Discover Rodi Garganico
Rodi Garganico is a safe and friendly coastal town in the heart of the Gargano Peninsula. Known for its white historical center, citrus groves and modern marina, it offers an ideal environment for Erasmus+ participants. Everything is within walking distance, the local community is supportive, and students quickly feel at home.
The Historic
Old Town
Rodi Garganico’s historic old town is a charming maze of narrow white streets, stone staircases and small balconies overlooking the sea. Built on a cliff above the Adriatic, this quarter reflects centuries of local life shaped by fishing traditions, citrus cultivation and coastal trade.
The heart of the old town is the ancient medieval district, where traditional houses stand side by side with small family-run shops, artisan workshops and quiet piazzas. Walking through the alleys, visitors can discover panoramic viewpoints, old churches such as Chiesa di San Nicola di Mira, and traces of the town’s long connection to the sea.
Despite its compact size, the old town is full of atmosphere: laundry lines above the streets, geraniums on windowsills, the smell of citrus in the air and friendly locals who still preserve the slow rhythm of southern Italy. It is an authentic place where history, daily life and natural beauty meet.
The Marina
of Rodi
The Marina of Rodi Garganico is a modern, well-equipped seaside harbor that serves as one of the central points of life in the town. Surrounded by sandy beaches, citrus groves, and the gentle rhythm of local fishing traditions, it is a place where Erasmus+ participants can feel both welcome and safe.
Designed for comfort and accessibility, the marina offers easy connections to the town center, scenic seaside promenades, cafés, and gathering spaces ideal for relaxing after training activities. Its calm atmosphere, wide open spaces, and clean coastline make it a natural meeting point for students and teachers staying in Rodi.
For many Erasmus+ guests, the marina becomes the starting point for discovering the Gargano Peninsula: boat trips to the sea caves, visits to nearby coastal towns, and evening walks that reveal the authentic character of southern Italy.
The Citrus Groves
of rodi
Rodi Garganico is famous for its historic citrus groves, known throughout Italy for their unique aroma and exceptional quality. These orchards — filled with oranges, lemons, and the celebrated “Arance del Gargano IGP” and “Limoni del Gargano IGP” — are an essential part of the local identity and agricultural heritage.
For Erasmus+ participants, the citrus groves offer much more than beautiful scenery. They represent sustainable farming traditions, community-based agriculture, and a living example of how nature and culture shape everyday life in Southern Italy. Walking through these fragrant plantations allows visitors to experience the authentic rhythm of the region, learn about traditional cultivation methods, and understand why Gargano’s citrus fruits have been protected for centuries.
Long Sandy Beaches
Rodi Garganico is known for its long, wide sandy beaches that stretch along the Adriatic coast, offering plenty of space for relaxation, walks, and outdoor activities. The gently sloping shoreline and calm waters make these beaches ideal for swimming, beach sports, and spending time with friends after training or work.
Thanks to their size and accessibility, the beaches easily become part of everyday life for Erasmus+ participants – a place to unwind, connect with others, enjoy sunsets, or simply experience the slower rhythm of Southern Italy by the sea.
Belvedere Panoramic Point of rodi
The Belvedere Panoramic Point of Rodi Garganico offers one of the most impressive views on the northern Gargano coast. From this elevated terrace, visitors can admire the old town rising above the sea, the marina, the long sandy beaches and the surrounding citrus groves. It is a quiet and inspiring spot where Erasmus+ students and visitors often come to take photos, enjoy the sunset, or simply pause and observe the authentic rhythm of local life. The Belvedere is easily accessible on foot from the historic center and is one of the most iconic places to experience the true atmosphere of Rodi Garganico.
The Sanctuary of
the Madonna della Libera
The Sanctuary of the Madonna della Libera is one of the most important spiritual landmarks of Rodi Garganico and a place deeply rooted in local tradition. It has long been a point of devotion for the community, symbolizing protection, faith, and continuity through generations.
Set in a calm and reflective environment, the sanctuary offers visitors a quiet space away from the coastal bustle, inviting moments of pause, reflection, and cultural connection. It is not only a religious site, but also a meaningful part of the town’s identity and history.
Local Food &
Traditional Pastries
Gargano’s local cuisine reflects the region’s strong agricultural roots and simple, authentic traditions. Fresh bread, olive oil, seafood, handmade pasta and seasonal vegetables form the basis of everyday meals, prepared with respect for local recipes passed down through generations.
Traditional pastries are an important part of local culture, especially during festivals and family celebrations. Almond-based sweets, citrus-flavoured desserts from Rodi Garganico, honey biscuits and pastries filled with local creams offer a genuine taste of Southern Italy and its slow, community-centred way of life.
The Seafront Promenade
The seafront promenade of Rodi Garganico is a lively and welcoming space that connects everyday local life with the rhythm of the Adriatic Sea. Stretching along the coast, it is perfect for relaxed walks, evening strolls at sunset, and informal gatherings with friends.
Lined with cafés, small bars, and viewpoints over the marina and sandy beaches, the promenade becomes a natural meeting point for Erasmus+ participants and locals alike. It offers an easy balance between leisure and social life, with the sea always just a few steps away.
Cultural Events &
Festivals
Rodi Garganico comes alive throughout the year with cultural events and traditional festivals that reflect the town’s deep connection to the sea, agriculture, and local heritage. From religious processions and patron saint celebrations to summer concerts, open-air cinema, and food festivals, these events bring together locals, visitors, and Erasmus+ participants in a shared atmosphere of celebration.
Seasonal festivals often highlight local products such as citrus fruits, seafood, and traditional pastries, offering an authentic taste of Gargano culture. For Erasmus+ students, these events are a valuable opportunity to experience everyday Italian life, connect with the local community, and better understand regional traditions beyond the classroom or workplace.
Historic Citrus Trade & Vintage Posters
For centuries, Rodi Garganico was one of Southern Italy’s most important citrus trading ports. Oranges and lemons grown along the Gargano coast were shipped by sea to Northern Europe and even overseas, including the United States. Citrus fruit from Rodi was valued for its quality, aroma, and long shelf life, making it a key export product.
This rich trading history is still visible today through vintage citrus labels and advertising posters. Colorful, hand-illustrated designs once used on wooden crates told stories of prosperity, maritime routes, and international connections. These posters are now considered small works of art, reflecting the identity, pride, and global reach of the local citrus culture.
