15 Things Best to Do in Andria (Italy)

Fantastic place Andria is situated in the Apulia region of Italy, on the country’s eastern coast. With a population of just over 100,000, this lovely city is a component of the recently created Barletta-Andria-Trani province. Although documents date human habitation from the 10th century onward, the precise origins of the early settlements are still uncertain. The municipality was involved in several feuds during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance and was frequently besieged by both German and Hungarian soldiers. Today, the city serves as a key agricultural hub for the area and is surrounded by a large area of productive farmland. Andria offers some amazing sights and opportunities for people looking for a different kind of vacation. The majestic Castle del Monte is its most well-known landmark, and the city centre also boasts some other great structures, like the Basilica Santa Maria del Miracoli. Andria is home to numerous top-notch restaurants and cafes for those who enjoy fine dining. Andria provides excellent access to some world-class beaches and coastal resorts for individuals who seek to unwind because of its proximity to the shore. Let’s look at the finest activities in Andria:

Miragica Amusement Park

The Miragica Amusement Park is an excellent choice if you want to take the kids out for an action-packed day of fun. This theme park has designated parking and is only 25 minutes northeast of Andria. Additionally, it is close to a large shopping mall. There are numerous rides and attractions inside the grounds of this thrilling park that are appropriate for people and kids of all ages. The amazing Breathless coaster, which reaches speeds of up to 90 km/h, the Strozzagorgo log flume, the high-flying Condor ride, and the hip 4D Scatolamagica theatre are notable attractions. There are a number of eateries and cafes where you can grab a snack or a meal, and your kids will adore the rides here.

Castle del Monte

Visitors to Andria come in droves to see this stunning symmetrical castle, which is very possibly one of the most renowned in all of Italy. The castle is just 20 minutes south of the city and is easily reachable through the SS170 road. The fortress, which was erected in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II, is now a World Heritage Site. One of the most stunning castles ever built, Castle del Monte, has an amazing octagonal design with eight similar octagonal guard towers. Interesting stone sculptures and decorations can be found inside. A stone-carved throne is also present in the throne room, and it is located in one of the window bays. It is imperative that you see this magnificent medieval building when you are in Andria.

Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta

The city’s most important site of worship, better known as Andria Cathedral, dates back to the 12th century. The cathedral was rebuilt in the Baroque style in the fourteenth century, and its front façade has a sizable rose window and an elaborate metal grill covering that encloses the main doors. A massive stone bell tower with a pointed spire also proudly stands nearby. The Crypt of the Holy Saviour, which houses the tombs of Emperor Frederick II’s wives, is a noteworthy aspect of the cathedral’s interior. The cathedral also houses several significant reliquaries and objects of art.

Visit the city of Barletta

Barletta, which is a part of the same province as Andria, offers a fantastic coastline setting for visitors looking to spend a day at the beach. Buses frequently go between Andria and Barletta, and it takes 35 minutes to get there. Barletta is home to several fascinating historical landmarks and tourist attractions, in addition to a few magnificent beaches. The Basilica del Santo Sepolcro, the breathtaking Teatro Curci, the majestic Castello Svevo with its interesting diagonal form, and the enormous bronze Colosso statue are just a few of the city’s noteworthy attractions.

Piazza Catuma

One of Andria’s biggest squares, the Piazza Catuma, has a distinctive layout. This square has been the main hub for events and activities in Andria throughout the city’s history. There is a sizable circular space with a diagonal cross design in the centre of the square. Numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs are located all around this square. In addition, there are many other shopping options in the nearby streets, and the Via Giovanni Bovio is home to several wonderful high-street restaurants and boutique shops. When strolling through Andria, think about stopping at the Piazza and perhaps having a bite to eat at one of the restaurants.

Parco Giuseppe Marano

The spectacular Ulivi Stadium and a sizable public park are both located in the northwestern region of Andria. In addition to being a wonderful place to visit and unwind, this one also provides the chance to play sports like tennis. The Via Achille Grandi and the stadium are connected by a sizable paved promenade that runs through the middle of the park and is bordered by lovely trees. The park’s grounds also include a number of expansive lawns, the charming Piazza della Republica, and an amphitheatre where concerts are frequently staged.

