puglia travel guide 2022

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Puglia travel blog — the fullest puglia travel guide for first-timers.

Puglia is a small region located at the heel of Italy’s boot. Along with the birthplace of Renaissance Tuscany, Puglia is one of the most beautiful destinations of Italy with picturesque towns and villages, the Italy’s most beautiful beaches. It is also famous for the two tree and plant that have become iconic: Olives and grapes at highest quality. Many Puglia specialties come from them. However, not only famous for its olive production and famous premium wines, Puglia also has many more reasons to urge visitors to come. So, is Puglia Italy worth visiting, what to do in Puglia and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Puglia for the first-time? Let’s check out our Puglia travel blog (Puglia blog, Puglia Italy travel blog) with the fullest Puglia travel guide (how to get to Puglia, Puglia guide, Puglia Italy travel guide, Puglia tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Puglia as well as suggested Puglia itinerary to find out the answer!

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When it comes to Italy, surely in your head will immediately appear cliché names like Venice, Rome or Milan. But the boot-shaped country has much more to offer than that. Have you ever heard of the land of Apulia or Puglia, located at the “heel” of the Italian peninsula? To many tourists, this name may not really widely know, but in Italy, Puglia is the most desirable place to visit. Surely, after reading this sharing of Puglia travel blog, you will want to pack your suitcase and explore this wonderful remote land.

Puglia is a “heel” region of the southern peninsular section of Italy and is home to historic towns that are thousands of years old, diverse landscapes, great food, and owns some of the best beaches in the south of the country.

Puglia travel blog: Overview of Puglia

Where is the Puglia region?

As I shared in the article sharing my experience of visiting Bari , Puglia is the geographical region located in the southeasternmost tip of Italy. In the past, along with Venice, Puglia was located on Italy’s sea trade route with Eastern European countries and the Balkans. Today, when economic development is more concentrated in the northern regions, the name Puglia is somewhat less well known, many liken Puglia to the Italian Far East, a name that evokes remoteness and mystery.

Located in Southern Italy and right at the heel of the boot-shaped country, the Puglia region has a true Mediterranean beauty with blue sea water, immense olive groves interspersed with Trulli mushroom houses and pretty little white towns. Therefore, Puglia is a very hot tourist destination in the summer in Italy.

This is also one of my favorite regions in Italy. In total I went to Puglia 2 times. Once 6 years ago only used public transport and mainly sightseeing. As for the August trip this year, I went by car from Rome, mainly going to the beach for 7 days and combining with 3 more days of sightseeing around the region.

Although there are a few villages that I have been to twice, but every time I go, I also like it because it is so beautiful. I highly recommend that you go to Puglia once if you can.

Puglia can be divided into 3 parts: North, Central and South. Puglia’s famous attractions are mostly concentrated in the South and Central, from Bari stretching down to Lecce and divided into 2 areas: Valle d’Itria and Salento.

Puglia travel blog: Valle d’Itria  (Itria Valley)

The Itria Valley, located between the provinces of Bari , Taranto and Brindisi, is characterized by beautiful white villages, irresistible delicious food and especially “trulli”, a very typical conical stone house. That is why this area is also known as the  valley of trulli.

Dotted with trulli houses along both sides of the road are olive trees and the stone walls are arranged ingeniously without the use of any adhesive. In Italian this type of wall is called “muro a secco”.

The most famous villages in Itria Valley are Alberobello, Ostuni and Locorotondo. Because it is located near Bari – the capital of Puglia, so you can combine visiting Bari and Polignano a Mare. There are also Zoosafari and Castellana caves, so it is very suitable for families traveling with children.

The Salento Peninsula is also known as the heel of the Italian boot. Stretching from the southern province of Taranto to the entire province of Lecce. The western Salento is bordered the Ionian Sea and to the east by the Adriatic Sea. The two seas meet and intersect at Santa Maria di Leuca, the southernmost point of the peninsula.

It is because of this very unique topography that Salento has many of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Quite a few beaches are called very beautiful names such as Maldive del Salento, Caraibi del Salento… because of the clear blue water.

In addition to the beaches, Salento also has no shortage of beautiful attractions such as:  Lecce, a city characterized by baroque architecture, or small coastal towns like Otranto, Gallipoli, Santa Maria di Leuca.

Is Puglia italy worth visiting: Why should you visit Puglia?

The north of Puglia is associated with the wine-producing culture, while the south has a strong connection with traditional Roman-Greek culture. Thanks to those factors, it has created a special land, attracting tourists from all over the world. It can be said that in terms of history, poetic aspects, peace or bold Italian culture, there is no land that can overcome Puglia. Here are some reasons why you should visit Puliga.

Rich history and architecture

Puglia was once the gateway to Greece and the East. Therefore, this is the ideal land for those who want to learn about culture and history. The region also retains many ancient vestiges of history, culture, tradition and spirituality.

Coming to Puglia you can satisfy all your curiosity and discovery interests. From ancient history to the Medieval and Baroque eras. From castles along the coast to small art villages. Where craft masterpieces begin, stunning views and old quarters. Here like creating the door to enter different civilizations.

Beautiful limestone houses with conical roofs, called Trulli. Very common here, and dates back to the 15th century. Roman, Greco and Messapian remains are also found side by side here. Lecce city with beautiful baroque architecture and considered as an art treasure.

Friendly, generous locals

Although not many people in Puglia can speak English, they are always smiling and ready to help visitors as much as possible. They can guide you on how to get around, places to visit and absolutely do not disturb or cheat. A little friendly Italian words like “ciao” or “bello”, “gustoso” is definitely not difficult for you but makes them happier when welcoming strangers from far away. Who knows, you might learn how to make pizza from an Italian?

Peaceful countryside

If the streets of Puglia were peaceful, the countryside is also absolute peace. There is nothing more enjoyable than cycling through unnamed small dirt roads, flanked by grape fields or weeds, breathing in the countryside fresh air. Even if you scream, it will only startle the birds.

Slow living pace

Puglia is exactly the place for tourists to live slowly. No one is in a hurry here, of course you have to blend in with that atmosphere. Restaurants, coffee shops, restaurants are almost only heard whispering and many places are closed for lunch break. Sipping a cup of coffee and gazing at the streets is perhaps more than enough to slow down after days of hurrying.

Great cuisine

Food is the reason that you cannot miss when coming to Puglia. This land is developed for agriculture so it is an ideal place for fresh meals from local produce. The food here is not expensive, they are reasonably priced. In particular, your meal cannot be without olives and wine – the prides of the Puglia people.

Dreamy alleys and cobbled streets

Most of the streets in Puglia are a maze, small and super winding alleys but not making visitors feel tired and annoyed. They enjoy wandering the cobbled nooks and crannies to discover a forgotten world.

Other reasons

Puglia is the land with the longest coastline in Italy, along with a tradition of maritime trade, so Apulia has many ancient towns, villages and beautiful Mediterranean-style ports.

Puglia shares the Adriatic Sea with Greece and is not far from North Africa, so the architectural style here is influenced by Eastern Europe and Greece very strongly.

Southern Italy’s warm, sunny climate creates a generous, open-minded and not as touristy as northern Italian cities.

Referring to Apulia, people immediately think of unique cultural heritages such as the ancient town of Alberobello, the white city of Ostuni, the open-air architecture museum of Lecce or the once-resounding Bari capital.

When to visit and how long should you travel to Puglia?

The not good time to avoid traveling to Puglia is 2 weeks in mid-August, because this is extremely crowded with tourists due to the Ferragosto holiday season. If you like the hustle and bustle, no problem. However, the other problems that come with it are: difficulties in finding a beach spot or a seat at restaurant, and the cost of room renting or sun loungers at the beach is also higher.

Except August, it’s ok to come to Puglia every other month. If you want to go to the beach but avoid crowds, you should go around June and July.

The ideal travel time in Puglia in my opinion is 7 days. The more time you have, the better you will experience, because there are indeed plenty of places to go. The first time I went for about 4 or 5 days, but almost only to visit the main places but did not deeply explore. This time going for 10 days, I feel a lot better.

Puglia travel guide: How to get to Puglia?

Taking a plane is the most convenient way to get to Puglia. The region’s two main airports are located in Bari and Brindisi. Cheap airlines like Ryanair or Easyjet all operate flight routes here, so you just have to work hard to find cheap prices on Google Flights, Skyscanner or Kayak. There was a time when I found a ticket with only… €9 from Rome.

If you depart from Rome or southern Italy you can consider taking the train to Bari. But if you come from cities in the North or Central Italy, you should… forget this option, because the time on the train can be nearly half a day.

As I shared in the previous article to visit Bari , you can take the train or plane to Bari, then stay one night and the next day visit other cities in Puglia. Another less common way is to take a bus. One bus company that is mentioned a lot is Onbus but I have not experienced it because I see Puglia as a rather remote area, so the bus ride is quite long and not as comfortable as a train or plane. Unless you are in cities near Bari, use this vehicle.

Puglia Italy travel guide: Getting around Puglia

If possible, you should rent a car or self-drive to Puglia to be more flexible about the itinerary and save time. Self-driving also helps you to visit more closely the Itria valley or beautiful beaches that are difficult to reach by bus.

Taking public transport in Puglia is still fine, because a few years ago when I was a student, I only took buses and trains. However, your travel time and schedule will not be very flexible.

Puglia blog: Getting from Bari to Ostuni, Polignano al Mare and Alberobello

From Bari to other places like Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Locorotondo, Ostuni, Lecce you can check train timetable and tickets on Omio or  Trenitalia . And from Lecce to the towns and beaches there are buses of STP , especially the summer service called   Salentoinbus  will have more trips.

From Bari to Ostuni you can take the regional train, you can look up the departure time and buy tickets online here . Travel time is about 2 hours 30 minutes.

From Ostuni to Polignano a Mare is the same, but you should note that Polignano a Mare is located in the middle of the road from Bari to Ostuni, so it is common for you to visit Ostuni first and then on the way back to visit Polignano. It takes about 30 minutes by train from Ostuni via Polignano. From Bari to Alberobello also take the train, travel time is 2 hours.

Puglia blog: Where to stay?

If you want to live like a local in Puglia, you have to experience the form of tourism at the farms, also known as Masserie in Italian. Guests will stay in houses with Mediterranean-style gardens with olive trees, rooms painted with white walls with minimalist décor and luxurious swimming pools just like hotels. You can check it out on Agoda or Booking or Airbnb.

In addition, in Alberobello you also have the opportunity to spend the night in trulli mushroom houses, the type of traditional conical stone houses with spires only found in this town.

To avoid moving and changing accommodation too much, you should only choose a maximum of 2 places to book your hotel: One in the Bari and Itria valley, one in the Salento. The distance between attractions in the same area is not far, so you only need to book in one place to be able to easily travel to other places.

In agricultural areas such as the Itria valley there are many masserias, i.e. farms whose dwellings have been converted into hotels or B&Bs.

Bari and Valle d’Itria (Puglia Italy travel blog)

If you travel by public transport, it is best to book a hotel in Bari. If you have a car, you can choose a hotel or B&B in the trulli area like the villages near Fasano.

My family booked 3 nights at B&B Salita delle Pere . The feeling of sleeping in a trulli in the quiet country atmosphere is really relaxing and unforgettable. The breakfast cakes are all handmade by the lady owner, and the cow’s milk is also from her farm. After spending 3 nights here, I feel relaxed after 7 days of jostling with tons of people at the sea. In short, very good value for money.

Some good hotels in Bari you can refer to

• The Nicolaus Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hi Hotel Bari ( Agoda , Booking )
• Mercure Villa Romanazzi Carducci Bari ( Agoda , Booking )
• Parco Dei Principi Hotel Congress & Spa ( Booking )
• iH Hotels Bari Oriente ( Agoda , Booking )
• Zodiacus ( Agoda , Booking )
• iH Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel City Bari ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Bari on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Lecce is the largest city in the area and has a very busy nightlife, so you should book a hotel here ( Agoda , Booking ). Those who have a car should stay outside the old downtown area with a bit ride or check the hotel’s parking carefully, but finding parking in the center is quite difficult.

Distance from Lecce to other places:

• Lecce – Gallipoli and nearby beaches (Porto Cesareo, Punta Prosciutto, Punta della Suina..): 35-40 minutes.
• Lecce – Otranto and nearby beaches (Torre dell’Orso, Alimini, Baia dei Turchi..): 35-40 minutes.
• Lecce – Santa Maria di Leuca and nearby beaches (Maldive del Salento, Lido Marini..): 1 hour.

Puglia italy travel blog: Where to go, what to do in Puglia?

If you are a history enthusiast, Puglia is the paradise for you to indulge in that pleasure. The city of Bari , the capital of Puglia, is also home to many Baroque mansions. The Old Quarter is located on a peninsula jutting into the sea, mainly built of white limestone. Small alleys, alleys and ancient domes. Standing from any corner of Bari, you can easily see churches and monasteries.

More interested, you can go to Otranto to admire the church of Santa Maria Annunziata – the most important Catholic cathedral of the city. The floor of the church is completely covered with mosaics dating from the 11th century, fully reproducing the images from the Bible. On the right wing of the hall is a place to remember those who died in the massacre by the Turks in 1480. Today, the skulls of the victims are placed in a glass cabinet right at the church pedestal, making many people feel creepy.

The White City of Ostuni

Ostuni is called La Citta Bianca (the white city) because of its white houses. Strolling these streets is one of the relaxing moments. The city is full of cute cafes, ice cream parlor, pastry shops and shops with local products. Pottery shops sell pumo di fiore (ornamental ceramics) with all kinds of colors and sizes. You will see this egg-shaped flower bud all over Puglia, acting as a symbol of prosperity and fertility.

In Ostuni, there is a town that fascinates visitors with its Greek beauty: whitewashed houses, scattered from the plains to the hills. Even hotels in this area are painted white to blend in with the surrounding residential area. The most famous accommodation is La Sommita hotel, built in the 16th century, which was originally a castle of the indigenous people. From here you can look out over the sea and enjoy meals right under the castle dome as a guest. During the day, walking on the labyrinthine streets of the city, don’t forget to stop by the bar to sip some real Puglia wine to be alert enough to find your way home.

Ostuni located on the Adriatic coast, famous for its white paint color of the whole city. If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting the Greek island of Santorini, Ostuni will surely fascinate you. In the past, the trade of Italy and Greece was very active, the Greek community used to live in Puglia and their mark was the characteristic white painted towns. Under the golden sun like honey, the deep blue sky no less the color of the sea in the distance, Ostuni appeared proud but very simple. To exalt that pride white color, houses and streets also seem to be decorated as minimally as possible. Ostuni is still not very crowded, so we feel even more small in the space of the city. We stopped for lunch at the fairy-tale Trattoria Fave e Fogghje restaurant/pub and inhaled the distant scent of Greece across the Adriatic.

Polignano a Mare

The town of Polignano a Mare is one of the beautiful towns in Puglia known for its stunning beach with clear blue water, craggy white buildings and a charming beach, Polignano a Mare is one of the towns. you must visit when visiting Puglia Italy.

Perched on a craggy cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, looking even more blue from above, Polignano a Mare is just a small town but steals your soul in a jiffy by lovely streets and houses decorated as if its owners were all poets, or at least artists. This is where Italians come to watch the sea, swimming and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of a Mediterranean afternoon. Polignano is like a short poem, but ecstatically beautiful.

Heading to the square in Polignano al Mare, stop at Il Super Mago del Gelo for a special coffee – their unique concoction with lemon, liqueur and espresso. If not, you can also try others as they also serve traditional coffee, gelato and pastries.

Alberobello

Alberobello is a super cute town in Puglia, home to tiny houses called trulli that have been listed as a UNESCO heritage site. Trulli are small hut-like houses whose cones look like cute mushrooms. Layers of “mushrooms” lining the small slopes of Alberobello attract the footsteps of any visitor. Shops, restaurants or even churches here are also shaped like mushrooms. The secret to a beautiful photo of trulli is to go to the high hill in the afternoon, when the whole cute city is bathed in the extremely romantic sunset.

The houses were built of stone to be easily disassembled to pay less taxes in the 19th century and are now protected by UNESCO law. You can see them scattered throughout the countryside, but you will see these houses one after another in Alberobello.

This is probably a city you must visit once in your life, because it is only one in the world and has become a new highlight of Italian tourism next to the familiar Rome and Venice. Alberobello is world famous for its mushroom-shaped stone houses (conical roofs). This is not a scene from a mythical movie, this is Southern Italy full of surprises for you. Alberobello for me is somewhat less emotional than the two cities above due to quite a lot of tourists. On Alberobello’s holiday, it is packed with tourists because Alberobello is beautiful and unique. You know how, sometimes we have to accept to share beautiful things with many people, not just keep them for ourselves.

Puglia on all three sides is surrounded by the sea, making it really attractive to tourists who love the sea. The sea water here has a beautiful blue color, the color that makes people stare endlessly. You can easily find great beaches for swimming, photography or simply looking at. No need to go too far, the capital Bari can meet the needs of most visitors. Here you can also shop, admire the large-scale shipyards under the blue sky.

The beaches have beach clubs offering loungers, lounges, sunbeds and umbrellas. Costs vary depending on the beach club’s amenities and time of year, but usually around 20 euros for two sun chairs and umbrellas. Most of these places will have a mini-bar and bathroom. Lido Morelli are huts and a casual bar while Coccaro Beach Club offers a more luxurious experience.

If you have time visit the south near Otranto, there is a sinkhole there called Grotto della Poesia. It is like a unique natural swimming pool.

Stay at Masseria or Trulli

You might be surprised at how many accommodation options you have in Puglia. From unforgettable masserias to charming airbnbs with terraces, there is something new for every preference and budget. Almapetra Trulli Resort offers 2-bedroom trulli houses with swimming pools and communal barbecue areas. Starting at around 100 euros a night, it’s a great value option for families.

Or choose Masseria San Francesco for an upscale accommodation with thoughtful interiors, a pool and a lively bar.

Souvenirs:Surely, pretty Alberobello Trulli made of porcelain or stone. Decorative ceramics with Fichi d’India cactus is also a beautiful choice for you.

Puglia travel blog: What to eat?

Puglia has both an agricultural area and a sea, so the cuisine is very rich. Therefore, there is no shortage of specialties from breakfast, street food, to meat and seafood, to suit everyone’s taste.

