina (LE)What is the most beautiful beach in the Maldives of Salento?The Maldives of Salento known now for the characteristic colors of the sand and sea, so much so that it is compared to the "real" Maldives. In fact, however, it has nothing to envy the most famous beaches in the world. We are in Pescoluse, a marina in Salve, awarded the Blue Flag and 3 Sails by Legambiente.READ ALSO: Maldives of Salento, Marina di Pescoluse: what to do and seeWhere to find crystal clear sea in Puglia?Punta della Suina is a beach located in Gallipoli, on the coast of the Regional Natural Park Isola di Sant'Andrea e Litorale di Punta Pizzo. Its beautiful crystal clear water and white sand have earned it the name "Caribbean of the Ionian Sea."READ ALSO: Discover in Lido Marini the Caribbean beach.Where the cleanest sea in Puglia?Torre dell'Orso has the cleanest sea in Puglia.READ ALSO:Thebeaches in Torre dell'Orso: the crystal-clear sea in southern Italy.White beaches of Puglia what they areWhite beaches of Salento : The Maldives of Salento, the exotic charm of Pescoluse White beaches of Vieste Ostuni's white beaches Peschici's white beaches White beaches of Torre dell'OrsoWhere to find calm sea in Salento?When the wind blows from the east, the calm sea is the Ionian Sea, particularly in the stretch from Gallipoli to Taranto, passing through the marinas of Nardò, Porto Selvaggio, Porto Cesareo and Torre Lapillo.READ ALSO: Beaches of Salento: which one to choose? The wind tells you -Where to swim in Salento? Bay of Turks Bahia Porto Cesareo Togo Bay Beach Porto Selvaggio Baia Verde Beach Le Cinque Vele Beach Club Punta Prosciutto Beach Lido Punta della SuinaWhat is the sea like in Porto Cesareo?Porto Cesareo's coastline stretches for about 17 km and boasts both sandy stretches and rockier stretches where there are quiet coves. The coast is essentially made up of two rivieras: the eastern one, which also encloses the town's city beach, and the western one.What is the most beautiful beach in Porto Cesareo?The beach of Punta ProsciuttoThe beach of Punta Prosciutto undoubtedly represents one of the most beautiful places to swim in Porto Cesareo.READ ALSO:The most beautiful beaches in Porto Cesareo.What is the most beautiful place in Puglia to go to the beach?Considered one of the most beautiful beaches not only in Puglia but in our entire peninsula, the beach of Marina di Pescoluse is also known as the "Maldives of Salento." Here a beautiful sandy shore and crystal clear sea waters give days of true relaxation in a unique natural environment.Which beaches are part of the Maldives of Salento?But the question is, where are the Maldives of Salento located? They are between S. Maria di Leuca and Gallipoli. More precisely, they are about 6 km of coastline between Torre San Giovanni and Torre Vado, where right in the middle is the beating heart of these tropical beaches: the small resort of Pescoluse.What is the sea like in Otranto?Otranto boasts a coastline about 25 km long where there are beautiful beaches washed by clear sea. The northernmost part is characterized by more sandy shores while the southern part hosts rocky stretches overlooking the sea.READ ALSO: Otranto: the most beautiful beaches of the Adriatic.Looking for more tips to enjoy your Salento vacation to the fullest?Click here!BarbarHouse has an extensive catalog of vacation homes and villas in Italy.Its offer covers every kind of need: from apartments in the city or in historic centers to villas by the sea, up to economic and luxury accommodations such as hotels, residences and B&Bs.Authors: the BarbarHouse editorial staff
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Events

Events and festivals in Salento 2024

Are you curious to find out what are the unmissable events and festivals in Salento for this year? In this article you'll find an updated list of the most interesting events that will be held in the province of Lecce in 2024. Are you planning your vacation in Salento and don't want to miss the opportunity to have fun? That's why it's essential to know about the events, patronal festivals, sagre, festivals and many other activities to fully immerse yourself in Salento traditions and have an unforgettable experience!Tip: For all events and festivals in Salento, we recommend checking the official websites to verify updated dates and programs.Salento events: Salento and folklore.As everyone knows, Salento