Castellana Caves: Full Tour, Duration and Cost of €28
At 16 °C even in August, I descend into the Grave and make my way to the Grotta Bianca: two hours that save the best for last
In Puglia, in August, when it's super hot, the obvious choice is to go to the beach. But I found the best cool spot underground in the Castellana Caves, where it's always around 16°C.
I was captivated by Instagram photos, so I bought a 28-euro ticket online for the full two-hour tour. I recommend the longer route to see the White Cave, which you reach at the end. The path is impressive but not too challenging. Plus, it's well-lit and spacious, so it doesn't feel claustrophobic. However, the stairs, especially at the start, and the cement or smooth stone paths can be damp and slippery in spots. I did fine with regular sneakers.
The first big impression is descending into the Grave. Light still filters through the huge natural opening as the path below leads deep underground.
From here, you must continue the visit with a guide. The guide makes a difference because it's not just about admiring stalactites and rock formations. It's about understanding what you see. Thanks to the explanations, you learn their names, explorers' stories, and details you might miss otherwise.
My favorite part was the White Cave because it's the brightest and most spectacular in the complex. The dazzling white and crystalline shapes are visible even before you reach it. Getting there at the end of the visit feels like reaching the happy ending of a great story.
I reached the Caves with the train+bus from Ferrovie del Sud Est, which connects Bari Centrale to the tourist site. I had parked my car in Bari and didn't want to move it, given the difficulty of finding parking in the city. On the Grotte Link platform, I bought the ticket for about 5 euros, choosing "Grotte di Castellana" as the destination. If I did it again, I'd stay directly in Castellana Grotte. After getting to know the area better, I realized it's worth visiting the town too.