Delicious food in Puglia

• Pasticciotto: A day in Puglia will start with an energetic breakfast with pasticciotto and almond milk iced coffee. Pasticciotto is a very popular cream-filled cake in the region.
• Puccia:  This is a round and flat bread, very suitable for a quick lunch. In addition, in Puglia, there are many other types of street food such as fried foods (pittule, pitta, panzerotti), or baked goods (rustico, frisa).
• Bombette: This is the most typical dish of the whole region, especially in the Itria valley. Bombette is pork slices rolled with salt, pepper, cheese then grilled in the oven or on a BBQ grill.
• Riso patate e cozze (tiella barese): Including rice, potatoes and mussels cooked together create the perfect taste. This dish is a specialty in Bari, so anyone who comes to Bari should not miss it.
• Orecchiette con broccoli o cime di rapa (orecchiette with broccoli): Orecchiette is a very popular pasta in Puglia. This dish can be found everywhere, but it is best eaten in Bari. In addition to broccoli tops, you can find orecchiettes with ketchup or meat sauce. Food in each region in Italy is different and each city will have its own specialties. Orecchiette is an ear-shaped pasta commonly found in Puglia. There are even variations of this delicious dish throughout the region. Eating a plate of Pasta Orecchiette is a must try experience when visiting this southern region.
• Burrata is a cheese from Puglia, it’s like a bag made of mozzarella with cream and soft cheese inside. You’ll find burrata on the menu, served with a green salad or with pasta. Burrata is delicious and you won’t find it as fresh unless you are in Puglia.
• Olive Oil: With a history of growing olive over 500 years, you can expect the region of Puglia to have an excellent olive oil. There are more than 60 million olive trees in the region that produce about 40% of the entire Italian olive oil production. Olive groves are an integral part of the Puglia landscape and one of the reasons you should travel here.
• Local wine: Primitivo di Manduria and Negroamaro are two of the many dialects you’ll find on menus in restaurants and eateries here. Red wine is really a staple of the Puglian diet and you can’t visit without trying it.

These are just a few of the highlights, but the list is actually quite long. In Salento you can also find very delicious fresh seafood dishes.

Where to eat

Here are a few places I’ve eaten at and enjoyed very much:

• Martinucci coffee/cake shop . This is a very famous pastry chain in Puglia, almost everywhere. Pasticciotto here has a lot of flavors, not too sweet and the cream filling is so tasty.
• Macelleria e Salumeria di Olimpia di Nicola Semeraro (SP216, Lamie di Olimpia BA): This is a butcher with restaurant business near Alberobello and Locorotondo. Bombette here is soft but very tasty. In Puglia it is very common for a butcher to run its own restaurant. So if you want to eat right, you should choose these restaurants to eat bombette or barbecue.
• Gallipoli Seafood Market: At night, the market stalls have tables and chairs selling fresh seafood to enjoy like aperitivo. The atmosphere here is fun and the seafood looks fresh. If you have the opportunity to visit Gallipoli, you should definitely not miss it.
• La Pastasciutta (Via Vito Tamborrino, Ostuni, BR): The restaurant is located in the center of Ostuni, the pasta is delicious and the price is very cheap.

Puglia itinerary 7 days

We usually take at least 3 days and 2 nights to exploring this region. But it is not enough. A suitable Puglia itinerary is 7 days. The attractions in Puglia are mostly small and can be visited during the day. Even, there are many towns that only take 2 hours to explore it all. The travel distance between places is not far, so it is easy to schedule.

Here is the suggested Puglia travel itinerary for 7 days:

• DAY 1 – Arrive in Bari and visit Bari, the capital of the region.
• DAY 2 – Visit Polignano a Mare, a town built on a beautiful seaside cliff.
• DAY 3 – Visit the famous towns of Alberobello and Locorotondo. Alberobello is the most famous trulli town in the region. The evening in Alberobello is also very beautiful and sparkling. So if you are flexible about time, you can go to Locorotondo in the morning and then go to Alberobello in the afternoon.
• DAY 4 – Morning visit to the white city of Ostuni and after lunch depart for Lecce, the city known as the Southern Florence with beautiful Baroque architecture. At night in Lecce is very crowded and bustling, walking at night here is also very fun.
• DAY 5 – Lecce tour (Can be replaced by Gallipoli/Santa Maria di Leuca if day 4 can visit Lecce).
• DAY 6 – Sightseeing in Otranto (can be combined with the nearby beach and then visit in the evening).
• DAY 7 – Depart for Brindisi to catch the flight, ending the journey.

This is just a suggested Puglia travel itinerary with the main purpose of sightseeing. If you want, you can combine a visit to Matera in the nearby Basilicata region.

If you want to go to the beach more, you should add about 2-3 days. My family last went to August, it was very hot, so most of the day we only went to the beach, only went to visit in the evening to cool down. The last 3 days were just walking around the towns in Valle d’Itria.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Bari and Puglia you can refer to

• Private Bari Old City Guided Walking Tour
• Bari City Walk, by Bike or Segway
• Matera Tour from Bari
• Bari Street Food Walking, Bike, or Segway Tour
• Alberobello Walking Tour from Bari
• Castel del Monte Tour from Bari
• Bari City Walking, Bike, or Segway Tour with Pasta Making Experience
• Lecce: Baroque Architecture and Underground Walking Tour
• Polignano a Mare: Speedboat Cruise to Caves with Aperitif
• From Bari: Pasta Experience Walking Tour
• Alberobello: 2-Hour Guided Trulli Tour
• Ostuni: Olive Oil Tasting Tour
• Polignano a Mare: 1.5-Hour Boat Cave Tour
• Alberobello: History Walking Tour with Olive Oil Tasting
• Bari Walking Street Food Tour
• Apulia: Bike Tour through the Treasures of Bari
• Lecce: Walking Tour
• Lecce: Guided Rickshaw Tour
• Bari Rickshaw Street Food Tour
• Bari: Segway Tour & Gelato Tasting
• Bari Walking Tour
• Bari Street Food Tour by Bike
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Velvet Escape

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The best of Puglia – the ultimate guide

Discover the enchanting region of Puglia (also known as Apulia), nestled in the southern ‘heel’ of Italy. With its ancient towns steeped in history, diverse landscapes, culinary delights, and stunning beaches, Puglia is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Having personally ventured through this region multiple times, I’ve crafted a comprehensive guide highlighting the best places to visit in Puglia. In this guide, you’ll discover a wide variety of things to see in Puglia, along with recommendations for accommodations and dining experiences. Whether you embark on a leisurely 15-day self-drive Puglia itinerary or prefer to concentrate on specific areas in a shorter timeframe, this guide offers the perfect blend of inspiration and recommendations.

The Ultimate Guide to the Best of Puglia

This Puglia guide contains links to three services I often use myself and can recommend: Skyscanner (for flights), Booking.com (for hotel bookings), Rentalcars.com (for car hire) and GetYourGuide (for easy-to-book tours). If you make a booking via one of these services, I will receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). These commissions help me to maintain my blog and share more travel experiences with you.

Arriving in Puglia

The main entry points for international visitors are Bari and Brindisi (both have airports and ports with international connections). From here, many adventures await for those who want to explore this diverse region.

Bari , the capital of Puglia, can trace its roots back more than 2,000 years when it was founded by the Peucetii tribe. These days, Bari is one of the most important economic centres in southern Italy and, due to its international airport and port, an important gateway to the region. Most visitors arrive in Bari but tend to skip the city, choosing instead to move on to another part of Puglia. I recommend spending 1-2 nights in Bari to wander around its Old Town and soak up the authentic atmosphere.

Read more about things to see in Bari . While in Bari, I stayed at the lovely Gatto Bianco Ducchesa , situated at the edge of the Old Town. Search for hotels in Bari (Booking.com).

Central Puglia

Central Puglia consists of hilly landscapes, verdant valleys, mile after mile of olive groves, vineyards and fruit orchards, quaint whitewashed towns, dramatic coastal cliffs and beautiful beaches on both the Adriatic and Ionian coasts.

Valle d’Itria

Central Puglia is also home to Valle d’Itria or Itria Valley , an area famous for its ‘trulli’ (whitewashed, cone-roofed houses), charming towns and agricultural products.

I recommend spending at least 4-5 days in the Itria Valley , in my view one of the best places to visit in Puglia. Of all the towns in this area, Alberobello (a UNESCO World Heritage town) is the biggest draw. A good town to have as a base from which to explore the rest of the valley is Martina Franca because of its strategic location on an intersection of major regional roads.

Alberobello

Alberobello is perhaps the most famous town in the Itria Valley due to its famous trulli houses. The conical rooftops coupled with charming cobblestone alleys and whitewashed houses are a simply magical sight. The old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consists of a maze of streets and steps lined by trulli; drystone dwellings that were built using prehistoric techniques.

Alberobello has become a very popular tourist destination in recent years. During the peak seasons, such as the summer, roads to the town are often very busy and parking is scarce. In this sense, I recommend visiting by public transport from nearby towns or staying in Alberobello (you practically have the town to yourself when the day-trippers have left).

Two B&B’s I can recommend in Alberobello are Il Segnalibro and C’era Una Volta . If you’d like to experience staying in a trullo, check out Tipico . Search for accommodations in Alberobello (Booking.com).

Martina Franca

The largest town in the Itria Valley, Martina Franca and can trace its roots back to the 10th century AD.

Being in the heart of the valley, Martina Franca is a great base from which to explore the area but spend some time exploring its old centre which boasts beautiful Baroque architecture (like the Palazzo Ducale and the impressive Basilica di San Martino ) and quaint streets. When you’re here, drop by for a meal at Osteria del Coco Pazzo , a charming restaurant in a vaulted space that serves excellent Puglian food and wines. Ask for the local specialty ‘capocollo’, a cured pork salami. Other restaurants I can recommend include Ristorante Garibaldi (with a lovely terrace in front of the Basilica) and La Tavernetta . Read more about things to see in Martina Franca .

One accommodation I loved, just outside the town, is Villa Ada . In the town centre, check out the B&B San Martino . Search for accommodations in Martina Franca (Booking.com).

Locorotondo

Locorotondo means ’round place’ and that’s what it is: a town in a circular form atop a hill. Its hilltop position means that you can see the town from miles around and once you’re up there, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Itria Valley. The town centre is a labyrinth of white alleys punctuated by churches or piazzas. The houses have pitched roofs called ‘cummerse’, a feature typical of Locorotondo. Walking around the historic centre is like a step back in time. Don’t forget to stop at a café and sip on a famous Locorotondo DOC white wine! Search for hotels in Locorotondo (Booking.com).

Cisternino is often listed as one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. That’s debatable but this town, which dates back from medieval times, sure has a lot of charm to offer. The Piazza Dell’orologio lies in the centre of the town. From here, little lanes and streets fan out in different directions. It’s a delight to simply stroll around the picturesque lanes lined with whitewashed houses and their external staircases. Around Cisternino, you’ll find a variety of beautiful accommodations such as Trullo Suite and Borgo Canonica . Search for hotels in Cisternino (Booking.com).

As you drive along the SS379 motorway that skirts the coast near Fasano, your attention will be drawn to the gleaming white appearance of Ostuni , also known as the ‘white city’. It’s an impressive sight that acts as a magnet for travellers. With its ancient cobblestone streets, grand churches and quaint white houses, Ostuni truly is stunning. The town boasts a remarkable history that goes back to the Stone Ages! The Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace are especially striking but there are many other architectural gems to be found, including the old homes of the nobles. Join a tour to truly appreciate this town’s beauty and remarkable history.

For a meal in Ostuni, check out Risto Caffe Cavour ( Corso Camillo Benso Cavour ) and Osteria Del Tempo Perso ( Via Gaetano Tanzarella Vitale, 47 ), excellent restaurants with an atmospheric cave setting. I can also highly recommend Restaurant Cielo in the Relais La Sommita.

There are many accommodation types in and around Ostuni, from five star hotels to rustic B&B’s and holiday homes. For a rustic cave-like accommodation in the historic centre, check out Pantarei , White Dream or La Dama Bianca . In the historic centre, indulge yourself at the fabulous Relais La Sommita (it also has its own Michelin-starred restaurant, Cielo). Just outside Ostuni, you’ll find some excellent hotels such as the Masseria Cervarolo (with its trulli) and the gorgeous white-washed Masseria Dagilupi . Search for hotels in Ostuni (Booking.com).

Ceglie Messapica

An alluring historic town near Ostuni, Ceglie Messapica is one of the oldest towns in Puglia, dating back to at least the 8th century BC (!). The town also has one of the largest historic centres, which is amazingly well preserved. Stroll around its atmospheric lanes and piazzas, visit the Castello Ducale (Ducal Palace), admire the artwork in ancient churches (such as Chiesa di Sant’Anna ), sit at the Piazza Plebiscito (with its beautiful clock tower) and have a meal at one of the many excellent restaurants (the town is well-known for its gastronomy). For a terrific meal, check out L’Acquolina ( Via Orto del Capitolo, 37), and if you’re a meat-lover, don’t miss Enococus – Acini & Carbone ( Via Pendinello, 2). For accommodations, consider a stay at Palazzo Camarda , a B&B located just outside the historic town centre. Search for hotels in Ceglie Messapica (Booking.com).

Other towns to visit in Central Puglia

Located a short, scenic drive northwest of Alberobello, Putignano is another ancient town that’s famous for its caves and Carnival (started in 1394, it’s the oldest Carnival in Italy). In the town centre, there’s a museum dedicated to the history of the Carnival. Other important sites include the Santa Maria La Greca Church and the Civic Museum . The town is also home to Angelo Sabatelli , a Michelin-starred restaurant that’s famous throughout Puglia. Just outside the town, you’ll find the wondrous caves of Grotta del Trullo .

Between Putignano and Polignano a Mare lies Conversano ( map ), a historic town with a medieval castle. It’s a lovely town to stroll around in. In addition to the Castle , look out for the 11th century Romanesque Cathedral and the 6th century Benedictine Monastery .

This medieval town is packed with ancient lanes, atmospheric squares (such as the Piazza Orsini ) and historic monuments. The top attractions in Mesagne include the ornate Chiesa di Sant’Anna , Chiesa Matrice Parrocchia Tutti i Santi (All Saints Church) and the Ugo Granafei Archeological Museum (with Roman mosaics, housed in an 11th century castle). For a meal, I can recommend Osteria del Leone . Search for hotels in Mesagne (Booking.com).

The Adriatic Coast

The Adriatic coast is characterised by clifftop towns, rocky coves, sandy beaches and a string of ancient watchtowers. Coastal towns I can definitely recommend for a visit or a short stay include Polignano a Mare and Monopoli.

Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare can trace its roots back to the 4th century BC when Greek settlers founded the settlement of Neapolis. These days, the town is popular amongst tourists who come to visit its historic centre, perched precariously on the cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea, sea caves and its beaches. Search for hotels in Polignano a Mare.

Monopoli has a charming historic centre (don’t miss the Baroque-style Monopoli Cathedral ) with a beautiful seafront promenade. In addition to its 16th century castle and defensive walls, the seafront also features a lovely sandy beach, perfect for a dip after a wander around the town. 

One restaurant I can recommend for lunch or dinner is il Guazetto in the old town. If you plan to stay in this area, consider Masseria Torrepietra , with its beautiful rooms and outdoor pool. Search for hotels in Monopoli.

Other places to visit near Monopoli

This stretch of the Adriatic coastline is quite rocky, with a sprinkling of sandy beaches, coves and villages such as Cozze , Mola di Bari , Torre Canne , Savelletri and Villanova. If you’re dropping by Torre Canne, I recommend a meal at Vico Pescatori or grab the famous octopus sandwich at La Baia . Just outside Monopoli, Grotta della Cala Tre Buchi is a lovely area with small beaches (with crystal-clear water), coves and caves.

The Ionian coast

The largest town on the Ionian coast of Central Puglia is Taranto . The city’s history goes back to 700 BC (!) and these days, it’s one of the biggest commercial centres in southern Italy as well as an important base for the Italian Navy. There are several attractions along its long waterfront such as the 15th century Aragon Castle.

You can spend a few hours wandering around the ancient Old Town (Citta Vecchia), which basically has the same layout as in the time it was built in the 1st century by the Byzantines, to enjoy the atmosphere of its maze of streets and lanes. There are also some Greek ruins to be seen such as the Doric columns on Piazza Castello .

Head inland from Taranto to the town of Massafra . This historic town straddles both sides of the San Marco ravine and is worth a stop for lunch and a wander. The town is most famous for its cliff dwellings comprised of homes and cave churches in the ravine. You can also visit the imposing Massafra Castle . For a delicious meal, I recommend Ristorante Vecchie Storie in Via Giuseppe Pisanelli .

Salento, Southern Puglia

The peninsula southeast of the Taranto-Brindisi axis, locally known as Salento , is dominated by the province of Lecce with its capital of the same name. Its long coastline stretches from the Adriatic Sea around the ‘heel’ of Italy to the Ionian Sea, and boasts historic towns, some of the best vineyards in Puglia, sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. Most visitors choose to stay in this region for their beach holidays, and rightfully so. However, look further and you’ll discover charming towns with many historic and artistic treasures, and an addictive laid-back lifestyle.

The capital of the province of Lecce , the city of Lecce is often called the ‘Florence of the South’ due to the abundance of Baroque architecture in its historic centre. In my book, Lecce is the most beautiful city in Puglia and an absolute must-visit!

The city can trace its history back to Roman times – remnants from this age include the Roman amphitheatre . The other attractions in Lecce include the Duomo (Cathedral), Basilica di Santa Croce , Porta Napoli and Church of San Giovanni Battista . Read more about things to see in Lecce (including a suggested walking route)

You can choose to stay along the coast to enjoy the province’s stunning beaches and visit Lecce on a day trip, or you can stay in Lecce for 1-2 nights to truly appreciate its historic gems. If you enjoy cooking, I highly recommend joining this Puglia cooking course in Lecce.

There are several gorgeous accommodations in the city I can recommend such as Palazzo de Noha , Dimora Charleston and Palazzo Lecce . Search for hotels in Lecce (Booking.com).

Less than 50km from Lecce lies the town of Casarano. Founded in the 1st century BC, Casarano comprises a maze of atmospheric streets and lanes lined by baroque palaces, with their hidden courtyards, and ancient churches that house beautiful religious artwork. The Church of Santa Maria della Croce , one of Puglia’s oldest, houses amazing mosaics and frescoes.

A short drive southwest of Lecce lies Nardò, an absolutely charming town. It was an important town in the Byzantine Empire until the 15th century. These days, it’s a quiet place but with a wealth of stunning Baroque architecture!

The best thing to do in Nardò is to simply stroll around its quiet streets, discover its Baroque gems and have a meal at one of its excellent restaurants. The focal point of the town is the lovely Piazza Salandra . Other places of interest include the Catedrale di Santa Maria Assunta and Chiesa di San Domenico .

Gallipoli is believed to have been founded by the Greeks and through the centuries, the town was conquered by a succession of powers including the Byzantines and the Normans. In the 18th century, Gallipoli was home to the largest olive oil market in the Mediterranean. From its ports, ships laden with olive oil sailed to major European cities where the oil was used for lighting. It is said that olive oil from Gallipoli lit the streets of London before the advent of the electric bulb.

The old town is situated on a little island and is connected to the mainland by a 16th century bridge. This part of town features an impressive castle (built by the Byzantines in the 13th century) and equally impressive fortification walls and towers. Behind the castle lies a maze of picturesque streets filled with quaint shops, cafés and restaurants, as well as historic churches, convents and palaces.