is the home of the Pizzica, an ancient and unique dance. Its origins date back to the early 19th century during the Bourbon reign, while some scholars trace its birth to the year 1000. Initially used as a remedy for tarantula bites, today it is a popular Salento folk dance.During the Salento summer, it's possible to see Pizzica performances in village festivals and celebrations, but the highest expression of this ancient tradition is found in the famous Taranta Night in Melpignano. Every year in August, thousands of people gather to dance and go wild to the rhythm of the Pizzica. This now internationally renowned event hosts high-caliber artists such as Al Bano, Madame, Il Volo, Fiorella Mannoia and many others each year, and is broadcast live on RAI.Here we can be enchanted by the best dancers and Pizzica dancers, as well as by the music of the orchestra formed by talented maestros. The party continues late into the night, enveloped in the magic of this incredible dance. The Notte della Taranta 2024 will be held on August 24 in Melpignano: don't miss it! In addition to local artists, organizers are also inviting national and international artists, making the event a true Night of the Peoples.READ MORE:The authentic villages of Grecìa Salentina.Events and Festivals in SalentoOf festivals and festivals in Salento if they are organized throughout the year to keep the tradition alive. Summer, however, is the heyday with cultural events, folklore, concerts, festivals, patronal festivals and so much more. In short, you won't have time to get bored; in fact, you'll be spoiled for choice!READ MORE: Gastronomy in Torre dellorso: the authentic flavors of SalentoEvents and Festivals in Salento 2024Like markets in Salento, Salento festivals and sagre are a time of gathering where local products become protagonists, along with music, dance and moments of conviviality. In recent years, unfortunately, we have had to give up these pleasant events that so characterize our land, but slowly we will return to the enthusiasm and desire for fun with many events and festivals in Salento. In fact, since 2022 many of the most beautiful events and festivals in Salento have restarted, now waiting for us will be new dates for 2024.Read on to find out the dates of events and festivals in Salento in 2024.Events and festivals in Salento in MayMay 26Cortili Aperti (Open CourtyardsEvents and festivals in Salento in JuneMay 31 to June 3 Leverano in Fiore in Leverano, a wonderful event in which florists and floriculturists from all over the world compete in creating wonderful floral arrangements that make this small village a charming garden;June 3 Blue Night in Gallipoli, a beautiful ecofestival allinsegna of music, entertainment, shows and more;June 15 to June 18 the Feast of St. Sebastian in Racale, a Salento patron saint's festival that is deeply felt in the village;June 27 PugliArmonica Festival at Masseria Melcarne, an annual event dedicated to the celebration of tradition, organized by PugliArmonica, an Apulian association committed since 2015 to safeguarding the authentic traditions of patronal festivals in Puglia. During this unique festival, themes of Apulian culture and traditions come to life through a series of engaging activities [to be confirmed]June 28 and 29 Sagra del Centro Storico Festival of Ss. Peter and Paul in Otranto, the opening event of the Otranto summer season;READ ALSO: What to see in Otranto's historic center.Events and festivals in Salento in JulyJuly 7 and 9 Battiti Live in Gallipoli, one of the most important events in Lecce and province! This is a big free concert that takes place in various parts of Puglia and hosts national and international artists, also broadcast on Mediaset;July 6-7-8 Feast of Santa Domenica in Scorrano, stands out among the most important patronal festivals in Salento, thanks to the installations of illuminations, which become real works of art with spectacular musical shows;July 13-14-15-16 Salento Street Food Festival in Soleto with more than 50 typical products from all over Italy, wines, beer, music and entertainment;July 21-22-23 Sagra de lu ranu in Merine, an event that enhances the flavors of traditional Salento cuisine;July Pomegranates on truck, a dinner under the stars in the romantic setting of the Salento countryside, under the banner of good food and good wine on the Provincial Road Lecce Arnesano (SP 