Taranto Neighborhoods Guide

Taranto divides naturally into three main areas: the Borgo Antico on the island, the Borgo Nuovo (also called Borgo Umbertino) on the peninsula to the north, and the newer residential districts spreading eastward. Despite its modest population of about 190,000, the city’s neighborhoods have distinct characters shaped by geography, history, and the two seas that define it. Here is a breakdown of Taranto’s neighborhoods to help you decide where to stay, eat, and explore. For a complete overview, see the Taranto travel guide.

Taranto Neighborhoods: Borgo Antico (Old Town Island)

The Borgo Antico occupies the entire small island between the Mar Grande and Mar Piccolo, connected to the mainland by the Ponte Girevole (swing bridge) to the north and the Ponte di Porta Napoli to the south. This is Taranto’s oldest district, dating to the Greek founding in 706 BC. The neighborhood is a dense grid of narrow alleys (vicoli) lined with whitewashed buildings, many with wrought-iron balconies. The Aragonese Castle dominates the southern tip, the Cathedral of San Cataldo sits at the center, and the Doric Temple columns stand beside the castle. The Borgo Antico is authentic and lived-in rather than tourist-polished: you will see fishermen working on the waterfront, elderly residents playing cards in doorways, and laundry strung across the alleys. Street lighting is dim in places and some buildings show their age, but that rawness is part of the appeal. The neighborhood suits travelers who want atmosphere and history over polished comfort. There are a handful of B&Bs tucked into renovated palazzetti, but no large hotels. Restaurants here serve the city’s best traditional seafood, particularly mussels from the Mar Piccolo. Average hotel rates: 50 to 80 euros per night for a B&B or apartment. See our Taranto weather by month guide.

Taranto Neighborhoods: Borgo Nuovo (Borgo Umbertino)

The Borgo Nuovo, also called Borgo Umbertino, lies immediately north of the swing bridge on the main peninsula. Developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it is laid out in a rational grid with wide boulevards (corsi) and elegant Liberty-style buildings. This is Taranto’s commercial and administrative center. Via di Palma is the main shopping street, a pedestrianized stretch with clothing chains, cafes, gelaterie, and the covered market (Mercato Coperto). Piazza Maria Immacolata serves as the neighborhood’s civic heart. The MARTA archaeological museum sits at the southern end of the Borgo Nuovo, a 5-minute walk from the bridge. Restaurants here are more varied than the Borgo Antico’s seafood focus, including pizzerias, wine bars, and casual trattorias. The Borgo Nuovo suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants walkable access to both the old town and modern amenities. Most of Taranto’s proper hotels are here, including the seafront Hotel Delfino Taranto. Average hotel rates: 90 to 180 euros per night. See our best time to visit Taranto guide.

Taranto Neighborhoods: Lungomare and Waterfront

The Lungomare Vittorio Emanuele III is not a neighborhood in the administrative sense but functions as Taranto’s social corridor. The 5 km seafront promenade runs along the Mar Grande from the swing bridge southward to the Monumento al Marinaio. The palm-lined walkway is flanked by Liberty villas, seafood restaurants, bars, and small hotels on the inland side. The promenade comes alive at sunset during the passeggiata, when what feels like half the city turns out to walk, jog, or sit on a bench with a gelato. The southern section around the Sailor’s Monument is quieter and more residential. This area suits travelers who want sea views and easy access to evening social life. Several mid-range hotels and B&Bs face the water here. Swimming is not possible directly from the Lungomare (it is a seawall, not a beach). For actual beaches, head south to Lido Azzurro or the lidos toward Leporano. Average hotel rates: 80 to 150 euros per night. See our things to do in Taranto guide.

Taranto Neighborhoods: Tamburi and Industrial Zone

The Tamburi district lies northwest of the Borgo Nuovo, adjacent to the ILVA steel plant (now Acciaierie d’Italia), Europe’s largest steelworks. This is Taranto’s working-class quarter, heavily shaped by the plant’s presence since the 1960s. Tamburi has no tourist infrastructure and is not recommended for visitors. The area has been at the center of environmental and health controversies related to the steel plant’s emissions. There is no reason for tourists to visit Tamburi, and there are no hotels or restaurants catering to travelers here. If you are driving, the main roads passing through Tamburi connect to the SS7 highway toward Bari, but the neighborhood itself is not a destination. See our Taranto events and festivals guide.

Taranto Neighborhoods: Paolo VI and Eastern Suburbs

The eastern districts of Taranto (Paolo VI, Talsano, Lama, San Vito) are primarily residential suburbs built during the post-war expansion. They sit further inland toward the Salento peninsula. These areas have local shops, pizzerias, and daily life but no tourist attractions. Talsano and Lama are closer to the sandy beaches along the Ionian coast south of the city, making them practical bases if your primary goal is beach access with a rental car. Accommodation here consists almost entirely of vacation rental apartments and agriturismi (farm stays). Average rates: 40 to 70 euros per night. Not recommended for first-time visitors or those without a car. See our where to stay in Taranto guide. See our Taranto travel tips and FAQ guide.

Taranto Neighborhoods: Summary