Despite its small size, Gallipoli is packed with historic and cultural treasures, and it has a dazzling sandy beach right at its doorstep. Important sights include the Sant Agata Cathedral and the Santa Maria della Purità church . Read more about things to see in Gallipoli .

You can easily spend a few days here while you explore the town and enjoy the nearby beaches. One hotel I absolutely love in Gallipoli is I Bastioni San Domenico ! Search for hotels in Gallipoli (Booking.com).

Santa Maria di Leuca

Santa Maria di Leuca is located on the southernmost tip of Puglia. The town faces a small harbour and is home to delightful Art Nouveau villas, beaches, sea caves and numerous historic attractions. The top things to do in Santa Maria di Leuca include visiting the Basilica Santuario di Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae and the nearby lighthouse; strolling along the seafront, with its beautiful villas; and a boat trip along the dramatic coastline to visit the amazing sea caves. Search for hotels in Santa Maria di Leuca.

This spectacular town overlooks the stunning turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea. Explore the historic promenade and discover the town’s rich history (that goes back to the 8th century B.C.!). Be sure to visit the Cathedral (with its floor mosaics, frescoes and crypt) and the Aragonese Castle . Read more about things to do in Otranto .

Places to eat in Otranto I can recommend include Vicolo Matto (seafood, and the deserts are amazing too!) and Ristorante La Pignata . A short drive outside Otranto, surrounded by olive groves, you’ll find the superb Ristorante Il Diavolicchio Goloso .

Accommodations in the town centre I can recommend are Palazzo Papaleo and Palazzo de Mori (the first building on the left in the photo below). In the outskirts of Otranto, check out Masseria Bandino and Masseria dei Monaci . Search for hotels in Otranto (Booking.com).

Salento beaches and sea caves

Salento has some of the best beaches in southern Italy. Here, you’ll find long stretches of fine, white or golden sand, lapped by crystal-clear turquoise water. Some of the best beaches can be found at or near Torre dell’Orso/Sant’Andrea , Otranto , Baia dei Turchi , Maldive del Salento and Porto Cesareo . Search for hotels in Porto Cesareo (Booking.com).

The rocky cliffs along the east coast also feature some beautiful natural rock formations such as Le Due Sorelle (the ‘Two Sisters’), the collapsed sea cave of Grotta della Poesia , the sea stacks of Torre Sant’Andrea and the sea caves near Santa Maria di Leuca . At Marina Serra , you’ll find a natural swimming pool, with crystalline water, surrounded by rocky cliffs and watched over by the ruins of the Torre Palane .

Northern Puglia

The Gargano peninsula in northern Puglia protrudes into the Adriatic Sea and consists of a mountainous massif, sandy beaches, limestone cliffs, age-old forests and several outlying islands. A large part of the peninsula is occupied by the Gargano National Park (the most extensive national park in Italy), where visitors can enjoy hikes through the beautiful forests. The 140km coastline, lapped by crystalline waters, has dramatic cliffs interspersed with white, sandy beaches and charming fishing towns.

The first town visitors encounter as they approach Gargano is Manfredonia . From here, it’s a short drive to the expansive beaches of Mattinata , a great place to base yourself. I stayed at Hotel Residence Il Porto , which I absolutely loved! The rooms were comfortable and offered stunning views of the coast and sea below. Search for hotels in Mattinata (Booking.com).

Places to visit on the Gargano Peninsula

I recommend spending a few days on the peninsula to explore the flora and fauna of the national park, as well as to enjoy the beaches, charming towns and two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Vico del Gargano and the Sanctuary of San Michele in Monte Sant’Angelo . Beaches I visited include Spiaggia di Vignanotica ( map ), a pebble beach with crystal-clear water set against a spectacular backdrop of white cliffs; the nearby Mattinatella beach; and Spiaggia di San Nicola ( map ), an arc of fine sand set in a bay with trabucco eateries and beach facilities.

Look out for the trabucchi , wooden structures used by fishermen which are now protected historical monuments, as you drive along the northern coast. Some of them have been converted into restaurants, making it an unforgettable seaside lunch experience.

Towns which shouldn’t be missed include Vieste (built on a rocky promontory and flanked by two sandy beaches), Vico del Gargano (a UNESCO World Heritage listed medieval town bursting with charm), Monte Sant’ Angelo (listed together with the Sanctuary of Monte Sant’ Angelo as UNESCO World Heritage sites) and Peschici (a little town perched on rocky cliffs above the blue sea). Search for hotels in Vieste (Booking.com).

Places to visit on the way to Gargano

If you’re heading to Gargano from southern/central Puglia, consider a stop at the historic Castel del Monte , an imposing 13th century citadel, and a lunch stop at Trani , a quaint fishing village with a lively promenade.

Gravina in Puglia

I also recommend a 1-2 night stop in Gravina in Puglia, near Matera (see below). Perched on the edge of a ravine, this ancient town is famous for its Roman bridge (used in scenes of the James Bond movie, ‘No Time to Die’), cave dwellings, underground network of tunnels and caves, and its beautiful Cathedral . Gravina in Puglia is an absolute delight to explore! Read more about things to see in Gravina in Puglia .

Restaurants in Gravina in Puglia I can recommend include Osteria Radici , Osteria 1881 and 13 Volte (with a stunning underground cave setting).

In Gravina in Puglia, I stayed at B&B Sul Ponte , which is a stone’s throw from the Roman bridge. The Deluxe Double room has two balconies with partial views of the bridge, and a massive bathroom! Search for other accommodations in Gravina in Puglia.

Another town I can recommend for a (lunch) stop is Altamura. Located on the main road to Matera, Altamura is a bustling walled town with an impressive Cathedral. If you’re looking for a lunch spot, check out Ristorante Tre Archi ! And ask for Pane di Altamura (a bread that the town is famous for).

Matera, Basilicata

Matera is situated in the adjacent region of Basilicata and if you’re visiting central Puglia, I highly recommend spending a few days in this extraordinary city. Wedged between the ‘heel’ and the ‘foot’ of southern Italy, Matera is one of the oldest continuously-inhabited human settlements in the world, with a history that goes back (perhaps) 7,000 years!

The cityscape is somewhat ‘Biblical’ and strolling around its cobblestone streets is like taking a step back in time. Despite its age, or maybe because of it, there are many things to do and see in Matera, making any visit a wondrous experience. Matera has been the decor of several movies including James Bond’s ‘No Time To Die’ in 2021. Read more about things to do in Matera (including places to stay, restaurants and cafés).

I suggest a stay of at least two nights to truly appreciate this enchanting city. Search for hotels in Matera (Booking.com).

15-day ‘Best of Puglia’ itinerary (including Matera)

This 14 night/15 day self-drive itinerary takes you past the best places to visit in Puglia as described above. You can start the trip in Bari or Brindisi and follow the entire itinerary or concentrate on 1-2 areas, depending on your interests or the length of your stay. I’ve included a suggested length of stay per place/area. The itinerary is as follows:

Day 1-2: Bari (1 night)

Day 2-6: Central Puglia (4 nights) which includes the Itria Valley and the Adriatic coast. Suggested base: Alberobello or Martina Franca.

Day 6-10: Southern Puglia (4 nights) which includes the city of Lecce and the towns/beaches of Otranto, Gallipoli and Porto Cesareo. Suggested base: Lecce, Otranto, Santa Maria di Leuca and/or Gallipoli.

Day 10-12: Matera (2 nights), with a stop in nearby Gravina in Puglia

Day 12-15: Gargano peninsula (3 nights). Suggested base: Mattinata and/or Vieste.

Day 15: back to Bari Airport

The best time to visit Puglia

My favourite months to visit Puglia are late-April, May and early-June, and September till October. The temperatures during these months are around 20+ degrees Celsius; perfect for walking and sightseeing. These months are also less busy and accommodation prices are lower.

I would advise to avoid the summer months (July – August). Temperatures around/above 40 degrees Celsius are not uncommon, it’s very busy and prices tend to be inflated.

The winter months are generally not advisable either. It can get (very) cold, with freezing temperatures and snow in the higher elevations. In addition, many tourist facilities, including accommodations and restaurants are closed during this period.

See my photo essay on reasons I love Italy

Find your accommodations in puglia, more information on puglia.

Visit the website of Puglia Tourism for more information.

Check out the Velvet Escape Travel Planning Resources page.

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54 Responses

I couldn’t agree more with this recommendation! Visiting Puglia during late-April, May, early-June, or from September through October is truly the best choice. The pleasant temperatures and more relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal time to explore the region without the rush. It’s also great to know that accommodation is more affordable during these months.

The advice to steer clear of July and August is spot on. The intense heat and crowded conditions, along with the higher prices, can really dampen the experience. This is such valuable insight for anyone planning their trip!

Thank you Frank! I’m glad you found it helpful.

Cheers, Keith

Great post! thanks for sharing was helpful.

I visited Puglia about ten years ago on a two week trip from where I live in Central Italy. I loved Alberabello and Locorotondo in particular. I bought some great pottery at reasonable prices. We went late in the year which meant it was not so hot but also far fewer tourists.

Hi Denise, Thank you for your lovely comment – it sure made my day! 🙂 I’m glad you found my guide useful! 3 weeks is certainly enough to see Puglia at a leisurely pace. I agree with you about setting up base in several places and making day trips from each place. That’s basically how I explored Puglia myself. I’ve never been to Kefalonia but I’ll certainly get in touch if I ever head that way. Thanks once again, happy trip planning and have a wonderful trip to Puglia!

Thank you so much! I have been researching for a 3 week trip to Puglia and can now work from your guide! We will try to base ourselves in 3 or 4 places and do day trips which will hopefully be very relaxing and cover most areas? Your generosity in sharing all your insights is truly appreciated. We live in the Ionian Island of Kefalonia, Greece, so if you ever want any suggestions here, I’d be delighted to help! Many thanks, Denise

I visited Puglia two years ago on a one week trip but would love to go back for a longer stay. It was one of the best holidays ever. I absolutely loved Ostuni and Martina Franca. Ostuni one of the best towns in Puglia to get lost wandering the alleys, climbing staircases, and dipping under archways. I also loved browsing the stalls of local fruit and vegetables at the Saturday market.

Hi Dorothy, Thanks for your lovely comment. It’s indeed a great idea to go either earlier in the year (spring, early-summer) or in autumn. All my trips there were made during these periods.

Hi Martina, I’m glad you find my Puglia post helpful! 🙂 One week is a bit short but I’m sure you’ll enjoy it (and will return soon for more!). Have a great trip!

wow, what an amazing post! <3 i can't wait to our first visit to Puglia in july. never been there but already in love with this beautiful italian region! one week will be unsatisfyingly short to explore it, but one has to begin somehow 🙂 thanks a lot!

I visited with my husband and I love it, especially the food! We were lucky enough to visit Bari. I hope to visit it again and explore it more deeply. Wonderful memories.

I’m glad my Puglia guide was useful! Thank you for returning to leave a comment.

Best wishes, Keith

Hey, your article was very beneficial to me when I visit puglia. Thanks for sharing.

Hi Alex, Thanks so much for your feedback! I’m so happy to hear that you had a great time in Puglia while following my itinerary. Your comment has definitely made my day! 🙂

Hi Keith, I followed your Puglia itinerary last september and saw almost everything you described within 3 weeks time, was truly great and fantastic. Absolutely loved it. Thanks again for all the useful tips.

Matera view is just mesmerizing.. Thank you for the wonderful post

Hi Scott, Thank you for your wonderful comment. Puglia is indeed magnetic! I’m so glad that my Puglia guide has been helpful. Have a great trip in September and I hope you find a gorgeous property!

Keith: Your insight and detail of the Puglia region is intoxicating. I have visited nearly 40 countries in the world, but there is something about Puglia that is magnetic. I visited Lecce, and the Val d’Atria in 2015 and was so taken by Puglia that I took Italian language lessons in the hope that I would return to Puglia, speak with the locals, and enjoy the region even more. My wife and I are traveling to Puglia in late-September ’21 and are beginning the process of identifying modest properties somewhere in the region so that we may become more frequent visitors. Thank you for your recommendations as they will come in handy when we visit in a few months.

That was an amazing guide, Keith. I cannot wait for the international borders to open soon.

Hi Keith, I found this blog very interesting about Puglia Guide as you have explained in detail, but especially I liked about coastline with cliffs, beaches, and charming towns. Thank you!

[…] Read more about the best places to visit in Puglia. […]

[…] Read about the best places to visit in Puglia. […]

Hi Jackie, Thanks for your lovely comment! I totally agree – how can anyone get enough of Italy? I’m so glad you enjoyed my Puglia guide and I hope you get to see those beautiful trulli houses one day soon!

Your post has me longing for Italy! I can’t wait until we are able to travel from the US… I have so much on my Italy bucket list to finish, including getting to Alberobello to see its famous trulli houses! On my last visit, I covered quite a lot of ground, but not nearly enough. (How does one ever get enough of Italy?) Thanks for the virtual tour of Puglia. It’s such a beautiful region.

Thank you for your awesome thoughts from your travel diary. After reading this article I have decided that my next tour Destination will be Italy.

I hope so too! Stay safe.

Wow… Hope we can travel after the Corona days are over…

What a beautiful place I discovered after reading your blog. I hope to get there soon as we get over with the pandemic crisis

These are stunning photos and this place is really wow!!

Puglia is really nice. just waiting for the moment to visit it. By the way, the story is superbly presented over here.

[…] my guide for the best places to visit in Puglia, […]

I remember last year when I was on my business tour in San Severo (Italy) unfortunately I missed these beautiful place but next time I will definitely explore. Thanks for sharing your Blog. Your blogs Inspired me a lot.

Nice post very good article. and very helpful

Hi Keith, this list is awesome. I really want this all in my bucket list…Cheers from far away Taipei!

he leido tarde este maravilloso relato de unas de las regiones mas bonitas que he conocido de italia,estuvimos 7 dias y me falto conocer bari y brindisi fasano y cisticernino,opte por otros pueblos,pero siempre se vuelve.

Hi, I have a plan for my next vacation, recently I got married and I want to enjoy my honeymoon in another country after reading your blog I decided to go Puglia. Thanks for sharing this information.

I heard this name Puglia for the first time. I didn’t know that such place exists in Italy. Thanks for sharing.

[…] If you’re visiting Matera, I also recommend exploring the neighbouring region of Puglia. Check out my guide to the best places to visit in Puglia. […]

Thanks for your comment George! Glad to have brought back wonderful memories. 🙂

Puglia is such a wonderful destination! I still remember strolling around Bari and Lecce. Especially Bari is a very vibrant city, full of friendly people and fantastic food. I hope I can return soon. Thanks for bringing back so many nice memories 🙂

Hi Renuka, Puglia is fabulous isn’t it? Shame you didn’t like Bari. I absolutely loved the winding streets and alleys of the old town. Hope you get a chance to go back and see more of Puglia (and add Matera too!).

I visited Puglia on my honeymoon, and both my husband and I love it, especially the food! I didn’t like Bari. I found quite non-European. I loved Ostuni, Monopoli and Lecce. I hope to visit it again and explore it more deeply.

Great post! Thanks for sharing this amazing post.

I was lucky enough to visit Brindisi and Bari, hope to go there again! Thanks for sharing!

I heard this name Puglia for the first time.I didn’t even know that such place exists in Italy.This guide proved to a piece of gem for me as it help me to choose my next travel destination.

You’ve truly jotted down the best of Puglia…loved reading it throughout. Thanks for sharing.

Oh yes! Great tip! I had some too in Matera and it’s so delicious!

Amazing blog. Very well explained. The pictures look scintillating, especially that of the white city. Thanks for sharing.

Also don’t forget to taste Pane di Matera, with crunchy crust with creamy center ? Matera’s traditional local food.

[…] Check out my ultimate guide to Puglia. […]

[…] Search for hotels in the Itria Valley. Check out my ultimate guide to Puglia. […]

[…] If you’re planning to hire a car and explore more of Puglia before/after a visit to Bari, I recommend picking up/returning your car at the airport. At the airport, you can easily take the train or a taxi to/from the city and this saves you from having to navigate the city’s busy streets and finding a parking space. Check out my guide of the best places to visit in Puglia. […]

[…] And if you choose to hire a car, spend some time exploring the regions of Basilicata and Puglia. One beautiful place to visit in Basilicata is the town of Castelmezzano. Should you be travelling from Bari to Matera, plan some time in the nearby Itria Valley in Puglia. This area, with its famous ‘trulli’ houses and whitewashed towns, is simply gorgeous! Check out my guide to the best places in Puglia. […]

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Perfect Puglia Itinerary for a Road Trip

Last Updated on May 16, 2024

Puglia or “Apuglia” describes a beautiful region in Southern Italy, known for its rocky coastline, sunshine, and picturesque towns . If you look on a map, Puglia is the “heel” of the Italian boot .

Choose Puglia as a destination if you love Italian sights, food , and culture, and want the opportunity to explore at your own pace.

You need at least 4 or 5 days to travel around Puglia , since towns and beaches are spread out. Don’t even try to see Puglia in 3 days, because you’ll be rushed and barely able to see anything.

A week is ideal, and more time will allow you time to relax and soak up the sun. Rent your car (see transportation), book your travel insurance and pick two or three areas to stay as bases for your Italian road trip.

Technically it’s possible to explore Puglia by public transport, but you’ll need to research routes and check timetables in advance and have a lot of patience and lots of time.

Puglia Road Trip Itinerary

How to get to puglia.

The Puglia region has two airports- Bari or Brindisi . Both are on the east coast, with Bari about 77 miles (124 km) north of Brindisi. Both are international.

Flying into one of these airports is the easiest way to reach Puglia and start out on your journey. However, it is also possible to take a train to Bari, Lecce, or Brindisi (this is a good option if you’re traveling throughout other parts of Italy).

Once in Puglia, the best way to get around is to drive . Here’s a guide to renting a car in Italy. There is not an extensive train network in Southern Italy. If you are not comfortable driving yourself , you can hire a driver or take a group tour (offered by many different tour companies). These options are more expensive, and tours offer less freedom to choose your own itinerary.

Lots of visitors cross from Puglia to Basilicata to see Matera , because it’s so nearby. You could even drive to Positano from Puglia if you wish.

🚙 For the best road trip search for your car at  Discover Cars . It has plenty of options including small compact cars or bigger vans for family trips.

When to Do a Puglia Road Trip

Visit Puglia in late spring or early fall to enjoy comfortably warm weather without the summer crowds. Summer is also an option, but the weather can get hot , and you will have to contend with both local and tourist traffic.

There is less to do in winter , and you won’t get to fully enjoy the beaches; however, this is an option if you’re looking to save money. Pre-Christmas decor in Italy is stunning all over the country, especially in Puglia.

What to Pack

What to pack really depends on the time of year that you go to Puglia. In general, essential items include a bathing suit, sunscreen, hat, and comfortable, breezy clothing.

Pack comfortable shoes for wandering through uneven village streets and rocky coastlines. Italians are fashionable, so it’s a good idea to pack some nicer clothing, especially for fancier meals!

