Fort and Culture in Taranto

Drive along the coast of the Ionian sea on the scenic route. You can stop on the way to take photos. Porto Cesareo is a good place to stop to enjoy the seaside and have a swim before reaching Taranto.

Have lunch at the red cat, one of the finest restaurant in Taranto. Seafood is the specialty here. The chef is quite renowned. It is better to book a table in advance on their website.
Open hours Tuesday - Sunday 12:00 - 14:30, 19:00 - 23:30 Closed on Mondays.

Visit the archeological museum of Taranto, it is one of the most important in Italy. It houses the biggest collection of Greek terracotta figures in the world. It is mostly dedicated to the archeology of ancient Taranto of course.
Open hours Monday - Saturday 8:30 - 19:30 Sunday 9:00 - 13:00, 15:30 - 19:30 Closed on Mondays.

The Aragonese castle is a huge construction from the 15th century. It is right next to the bridge that joins the old and new part of town. You will get a guided tour from a naval officer. Check their website to see when there is a tour in English.
Open hours Monday - Sunday 9:00 - 23:00.

Across the street from the castle, you will find some ruins. There are two columns left from the Temple of Poseidon. This is the beginning of the old town.

Walk through the old town until the cathedral from the 15th century. It is very worthwhile stepping inside to see the chapel of San Cataldo, a masterpiece covered with colorful marble and frescoes. San Cataldo was an Irish monk who lived and was buried here in the 7th century.
Open hours Monday - Sunday 8:30 - 12:45, 16:30 - 19:30.

To end the day, have some food with a drink at this cool cafe next to the cathedral.
Open hours Monday - Friday 9:00 -23:00 Saturday 17:00 - 2:00 Closed on Sundays.