The must-see streets of Otranto's historic center

Every time I arrive in Otranto and leave the castle behind, I find myself on two streets that feel like the heart of the old city: Via Immacolata and Corso Garibaldi. These aren't just paths linking ancient monuments to everyday Salento life. They mix shops, scents, and chatter that instantly put you in vacation mode.

Via Immacolata is the first to catch your eye. It's a narrow street paved with ancient stones worn by centuries of footsteps. It winds between walls and offers glimpses of the sea. As you walk, you'll find artisan shops and small stores selling extra virgin olive oil, myrtle or prickly pear liqueurs, and gelato (a big temptation for me, always on a diet 😄). It's the perfect spot to buy a souvenir. And if you're hungry, a warm puccia or a rustico leccese awaits you at one of the bakeries along the way. Prices are reasonable.

Then there's Corso Garibaldi, the livelier and more open artery. It's completely pedestrian, so you can stroll without worries, with restaurant tables spilling onto the pavement and street music accompanying you. The vibe here is more dynamic: shops blend Salento style with modern trends, and lounge bars offer sunset aperitifs. It's the nightlife hub: not chaotic, but always lively. It's not Gallipoli.

That's why both streets are perfect day or night. In the evening, Via Immacolata becomes intimate and charming, with shops open late and restaurants buzzing with cheerful voices. Corso Garibaldi turns into an open-air lounge: a glass of wine in hand, the sea in the air even if you can't see it.

Both start near the Aragonese Castle. Step out from the castle square, and in a few steps, you're in the maze of Via Immacolata's alleys. Corso Garibaldi naturally leads you toward the port and the Passeggiata degli Eroi. From here, it's easy to reach the Cathedral with its incredible mosaic, the little church of San Pietro, or just enjoy the sea view from the walls. These central, convenient streets are the perfect starting point to explore Otranto at a leisurely pace.

Yes, they're accessible to almost everyone. Corso Garibaldi is wide and straight, perfect even with strollers or if walking is tough. Via Immacolata has some uneven spots, but nothing too hard. In summer, it's a joy: you eat outside, smell fresh-baked bread, and hear a guitarist's serenade.

What makes these streets special is this: they're not open-air museums, they're real life. You see a ceramic artisan at work, a grandma chatting with tourists, a fisherman bringing fresh fish to his grandson's restaurant. Every step gives you a piece of Salento, with history, scents, and smiles. For me, after the cathedral, these are my favorite spots. I stroll slowly with ice cream in hand, and it's perfect.

If you're planning a visit to Otranto, spend time on these streets. And if you want to explore seaside walks nearby, check out my guide on the Lungomare degli Eroi or the must-see beaches of Otranto.