Pack pants with pockets or a coin purse – you’ll need these coins in Italy for tipping .

The Best Itinerary For Puglia

Puglia is an option that I believe can be a great alternative to those who already tried an itinerary for first-time visitors and want to experience something new – beyond Rome, Florence and Venice.

A trip to Puglia should involve exploring cities, villages, and the countryside, experiencing Italian food and wine , and relaxing on beaches.

Puglia is famous for its olive oil, vegetables, and wine. It is also home to amazing Italian cuisine . Orecchiette pasta was created in Puglia , so make sure to have a dish!

With its coastal location, this area also has fantastic seafood. Accommodation in this region varies from quaint historic farmhouses to luxury beach resorts .

For a 4-5 day trip, head to the Itria Valley and Ostuni for 1-2 nights, then drive down south to Salento for the rest of your trip. If the primary purpose of your vacation is the beaches, head straight to the East Coast or Salento . If you have a week or longer, add the northern part of Puglia either at the beginning or end of your itinerary for 1 or 2 nights, and stay in Bari and/or Brindisi for 1 or 2 nights.

Puglia with Kids

Puglia is a great place to take your kids to or even babies. The first time we traveled there was when my son was only 4 weeks old !

Some parents are afraid of stairs and potentially steep surfaces and cars with toddlers, but honestly, Italians don’t. In the worst case scenario, you can hold your child’s hand.

4-5 Days Puglia Itinerary

Polignano a Mare – Alberobello – Ostuni – Otrano – Matera

Most likely you’ll be starting in Bari due to the airport and train station. Unless you have unlimited time, skip Bari and proceed to other spots (tips for Bari in longer itineraries).

On this route I highly recommend spending nights. indifferent spots, but if you prefer to stay in one spot, then Polignano a Mare is the best place.

Day 1: Poligano a Mare & Monopoli

Make sure to visit Poligano al Mare is a spectacularly positioned small town of white and golden buildings with a small white pebble beach surrounded by cliffs with clear emerald water.

To tourists it’s known for the infamous cave restaurant these days –  Ristorante Grotta Palazzese  which is located inside a cave. You’ll need to book in advance and be prepared to pay a lot and not expect much from the food. It’s pretty overpriced, but it’s an experience.

Take a trip to Monopoli while you’re there as it’s only 15 minutes away. The port is quite spectacular to see.

Day 2: Itria Valley

The Itria Valley, or Valle d’Itria is located in the center of the Puglia region , and is known for its beautiful rocky countryside. Drive through this valley and admire the “tulli” or buildings made out of white limestone, which is a signature feature of this region.

Walk around in Taranto and see the stunning baroque and Roccoco Architecture, or visit the wineries of Martina Franca .

You can also visit the Grotte di Castellana , which is an extensive network of caves . The Castellana includes formations of interesting colors and shapes. Tours are offered, and tickets can be purchased in advance.

For the best examples of trulli, stop in the town of Alberobello , which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can walk around or schedule a sample of the local food and wine .

I highly recommend spending the night in Alberobello to experience it without day trip tourists.

Where to Stay in Alberobello, I taly

Hotel Ristorante Colle Del Sole – Classy hotel with spacious rooms close to the Alberobello city center and 500 m from the UNESCO quarters of Aia Piccola and Rione Monti.

Grand Hotel Olimpo – Surrounded by Trulli , this hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms and suites in a quiet area.

Tipico Resort – Choose to stay in Trullo or stone buildings in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 3: Ostuni & Brindisi

Ostuni is an ancient town in the province of Brindisi. Commonly called the “white city” (due to its limestone buildings) Ostuni is located on a hill and is known for its meandering streets.

The best thing to do in Ostuni is to lose yourself in the maze of streets and explore at your leisure. You should also visit Ostuni Cathedral (Piazza Beato Giovanni Paolo II) which has a long history and beautiful gothic architecture. You can visit this cathedral and other important attractions in the city as part of a walking tour of the historic center .

Osteria Del Tempo Perso (Via Gaetano Tanzarella Vitale, 47, 72017) serves superb seafood and pasta in a cozy cave environment. Arrive early, this restaurant is popular with locals!

When is Ostuni, make sure to try the gelato at Cremeria La Scala (Scalinata Monsignor, Via Tenente Nino Antelmi, 17, 72017). Order a gelato flight , which lets you taste several of their delicious flavors!

Masseria Il Franoio is a great choice for both food and accommodation. This olive farm, located in Ostuni (S.S. 16 km. 874-72017) truly brings you farm-to-table cuisine. The menu depends on what is grown and available, so it changes seasonally and is sure to please. This Masseria also offers reasonably priced and comfortable rooms.

If you’d rather stay in Ostuni town, you can visit the farm for an olive oil tasting tour!

Centrally located on the eastern coast of Puglia, Brindisi is a port city known for its history of international trade . Check out the port, visit its beautiful cathedrals and churches, and view the Castello Alfonsino di Brindisi (located on the Island of Saint Andrea). Walk along the Diga di Punta Riso , a narrow pier which extends into the sea.

La Cantina ti I’artisti (11 Via De’Terribile) offers both food and music in the lively city of Brindisi. Try the sausages and stuffed pork! Theodorvs Caffe & Cucina (Via del mare 36, 72100 Brindisi) serves interesting dishes based on local ingredients.

The Hotel Executive Inn in Brindisi is a modern option with amenities, such as a parking garage. This is also a good option is you’re flying in or out of Brindisi Airport.

Where to Stay in Ostuni

La Sommità Relais & Chateaux – Set in a historical palace in the center of Ostuni , this hotel features an outdoor courtyard and a lovely splash pool.

OSTUNI PALACE – Hotel Bistrot & SPA – The beautifully white Ostuni Palace is a short walk from the center of Ostuni. You can choose from a variety of modern and elegant rooms and suites.

Masseria Salinola – Built in the 18th century , this rustic hotel offers spacious rooms, apartments, and suites. The romantic hotel is filled with beautiful lights and fireplaces , while the fruits and veggies come from the onsite farm.

Day 4: Otranto

Otranto is a town in the southeast of Salento with a wealth of ancient history. It’s hard to miss the castle and fortifications, which dominate this town.

Stop to see the Punta Palascia Lighthouse (SP87, 73028) and the Otranto Cathedral, the foundations of which are nearly 1,000 years old. The Cathedral also holds the skulls of Christian martyrs , a sight that is not for the faint of heart!

The Alimini Lakes offer pristine beaches in Salento near Otranto. Two lakes lie adjacent to the coast and forests, linking freshwater to the saltwater sea. The beaches here are long and narrow, and the water is a gorgeous shade of blue. These beaches are slightly harder to get to – you must park in a lot along the SP366 road, and then go by foo through marked trails.

There’s a lot to see in Otranto, so it’s easiest to visit the highlights on a walking tour!

While you’re in Otrano take a drive to the Grotta della Poesia. It’s of extraordinary beauty and it cannot stay out of your Puglia itinerar.

Stay in Otranto

Hotel Palazzo Papaleo – Elegantly designed bright and spacious rooms and suites in this historic building feature frescoed ceilings and antique furnishings . Guests can enjoy the views from the rooftop terrace.

Relais Valle Dell’Idro – Chic and minimally decorated rooms are perfect for an Italian holiday . You can also spend time in the hot tub on the rooftop terrace with great views of the city .

Corte Di Nettuno – CDSHotels – Featuring two rooftop terraces looking out at the harbor , the Corte Di Nettuno was once a farmhouse. The marine-themed hotel is filled with shipping maps, sea-themed mosaics, and other nautical objects.

Day 5: Matera

After you’ve explored Puglia, drive to Matera to see more beauty of another Italian region.

7 Days Puglia Itinerary

If you have more time, follow the first days of the 4-5 day itinerary but save Matera for later.

Bari – Polignano a Mare – Monopoli – Alberobello – Ostuni – Otrano – Salento – Lecce – Gallipoli – Matera

Day 5: Salento & Lecce

Salento is a peninsula at the southern end of Puglia, which boasts beautiful beaches, Greek influences, and excellent olive oil . Within Salento there are several towns/cities to visit , including Lecce, Otranto, and Gallipoli. The city of Lecce is in the larger province of Lecce, so keep this in mind to avoid getting confused.

To experience the best variety of Puglia’s wine, take a Salento wine tour or plan your own wine tour of the region with this guide to Puglia’s vineyards. Make sure to try the Primitivos variety!

The city of Lecce is called “The Florence of the South” due to its beauty and architecture (specifically its Lecce baroque buildings). Make sure to visit the Basilica di Santa Croce , which provides a great example of a 16th and 17th-century style baroque structure. The Basilica (Via Umberto 1) is open from 9 AM to 9 PM and costs 3-9 EUR (depending on whether you buy a single ticket or a combined ticket which includes entry to other churches).

Or take a tour that will take you through the town center showing you the Basilica as well as Piazza Duomo, the ruins of the Roman Amphitheater, and more in an ecological rickshaw .

Visit the beach Torre Dell’Orso(Piazza Risorgimento, Torre dell’Orso, Melendugno)is in the Lecce region, approximately a 35-minute drive from the city of Lecce. Unlike many Italian beaches, Torre Dell’Orso is large, with wide stretches of sand. The water is calm and clear, and you can visit a man-made cave, Grotta di San Cristoforo, and see a 16th-century tower.

Osteria degli Spiriti (Via Cesare Battisti, 4, 73100) is a Michelin rated restaurant in Lecce . Despite its high rating, this restaurant is affordable and also offers a great wine list. Try the fava bean puree. Stop at Pasticceria Andrea Ascalone (Via Vittorio Emanuele II 17, 73013), located in Galantina, about a 30-minute drive from Lecce. This bakery is home to the Pasticciotto, a flavored custard cake .

Want to try everything Apulian at once? Take a street food tasting and walking tour to enjoy some tarallini, frisella, pasticciotto, and more.

One accommodation option is the Palazzo Persone in Lecce. The Palazzo is located in a 16th-century Synagogue and provides comfortable rooms with modern touches and good amenities.

Day 6: Gallipoli

Gallipoli is an island village in Salento with a 13th-century castle, lovely beaches, and a classic Italian atmosphere. Visit for a day trip , or make it a base for your time in Salento. The island can only be accessed by boat or by one bridge.

Stop to see the town’s 13th-century fortification , the Castello Angioino di Gallipoli (approximately 7 EUR for entry).

The local “city” beach, Spiaggia della Purita (Contrada Purita, 73014) is also worth visiting. The water is clean and clear enough for swimming, and the beach is conveniently located right outside of the town walls. There are also lots of restaurants and bars overlooking the beach.

The Palazzo Mosco Inn in Gallipoli is an excellent choice for the southern leg of your Puglia trip. This boutique hotel is centrally located in a historic building and is reasonably priced.

Where to Stay in Gallipoli

Al Pescatore Hotel & Restaurant – Set in a historic building from the 1600s right in Gallipoli’s historic center, the hotel is a short walk from Purity Beach. The sea-view rooms are just perfect!

I Bastioni San Domenico – Set at the corner of the Riviera Saura and the Riviera Armando Diaz, guests at this hotel have free access to cycles and can enjoy the rooftop sun terrace.

Palazzo del Corso – Boutique Hotel – The luxurious hotel in a 19th-century building on Gallipoli’s main street features vaulted ceilings and the best of modern amenities. Guests can enjoy breakfast on the terrace while looking out at panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.

10 Day Puglia Itinerary

If staying for one week or more, add:, day 8-9: umbra forest.

The Foresta Umbra translates to “shady forest” and is an ancient woodland space that contains archaeological remnants from thousands of years ago .

It’s located in the north of the region, on a section of land that juts into the ocean. This Puglia forest and UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its beech trees , but is also home to many other varieties of trees as well as wildlife. The Forest provides walking/hiking/biking trails and a visitor center.

Where to Stay in and near Umbra

Forte 2 Hotel – Just a short walk from Vieste Harbour , this hotel features a seasonal garden and an outdoor swimming pool. You can choose rooms with balconies or terraces to relax with a glass of wine .

La Locanda Del Carrubo – Overlooking the Mediterranean sea from the cliffs it’s set on , this hotel located close to Gargano National Park features 3 pools, a spa, and a wellness center with a Turkish bath, hammam, and sauna.

Pizzomunno Vieste Palace Hotel – This seaside hotel in Vieste features a professional wellness center and sports facilities. Compact and comfortable rooms and suites with private balconies ensure you have an enjoyable stay.

Day 10: Bari & Castel del Monte

Bari is a coastal city that plays an important economic role in the region . Visit the old town, located in the harbor, and walk on the promenade known as the Lungomare Nazario Sauro. For an experience that is a bit different than visiting more churches and castles (although this is also an option!) spend some time at the Bari Provincial Art Gallery .

All Apulian food is delicious! Osteria Vini e Cucina (Strada Vallisa, 23, 70122) in Bari, is known for its seafood dishes . This restaurant is a good option for lunch or dinner, but expect to be served several courses, and they do not offer menus.

The Borgo Egnazi is a five-star resort located in Savelletri, around an hour’s drive from Bari. Pricey but not astronomical, this hotel offers amazing views and modern luxuries.

This stunning medieval castle of Castel del Monteis located in the northern part of the Puglia region. Castel del Monte has a unique architectural structure and served as a lodge and fortress for Frederick II . The castle also provides great views of the surrounding countryside.

Castel del Monte is about an hour’s drive from Bari and it costs 10 EUR to enter. Hours vary by season, but more information can be found on the official website .

If you want to skip the hassle, opt for a guided tour with a knowledgeable local guide . That will be the end of your Puglia itinerary.

Also consider: Beaches in the Northern Part of the Region

Located around a 30-minute drive south of Bari, Lama Monachile (also called Cala Porto) is a famous Puglia beach. This beach is small, due to its location between cliffs, but the water is clear and the scenery is beautiful.

You’ll find Lama Monachile located on Via Comite Fanelli in Polignano a Mare. Due to its size, Lama Monachile can be easily overcrowded. Arrive early to avoid crowds , or opt for a boat tour instead.

Another iconic beach is Pizzomunno , located in Vieste (Lungomare Enrico Mattei) in the northern end of Puglia. This beach is large, with giant white limestone rocks . There are resort hotels located along this beach, so it can get noisy and crowded during the busy summer season.

Ciao Bello!

Puglia is the perfect road trip destination to experience beaches, culture, and great food. Expect a laid-back but stylish vibe, and prepare to be wowed by the sunsets and beautiful coastlines. Plan for at least a week, and build in time to relax and enjoy the raw beauty of Italy’s heel.

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Anna Karsten is a travel blogger, journalist and psoriasis advocate. She has been traveling the world for the last 15 years - visiting over 100 countries and living on 5 continents. Anna has been featured in The New York Times, The Daily Mail, Forbes and more.

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19 Comments

Good Day Anna, Would you ever consider a local travel guide to get around on a 10 day Itinerary? Thanks, Bill

A private guide for sure, if that’s what you need. I’d rather hire guides here and there though not to be restricted 🙂

Hello Anna,

I’m planning a September trip to Puglia. I’m interested in taking scuba diving lessons in Puglia. Any advice as to where?

Are you already PADI certified, or that would be the first time ever?

Hi! Enjoyed reading your posts! We are planning to visit puglia for 3 nights. May i know where we should base our stay if we are driving around? Thanks!

If you want to see most of Puglia I recommend staying at two different base locations to avoid daily long-distance driving.

We are spending 14 days in puglia and will have a car. We are thinking about using 3 towns as bases to visit the surrounding towns.

Matera – 2 nights Polignano di Mare – 6 nights Otranto – 6 nights

What are your thoughts?

Do you have other suggestions?

I think you picked perfectly!

@Anna Karsten, Hi Anna ,I’m planning to fly into Brindisi but have only a week ,I would like to do a two base where would you suggest we have teenagers who like the beach . I would be interested in breaking the week up I would preferably not drive .

Polignano a Mare and Monopoli probably.

Hey Anna, thanks for this post! I’m planning on taking my teenage daughter for a few days (probably 5) but we are beach creatures. In my research I ended up with 13 places to see, so was wondering what are your top picks of must see beaches in the region so I can compare to my notes to help narrow it down? Many thanks!

The most iconic beaches in Puglia are Baia delle Zagare, Polignano a mare (although gets crowded), Pescoluce and Gargano National Park.

Hi Anna. Love this blog and very informative. We plan to arrive in Bari by car around Nov 16, 2023 and will be in the area until approx Dec 10. (about 23 days) We enjoy walking, food, wine, architecture, art and immersing in local life. We don’t rush around trying to see everything. Are there 4 towns/places you would recommend where we could base ourselves and then do day trips from there. Any advise welcome. PS We have been to Italy 5 times in the past 5 years and the Puglia region is the only area we haven’t done. Happy to even look right down at the tip. We have done Sicily and Calabria (loved Scilla) Cheers from Tassie, Australia

Hallo Anna. We plan to visit Puglia in March. Mainly for wine tasting and architecture. Which wineries would be unique boutique wineries with outstanding wines?

Hello and TY for the great information. just booked a 21 day (!) 50th anniversary trip starting late August… I have several question: We arrive late into Naples and plan to rent a car there. Would you suggest a night at the airport and get the car the next day to begin driving to Puglia? For 21 days, how would you divide up the stops? Many thanks for your advice.

Unless you’re very tired you can rent a car same day and drive to a nicer accommodation for the first night. For 21 days I suggest adding Amalfi coast as well.

Hello Anna, where would you recommend 2 or 3 bases in Puglia if we have 8 nights and travelling in December (near Christmas/New Year)? We will arrive in either Brindisi or Bari and drive. Thank you!

We are going to be in Italy March 3 through 13 of this year. Knowing it’s the off season, is this a good time to visit Puglia? Will we miss out due to things still being closed?

Puglia doesn’t close the way Positano does, so you should be fine.

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An Insider's Guide to Puglia, Italy — Incredible Pasta, Beautiful Beach Towns, and Boutique Hotels Included

This sun-drenched southern region offers the best of Italy with fewer crowds — at least in the offseason.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best restaurants, what to buy in puglia, cities and areas to visit, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Word is definitely out on Puglia, the long, narrow coastal region that forms the heel of Italy’s boot. No longer a hidden gem or best-kept secret, Puglia’s dramatic beaches, Baroque cities, and whitewashed trulli are splashed over many an Instagram feed. 

Yet compared to other regions of Italy, Puglia — pronounced pool-yah — still offers travelers the Italian vacation experiences they seek, while skipping much of the crowds and chaos of better-known destinations. “It’s definitely less-visited compared to iconic Italian regions like Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast,” says Madeline Jhawar, owner and custom travel planner with Italy Beyond the Obvious . “And Puglia really does have it all: fantastic food and wine, spectacular countryside and beach scenery, and a deep and fascinating history.”

