Top 15 Attractions to Experience in Foggia, Italy

Foggia is a municipality located in the southern region of Apulia, Italy; this city has a population of 154,000 and has historically been recognized as the Granary of Italy. This area of Apulia has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, with one of the first acknowledged colonies being the Greek Argos Hippium. Over time, the surrounding marshland was drained to cultivate fertile land suitable for agriculture.

During the Middle Ages, Foggia was integrated into the Roman Empire, and Frederick II contributed significantly to the city’s development by constructing numerous palaces and churches. Throughout this period, the economy of Foggia fluctuated as different rulers imposed varying taxes and legal frameworks. In more recent times, Foggia has acted as a crucial hub connecting northern and southern Italy.

Regarding tourism, Foggia may not be a mainstream destination; however, it boasts an impressive array of sites and remarkable architecture, exemplified by the Duomo and the Chiesa delle Croci. Moreover, Foggia’s proximity to the eastern coast allows visitors to discover parks such as Gargano and the stunning Tremiti Islands.

Now, let’s explore the best things to do in Foggia:

1. Cattedrale di Foggia

Situated in the Piazza Francesco de Sanctis, the Cathedral of Foggia is the primary religious structure of the city and stands prominently against its low-rise environment.

Originally built in the 1100s, the cathedral underwent restoration in the 1700s following significant damage from an earthquake.

Exhibiting exquisite Baroque architecture, the façade is adorned with remarkable decorations and intricate stonework.

The interior is lavishly decorated, with ample natural light filtering through the windows, illuminating the old wooden pews.

Additionally, an ornate organ and numerous colorful religious paintings enhance the cathedral’s beauty.

2. Piazza Umberto Giordano

As one of the central squares in Foggia, Piazza Umberto Giordano offers an excellent space to unwind and appreciate the pleasant Italian climate.

This square is encircled by superb shopping venues, featuring a multitude of boutiques, cafés, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.

Moreover, the square itself includes a central pedestrian area adorned with beautiful trees and seating arrangements, allowing visitors to relax and observe the local life.

For those interested in sightseeing, the Church of Gesu e Maria proudly exhibits its ornate Romanesque façade in the square.

3. Villa Comunale – Parco Karol Wojtyla

This vast expanse of parkland and public garden stretches for approximately 600 meters in the eastern part of Foggia’s city center.

Beginning at the Piazza Camilo Benso Conte, the garden features an elegant white stone columned walkway that leads into a landscaped area containing a series of floral displays.

As you proceed, a wide-open boulevard extends for about 400 meters, adorned with splendid trees.

Additionally, the park comprises a network of footpaths, fountains, statues, and sculptures, along with a serene shaded section at its rear, enveloped by trees.

4. Palazzo Dogana

Located in the city’s center, the Dogana Palace is a notable landmark and has played a crucial role in Foggia’s history for centuries.

This impressive edifice dates back to the 15th century and stands as one of Foggia’s oldest surviving structures, initially serving as a customs center before being transformed into the provincial seat of Foggia.

As you explore the historic city center, the palace is an exceptional structure to admire, as it also houses a museum featuring an exceptional collection of contemporary and modern art.

5. Museo del Territorio

If you wish to gain insights into the history of this charming region of Italy, the Museum of the Territory is a recommended destination.

This museum is located on the Via Pasquale Fuiani, in close proximity to the Commune and Cathedral.

Inside the museum, visitors will encounter a remarkable variety of exhibitions and displays relating to the history of the Capitanata population during the Christian Era.

Exhibits include coins, burial artifacts, pottery, ceramics, clothing, and various household items.

Each exhibit is elaborately presented, providing thorough explanations of the artifacts on display.

6. Parco Nazionale del Gargano

This national park derives its name from the monumental Mount Gargano and is a protected area along the eastern coast of Italy, approximately a 40-minute drive north of Foggia.

Spanning a vast 118,000 hectares, it ranks among the largest national parks in the country, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and extensive rocky coastlines.

This park offers numerous activities such as hiking through its woodlands and mountains, or visiting quaint coastal towns like Vieste.

Additionally, you can discover secluded beaches along the coast, like Cala di Porto Greco near the Portogreco tower.

7. Tremiti Islands

This small archipelago situated off the northern coast of the Parco Nazionale del Gargano offers a unique opportunity to escape and immerse oneself in a distinct lifestyle.

Access to the Tremiti Islands is available via ferry from Termoli or Rodi, both coastal towns about 30 minutes from Foggia.

San Domino and San Nicola are the primary inhabited islands, offering most facilities for visitors.

