Gallipoli with Kids

What do to & Hidden gems

Castles, Beaches & Gelato: A Family Guide to Gallipoli

Cradled by the Ionian Sea, Gallipoli is a fortified island town full of adventure and charm for families. Arriving feels like discovering a pirate hideout—when you cross the old bridge into the walled city, a 13th-century castle stands guard over the harbor. Kids can roam maze-like cobbled lanes and clamber up castle ramparts, pretending to fend off invaders—history here feels like playtime. And when everyone needs a rest, Gallipoli’s small sandy beach and a gelato around every corner keep the fun going.

Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (Sept–Oct) bring warm weather and thinner crowds—ideal for swimming and sightseeing at a relaxed pace. July and August are peak season: the town buzzes with beach parties and festivals, but also heavy crowds and midday heat that can tire little travelers. Plan summer outings for mornings and late afternoons (and make gelato breaks a priority!). Winter reveals a quieter Gallipoli: mild days and empty beaches; some hotels close, but wandering the old town remains delightful. Whatever the season, pack sunscreen, hats, and a spirit of adventure to enjoy this coastal gem.

Getting around

Gallipoli lies about 80 km from Brindisi Airport (1 hour by car) and around 190 km from Bari (just under 3 hours). If you rent a car, the drive through Salento is straightforward—consider detouring along the scenic coast if you have time. Without a car, you can catch a regional train from Lecce to Gallipoli (about 1 hour 30 min, with a station 10 minutes’ walk from the old town) or use summer bus services that connect Lecce with Gallipoli.

Keep in mind the historic centro storico is largely a ZTL (limited traffic zone), especially in summer. Plan to park in the modern part of town and walk across the bridge into the old town. Large parking areas around Via Zacà, the port, or along Lungomare Marconi are convenient (some are free in low season, but in summer expect to pay ~€1–2 per hour). Follow the signs to avoid accidentally entering the ZTL – basically, don’t drive past the bridge.

Gallipoli’s old town is mostly flat and stroller-friendly on main streets, though you’ll encounter cobblestones and a few steps in narrow alleys. A lightweight stroller or baby carrier is recommended. The waterfront promenade is smooth for strollers and dotted with benches for pit stops. If you’re staying in the new town or Baia Verde area, a car or the local little “trenino” shuttle can help, but within the old town walking is the best (and most charming) way to go.

Best Indoor Family Activities in Gallipoli with kids

When the summer sun blazes or you need a break from the beach, Gallipoli offers a few cool retreats that mix fun with a dash of learning. The town’s historic fortress and quirky museums make for engaging escapes into history, and a short drive away, you’ll find an aquarium that brings local sea life up close. Here are our top picks for indoor adventures:

Gallipoli Castle (Castello Angioino)

A medieval fortress guarding the old town. Kids can scamper along its thick walls and peer out battlements, imagining pirate attacks, while you soak up harbor views. Inside there are occasional art exhibits, but the real fun is exploring the stone halls and hidden corners. Plan about an hour to wander—it’s an easy, breezy visit and a cool retreat on a hot day.

Frantoio Ipogeo di Palazzo Granafei

Hidden beneath an old palazzo, this underground olive oil mill shows how locals made olive oil centuries ago. For a few euros, you descend into a cool stone cave with giant millstones and cisterns. It’s a quick visit (15 minutes), but kids find it neat to imagine donkeys turning the wheel in the dark long ago.

Museo dei Bambini Lecce

About 30 minute by car from Gallipoli, this interactive children’s museum in the heart of Lecce is designed for little kids. They learn through open-ended, curiosity-driven play with wind tunnels, light displays, and building activities, all in air-conditioned comfort during 2-hour sessions. Parents join in the fun too, making science discoveries and exploring exhibits alongside their children—an engaging way to create lasting memories while escaping Puglia’s summer heat.

Where to Stay in Gallipoli with Kids

Choosing the right home base makes a world of difference when traveling with children. Gallipoli offers everything from historic-town apartments steps from the action to countryside masserie with pools and room to roam. Many families prefer having a kitchenette for easy snacks, and a pool or nearby beach to unwind between sightseeing. Here are a few family-friendly accommodations:

Palazzo Presta

A stylish boutique B&B in a centuries-old palazzo on the old town’s ramparts. Spacious suites accommodate families (some with extra beds or a terrace). Breakfast on the sea-view terrace includes homemade cakes and fruit. Best of all, you’re steps from the castle, cathedral, and gelato shops—old-world charm with an unbeatable location.

Hypogeum Suites & Apartments

A modern 4-star hotel about 200 m from the sandy Lido San Giovanni beach. It offers family rooms (some connecting) and even a small rooftop pool that kids love. Breakfast has plenty of choices for little ones, and the seafront promenade out front is perfect for evening strolls to nearby gelato shops.

Masseria Li Foggi

A tranquil farmhouse resort about 10 minutes outside Gallipoli, surrounded by olive trees. Family suites have two bedrooms plus kitchenettes. There’s a large pool (with a shallow section for kids) and free bikes for exploring the countryside. A sandy beach in the Punta Pizzo reserve is a short walk through the woods. The on-site restaurant serves farm-fresh meals, and the rural setting is a relaxing break from town.