Our guide highlights Puglia’s appealing mix of scenery, history, cuisine — and let’s not forget the agreeable weather most of the year — and maps out how to make the most of a trip to this sunny region. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• At a hotel like Le Alcove in Alberobello, you can sleep in a trullo, a cozy, cocoon-like conical dwelling.
• Sample orecchiette, Puglia’s signature ear-shaped pasta, at a traditional eatery like Osteria Le Arpie in Bari.
• Make like an Italian at the mare (sea) and head to a lido (beach club) like the chic Pettolecchia near Torre Canne.
• Buy Puglia’s prized olive oil directly from the source, at a family mill like L’Acropoli di Puglia in Martina Franca.
• Take in the Baroque architecture of Lecce and prepare to be overwhelmed by its exuberant facades, altarpieces, and piazzas.

Borgo Egnazia

The established go-to luxury spot in Puglia, Borgo Egnazia is a sprawling and impeccably curated compound that ranks among Travel + Leisure ’s best resorts in Italy . T+L travel advisor Keith Waldon , founder and director of Departure Lounge , praises the outstanding service, where “privacy is guaranteed,” as well as the setting between the sea and the Valle d’Itria. 

The six suites at this boutique hotel each occupy a whitewashed trulli, with cool stone floors, eclectic decor, and modern bathrooms. We love the almost mystical feeling of comfort these spaces convey, as well as the homemade breakfast and the location in the heart of Alberobello town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Courtesy of Masseria Torre Maizza

Masseria Torre Maizza

A 2020 standout for best new hotels , Masseria Torre Maizza owes its polish to Rocco Forte — expect the brand’s unmatched service and serene, Olga Polizzi-designed interiors that seem to embody a cool breeze. Waldon says the feeling here is of “living in a real luxury masseria like at home, and it’s the only property with its own golf course.”

Palazzo Sant’Anna

Set in Lecce’s historic center, Palazzo Sant'Anna is curated to zen-like perfection. Puglia travel advisor Ylenia Sambati refers guests here for the light-filled suites, many with exposed stone and wood beams, as well as balconies. “Wake up to birds singing and a colorful and bountiful breakfast prepared with love by owner Beatrice and her team,” she says.

Take a cooking class.

Yes, cooking classes are ubiquitous in Italy, but the traditional cuisine of Puglia stands out, even in a country of great food. Waldon says to “take a pasta-focused cooking class in a local masseria with a mama” and go home with some new skills. Sambati likes the friendly vibe and easy instructions offered by Cook In Puglia in Lecce.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Relax at a lido.

Beaches in Puglia can be crowded in the summertime. Escape the ruckus at a beach club, or lido , such as Pettolecchia Il Lido , a luxury spot between Bari and Brindisi. Lounge beds, linen-clad gazebos, Frette towels, and waiter service set this one apart in a sea of beach umbrellas.

For families, try a trullo.

The cone-shaped trulli of Puglia’s Itria Valley are certainly unique, and according to Cherrye Moore of My Bella Vita Travel , they’re a hit with kids. “Families should rent a trullo villa and use it as a base for day trips to Alberobello, Ostuni, Locorotondo, and Monopoli. Many have pools and outside areas where the kids can run around.”

Head to the sea.

Puglia’s Adriatic coast is dramatic, especially between Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, where clear waters lap undulating cliffs and flow into the occasional sea cave. Both Waldon and Moore recommend chartering a private boat ( Cataurora is a good choice), either for a sunset cruise or a half-day tour with stops for swimming and snorkeling. 

fabiomax/Getty Images

LaltroBaffo 

Puglia’s seafood is almost as famous as its orecchiette, and both Sambati and Waldon heartily recommend trying it at LaltroBaffo , an Otranto restaurant helmed by chef Cristina Conte, who, with her young, passionate team, turns out sophisticated takes on traditional Salento recipes.

Taverna della Gelosia

Sambati loves this rustic tavern in Ostuni’s old town. “It’s a bohemian, Salento-style trattoria serving local recipes that are lightly revisited.” Taverna della Gelosia is tucked away amid a jumble of alleys and stairways, which makes its vine-covered courtyard all the more romantic on a summer night.

Osteria Le Arpie

Handmade, ear-shaped orecchiette is the archetypal pasta of Puglia, and its production centers around Bari’s centro storico . Osteria Le Arpie is about as old-school as it gets, and its seasonal orecchiette con le cime di rapa (turnip greens) is Puglian comfort food epitomized. Also look for dishes served with pane di Altamura , Puglia’s heritage bread.

Michele Ursi/Getty Images

Leather Sandals

“Puglia is famous for leather sandals, which you can find everywhere in local shops,” says Waldon. Erredibi is a top choice for handmade, locally made products, and they have stores in Brindisi, Ostuni, Lecce, and Otranto.

Primitivo Wine 

“Puglia’s red primitivo wine, even when it’s just table wine quality, can stand up to reds from across the world,” says Moore. Combine some souvenir shopping with a winery tour and tasting at Masseria Li Veli , or just pop into a little grocery or enoteca to buy a few bottles to bring home.

“Ancient olive groves define the landscape of Puglia, and buying newly pressed EVOO straight from a producer is something special,” says Moore. “ Savoia offers well-organized tours and great oil, but don’t overlook smaller producers like L’Acropoli di Puglia in Martina Franca.”

“We always tell our travelers not to miss the incredible small city of Lecce ,” says Jhawar. “It’s referred to as the ‘Florence of the South’ because of its rich Baroque architecture.” Lecce’s soft limestone meant easy carving for 17th-century artisans and well, they went to town , as evidenced at Basilica di Santa Croce, the Basilica del Rosario, and the Duomo of Lecce.

Alberobello

“It's hard to recommend people skip a visit to the town of Alberobello, with its iconic trulli houses,” says Jhawar. But a lot of travelers have the same idea. “We always encourage our guests to combine Alberobello with less touristy nearby towns such as Locorotondo or Martina Franca.”

While much of the tourist buzz centers around the Adriatic coast and the trulli area, don’t sleep on Gallipoli, which Waldon calls “ the beach town of Puglia.” The Ionian coast town has ancient history, a quiet old town, a newer town brimming with life, and a nonstop Italian party scene in the summertime. 

The Gargano

This picturesque promontory on Puglia’s northernmost coastline is dominated by Gargano National Park, where the scenery changes from beaches to mountains in just a few miles. For smaller towns, incredible biodiversity, more natural beaches, plus some dramatic sea stacks and cliffs, this is the region’s wilder side. 

Francesco Riccardo Iacomino/Getty Images

Waldon recommends visiting Puglia in the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to mid-November in order to avoid the summer heat and crowds, as Puglia is a major holiday destination for Italians. Jhawar agrees, but adds that “Puglia is very lively during the height of summer, with many local festivals.” The takeaway? If you plan a summer visit, book your accommodations and rental car well in advance, and brace yourself for crowded — albeit gorgeous — beaches and towns.

The airports at Bari and Brindisi serve flights from within Italy and Europe, though many incoming travelers opt to fly into Rome’s Fiumicino airport and arrange a rental car or transfer from there. Both Trenitalia and Italo trains serve Puglia, though be aware that with historic hill towns, train stations are usually in the lower town, which might be several miles away from the centro .

Vincenzo De Palo PHOTO/Getty Images

You can get between Puglia’s major tourist centers via Trenitalia’s regional trains and a few private lines. But getting to smaller, rural destinations and more remote coastal areas is trickier by train. “We typically book private drivers or rental cars for our travelers,” says Jhawar. “Booking a rental car in Puglia is a decent approach — just make sure you know where to park in order to avoid the limited traffic zones found in most Italian cities.”

Related Articles

Puglia, Italy Guide | 13 Trip Inspirations & Destinations

See why celebs and budget travelers alike love Puglia, Italy! Our guide includes tips on the best times to go to Puglia, Puglia destination inspiration, what to eat, and 13 Puglia experiences that’ll make you fall in love with Italy.

Puglia Trip Guide

Madonna, Mick Jagger, John Malkovich, George Clooney, Jude Law, and David Beckham have all been spotted vacationing in Puglia, Italy. Helen Mirren is said to have fallen head over heels in love with her home near Lecce in Puglia. Helen is not the only celebrity who fell in love with Puglia enough to buy a home there. Fellow celebrity homeowners include Meryl Streep, Gerard Depardieu, and Francis Ford Coppola. Know who else loves Puglia? Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel. Not only did they get married there, but in 2022 they renewed their vows in Puglia for the 10th anniversary. How romantic!

Despite the many famous faces gracing the cities and shores, above all else, Puglia can be affordable for everyday travelers like us! We’re  Paolo  and  Brandy . Together we have been traveling across Italy for over a decade. After becoming dual Italian American citizens we moved to Italy to live out our early retirement dreams. Now we travel to Italy’s most popular destinations and explore hidden gems full-time from our home base in the Italian Alps.

In this Puglia guide, we’ve included the experiences that made us fall head over heels in love with Puglia just like Helen Mirren (boy was that fun to type!) We’ve included tips on how to get to Puglia, the best time to go, a map of Puglia’s top sights, and a taste of what to eat in Puglia.

Is Puglia, Italy Worth Visiting?

Yes, Puglia, Italy is absolutely worth visiting because it offers the chance to experience a slower pace of life in Italy among stunning coastal beauty. A feast for the eyes, the whitewashed cliffside towns of Puglia smile over the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Soft breezes cast warm sea air down ancient streets dating back thousands of years.

Over time, Puglia has absorbed a beguiling mix of cultural influences to become one of Italy’s most welcoming destinations. Greeks from Sparta arrived in Puglia in the 8th century BCE. Influences from the Roman Imperial age, the Renaissance, and Italian Baroque can still be seen today in the homes, churches, arts, foods, wines, and traditions of Puglia. To visit Puglia, Italy is to fall in love with the Italian way of life. To be able to define la dolce vita for oneself. Back to top

What Puglia is Famous For

Puglia is famous for its robust olive oils, wheat production, and near-perfect year-round weather and 540 miles of coastline have made it the perfect Italian beach destination. A few fun facts about Puglia?

• Despite climate change, Italy registered a 15% increase in oil production in 2022 thanks in big part to Puglia which produces nearly 40% of Italy’s olive oil.
• After WWI Mussolini’s “Battle for Wheat” ramped up wheat production in southern Italy in an attempt to make Italy self-sufficient. As a fertile region with ideal growing conditions, Puglia became a major wheat producer in Italy earning it the nickname “The Breadbasket of Italy.”
• Puglia is home to Orecchiette Italy’s famous ear-shaped pasta and Caciocavallo one of the world’s most expensive cheeses .
• Puglia is one of Italy’s 20 regions, with a population of nearly 4 million people and its capital city is Bari. Back to Top

How to Get to Puglia Italy

The easiest way to reach Puglia is to fly into one of the four main airports in Puglia including Foggia, Bari, Brindisi, or Taranto. Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla is the best international airport to explore northern Puglia while Brindisi Airport, also known as Salento Airport is best for exploring southern Puglia. Here are the Airlines that fly into Brindisi and the Airlines that fly into Bari International Airport .

While Puglia feels like an island, it’s very well integrated into Italy with highways far easier to navigate than the Amalfi coast. Trains are convenient in Puglia as well opening up easy travel to countless European destinations. There are high-speed Frecciargento trains from Rome to Bari that take just under four hours. Bologna to Bari takes about five hours by train while Venice to Bari takes around 7 and a half hours.

Once in Puglia, there’s a lot to see. In order to get a good taste of what Puglia is famous for, consider renting a car and enjoying a coastal drive. American driving in Italy for the first time? Be sure to get an international driver’s license before driving in Italy . Back to top

Best Time to Visit Puglia

Most guides to Puglia note the best month to swim in the sea is August when waters hit 78°F, however, it’s also the most crowded thanks to Italians and Europeans who traditionally vacation in August. Instead, we recommend considering July when Puglia gets both the most hours of sun and the warmest temperatures of the year at a near-perfect 75°F daily. On the other hand, introverts who prefer avoiding crowds altogether might instead opt for the off-season. While Puglia sees the most rain in November, come January temperatures average 48°F. Grab a jacket and you’ll have some of Italy’s most romantic beaches to yourself at sunset. Back to top

How to Pronounce Puglia

Puglia, Italy is pronounced poo·lee·uh. Apulia is English for the Italian name Puglia. So unlike many regions of Italy known internationally by their English names, Apuglia is more commonly referred to by its name in Italian, Puglia. Want to make sure to pronounce Puglia like an Italian? Check our Puglia pronunciation tips to ditch the accent and sound like an Italian. Plus, find out why pronouncing Italian words with “gli” is tricky for native English speakers. Back to top

Where to Stay in Northern Puglia as a Base of Exploration

Named by CN Traveller as one of the 10 Prettiest Towns in Puglia , Vieste is our Puglia guide pick for the perfect base for exploring northern Puglia. Known as “The pearl of the Gargano” Vieste is located in northeast Puglia on the Gargano Promontory, halfway between Peschici and the coast of Mattinata.

Our pick for the best place to stay in Vieste on a budget is Residence MareSol. Just outside the heart historic of Vieste, Italy, this hidden gem offers rooms with a view of the sea starting at 110€ a night. There are luxury five-star hotel stays in Vieste, Italy as well including La Locanda del Carrubo Resort & Spa Hotel and the five-start Hotel Pizzomunno Vieste Palace Hotel located in the heart of Vieste. Back to top

Where to Stay in Southern Puglia

Lecce is our Puglia guide pick as the perfect city base to explore southern Puglia. Nicknamed the “Florence of the south” Lecce is an elegant city with Baroque architecture, a Roman Amphitheater, smooth stone streets, and easy access to Otranto, Brindisi, and Gallipoli.

Lecce boasts many luxury hotel options in and just outside the city including Castle Elvira which opened in 2022 to rave reviews thanks to its hilltop location in a castle itself. Local legend claims Castle Elvira was named after the daughter it was built for in the early 20th century. Brokenhearted her Neapolitan family left the castle abandoned. Over 100 years later a British couple bought Castle Elvira and renovated it to its former glory with a 21st-century take on the interior design.

Inside the heart of Lecce luxury hotel Palazzo Bozzi Corso is an ancient Masseria (a fortified farmhouse found on the estates in the Puglia region) that was transformed through into a luxurious hotel in 2015. Four-star accommodations for less than 100€ a night do exist in Lecce including Hotel Signuria Dimora Esclusiva which is located in the historic city center of Lecce. Back to top

Puglia Map of Destinations

Our guide to Puglia focuses on some of the most beautiful places along the coast in Puglia like Vieste and Otranto. We’ll also go inland past Puglia’s centuries-old farmland to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Castel del Monte and the famous Trulli of Alberobello all of which can be found on our map of destinations in Puglia, Italy below. Back to top

13 Best Things to Do in Puglia, Italy

Ready to plan a trip to Puglia, Italy now? Be sure to add a few of the most breathtaking experiences Puglia has to offer to your itinerary! Our Puglia guide list of the best things to do includes mysterious and quirky architecture. Splurge worth once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences, and authentic budget friendly street food. Plus, tips on where to see stunning (and free) art, views, sandy beaches, and more.

Although the list is numbered, each of the experiences listed as one of the best things to do in Puglia corresponds to the number on the map of Puglia above moving from north to south. So don’t miss some of the tastiest and most breathtaking parts of southern Puglia at the end of the list. Back to top

The Best Cliffside Restaurant in Puglia

Peschici is part of the stunning Gargano National Park (which is also featured in our list below) making it a popular destination for travelers in the Gargano. A disarming fishing village, Peschici is famous for its blue flag beaches, luxury resorts, and love locks with epic views.

Not to be missed in Peschici is the breathtaking experience of pairing cliffside views of the Mediterranean with the tasting menu at Porta di Basso. Here are three reasons this immersive fine-dining experience is on our list of the best things to do in Puglia, Italy.

One, the location offers unparalleled cliffside views. Two, the balcony has just a few tables making it feel like a private affair. Three, the food! Think bright flavors of fresh seafood grounded by Apulian ingredients from the land. Panzanella to Tuna. Seared Cuttlefish to Turnips.  Podolico  beef to  Polpo . Dining at this Michelin-recommended cliffside restaurant in Italy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s absolutely worth the splurge. Back to top

Vieste Promenade & Historic City Center

Vieste’s medieval historic center is a graceful maze of white-washed streets, steep stairways, and thin arches each leading to the sea’s dramatic cliff views. Points of exploration in the historical city center include The Swabian Castle, the Romanesque Cathedral of Assumption, piazza Garibaldi and piazza Kennedy which leads to a seafront promenade. Back to top

Try Italy’s Most Expensive Cheese

Head to La Massaia cheese shop in downtown Vieste and see a man about a cheese. Not just any cheese. Caciocavallo Podolico Italy’s most expensive cheese . Demanding upwards of $50 a pound Caciocavallo Podolico is made from the milk of a rare breed of cow that thrives on wild herbs, and very little water. The result is an intensely aromatic flavor of wild fennel, licorice, and myrtle. Back to top

Vieste Boat Tour

Taking a boat tour around Vieste inside the sea caves of Gargano National Park is a unique way to experience the colorful region. Cliffs of chalk-like white limestone, take on rainbow hues near the shoreline thanks to layers of flint. Here’s a little “home video” that shows why taking a boat tour in Vieste is one of the best things to do in Puglia. Back to top

Scialara Beach

20 beaches including 15 Blue Flag beaches stretch 18 miles of coastline, making it Vieste one of the best beach towns in Puglia. Arguably the most popular beach in Vieste is Scialara Beach thanks to its soft sands and white limestone rocks. During day the local legend of Cristalda & Pizzomunno breathes life into a giant limestone monolith known as Pizzomunno. At night, a romantic quality sets in as the warm glow of sunset reflects off flecks of pink, purple, and green in the white limestone cliffs. It’s the perfect way to end the day before slowly walking back to the historic center of Vieste for a romantic dinner. Back to top

Explore Gargano National Park & The Umbra Forest

Explore the wild side of Puglia at the Gargano National Park where Aleppo pines over 700 years old stand 800 meters above the sea. The Foresta Umbra Nature Reserve is the green lung of the Gargano National Park and has the largest deciduous forest in Italy including 2,000 plant species. Back to top

Pugliese Focaccia

Pugliese Focaccia (aka Focaccia Barese meaning from Bari) is what tourists see locals snacking on at the beach, then go searching for immediately after. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside Pugliese Focaccia is a stratospherically delicious street food in Bari. Although every bakery in Puglia has it Panificio Fiore is widely recognized as the best place to eat Focaccia in Puglia.

Some of our curated Puglia guide videos are in Italian. However, YouTube offers auto-translation! To activate, turn on the video captions and enable the Auto-Translate feature (click the gear icon at the bottom of the video.) Next, select captions in the small pop-up window. Finally, select Auto-Translate and the language. Enjoy! Back to top

Hungry for more authentic Italian cuisine? Here’s our pick for where to eat in Vieste.

