The high season is slowly coming to an end, but crowds of tourists often remain well into September. This is especially true in countries like Italy and Spain, where the weather stays warm well into autumn. And with many popular destinations now struggling with overtourism, travellers seeking a more relaxed break are looking for some lesser-known spots.
One of them is Castro, a beautiful town in southern Italy that remains largely uncrowded, even in the late summer months. Located on the Adriatic coast in the Puglia region, Castro sees average daytime temperatures of 25C in September, with highs reaching 27C and evenings staying mild at around 20C. The town is often missed by tourists heading to better-known places like Gallipoli or Otranto, but it offers a quieter and more authentic experience.
Even in peak season, Castro is described as “lively” rather than overcrowded.
Castro’s main attraction is the sea. While it doesn’t have sandy beaches, its rocky coastline and crystal-clear water make it a dream for swimmers and snorkellers.
Castro Marina is the most popular spot, where beach clubs set up platforms from June to September for sunbathers and swimmers.
One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: “Castro is an absolute gem! We were blown away by the water, which is so incredibly clear it’s just like something you’d see in the Maldives.”
Another added: “The sea here is simply stunning, with a turquoise colour and amazing clarity that reminds you of the most beautiful tropical waters. It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling, with plenty of rocky areas to explore.”
Access to the sea is via stone steps, and snorkelling spots are easy to find.
The marina’s small port also offers boat trips to explore the coast and nearby caves such as Palombara, Azzurra and Zinzulusa. There’s even a chance of spotting colourful fish like cow bream.
Other than the sea, Castro’s charm lies in its two parts – the lower marina and the upper historic town.
A steep walk or shuttle ride takes visitors to the walled old town, where narrow streets lead to a 16th-century castle, ancient city walls, and a cathedral dating back to 1171.
The main square, Piazza della Vittoria, and the Belvedere di Castro offer sweeping views of the Adriatic, while the historic centre remains peaceful and largely free from traffic, according to those who have visited.
The nearest airport is Brindisi, about an hour and 15 minutes away by car. Castro can also be reached from nearby towns such as Lecce, Otranto and Santa Cesarea Terme.
One visitor summed it up: “We really enjoyed our time in Castro. It’s a beautiful, old town built on a hill with amazing views of the sea. We loved walking through the narrow streets and exploring the historic centre.”
Another added: “It feels very authentic and less crowded than some other places. We had a great time enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.”