119) Monteroni di Lecce Reservations are required, find more information here. July 29-30Li sapori te na fiatain Melendugno with markets and displays of handicrafts, vintage cars and motorcycles, work tools and live music; July 28, 29 and 30 Historic Cavalcade of Nardò: a unique event with dinner with the Guercio, educational exhibits, book presentations, guided tours and many performances in addition to the wonderful historical parade.July 28-31 Festa Te La Uliata by ActionAid Lecce in Caprarica di Lecce. Over four nights you can experience the authentic experience of the village through food, music and traditions. Food stands will serve traditional dishes and local delicacies, accompanied by wine and fresh beer. There will be markets of arts, crafts and 0-km products, an area dedicated to children, and the fun Hazel Spitting Contest. Salento folk music will be featured with several bands, such asTAMBURELLISTI DI TORREPADULIandI BRIGANTI DI TERRA DOTRANTO. Levento will culminate withALLA BUAwho will perform on the last night.July 31 Panariello vs Masini the return, scheduled among the events in Salento dellestate 2024 will be Marco Masini and Giorgio Panariello in a new challenge between jokes and songs, for more than two hours of entertainment! An event that will be held in the moat of Otranto Castle. We recommend buying tickets in advance here.Events and festivals in Salento in AugustAugust 1-2-3-4-5-6-7 Beer and Sound in Leverano, a festival that promotes the area and enhances, precisely, the beer accompanied by the delicacies of Salento gastronomy. Thousands of people come here every year to eat, drink the delicious beer and dance late into the night. It is, in fact, among the most anticipated events and festivals in Salento;August 1-2-3-4-5-6 Taste Market in Maglie, the perfect combination of food and culture, to savor the food and wine excellence of Salento;August 5-6-7-8 Sagra te lu Purpu in Melendugno, one of the most anticipated events of the Salento summer, whose protagonist, in this case is octopus cooked in all sauces. There will of course be no shortage of musical accompaniment!August 5 Anna Oxa will be one of the many concerts in Salento dellestate 2024, with a stop on her Voce Sorgente tour. The show will be held in the moat of Otranto Castle. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance here.August 6-7-8 Sagra del Carnevale in Galatone will combine the joy of carnival with gastronomy, with typical Salento dishes and lots of good music;08 August Concerts in Salento in August will include that of the extraordinary Amedeo Minghi, which will be held in the moat of Otranto Castle.We recommend buying tickets in advance here.August 10-14 Municeddha Festival in Cannole. Prominent among the festivals in Salento is the Municeddhra Festival, an event that features food stands, bands that take turns with popular music, pizzica and fun, stalls and more!August 12 Notte Bianca in Specchia, one of the most striking events in Lecce and province, of cultural and artistic interest, with music, food stands and stalls scattered throughout the village;August 24-25-26 Feast of SantOronzo in Lecce, is one of the largest and most heartfelt patronal festivals in Puglia, especially in the province of Lecce, with music, illuminations, stalls, rides and fireworks;Pomegranates on truck, a dinner under the stars in the romantic setting of the Salento countryside, under the banner of good food and good wine on the Provincial Road Lecce Arnesano (SP 119) Monteroni di Lecce Reservations are required, find more information here.Events and festivals in Salento in SeptemberPomegranates on truck, a dinner under the stars in the romantic setting of the Salento countryside, under the banner of good food and good wine on the Provincial Road Lecce Arnesano (SP 119) Monteroni di Lecce Reservation is required, find more information here.Concerts in SalentoIn addition to events and festivals in Salento, the area often hosts national and international artists in wonderful concerts, usually held in seaside resorts, such as Gallipoli. To see the full list of concerts in Salento 2024 visit the Parco Gondar website.READ ALSO: Parco Gondar: big names confirmed for summer 2024 in Gallipoli. Looking for accommodation in Salento? Browse our categories!Villas with pool in SalentoVacation homes in SalentoApartment in Salento
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