Puglia UNESCO Site Castel del Monte

According to the official UNESCO World Heritage website, Puglia has three UNESCO World Heritage sites including the world-famous Trulli of Alberobello, The Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo, and the mythical Castel del Monte. The following video highlights each of Puglia’s three UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Two and a half hours drive from Vieste sits the perfectly octagonal Castel del Monte. Certainly Puglia’s most mythical UNESCO world heritage site. With an astronomically precise location Castel del Monte is as beautiful as it is mysterious. To visit is to wonder. Why is this seemingly perfect castle here? More importantly, what would it watch over, and defend? Moreover what secrets do those eight octagonal towers keep? In other words, Castel del Monte is worth the drive from Vieste for a unique travel adventure in Puglia. Back to top

Puglia UNESCO Site Trulli of Alberobello

The Trulli of Alberobello became a UNESCO world heritage site in 1996 and has been world-famous ever since. These white limestone homes have whimsical conical-shaped roofs. The technique behind their dry stone slab construction dates back to prehistoric times, and is still used today in Puglia. Yes, the Trulli of Alberobello are absolutely adorable, but a visit is often shorter than one might think. It only takes an hour to walk between Rione Aia Piccola (the most authentic section) and Rione Monti (where most of the gift shots are located.) Back to top

Orecchiette, Puglia’s Most Iconic Pasta

One of Puglia’s most iconic dishes is Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa (Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe). Though it might sound simple, fresh hand-made Orecchiette is the kind of Italian food that brings visitors back to Italy time and time again. The best place to eat Orecchiette in Puglia is at the critically acclaimed restaurant U.P.E.P.I.D.D.E .

Half an hour outside the city of Bari in Ruvo di Puglia, U.P.E.P.I.D.D.E is where rustic meets refined. Exposed stone walls, frescos, and a wine list 650 bottles deep. The food? Regional, seasonal, simple, yet sublime. As Italians would say U.P.E.P.I.D.D.E is “è vale la pena” or “it’s worth it” because getting outside the typical tourist stops opens up the world of authentic Italian Cuisine. Restaurants like U.P.E.P.I.D.D.E are what the collective dream of “eating your way through Italy” is all about. Back to top

Passeggiata in Lecce

There are few things more Italian than “la passeggiate.” La passeggiatta is a pre-dinner stroll through town to see and be seen. In Italy, this social evening ritual is at its best in Lecce. Here generations of Italians have worn the stone streets of Lecce to a shine that glows at night during the passeggiatta. Back to top

Otranto, Puglia

In Southern Puglia, Otranto with its charming cobble-stoned streets is a beloved stop among Italians on holiday. Being the most easterly point of Italy, Otranto overlooks the intersection of the Adriatic and Ionian sea. Sights include the Punta Palascìa lighthouse, medieval Castello Aragonese, vivid frescos inside the Church of Saint Peter, Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata and naturally, the boardwalk for a relaxing stroll or lunch by the sea.

One of the I Borghi Più Belli d’Italia, the ancient walled city of Otranto is a fun, lively city. Scheduled events throughout the year include the Otranto Film Festival, Mediterranean Journalists in September, and L’Alba dei Popoli during the Christmas holidays.

What puts Otranto on our list of the best things to do in Puglia is the brilliant blue water filling its historic port. So blue it inspired pieces in Paolo’s fine art collection featured below at the end of the post. Back to top

Gallipoli, Puglia

Taking a road trip across Italy is a little like reading Cliff Notes. Deep down you know there is so much more you need to see! Take for example a stop in Gallipoli, the last stop on our Puglia guide. In just a few hours one can explore hiking trails near Punta Pizzo Beach, or walk ancient old town walls beyond Purity beach. Belly up to the catch of the day and then walk off lunch exploring the Baroque-style architecture and breathtaking art inside the Gallipoli Cathedral , also known as Saint Agatha Cathedral. Back to top

Art Inspired by Puglia, Italy

ALOR stands for Art of Living on the Road. As we travel throughout Italy, Paolo is constantly creating art inspired by what we see. Email [email protected] for more details.

Puglia Guide Conclusion

To sum up, Puglia has the perfect mix of options for every traveler. Beaches to relax on, coves to swim in. Forrest with cliffside hiking. Ancient towns with excellent shopping. Culinary traditions that are known around the world and inexpensive food markets to keep a vacation budget in check. Puglia can be as luxurious a travel experience as one can afford or affordable for budget travelers.

In short, Puglia is the kind of laid-back vacation destination that says “Welcome, make yourself at home.” Fair warning, Puglia is so enchanting before you know it, you just might want to call Italy home like we do.

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Planning your first trip to Italy? Here are a few of our most popular resource articles with tips on navigating some of Italy’s unique cultural quirks.

Tipping in Italy  |  How to Use a Bidet  |  Coperto in Italy  |  Driving in Italy  |  Are Italians Rude? | Is the Water Safe to Drink in Italy?

• Celebrities in Puglia – AriaJourneys
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Puglia – World Heritage Convention – UNESCO Official Site
• Jessica Biel & Justin Timberlake Renew their Vows in Puglia – InStyle Magazine
• Puglia is home to 15 Blue Flag beaches – BlueFlag.Global
• Puglia, the Breadbasket of Italy — Delallo.com
• The 15 Best Olive Oils from Puglia — Gambero Rosso
• Six Historical Facts that Define Modern Puglia — EssentialItaly.com
• 10 Prettiest Towns in Puglia — CN Traveller
• Vieste — ViaggareinPuglia.it

Welcome to ALOR Italy! I'm Brandy, a dual American Italian citizen living in Italy. After traveling in Italy for over a decade, I launched ALOR Italy where I share travel tips to avoid crowds and save money on your next trip to Italy. I have a degree in Journalism and Communications from The Ohio State University and over twenty years of experience as an Executive Producer leading creative teams for brands like InStyle, HBO, Discovery, and Food Network. Now, I'm a full time traveler exploring Italy from my home in Italian Alps.

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Pugliaaaaaa I recently came back from Bari and it was absolute bliss. I stayed with another expat I met through IG (one if the few good things from IG, lol). I also visited some other small towns like Alberobello, Monopoli, Pogliano…. Ugh, so amazing, even in the winter

Hi Pree! I remember you said you were going. Puglia is a little piece of magic in Italy. I’m so glad you were able to see it. We went in winter as well and found it the best time to go honestly. Fewer crowds and surprisingly comfortable temps. It’s been lovely to revisit this trip putting together this little guide. Any plans for upcoming travel this winter?

In Malta currently!!

Could that BE even more of a paradise?!

I have no idea if you meant this, but I totally heard a Chandler Bing “could that BE…” on that one! So fun. It’s a lovely corner of Italy. Thank you for coming by! Sending you a little personal update on your side. Cheers my friend.

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Puglia Travel Guide

All you need to know when planning your trip to italy’s puglia: read our puglia travel guide….

Puglia dips its heel into both the Adriatic and Ionian seas.

The climate is reliably sunny, and hot and dry in the summer, with low rainfall year round.

The land away from the coast’s golden sands offers wide plains and hillsides, while Brindisi and Bari have airports that are well served by budget airlines, and public transport is generally reliable, certainly around the larger towns.

Puglia’s profile is growing, but while demand for property is increasing, prices have yet to become unaffordable.

North: Gargano Promontory

This headland is a nature-lover’s paradise with its National Park and ancient forest. The beaches are also a magnet for sunworshippers from northern Italy. So the area is busy in high summer, particularly in the resorts of Vieste, Mattinata and Peschici, but less so out of season, although it’s still beautiful, so you can still expect to make good rental returns. There’s also the possibility of renting to the visitors who make religious pilgrimages to inland destinations such as Monte Sant’Angelo and San Giovanni Rotondo.

Central: Foggia to Bari

The landscape around the small city of Foggia is fl at and very fertile and responsible for providing the ingredients for some of Italy’s best pasta.

The homes in and around Foggia tend to be low and solidly built – a testament to the fact that this is the only part of Puglia prone to the occasional earthquake.

The land grows hilly again as you move west and south of Foggia, and there are some very attractive but rarely visited villages, like Lucera, above the plain.

Moving south along the coast there are yet more appealing towns – such as chic and prosperous Trani and historic Molfetta, for example.

Then you reach Bari, Puglia’s capital city and rival to Brindisi, a few miles further south, with its lively passeggiata and colourful festivals.

A particular attraction is its Saracenic kasbah-like quarters where you will see women sitting together at tables on the street chatting and rolling orecchiette, the typical pasta of the region.

Such areas can be found in many of the towns and cities of Puglia, but Bari’s are the biggest and most atmospheric.

The coast: Bari to Brindisi

South of Bari, the coast changes from craggy cliffs to flat, fertile scrubland and back again, interspersed with short, pale wisps of sand.

Polignano a Mare is a charming cliff top town, while further south is the ‘white city’ of Ostuni, where there is much interest from foreign buyers and visitors alike.

The city’s centro storico is an astonishing pile of white buildings set on high, overlooking olive trees that stretch all the way from here down to the sea. From afar, it really does look like a fairytale city.

It’s small, but with plenty of good restaurants, and it has a surprisingly lively calendar of public events.

Further down the coast, you arrive at Brindisi, a thriving seaport city since ancient times with a superb natural harbour.

You’ll enjoy great local food here and an exuberant passeggiata in the evening. Bari and Brindisi both have international airports.

Central: The Itria Valley

This picturesque area is ‘ trullo central’ with these cute, cone-shaped dwellings scattered right across the rolling green landscape of the Itria Valley, which forms the hinterland behind the Bari to Brindisi coast.

Towns like Fasano, Ostuni, Martina Franca and Locorotondo flourish all year round and are not particularly dependent on seasonal tourists.

And the World Heritage town of Alberobello, with over 1,000 trulli , is always popular, whatever the time of year.

Properties in this area are now much sought-after by foreign buyers – the area is easy to get to from Bari and Brindisi airports.

Move east from the Adriatic coast towards the Ionian coast and this gentle landscape breaks into crags and grottoes.

Either side of the industrial port of Taranto there are dreamy white sandy beaches backed by cool pine woods.

South: Salento Peninsula

Draw a line between Taranto and Brindisi and you more or less have this appealing peninsula, which has some quite distinctive cultural peculiarities that differentiate it from the rest of Puglia, including Greek influences in architecture, language and cuisine.

The attractive coast is rocky and cliffbound and riddled with caves, and the sea is clean, calm and shallow.

A few low-key beach resorts serve the occasional stretch of sand here, but elsewhere the rugged and uninhabited spaces are empty and elemental, with the best beaches either side of the iconic town of Gallipoli.

There are some appealing towns down here too, like Otranto, Castro and Galatina, and baroque Lecce.

The Salento Peninsula area can get pretty quiet in the winter, but the middle-of-nowhere atmosphere it exudes is also part of the sub-region’s charm.

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Travel · November 29, 2021

The Perfect Puglia Itinerary – Not to Miss Beaches and Towns in 5 days

**This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using the links in this article, I might earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Please see my full disclosure for further information.

Puglia in Southern Italy has always been a go-to summer destination for Italians. Crystal waters, white-sand beaches, food to die for and some of the most charming white-washed towns right in Italy’s own backyard. It’s perfect… close, affordable, and drop-dead gorgeous. In the last decade or two however, the region has gathered much notoriety from abroad and tourists have flocked by the hundreds of thousands to this region. As is the case with many popular and trendy locations, (just think of Santorini or Venice ), the common risk when traveling to these places is finding too many crowds and not enough authenticity. This is where I come in! I’ve devised a Puglia itinerary that will allow you to have just that –  an authentic experience with no crowds! 

Don’t worry,  we still hit all the popular spots of course! And after listening and gathering as many recommendations as possible by the locals we are confident that this road trip through Puglia will help you experience a unique perspective of the region that so many tourists miss.  From genuine culinary experiences to one-of-a-kind accommodations this Puglia itinerary will no doubt be a memorable one.

**This post is exceedingly long so if you’re only interested in a particular section, click on the Table of Contents below to be led directly to the topic you’re interested in.

Post Contents

Planning a Puglia Road Trip

Before getting to our actual Puglia itinerary and deciding on which towns and beaches to stop at, it is fundamental to plan accordingly. A big part of having a great time in Puglia relies heavily on what season you will be traveling in, how you plan to get around and how many days you have to allocate.

When is the Best Time to Visit Puglia?

So, first thing’s first… the timing of your Puglia holiday is crucial. Trust me, the month you embark on your Puglia itinerary can make or break your vacation. You want to plan things according to prices, crowds, weather and seasonality.

So of course in having so many beautiful beaches, the ideal time to go to Puglia are those warmer months where you can actually enjoy a dip. HOWEVER, it makes a big difference on which month you pick. The best months are by far June and September . June is the perfect month because it is already warm enough to enjoy the beach. Crowds  also haven’t gotten too crazy yet, and the inner landscape is not arid and brown yet but still quite lush and green. September is runner-up because although crowds have died down and it is still warm, the scenery inland has gone through the whole summer at this point and is pretty dried up.

If swimming is not your priority, then spring is also a great time to visit . And guess what?! Depending on the town, some people start going to the beach as early as April!

The absolute worst months to go to Puglia are July and most especially August . If you have the liberty to decide when to go on holiday, I would avoid these months religiously. It is unbearably hot, the streets are swarming with tourist buses, and prices are soaring. If you take one piece of advice from this post, take this one!

How to Get to Puglia

Depending on where you’re coming from, you might be arriving via air, via train, or via car. Regardless, you will definitely want to head into Bari as your main starting point, working your way from the north to the south. If you’re arriving in Bari airport you can pick up your rental car right at the airport. For those of you opting to arrive via train, if you’re coming in from Rome the train time from Rome to Bari Puglia is only about 5 hours depending on what type of speed train you get!

How to Travel Around Puglia

There is only one option for getting around Puglia and that is RENTING A CAR . Trust me on this one, I tried in my early twenties getting around Puglia by public transportation- it didn’t work, period. (I actually got stranded at one point!) There is virtually no trustworthy type of public transportation outside of major towns like Bari, Lecce, Leuca, or Brindisi and the few routes that exist between these cities don’t run that often each day.

How Many Days for a Puglia Itinerary?

For those that know me, you know that I am a large proponent of slow travel. Seeing less things but with more time always seems to give off more of a vacation vibe rather than just a frantic sprint at crossing off some overpacked list of things to see . Nevertheless, I know we are all jam-packed for time and all lead very busy lives, so I tried to make this itinerary as efficient but simultaneously relaxing as possible .

For any Puglia Itinerary, I don’t recommend anything under 5 days . We did this road trip itinerary in 5 days and we could have honestly tacked on some extra days to explore a bit more (and we didn’t even venture to explore Bari this time around). Thus you can easily stretch this itinerary to a week to fit in Bari and its neighboring coastal towns. Or, if you particularly like bumming at the beach you can easily plan to enjoy 10 days in Puglia.

5 Days in Puglia Itinerary Breakdown

Puglia itinerary map, ostuni town – day 1.

For our first day in Puglia we decided to head to Ostuni. We picked up our car from Bari and drove to Ostuni, approximately a 1-hour drive south.

Before exploring the town we checked in at our first hotel.

Hotels in Ostuni – Where to Stay?

Ostuni has countless options to choose from. From luxury to budget this is definitely a town where you are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodations.

We wanted to stay somewhere with a lot of character, preferably stone-finished and surrounded by nature. After searching a bit I set my heart on Rela is del Grottone .  As soon as I saw the pictures and saw that breakfasts were completely homemade, my mind was set.

Relais del Grottone – Top Affordable Accommodation in Ostuni

Just arriving at this accommodation was eventful! The road leading up to the estate is narrow, just wide enough to fit your car. You can see olive trees for miles and the only discernible sound is the chirping of cicadas. Upon our arrival, our host Gina greeted us right away and showed us to our room. With our own private patio and swing I was catapulted onto cloud nine- I think I took about eighteen videos before even getting into the room lol!

The rooms besides all being drop dead gorgeous are so refreshing compared to the scorching outdoor temperatures. The stone-built walls make for a cool ambience and we never not once turned on the air conditioning. (Trust me, having comfortable temperatures in Southern Italy is a luxury!) The nightly fee in June was approximately 90 euro and was absolutely worth it – the breakfast alone is enough to make you stay for days!

Homemade Apulian Breakfast

I was surprised to learn that Gina and her husband Alessandro personally ask every single guest what they prefer for breakfast each day. She made us fresh scrambled eggs and bacon and accompanied it all with a platter of fresh cheeses (like 4 different kinds) and hand made jams. The jams were heavenly! Some with ground-up ginger, some with lemon zest, and some with turmeric. And to top it off they had even made several pies!

Oh and of course the setting of this idyllic breakfast is the estate courtyard. That’s right, as you sip at your cappuccino you get to gaze on the lavender bushes and olive tree groves that span the entire property- I mean, it’s so pretty I could have just died!

Ostuni Restaurants: Where to Eat

Since we are already on the topic of food, let’s talk about the best places to dine  in Ostuni as well!

Having researched and asked many locals where to eat in Ostuni, we had compiled a list of masserie in the area. ‘Masseria’ is a type of property found in southern Italy, mainly only in Puglia and consists of a group of stone buildings almost always surrounded by acres of land that the owners use for farming and for livestock. Nowadays, many of these masserie have turned some of their buildings into rooms you can stay at and offer farm-to-table cuisine, usually with very authentic yet gourmet inspired meal options. Some are incredibly luxurious- (Madonna rented the entire complex of Borgo Egnazia a couple years back on a summer getaway.)

Masseria del Frantoio in Ostuni – 8-Course Taste Itinerary

We decided to try Masseria del Frantoio . The restaurant offers a 4, 6, or 8-course taste itinerary . Each course is accompanied by a paired wine, but the menu is kept secret until you get there. Of course, you can specify allergies or requests beforehand and they will gladly accommodate them. We opted for the 8-course itinerary, there was only like a 15-euro difference and plus this was our night to splurge!

Food of Puglia –   Puglia is widely known for the following foods: wine, tomatoes, and olive oil! Try as many varieties as you can while on your Puglia road trip. Check out this post for the best regional dishes to try while in Italy.

In being a summer month, we got the opportunity to dine in the fantastic central courtyard. Cascading flowers and blooming bougainvilleas were everywhere you looked and the dining area was dotted with twinkle lights, candles and lanterns making the overall atmosphere very romantic. The place was already a win before sitting down!

As for the meal, it was one exquisite dish after the next… and the wines!!! We tasted our most favorite white wine here, the best wine ever. In being a secret menu , I can’t really get into it (plus the menu changes daily based on seasonality and what is available). Our culinary itinerary touched everything from home-made pasta , to freshly caught seafood , to elaborate purées and sauces , to typical and traditional foods like ‘ pizzelle alla barese’  (omg to die for!).

The staff explained in depth every dish –  how it is made, where the ingredients are cultivated, and the different traditions behind each specific type of food. Eating at Masseria il Frantoio was more like being accompanied on an immersive food itinerary . Hearing all the work and cultivation behind each dish really helped us get a better grasp on the agricultural traditions of the area.

Oh, and I almost forgot… the wine is refilled every time you finish your glass. EVERY TIME. I was like, what????!! Free wine refills??? Um, yessssss! The Masseria also offers accommodation options if you wish to stay here overnight.