Visit the ancient site of the battle of Cannae

One of the most important conflicts in the history of the Roman Empire was the Battle of Cannae, where Hannibal defeated the substantially stronger Roman Army and over 70,000 soldiers perished, shifting the balance of power in this part of Italy. A fantastic historical location to visit is the archaeological site of Cannae, which is located about 25 minutes to the west of Andria. The location of the battle is marked with a commemorative marker, and there are a number of information boards that outline the battle’s history. Additionally, you may witness the ancient ruins of Cannae, which served as a key battleground.

Basilica Santa Maria dei Miracoli

This stunning specimen of Italian architecture, which is situated in the Piazza San Pio X, features a stunning front façade, amazing exterior design, and exquisite interior ornamentation. The three entrance entrances are framed by an arched portico on the cathedral’s front, which faces the square. You will be in awe of the church’s elaborate ceiling’s style and design, which features a central image of the Virgin Mary and is covered in gold decorations. As you proceed down the main aisle, the main altar is also showered in gold, creating an extravagant focal point.

St. Michael’s Cave

The fascinating St. Michael’s Cave is located in the little hamlet of Minervino Murge. This cave is a fantastic natural site and can be found around 40 minutes south of Andria. The actual cave, a Karst Cavern according to geology, was formed more than 2 million years ago. A church that dates to the 11th century has been built inside the cave. You can enter the cave through a small church building and descend a flight of stairs to reach the main cavern. A stunning monument made of stone and marble honoring the Saint is located at the end of the cave.

Sample some different meats at the Antichi Sapori restaurant

The Antichi Sapori restaurant is located in the tiny village of Montegrosso; while it may not be to everyone’s liking, it is the ideal destination for those who enjoy a variety of meats. From Andria’s city centre, it takes around 20 minutes to get to Montegrosso and the Antichi Sapori restaurant. The quality and cut of the meat at this restaurant, which serves odd meat dishes like donkey and horse, is simply wonderful. You can also enjoy a variety of antipasti meals, a wonderful assortment of desserts, and wine.

Enjoy some Mediterranean cuisine at Il Turacciolo

The Il Turaccilolo restaurant, which serves delicious Mediterranean fare, is well known throughout Andria. The host, Luciano, will make you feel very comfortable and even assist you in selecting a glass of wine! This restaurant is conveniently located near the Piazza Catuma and is accessible. It is also in a good location. The quality of every item on the menu, which is undeniably high, comes from locally sourced foods. In addition to traditional Italian favourites like antipasti and other delicacies from Apulia, Il Turacciolo also offers a variety of vegetarian options.

Parco Archeologico di San Leucio

There are numerous old ruins and the remains of former major Roman cities in the area of Italy where Andria is situated. The San Leucio Archaeological Park is one such location. This place, which is less than 30 minutes away from Andria and is situated near the town of Canosa, offers another amazing destination to check out. The hillside’s ancient temple was built in 318 BC and was intended to honour the goddess Minerva/Athena. The outside wall, the majority of the elaborate columns, and the foundations of the temple are still standing today. In addition to the ruins, there is a special museum where some of the intriguing artefacts from this location are displayed.

Relax with a coffee at the Habiba Cafe

The Habiba Café is among the best places in town to take a calm break and savour a fine Italian coffee. This beautiful café is located in the heart of Andria on the Via Istria. The welcoming and gracious proprietors will make you feel at home and offer first-rate service. The Habiba Café offers a variety of delectable fresh coffees, including the amazing Neapolitan mix, as well as pastries, snacks, fresh fruit, salads, and a variety of decadent desserts.

Porta Sant’Andrea

In the past, the city centre of Andria was protected by a number of spectacular entrances and defensive structures. One such building that has been in place since the 13th century is the Saint Andrea Gate. The name of this wonderful building comes from its proximity to the original church built in honour of this saint. The gate, which is on the Via Pendio, looms over the nearby buildings and creates a striking archway to the street. On the gate, you can still make out some of the original designs and decorations, and the top is crowned with a number of elaborate circular reliefs.

Take a trip to the town of Trani

The charming beach town of Trani, which completes the Andria/Barletta/Trani joint province, is located further down the coast from Barletta and is a wonderful place to explore. There are a number of major roads that connect Andria to Trani, and the drive takes about 25 minutes. Trani has a magnificent main harbour with a wide variety of sailing and fishing vessels to behold. In addition, you can unwind at the lovely Villa Comunale Park along the shore or go to the magnificent Basilica di San Nicola. Additionally, there are several intriguing buildings in the Piazza Trieste, and it’s fun to stroll through the ancient old town.