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Authentic Experiences between Nature, History and Tradition.
Discover the authentic soul of Otranto with Il Balconcino di Otranto. We offer exclusive experiences designed to let you experience the best of Salento: nature excursions between the sea and the Mediterranean scrub, historical tours through the streets of the center and immersions in the local culture between flavors, traditions and craftsmanship.
Each activity is selected to offer you true emotions and indelible memories, in a territory that enchants with its wild beauty and its rich cultural heritage.
Book your stay and let yourself be guided to the discovery of Otranto: a journey between relaxation, adventure and authenticity.
Salento culinary experiences: learn to make pasta and taste the flavors of Otranto
Discover the gastronomic tradition of Salento with the culinary experiences of Il Balconcino di Otranto. We organize typical cooking courses where you can learn to make fresh homemade pasta like the real Salento housewives: orecchiette, sagne ‘ncannulate, minchiareddhi (Apulian macaroni) and other traditional formats.
During your stay we will guide you to discover the authentic flavors of Puglia: from turnip tops to meloncelle, from broad beans and chicory to the famous pasticciotto leccese, without forgetting typical desserts such as cartellate, mostaccioli and purceddhruzzi.
A journey through the scents and flavors of our land, designed to let you experience Otranto even at the table, like a true Salento.
Events in Otranto: discover the traditions, culture and magic of Salento.
Otranto is not only crystal clear sea and a fascinating historical center: it is also a lively city, full of events that celebrate its history, culture and traditions. Staying at Il Balconcino di Otranto, you can live authentic experiences by participating in the most popular events of the Otranto calendar.
Here are the main events in Otranto throughout the year:
Festa dei Santi Martiri di Otranto – 13, 14 and 15 August
It is the most heartfelt religious and popular event. Three days of celebrations in honor of the patron saints of the city with processions, concerts, spectacular illuminations and fireworks over the sea.
Festa della Madonna dell’Altomare – Last Sunday in August
Evocative sea procession of the statue of the Madonna, with decorated fishermen’s boats accompanied by the faithful. An unmissable event for those who want to experience the true maritime soul of Otranto.
Otranto Jazz Festival – Mid-July
A summer event that brings great jazz music to the Lungomare degli Eroi and the city’s iconic locations. Perfect for lovers of live music in a breathtaking setting.
Lights and sounds of artists – December and January
During the Christmas period, Otranto is transformed with artistic installations, lights, markets and concerts. An evocative way to discover the city even in winter.
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Experiencing Otranto during one of these events means immersing yourself in the Salento culture, between tradition, music, spirituality and conviviality. Plan your stay with Il Balconcino di Otranto and let yourself be surprised by an authentic Salento, all year round.
Boat trips: discover the sea of Salento from a unique point of view.
Staying at Il Balconcino di Otranto you can live an unforgettable experience: exciting boat trips along the Adriatic coast of Salento, organized on request and accompanied by expert guides of the area.
Set sail to discover the most spectacular inlets of Otranto, in boats equipped for comfort and safety, ideal for small groups in search of authenticity and beauty.
What you will see during the tour:
Baia delle Orte – one of the wildest and most uncontaminated areas, with sheer cliffs and transparent waters.
Grotta della Monaca – famous for its crystalline waters and rocky walls shaped by the wind and the sea.
Baia dei Turchi – legendary beach linked to the Ottoman landing of the 15th century, today a natural paradise.
Capo d’Otranto and Punta Palascia Lighthouse – the easternmost point of Italy, where the Adriatic Sea meets the Ionian Sea.
Excursions can include stops for swimming, snorkeling and moments of relaxation on board, all while respecting the sea and its natural balance.
Info and Reservations
Write to us when booking your stay or ask directly at the facility: we will be happy to help you organize your boat tour in Otranto, adapting it to the weather conditions and your needs.
Discover Otranto from the sea, as you have never seen it before.
Boat rental: explore salento from the sea.
Discover the unspoiled beauty of the Adriatic coast of Salento by renting a boat directly from Otranto. Whether you want to sail through the crystal clear waters, explore sea caves or simply relax in the sun, the boat rental service offers you the opportunity to live a unique and unforgettable experience.
Types of boats available:
Boats without a license: ideal for beginners or those who want a quiet navigation, these boats up to 40 HP can be rented without the need for a boat license.
Inflatable boats and motor boats: perfect for groups or families, they offer more power and space to explore the most remote coasts and caves.
Boats with skipper: for a carefree experience, rely on expert skippers who will guide you to discover the most fascinating places on the coast.
Info and Reservations
Write to us when booking your stay or ask directly at the facility: we will be happy to help you organize your boat tour in Otranto, adapting it to the weather conditions and your needs.
Discover Otranto from the sea, as you’ve never seen it before.
Explore Salento by bike: panoramic itineraries around Otranto.
Experience the freedom of slow and sustainable travel with our bike excursions around Otranto. Staying at Il Balconcino di Otranto, you can start directly from the historic center to pedal along some of the most evocative routes of the Adriatic Salento, among uncontaminated nature, ancient villages and breathtaking views.
Bike excursions are the perfect way to get in touch with the nature of Salento, breathe in the scents of the Mediterranean scrub and enjoy the tranquility of the rural landscapes. Whether you are an expert cyclist or a lover of two-wheeled walks, we will help you build the experience tailored for you.
Recommended itineraries:
Otranto – Baia dei Turchi – Laghi Alimini
An easy route suitable for everyone, through pine forests and paths that run along the sea to the spectacular Baia dei Turchi and the coastal lakes.
Otranto – Punta Palascia Lighthouse – Bauxite Quarry
A panoramic itinerary between cliffs, the easternmost point of Italy and the suggestive quarry with red earth and emerald green lake.
Via Francigena Salentina
Follow one of the most beautiful stretches of the historic pilgrims’ route, pedaling between dry stone walls, olive groves and farmhouse.
Otranto – Porto Badisco – Santa Cesarea Terme
For the most trained cyclists, a coastal itinerary between cliffs, coastal towers and dream coves.
Services on request:
- Bike rental (city bike, trekking, e-bike)
- GPS maps or local cycling guides
- Mechanical assistance and personalized advice
Contact us to organize your bike excursion in Otranto.
Diving: experience Otranto from the depths of the sea.
Diving in Otranto will allow you to experience an authentic and surprising Salento even under the surface of the sea. Whether you are an expert diver or a beginner, we will accompany you to discover one of the most fascinating corners of Puglia.
Discover the charm of the submerged Salento with exciting diving and snorkeling excursions in the crystalline waters of Otranto. With the support of our local partners, we organize guided dives for certified divers and snorkeling experiences for beginners, ideal for exploring the seabed of the Adriatic coast of Puglia
The best diving spots in Otranto:
Grotta delle Cipree
A true underwater paradise, accessible even to less experienced divers. Rich in marine flora and with spectacular plays of light.
Armando cargo ship wreck
Diving for certified divers: a fascinating exploration of history and nature, with schools of fish and breathtaking views.
Walls of Capo d’Otranto
Vertical profiles and submerged canyons populated by sponges, corals, moray eels and damselfish.
Snorkeling at Baia delle Orte and Baia dei Turchi
For those who love swimming on the surface, these coves offer clear seabeds, colorful fish and absolute tranquility.
Services on request:
- Guided dives with a certified instructor
- Snorkeling excursions for families and children
- Rental of scuba gear and wetsuit
- PADI courses for beginners and advanced certifications
Contact us to organize your diving experience in the heart of Salento.