Things to Do in Ostuni

In being rather small, Ostuni is best visited by simply wandering around. You can always make it a point to visit particular monuments like the Cattedrale dell’Assunta , but the real magic of the town lies in uncovering the marvelous little corners and glimpses of the sea you might catch as you snake your way through the beautiful arches and alleys. As you roam around, you will find snoozing cats on every doorstep, old little Italian women laying out their laundry to dry, all with the accompaniment of a delicate sea breeze. I guarantee you will never forget this white pearl of a city soaring above the most turquoise of waters and bluest of skies.

A Little Ostuni History

Ostuni is called ‘ la città bianca ,’ meaning the white city . Even from a far distance you can see it; sitting like a white marble cake-topper towering over the encompassing valley below— it most definitely catches your eyes! At times it honestly feels like you’ve been transported to one of the Greek Isles !

The city historically has passed through many hands; Romans, Ostrogoths, Normans, Bourbons, you name it- each empire or dynasty wanting its dominion over such a strategic territory. Located high on a coastal hill with unobstructed views, it was the perfect place to keep watch on the seas and surrounding country. The city got its current name in the 1 st and 2 nd centuries AD when a completely new city was forged on top of a previous one. “ Astu-neon ,” (meaning new city in Greek) gives us our present day ‘Ostuni’.

Why is Ostuni White?

The beautiful milky facades of the city are what to this day characterize and distinguish the town. A town made of winding narrow staircases, alleys and balconies, the city was originally painted white as to reflect more sun. Subsequently, after having discovered the antiseptic properties of limestone, it was ordered to have all buildings covered with limestone chalk as to help prevent with the spread of disease . It is said that it was the limestone alone that slowed down the propagation of the bubonic plague. To this day limestone slabs are placed in the wells to disinfect water.

Alberobello Town – Day 2

Next up on our Puglia itinerary is Alberobello!

Located in the Valle d’Itria (Itria Valley), this area of Puglia (although not on the coast) boasts some of the most beautiful countryside sceneries . The car journey from Ostuni to Alberobello is rather brief at about 45 minutes, and as you venture through the country you will touch landscapes of infinite vineyards, olive orchards and trulli here and there. The calcareous soil in this region is different than the rest of Puglia and paints the ground a marvelous bright red. Wines here diverge from the typical full-bodied red wines of Puglia, as the area is known for its white grapes – Verdeca and Bianco d’Alessano being the main two varieties of the region.

You can definitely reserve a wine-tasting session in a cantina or two- however, pressed for time, we decided to head straight into Alberobello.

Is Alberobello Worth Visiting?

I have to admit that I was a little worried about heading into Alberobello. I don’t like tourists (even though I am one myself), let alone crowded places. I was quite worried from the stories I had been told of the town. I was told that I had to make my way into town super early to avoid the chaos of unloading tourist buses. I was afraid I would have to spend my time elbowing  through seas of people instead of absorbing the history and culture.

To my surprise, I was greatly mistaken! Granted I visited at a time when national borders were still heavily restricted due to the pandemic, the fact that I visited in June definitely made a huge difference. Most of the time there were only a handful of people on each alley. Thus, I cannot stress enough going in shoulder months – it truly allows you to actually take in the essence of Puglia!

The Trulli of Alberobello

When thinking of Alberobello, I think it’s safe to say the first thing that pops up to mind are those whimsical trulli.

So, what exactly is a trullo ?

A trullo is a cone-shaped building (used either as a private dwelling or as a storehouse) constructed out of dry wall. The walls are quite thick, most reaching at least 1 meter (allowing cool temperatures in the summer and moderate temperatures in the winter).

The dry stones are simply stacked and there is no cement or mortar binding the masonry . This method of construction was strategic so that the huts could easily be dismantled on the fly. Most probably, the reasoning behind this was so that the community could avoid paying property taxes . Whenever there was news that an inspector was near, the houses would be disassembled along with the proof of any type of proprietorship. Such sneaky Italians…

The roofs instead are constructed much like arches, with a keystone capping the top and holding everything together. On top of this cone-like dome is where the limestone slabs are placed. They are meticulously stacked in a circular pattern so as to not allow water to get through.

Alberobello Hotels – Where to Stay?

So, having said this, staying in a trullo while in Alberobello is an absolute MUST !

We unfortunately didn’t stay in an actual trullo because my annoying self thought it would be too touristy- *eyeroll*. When I got to touring the city and after having visited several trulli, I definitely regretted the decision… *sob sob*.

There are numerous trulli you can stay in around the town. You can have your pick on how luxurious or how authentic you would like your stay to feel and how downtown or on the outskirts you would like to be positioned. If you want something more authentic and actually live amongst the locals , you definitely will want to book in the Rione Aia Piccola part of town. If instead you’re happy to be “ in the middle of everything ” you can happily book in the Rione Monti side of town.

If you’re not interested in actually staying in a trullo but are okay with staying in the country, there are still numerous options. We stayed at a dairy farm (I love animals!) and even though it wasn’t a trullo, it was still a nice country experience in a stone built ‘ casale .’

A Little Alberobello History

I won’t proceed to bore you with dates and names, but what comes as surprising is that Alberobello’s trulli are actually quite a recent addition (given Italy’s archaic architectural history). In fact, there are actually no signs of trulli in the area until the 1700s! The area before resembled more of a forest, hence the name [Albero]-[bello]— Beautiful tree .

The way the city looks today dates back to the late 1800s, so the city’s architecture and urban plan are BRAND NEW. So ironic that a town that looks so old is in reality extremely young.

A Story Passed on Through Generations

We were so fortunate to tour the city with a friend of ours who actually lives in Alberobello . It was amazing to see how a person (not in the tourism industry) knew so much about local history. It was fascinating to hear about Count Gian Girolamo II Acquaviva, (to this day this feudal lord basically remains the town’s mascot- not in a very good way though). Nicknamed, the one-eyed Apulian, the Count was known for his cruelty. He habitually exercised his right of “ ius primae noctis ” and frequently injured by-passers below his villa as he proceeded to practice target shooting for sport (trying to aim at things they were holding)… The things that were the norm in the past!

I found it so captivating to see a town that still remembers its roots so profoundly . I wish I knew more historical anecdotes of the place I grew up in!

Alberobello Restaurants: Where to Eat?

So enough for the history fanatics, where should you eat in Alberobello??? Here are a couple restaurants that our friend recommended. After our 8-course meal in Ostuni the night before, we opted for something a little less ambitious and dined at Il Guercio di Puglia.

Trattoria Terra Madre – farm to table $$$

If you’re looking for the ultimate slow food experience, Terra Madre is your pick. Only serving traditional food, everything here is locally grown . In fact, you can even book a tour of their farm and vegetable gardens!

La Cantina – open kitchen $$

A front row seat at a cooking show, if you love to watch as the chefs cook , this is the restaurant for you. An international twist on traditional ingredients, the food here is no less than exquisite.

Il Guercio di Puglia – local gem $$

Right downtown, this restaurant turns homey into gourmet. This is a particular winner for those of you who are craving pizza.

Beaches in Salento – Days 3 through 5

Having had a first dose of the best towns in Puglia, at this point our itinerary heads down south to explore the beaches! There are literally hundreds of beaches dotting the coastline. We decided to casually beach hop around so as to get a chance to experience all types of coastlines.

Porto Cesareo Beaches – Day 3

For the most pristine waters on the Ionian coast (western side of the boot’s heel), this is where you want to head. Besides crystalline seas, the area also has a vivid nightlife for those interested. During the day, there are hundreds of beach clubs to choose from. From happy hour and live DJ sets to quieter options for families, there is something for all tastes. If you’re interested in beach lounges some of the most well-known in the area are Bahia and Togo Bay Beach .

So which beach should you pick?

Punta Prosciutto Beach is in my opinion the beach with the most exquisite water. You will never find one speck of algae or any turbidity- this beach is literally comparable to Bora Bora. However, its beauty has also made it quite popular. You’ll want to head out in the early morning to be able to reserve a lounge chair and get a chance to take it all in before the hordes move in.

Don’t worry, if you’re traveling as a family there are still options!

For those of you traveling with kids, a little quieter and a great alternative to Punta Prosciutto is Torre Lapillo Beach . Powdery white sands and shallow waters make this place heaven. And there is even an old watch tower from the 1500s (Torre di San Tommaso), which is quite lovely to have a walk around or even tour inside for 2 euros. Although this area is much less busy, remember this is not a place to be during July or August!

Other beaches in the area you might like are Torre Colimena, Porto Selvaggio,  and Torre Chianca Beach .

Porto Selvaggio Beach is actually situated in a National Park and as such is more rugged and offers beautiful walks. The area can still get quite busy but there is a nice big pine grove that allows for shade if you don’t have your heart set on sitting right up next to the water. If instead you are desperately wanting to escape the crowds, Torre Colimena Beach is a great alternative. This beach however does not offer any amenities or lounge chair rentals— you have to come self-equipped with an umbrella. This was definitely however the quietest beach we visited while in Porto Cesareo.

The Maldives of Salento, Pescoluse Beach & Leuca – Day 4

For Day 4, our Puglia itinerary continues beach hopping down the Ionian Coast to an area known as the Maldives of Puglia- seven kilometers of the whitest sands and tropical-like waters. (Did you just land in the Pirates of the Caribbean???) The area is vast so you can check the whole area out to decide on where to sprawl out for the day- we opted for Pescoluse Beach .

Towards the evening for our overnight stay we decided to head to Santa Maria di Leuca, a bigger town for more dining and recreational options.

Santa Maria di Leuca

Where the Adriatic Sea meets the Ionian Sea, Santa Maria di Leuca lies right at this crossroads. Deeply rooted in fishing, the surrounding coastal area is scattered with coves and grottos. There are numerous tours that visit the most famous ones; la Grotta del Soffio and la Grotta delle Tre Porte.

Make sure you head up to the lighthouse towards sunset for a breathtaking view of the port below. The Basilica di Santa Maria finibus terrae lies right beside the lighthouse and gets its name because it was the last Roman land before crossing the sea into foreign territories.

Restaurants in Santa Maria di Leuca – Where to Eat?

Again, like in all towns in Puglia you are definitely spoiled for choice when it comes down to restaurants. Depends on whether you are more interested in location, food or both! If you’re interested in seafront views, head down to the port for a romantic dinner. If you are more interested in locally sourced products, then I definitely recommend Boccaccio !

Bocaccio’s location although not seafront is quite charming as well. As you walk up to the entrance it literally feels like you’re about to go on a tour of ancient ruins. A completely open restaurant, you will be seated below trees in an actual natural reserve!

The menu is completely derived from organic local products- the perfect place to try all those traditional foods. From orecchiette, to frise, to ‘bombette pugliesi’ everything is exquisite.  Wild herbs are an area of expertise of this restaurant and as such the restaurant has a vast variety of vegan and vegetarian options . The best part? They have an on-site boutique where you can purchase their local products before calling it a night. This restaurant however is only seasonal and is only open end of spring to early fall.

Mosquitoes ! Make sure you bring a good mosquito repellent when going to dinner outdoors in Puglia. They are not dangerous or transmit any diseases, but they definitely are a pester and I guarantee will keep you itching! Many restaurants actually have mosquito repellent on hand for customers but better to come prepared.

Otranto and Cave of Poetry – Day 5

On your last day touring Puglia, we finally venture to the Adriatic coast. I actually preferred this side as the beaches were mainly rocky as opposed to the sandy Ionian side. This might be a total turnoff for a lot of you, but I guarantee that all the little grottos and swimming holes that the coast offers will definitely steal your heart.

Torre Sant’Andrea

On our way towards the notorious Cave of Poetry, we came across this name on our Google maps. I had never read about it in any blogs and even friends that had been to Puglia numerous times had never been. All the more reason to check it out!

As always, it is indeed those lesser known spots that end up stealing the light. This place was absolute heaven. Not only was the water a deep turquoise, the area was filled with little coves to explore- perfect for snorkeling! The towering stack rocks were a sight to see and perfect for the adventurous looking for a place to cliff-dive. (Beware that the rock here are friable and can crumble. Climbing the rocks is at your own risk!).

I spent an entire morning with my go pro dome exploring the different little inlets, creeks and tidepools. It was hands down my favorite beach day of the entire trip.

Grotta della Poesia (Cave of Poetry)

Much more crowded than Sant’Andrea, we next headed to IG famous Cave of Poetry. The cave used to be in fact a cave until the roof collapsed giving birth to one of the most spectacular natural swimming pools in the world .

From above, the pool literally looks like a glowing emerald set in stone, a beautiful aquamarine gem nestled in a breathtakingly beautiful cliff. Legends recount there was an unbelievably beautiful princess that would come and bathe here. She was so beautiful that men would compose and narrate long romantic poems of her.

Many people love cliff diving here and it is the most popular activity. Over the years,  much damage has been done to the surrounding rocks from people brazenly climbing or carving into the stone and contributing to an overall degradation of the territory. Please remember to be respectful and considerate – let’s help keep this marvelous jewel intact!

Otranto Town

To close off our Puglia itinerary we headed to Otranto to catch our last sunset of the trip.

A city full of history, Otranto like Ostuni, has passed through the hands of dozens- from the Aragonese to the Turks. As such, it doesn’t come as a surprise that the town is fortified, the center being completely encircled by defensive walls. Historically the city was one of the most important stages for international commerce in southern Italy. In being at a crossroads between the east and west, the city’s strategic position was highly coveted. Even Venice at one point conquered the city!

What to See in Otranto

After passing under the Porta Alfonsina you will find yourself in the heart of Otranto- a maze of delightful alleys and courtyards. You can just imagine what it must have been like during Medieval times to barter at the town market or trade at the local workshops. Even today the city is full of little studios and ateliers in every corner.

As you meander your way through the streets of Otranto you will come across two beautiful masterpieces; the Castello Aragonese and the glorious Cathedral di Santa Maria Annunziata . The Castle or rather fortress is entirely surrounded by a moat and sits high on the city offering beautiful views of the sea. I didn’t visit as I preferred to save my little time left for an aperitivo, but it is most certainly possible to visit at 10 euro a ticket. The Cathedral also will definitely catch your eye and it holds a tragic story of martyrdom. In 1480 over 800 devoted Christians were slaughtered by the Turks in this very church- an entire chapel is dedicated to remembering these departed worshippers.

For views? I highly suggest you make your way down to the port and take a nice seafront evening stroll on the Lungomare degli Eroi . Right next to Porta Alfonsina you will have the beautiful town walls on one side and a magical sea sunset on the other. This area is also full of great aperitivo spots and exquisite restaurants!

Otranto Restaurants – Where to Eat?

We were looking for a place right on the boardwalk where we could get those romantic seafront views. Our B&B host suggested Ristorante dal Baffo and we were so happy with it. If you are a fan of seafood, boy, this is the place for you. I had some of the best raw red shrimp of my life here !!!

If you’re not a fan of seafood however Otranto is home to hundreds of other gourmet restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the best choices picked by Tripadvisor .

Check Out & Head Home – Day 6

Unfortunately all vacations have to come to an end and Otranto is where we decided to conclude this Puglia Itinerary. From here you can head back to Bari to catch your train or flight home.

Puglia Itinerary – Last Remarks

If you survived this post, you deserve a gold star! Thank you so much for sitting through the longest Puglia travel guide ever. I hope you may find this info to be helpful while planning your trip.

There are without a doubt many things I had to exclude in this 5-day itinerary but I’m confident these are the spots that will leave you feeling like you got a comprehensive experience of what the magical Apulian territory has to offer. If you end up going, I would love to hear back with all of your comments below!

Buon Viaggio!

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This blog post is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Please read my full disclosure for further information.

You’ll Also Love

August 4, 2022 at 11:42 pm

We are heading there end of OCt early Nov with my mom. Her family is from Bari so we will start there and we have 8 full days before we fly out of Rome! Any other places you would recommend instead of the beach towns because of the time of year?

Linda Faison says

August 23, 2022 at 7:43 pm

Hi Amy, that sounds so exciting! To answer your question it depends if you will only be in Puglia. Locorotondo and Cisternino are some great other towns that are not beach towns, otherwise if you can venture into nearby Basilicata, Matera is a great place to explore (and not on a day trip)! I have a blog post on it if you might be interested. Have a wonderful vacation!

Sejal shah says

July 24, 2022 at 4:57 am

I can’t thank you enough for this perfect description. I’m following your trip to the T and can’t wait to explore , thank u for ur help

August 23, 2022 at 7:57 pm

Yay Sejal! So glad this helped and so excited for your trip!!!

June 21, 2022 at 8:00 am

We’re planning a trip to Puglia and this is so helpful! I wanted to ask how you found the parking situation? Is it generally easy to find parking around the towns and beaches? thank you!

August 23, 2022 at 8:00 pm

Hi Natasha! Yayyy, so exciting!! So to answer your question, parking can be painful during high season, especially at the beaches. If you don’t arrive early expect to have to park far away and to have to pay for it! When it comes to towns, I find it’s a bit easier- it’s one of those cases where the early bird truly does get the worm!

April 19, 2022 at 10:39 am

hi Linda, thanks so much for sharing this. I was wondering what coastal town you loved the most, or that had the nicest beaches and would recommend staying for a few nights. thanks

April 19, 2022 at 3:04 pm

Hi Tania! I’m so glad you’re finding this post useful. For coastal towns I would have to say I loved Otranto the most and its nearby beach Torre Sant’Andrea. Gallipoli however has a higher concentration of beaches. I would aim for one of these two cities. If you’re interested in nightlife, Gallipoli is probably the better choice.

March 3, 2022 at 2:03 am

This is such a great guide – thanks for sharing! If you’re someone who wants to spend more time in the beach cities would you recommend cutting out one of the cities?

When you get to the coast would it be possible to stay in one of the beach cities and then drive to different cities from there instead of staying in a different place every night?

March 14, 2022 at 8:56 am

Hi Mina! I’m so glad you’ve found this guide helpful! You can definitely stay in one beach city and drive to the different cities in southern Puglia. For example you can stay in Otranto and just drive to Gallipoli, Porto Cesareo etc. Even if the cities are on opposite coasts, the driving time is only about 40 min. I find, depending on how many days you have that you can choose a base town for the south, one for the middle like Ostuni and one for the north which could be Monopoli or Bari. That way you find a nice balance between not switching too many accommodations and reducing drive time. Hope this helps and if you have any other questions don’t hesitate to reach out!

Denise says

October 4, 2020 at 4:54 pm

Puglia is definitely on my list as soon as I can get to Europe!

October 5, 2020 at 7:49 am

Yessss! That’s great to hear :))

Nathalie Bolet says

October 4, 2020 at 10:49 am

This year I’ve been dreaming about going to the beach and this post just made me want to go back to Italy even more. Great itinerary!

October 4, 2020 at 10:51 am

I’m so glad that this post inspired you for an Italian beachfilled 2021!