Diving is a favored activity here, thanks to the crystal-clear waters and rich marine life surrounding the Tremiti Islands.

Alternatively, you can traverse the islands on foot, taking in the dramatic landscapes or exploring coastal caves.

8. Duomo Lucera

Lucera occupies a place in this list, yet its Cathedral merits a distinct mention.

Constructed in the 14th century, the current version of the cathedral has stood for centuries and features a Gothic style, which is relatively uncommon in the Apulia region of Italy—this style is more characteristic of French architecture.

The façade boasts a light orange design with ornate windows and a decorative bell tower.

Moreover, the interior also showcases a French Gothic design characterized by pointed stained glass windows and an abundance of rich decoration.

Additionally, there are various religious frescoes and opulent gold and bronze fixtures, including a crucifix and altar pieces.

9. Enjoy a traditional meal at the Osteria Numero Dieci

Foggia offers a diverse selection of dining establishments; however, the Osteria Numero Dieci stands out as one of the premier venues if you are seeking a high-quality meal.

This restaurant is centrally located in proximity to Parco Karol Wojtya and Palazzo Dogana.

Osteria Numero Dieci features an array of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, all prepared from scratch using primarily local ingredients.

With exceptional service, top-notch food, and a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere, dining here is a delightful experience.

Menu options include pasta, meat, and seafood, all of which are beautifully presented.

10. Enjoy a drink at the Anfi Pub

Although Foggia may not be famous for its nightlife, Anfi Pub provides an excellent venue to enjoy drinks and socialize with locals.

While located on the outskirts of town, taxis are readily available, and the inviting atmosphere along with a diverse drink selection compensates for the distance.

In addition to an extensive bar menu, the pub serves a variety of traditional pub fare and light snacks and even hosts regular karaoke nights.

Many locals frequent this pub for its vibrant atmosphere and reasonable prices.

11. Chiesa delle Croci

You will find no other church like the Chiesa delle Croci in Italy, and its design is indeed magnificent.

This unique monument is located in the northern part of Foggia’s historic city center, approximately a 15-minute walk from the cathedral.

The entrance to this church features a series of five ornate exterior chapels that visitors can walk through to reach the main building.

Constructed in 1693, the complex showcases a Baroque design and is the only recognized national monument in Foggia.

Inside the church, an abundance of decoration surrounds visitors, with its arches and grounds serving as the primary attractions.

12. Visit the charming town of Lucera

For an authentic taste of rural Italian life, the town of Lucera is a delightful destination, situated only 20 minutes west of Foggia.

With a population of 34,000, this small town is characterized by narrow, winding streets adorned with classic Mediterranean architecture.

Exploring the city center offers a glimpse into local life while allowing you to appreciate fascinating architectural styles.

Despite its compact size, Lucera boasts many attractions, including its grand Cathedral, Hohenstaufen Castle, and the striking ancient Roman Amphitheatre.

13. Castello Svevo Aragonese Manfredonia

Manfredonia is a small coastal town in the Parco Gargano region, located approximately 40 minutes north of Foggia.

This town is an appealing destination with several historic structures, a port, and a beach.

Among its main attractions is the impressive Castle Aragonese.

Constructed in 1279 by Pierre d’Angicourt, this castle served as a significant fortification during the Aragonese period in Italy.

Today, visitors can marvel at the well-preserved structure, explore the ramparts and battlements, and discover the intriguing archaeological museum housed within its walls.

14. Museo Civico

The Foggia Civic Museum complements the Museo del Territorio, providing an engaging overview of the region’s history, tracing back to the Neolithic era.

Located in Piazza Nigri in the northern part of the old town center, the museum is easily accessible on foot.

Within this institution, you will encounter an impressive collection of artifacts and relics from various historical periods, including archaeological discoveries from the nearby site of Arpi, reconstructions of traditional terrace houses, collections of jewelry, ornaments, sculptures, and numerous valuable paintings by notable regional artists.

15. Take a walking tour of the historic city centre

Centered around the Palazzo Dogana, Foggia’s historic city center is a beautiful area to explore and offers rich historical significance and numerous sites.

Starting from the palace, you can venture into the Quartieri Settecenteschi for an authentic slice of local life—here, you will find tightly packed streets lined with colorful houses, bustling with local activity.

Alternatively, you can stroll along Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi to observe major architectural sites, including Comune Di Foggia and Piazza Internati in Germania.

Along the route, you will discover a myriad of charming cafés and restaurants if you wish to pause for a meal or coffee.