Best Outdoor Family Activities in Gallipoli with kids

Gallipoli’s surroundings are a natural playground waiting to be explored. Beyond the old town walls, Salento offers everything from thrilling water parks to hidden beaches and pine forests. Local families spend their days cooling off in the Ionian Sea, picnicking under the pines, and enjoying festivals under the stars. Here are some outdoor adventures to experience Gallipoli like a local family:

Splash Parco Acquatico

A water park on Gallipoli’s outskirts that’s perfect for a family day. It has pools and slides for all ages—from shallow splash areas for little ones to big tube chutes and a wave pool for older kids. There’s even a lazy river to float along. Plenty of snack bars and picnic spots make breaks easy. It can get busy, so arrive when it opens to snag a good base and beat the lines.

Parco Naturale Porto Selvaggio

About a 30-minute drive north, this natural park offers a short hike to a rewarding swim. It’s roughly a 20-minute walk (not stroller-friendly, but fine for active kids) through pine woods to reach a rocky cove with amazingly clear water. Older kids might jump off low rocks into the sea, while little ones can paddle at the pebbly shore. There are no facilities (pack water and snacks), but the adventure is worth it. Aim for morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest sun.

Boat Excursions

For a different view of Gallipoli, take a family boat tour from the harbor. Some trips are just an hour, cruising along the coast and around Sant’Andrea Island (with its lighthouse), while others last a half-day and include swim stops. Kids love riding the waves and maybe spotting a dolphin. Most tours provide life jackets for children and sometimes snacks or music. It’s a relaxing way for everyone to enjoy the sea together.

Best Playgrounds & Parks in Gallipoli

After exploring castles and cobblestone alleys, kids sometimes just need to run free. While Gallipoli doesn’t have large theme parks, it offers a few spots where little ones can play and parents can catch their breath. In summer, the town comes alive with evening fairgrounds and pop-up rides, and year-round there are open spaces for a bit of play. Here are a few places to let kids burn off energy:

Lungomare Galilei Promenade

Each evening, Gallipoli’s main waterfront promenade fills with local families out for a stroll. The flat, wide sidewalk along the sea is perfect for kids to run or scooter safely while parents enjoy the breeze. In summer, vendors pop up selling balloons, bubbles, and snacks like roasted nuts. There are benches to rest and gelato shops just across the street. As the sun sets, it’s a picture-perfect (and kid-friendly) scene of Italian life.

Parco Gondar Luna Park (Summer)

In July and August, part of Parco Gondar (near Baia Verde) turns into a pop-up amusement park at night. You’ll find a carousel, bumper cars, inflatables, and other carnival rides for various ages, plus stands with cotton candy and popcorn. Local families come after dinner (around 9 pm) to let kids enjoy the fun. Parents can relax with a drink from a kiosk while the little ones have a blast.

Gallipoli Playground

Gallipoli’s town park is a small green space along Corso Roma (the main street in the new town). There are a few shady trees, benches, and a little fountain—good for a quick break. Local kids sometimes play here, and there’s room for toddlers to toddle around. It’s not a must-see, but handy if you need a calm spot during your wanderings.

Best Gelato & Snacks in Gallipoli

Italian kids know the best part of any day: gelato time! Gallipoli’s gelaterie craft creamy delights using local ingredients like almonds, figs, and seasonal fruits. Between adventures, families can also nibble on Salento’s signature snacks—think warm pasticciotti pastries, crispy panzerotti or rustici (filled savory pastries), and crunchy taralli crackers. These sweet and savory stops aren’t just snacks, they’re cultural experiences that turn ordinary moments magical. Here are some must-try places and bites:

Martinucci Laboratory

A famous local pastry and gelato shop with multiple locations (including one on the old town waterfront). It’s known for creamy gelato in dozens of flavors—try regional picks like fig or toasted almond. They also make excellent pasticciotti (custard-filled pastries) and even offer savory bites like mini pizzas and rustici. Open from morning until late night, so you can pop in for a breakfast treat, an afternoon gelato, or an after-dinner dessert.

Cioccolati Gourmet

An upscale gelato and chocolate shop in the new town (Via Cavalieri di Rodi). They serve artisanal gelato with pure ingredients—fruit sorbets that taste like real fruit, rich chocolates, and creative seasonal flavors. The stylish shop is fun to visit (sometimes you can watch them make chocolates). It’s a great stop for an after-dinner treat while strolling Corso Roma. Parents might sneak in a few gourmet truffles too while kids pick their scoops.

Fish Market Treats

In the morning or late afternoon, the harbor fish market is buzzing. Swing by to show the kids the fishermen’s catch of the day—fish of all shapes and sizes (maybe even an octopus!). A unique local snack sold here is scapece gallipolina: tiny fish fried and marinated in saffron breadcrumbs (bright yellow!). Brave kids might try a bite; if not, it’s still cool to see. You may also spot locals cracking open sea urchins and eating the orange roe on bread. Even without tasting, it's a colorful slice of local culture.

Discover Ostuni's Historic Landmarks & Churches

Gallipoli’s churches and landmarks aren’t stuffy old sites—they’re like time-traveling adventures where kids can discover dragon-slaying saints, golden mosaics, and tales of pirates and knights. The ancient stones here whisper legends that capture young imaginations, turning history lessons into treasure hunts. Best of all, most are free to enter and provide a cool respite on hot afternoons:

Cattedrale di Sant’Agata

Gallipoli’s grand Baroque cathedral sits in the heart of the old town. The outside is elaborate, but stepping inside is the real wow: giant oil paintings cover the ceiling and walls. Point out a few dramatic scenes (dragons, saints, or ships) to spark the kids’ imaginations. It’s quiet and cool—a nice pause from the sun—and entry is free. You might spend just 10 minutes here, but it leaves an impression.

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Purità

A small seaside chapel built by fishermen, famous for its colorful interior. The walls are filled with paintings—some show dramatic or even gruesome scenes that oddly intrigue many kids. The ceiling is covered in painted panels and the floor in vibrant tiles. It’s a quick stop, but the mix of vivid art and ocean breeze outside makes it memorable. If it’s open when you pass by the beach, pop in for a peek.

Fontana Greca (Greek Fountain)

An ancient-looking fountain at the foot of the bridge into the old town. Some say it’s one of Italy’s oldest. What kids love are the carvings on it: mythological figures like Perseus holding Medusa’s head, sea monsters, and nymphs. It’s like a stone comic strip from ancient times! You won’t spend long here, but it’s a neat little history lesson as you walk by (and a fun photo spot with the castle nearby).

Best Family-Friendly Beaches & Beach Clubs in Gallipoli

Gallipoli’s coastline is a paradise for beach-loving families: calm turquoise water, soft sand, and plenty of places to grab a snack or set up camp for the day. Whether you want the convenience of a town beach or the adventure of a nature reserve cove, there’s a spot for you. The Ionian Sea stays warm and gentle from late spring through fall, ideal for little swimmers and splashers. Here are some top family beach options:

Spiaggia della Purità (Old Town Beach)

A small sandy beach right under the old town walls. The water is shallow and gentle, perfect for young kids to splash safely. Local families pop by for quick dips since it’s so central. There are no rental umbrellas or loungers, but you’re steps from cafés and shops if you need anything. It can get crowded on summer afternoons, so morning is best. Bonus: you swim with a view of the old fortifications above.

Baia Verde

Baia Verde is a long stretch of golden sand just south of Gallipoli, famous for clear, warm water. Some sections are free beach and others are private lidos with umbrellas, snack bars, and music. A favorite family spot is Lido San Giovanni at the north end: it has lifeguards, bathrooms, and a small play area. The sea stays shallow far from shore, so even little ones can wade safely. It’s very popular in July and August (expect crowds and a lively vibe), but in June or September you’ll have more room to spread out.

Lido Pizzo (Punta Pizzo Beach)

About a 15-minute drive south, Punta Pizzo offers a quieter beach day in a nature reserve. After a short walk through pine trees, you arrive at a curved bay with shallow, calm water—so shallow toddlers can sit and splash. The pine woods provide some natural shade (a rarity on many beaches!). There’s a private Lido Pizzo at one end where you can rent sunbeds and grab lunch, while the rest is free beach. This spot feels low-key and local; you might even picnic under the trees like Italian families do.

Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Gallipoli

Dining out with kids in Gallipoli is a breeze—Italian culture embraces children at the table. You’ll find restaurants ready with high chairs, friendly waiters who might sneak an extra breadstick to your toddler, and menus flexible enough to please both picky eaters and adventurous foodies. Expect dinner to start later than at home (many locals dine around 8–9 pm), but the family-friendly atmosphere makes it easy to relax. Here are a few tried-and-true spots where you can enjoy local cuisine and a warm welcome:

Dimora Muzio Restaurant

A charming, intimate restaurant inside a historic palazzo. The atmosphere feels elegant yet relaxed, and the outdoor courtyard is beautiful in the evenings. Dishes highlight fresh Salento seafood with thoughtful presentation. Service is friendly and unhurried. A lovely spot for a slow, memorable dinner, especially if you enjoy traditional flavors done well.

Ristorante La Reggia

A welcoming, family-run restaurant known for homestyle Salento cooking. The menu focuses on local specialties, grilled seafood, and hearty pastas. Portions are satisfying, prices are fair, and the staff often feels like you’re eating with friends. Not fancy, but genuinely good food and warm service. Great for a relaxed, authentic dinner.

La Maruzzella

Perfect for a casual seaside meal after the beach. Expect generous portions, super-fresh fish, and classic Pugliese pasta dishes. The view of the bay adds to the experience, especially at sunset. Service can be busy in peak season, but the food is consistently tasty. Ideal for families who love simple, flavorful seafood.