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BLOG , Destinations , Europe , Italy , PUGLIA · September 13, 2023

• The 11 Very Best Places To Visit In Puglia (MAP Included)

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Are you looking for the very best places to visit during a holiday in Puglia, Italy? Then you’ve come to the right place!

If you’ve read other blog posts of mine you know that I am a very efficient traveler and that I love to see as many places as possible in the short time that I sometimes have to visit a region.

Puglia is located in the South of Italy , in its famous heel, and is a region that gets visited more often every single year. It became incredibly famous due to an Instagrammable restaurant in one of its towns. But save yourself a huge disappointment and a lot of money by skipping said place. ;)

Instead I will list our favorite places to eat or have an Aperol Spritz that we personally experienced.

In this article you’ll find the best places to visit in Puglia and some insider tips to help plan your holiday even better!

📖 READ MORE – THE VERY BEST PUGLIA ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

The 11 Very Best Places To Visit In Puglia, Italy

Among the best places to visit in Puglia you’ll find all of what the region has to offer. From harbor towns next to the crystal clear turquoise water to rocky cliffs and hilltop towns.

It truly is no surprise that Puglia has become one of the trending destinations to visit in southern Italy . There are so many incredible places to visit and no matter what type of traveler you are, Puglia will have something for you.

Wether you’re a history buff who can’t get enough of visiting stunning churches or a bon vivant who loves to discover unique restaurants, this article will give you some incredible ideas to plan the perfect Puglia itinerary .

And as you might know I also don’t shy away from the truth. In this article you’ll find all of my brutally honest opinions . Even on places that everyone else gushes about online :p.

The best time to visit Puglia

Considering a sun-soaked holiday in Puglia? Well, you’re in for a treat because the weather in this Italian gem is pretty mild almost all year round. In fact, there’s hardly a bad time to drop by!

Let’s break it down by seasons:

• Summer (June to August) : These months are the hottest, with temperatures soaring up to 28°C in July and August. If you’re a sun worshipper, this is your time to bask on Puglia’s pristine beaches. The sea is invitingly warm, especially after soaking up the summer heat.
• Autumn (September to November) : As summer crowds thin out, the landscape truly shines. September, in particular, is a special month. It’s harvest time, and one of the most cherished harvests is the Vendemmia, or grape harvest. The weather remains sunny and hot, beaches become less crowded, and the sea retains its warmth from the summer months.
• Winter (December to February) : While the site didn’t provide specific details for winter, based on the temperature chart, it gets cooler with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 14°C. It’s a quieter time to visit, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
• Spring (March to May) : As winter fades away, Puglia welcomes spring with open arms, and the region starts to bask in warm and sunny weather. Temperatures usually hover around 18 – 20°C, making it a delightful time for outdoor activities. Imagine hiking through the picturesque Pugliese landscapes or leisurely strolling through charming towns like Alberobello, Ostuni, or Lecce.

So, whether you’re planning to indulge in Puglia’s rich history, its mouth-watering cuisine, or simply want to relax by the sea, there’s a perfect season waiting for you!

How to get around in Puglia

The best way to get around Puglia is to simply rent a car .

🚘 I always use SunnyCars when booking a rental car cause their company policy makes me feel the most at ease.

There’s never any hidden costs with them and free cancellation up to 1 hour before rental start . Their price is transparent and everything is included. So no worries about any extra costs when you pick up your rental. You won’t need any extra insurance cause its all covered in the original price.

💡 TIP – The following parking rules in Italy are a must to know if you don’t want to risk getting fined:

• Blue lines – You can park your car here but need to pay.
• White lines – Free parking where you’re allowed to park.
• Yellow lines – Only locals can park here.

📖 READ MORE – TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR AND DRIVING IN PUGLIA

How to reach Puglia

The most straightforward way to reach Puglia is by air.

You can fly directly into the region’s popular airports: Bari International Airport (BRI) or Salento Airport in Brindisi (BDS ). These might be considered “minor international” airports, but they’re well-connected, especially from major international airports in the U.S and Europe.

Depending on where you’re headed in Puglia, choose your airport wisely. For instance, if you’re eyeing towns like Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, or Alberobello, Bari might be your best bet. But if you’re leaning towards the southern charm of Lecce, Brindisi is the way to go.

Where to stay in Puglia as a base

We stayed in the beautiful town of Monopoli and we would make the same decision all over. It’s the perfect place to stay when visiting other places in Puglia . In the early morning you can wander through the beautiful streets and in the evening the centro storico comes alive and you’ll be in for a gastronomical treat.

🏨 We stayed at a unique boutique hotel called  Le Contrade di San Salvatore . We loved its location right by the waterfront and that it was situated in the heart of the centro storico and only 5 minutes walking from a public parking.

Other hotels you might like in Monopoli:

• Borgo Albergo 35 Relax & Spa : Built in an ancient building these rooms offer a unique and romantic experience.
• Al Chiasso 12  – Another beautiful gem to stay in the heart of Monopoli.

Is Puglia worth visiting?

Puglia, located in Italy, is a treasure trove for anyone who adores everything Italian . Imagine wandering through ancient towns with rich histories, marveling at the grandeur of extravagant churches, and getting lost in vast seas of olive trees.

Not to mention, the region boasts olive-green seas that are as captivating as they sound. And if you’re a foodie, Puglia promises culinary delights that can rival any other region in Italy .

From mysterious geometric castles like Castel del Monte to unique cathedrals and mesmerizing limestone caves, there’s no shortage of attractions to explore. So, if you’re craving an authentic Italian experience, Puglia should definitely be on your list! 🇮🇹🍝🌊

Where to go in Puglia

1. monopoli – one of the best places to see in puglia.

The picturesque town of Monopoli is the perfect place to base yourself when visiting Puglia.

This beautiful town by the sea has the perfect size to stroll around for a couple of hours and has some incredible hidden gems when it comes to restaurants and hotels .

The town of Monopoli is less known among tourists and I honestly have no idea why. It definitely was one of my favorite places to visit in Puglia.

Its centro storico consists of the typical maze of narrow streets that make walking around so special. You’ll come across picturesque squares, ornate churches and one inviting terrace after another.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN MONOPOLI

• Stroll Through the Old Town : Cobbled streets, quaint piazzas, and whitewashed buildings await you. Don’t forget to join a walking tour to uncover the city’s secrets !
• Indulge in Local Delicacies : From fresh seafood to traditional Puglian dishes, there’s something for every palate. And oh, the gelato at Gasperini is a must-try!
• Visit Castello Carlo V : This 16th-century castle, once a jail and fortress, now stands as a museum offering panoramic views of the city and the sea.
• Beach Time : Relax at Cala Pora Vecchia or explore other beautiful sandy beaches like Porto Rosso and Cala Cozze.
• Marvel at Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia : A stunning 12th-century cathedral with a fascinating history and breathtaking interiors.
• Hang Out at Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II : A lively square surrounded by cafes and shops, perfect for some people-watching.

💡 TIP – Have dinner at La Locanda sul Porto and order their Locanda Mixed Appetizers. You’ll thank me later!

🚘 PARKING – Park you car here and you’ll only be 5 minutes walking from the centro storico.

📖 CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT ALL THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN MONOPOLI

2. San Vito

San Vito is still a hidden gem in Puglia Italy and only 20 minutes driving from Monopoli.

San Vito is a romantic natural port where you’ll have a stunning view of the imposing Benedictine abbey.

The picturesque and colorful fisherman boats only add to the dramatic flair. San Vito was one of my favorite discoveries and since it’s very small you’ll only need a couple of minutes to take it all in.

🚘 PARKING – There are free parking spots when you drive down the road to San Vito.

3. Polignano a Mare – The most overrated place to visit in Puglia

Polignano a Mare is at the top of everyone’s list when visiting Puglia but I honestly didn’t get the hype . The entire town felt overly touristic and a lot of construction was going on all over the place.

When it comes to restaurants or bars I don’t really have a recommendation here. We only had 1 Aperol Spritz and then drove off to the next place to end the day on a more positive note.

Polignano a Mare became especially famous because of Grotta Palazzese , a restaurant built inside a cave. But do yourself a favor and don’t waste your money here. Their menu is as expensive as a Michelin restaurant but the food has become terrible ever since a new chef took over .

Polignano a Mare does however come with one of the best beaches in Puglia. Do know that during the summer months it can get very crowded.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN POLIGNANO A MARE

• Lama Monachile Beach : Dive into the crystal-clear waters of this iconic beach, nestled between dramatic cliffs. It’s the perfect spot for sunbathing and taking in the breathtaking views.
• Stroll Through the Old Town : Wander through the narrow alleys of Polignano’s historic center, where charming white-washed buildings and quaint piazzas await.
• Visit the Statue of Domenico Modugno : Pay homage to the famous Italian singer and songwriter, best known for his hit “Volare,” with a statue overlooking the sea.
• Polignano a Mare Artisanal Shops : Shop for unique souvenirs, from handmade ceramics to local delicacies.
• Boat Tours : Explore the stunning coastline, caves, and grottoes with a guided boat tour.
• Museum Pino Pascali : Dive into the world of contemporary art at this museum dedicated to the famous artist Pino Pascali.

🚘 PARKING – We parked our car right outside of the town at a free public parking .

4. Locorotondo – One of the best cities to visit in Puglia

The Valle d’Itria offers countless places to explore in Puglia. One of them is the beautiful town of Locorotondo. Known for being among the “ Borghi più belli d’Italia ” (which means one of the most beautiful villages in Italy), it definitely is one of the best places to visit in Puglia.

The Valle d’Itria is a stunning green expanse of countryside, far away from the aquamarine waters of the Mediterranean and the cute seaside towns.

The centro storico of Locorotondo, don’t you just love how that flows from your lips, can be found on top of the hill. It’s the epitome of a picturesque Italian town with narrow streets that you can get lost in for hours .

TOP EXPERIENCES IN LOCOROTONDO

• Wander the Circular Old Town : Explore the maze-like streets of Locorotondo’s historic center, characterized by its unique circular layout and whitewashed houses.
• Visit the Church of St. George : A beautiful church with a stunning facade and intricate interiors, showcasing the town’s rich religious heritage.
• Sip on Locorotondo DOC Wines : The region is renowned for its crisp white wines. Don’t miss out on a wine tasting session at one of the local wineries.
• Visit the Museo del Territorio : Dive into the town’s history and culture at this local museum.
• Attend the Carnival of Locorotondo : If you’re visiting in February, experience the vibrant carnival celebrations, complete with colorful costumes and parades.
• Relax in Villa Comunale : A serene park perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing afternoon.

💡 TIP – Do a wine tasting at Vini & Affini or simply sit down on their terrace and enjoy a glass of red wine.

💡 TIP – One of the most beautiful viewpoints over Locorotondo can be found near the Cappella Votiva – Contrada Cerrosa

🚘 PARKING – We parked our rental car in one of the main streets of Locorotondo .

5. Martina Franca – A hidden gem to visit in Puglia

Martina Franca is another hidden gem in Puglia . Here you’ll find the whitewashed alleys, laundry drying in the breeze, cats napping in sun-drenched streets and the chatter of TVs and families reaching you from the open windows of the local homes.

But you’ll also find outstanding Baroque Architecture (Barocco Martinese) and lovely restaurants and wine bars. This style is somewhat reminiscent of the baroque of Val di Noto in Sicily and has elaborate church facades in light-colored stone.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN MARTINA FRANCA

• Visit Palazzo Ducale : This grand baroque palace, built in 1668, has served various purposes over the years. Today, it stands as a testament to Martina Franca’s rich history and architectural prowess.
• Stroll Through the Historic Center : Wander through the town’s maze of narrow streets, discovering hidden courtyards, baroque balconies, and ornate churches.
• Basilica di San Martino : Marvel at this stunning basilica, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with its intricate facades and opulent interiors.
• Relax in Piazza Roma : This central square, surrounded by historic buildings, is the perfect spot to relax, people-watch, and soak in the town’s ambiance.
• Visit the Church of San Domenico : Another architectural gem, this church boasts a beautiful rose window and a richly decorated interior.

💡 TIP – Grab a drink at one of the bars on the Piazza Roma. It’s the perfect place for some people watching and to try some of the local wines.

🚘 PARKING – There’s a lot of hustle and bustle going on around the centro storico of Martina Franca. We got a little lucky here and found a parking spot after driving around for a little while. You’ll notice that a lot of Italians truly don’t give a damn when parking their car .

6. Cisternino

Cisternino is one of the smaller towns in Puglia and just like its sister towns it boasts a small, utterly charming old town centre that has remained virtually intact for centuries.

The historic center is a fascinating example of spontaneous architecture , where you will find wonderful  trulli  perfectly preserved and historical palaces, such as the palace of the Governor, the Episcopal Palace, the Capece tower.

🚘 PARKING – The centro storico is pretty much surrounded by streets where you can park your car. Just make sure you only park within the blue or white lines.

7. Ostuni – One of the best towns to visit in Puglia Italy

The city of Ostuni can be spotted from far away. Towering over the Valle d’Itria it is known as the ‘ White City’  (La Città Bianca in Italian )  thanks to the white painted old town which crowns the very top of the city.

Ostuni is most famous for its white painted old town which forms a maze of cobbled streets and narrow staircases .

A wander through Ostuni can feel reminiscent of a stroll through a Greek island settlement and this is no coincidence. In times gone by, Apulia was greatly influenced by Ancient Greek culture and the vestiges of this can still be felt to this day.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN OSTUNI

• Museo di Civiltà Preclassiche della Murgia : Located in the Convento delle Monacelle, this museum is home to Delia, a 25,000-year-old expectant mother. It’s a fascinating glimpse into ancient history and the lives of our distant ancestors.
• Cathedral : Ostuni’s dramatic 15th-century cathedral is a marvel of architecture, blending Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine styles. Its facade, adorned with intricate details, is a sight to behold.
• Visit the City Walls and Gates : Explore the remnants of Ostuni’s defensive walls and the historic gates that once protected this hilltop gem.
• Enjoy the Panoramic Views : Being a hilltop town, Ostuni offers breathtaking views of the surrounding olive groves, the Adriatic Sea, and the Itria Valley.

💡 TIP – Grab an Aperol Spritz and charcuterie board at Borgo Antico to enjoy one of the best views from Ostuni.

🚘 PARKING – There’s a decent parking lot at via Specchia .

8. Alberobello – The most touristic place to visit in Puglia

Alberobello is known as Puglia’s trulli town. But one thing you really have to know before your visit is that the trulli are very concentrated and only make up a very small part of the city. For the biggest part you’ll be driving through a very old and more industrial looking part of Puglia.

But these clustered conical-roofed whitewashed structures are an icon of the region and they’re also what drew me into this region as well at first.

But I will warn you. There’s only one way to have a nice experience here and that is to come super early in the morning . This is the only way that you’ll avoid the 1000’s of tourists that visit this small town every single day.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN ALBEROBELLO

• Trullo Sovrano : Dive into history at Alberobello’s only two-floor trullo. Dating back to the early 17th century, this unique structure was built by a wealthy priest’s family and now serves as a small museum.
• Rione Aia Piccola : Wander through this neighborhood on the eastern side of Via Indipendenza. With over 400 trulli, many of which are still inhabited, it offers a more authentic and less commercialized experience compared to other parts of the town.
• Rione Monti : Explore this old town quarter where more than 1000 trulli cascade down the hillside. While many have been transformed into souvenir shops, the charm and architectural wonder of the area remain intact.
• Photography Walk : The town, with its white-washed trulli and cobblestone streets, is a photographer’s dream. Capture the essence of Alberobello as you meander through its lanes.
• Guided Tours : Consider joining a guided tour to delve deeper into the history, architecture, and stories of this unique town.

💡 TIP – Across from the trulli located in the Rione Monti you’ll find a great vantage point that offers a view over the entire Trulli village.

💡 TIP – Head across to the Rione Aia Piccola district , which has 500 or so trulli and is less commercialized. Here you’ll catch a glimpse of how the locals actually live inside these gnome-like homes and you’ll get a taste of what this place used to be like before it got swarmed with tourists.

🚘 PARKING – There are plenty of parking lots where you can leave your rental car.

9. Gravina in Puglia – One of the top places to visit in Puglia

Gravina in Puglia is one of those places in Apulia that always gets overlooked! But that might change soon since it just got featured in the latest James Bond movie ‘No time to die’.

Often called the smaller Matera, Gravina in Puglia is also made up of ravines and cliffside built homes.

The town’s most famous attraction is its  bridge . It was built in the 17th century, was then destroyed by an earthquake in 1722, and was later restored and repurposed as an aquaduct by the Orsini’s, a powerful family from Rome.

🚘 PARKING – You’ll have to park your car in one of the streets leading up to the bridge.

10. Matera – One of the most beautiful places in Puglia

Okay, okay, I know. Matera technically isn’t located in Puglia, but right across its border in Basilicata . But most people who visit Puglia will also go on a day trip to Matera. And rightfully so!

Matera is one of those places that’s so gorgeous and totally unique and definitely fits the list of one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy .

There’s a ton of things to do in Matera but make sure that you have plenty of time to walk around the old part , the sassi of Matera. Make sure you’re wearing proper shoes cause you’ll be doing a lot of stairs and the old cobblestones are very slippery.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN MATERA

• Chiesa San Pietro Barisano : Delve into history at this church, which dates back to the 12th century and stands as one of Matera’s most significant rupestrian churches.
• Palombaro Lungo : Marvel at this colossal cistern, reminiscent of a subterranean cathedral, lying beneath the city’s main square.
• Casa Noha : Begin your exploration of the sassi with this immersive 25-minute multimedia exhibit, set within a 16th-century home.
• Chiesa di Madonna delle Virtù & Chiesa di San Nicola del Greci : Explore this monastic complex, one of Matera’s most iconic monuments, carved into the tufa limestone.
• Belvedere : Capture the perfect photograph of the sassi from this vantage point, offering unparalleled views of the city.
• Cathedral : Visit the 13th-century Pugliese-Romanesque cathedral, perched high between the two natural bowls of the sassi.
• Casa-Grotta di Vico Solitario : Step back in time with a visit to this historic sasso, offering a glimpse into old Matera’s way of life.

💡 TIP – The sunset in Matera is exceptional, make sure to stick around for it if you’re visiting Matera on. a day trip.

💡 TIP – Grab dinner at Le Bubbole and have afternoon drinks at M.B .

🚘 PARKING – There’s a guarded parking at Via Lucana and it’s only 2 minutes walking until you reach the sassi of Matera.

📖 READ MORE – THE VERY BEST CAVE HOTELS IN MATERA

11. Bari – One of the best places to go in Puglia

Bari is the capital city of Puglia region and a charming Italian port city. But if you don’t have enough time to add one more place to your itinerary, this is the one I would skip. Although its centro storico is beautiful it can also get very crowded during the day. Especially since the town of Bari is a stopping port for a lot of cruise ships.

💡 TIP – Grab lunch at Ristorante Del Centro , far away from all the tourist traps and where all of the locals go.

🚘 PARKING – Try to park in the area of the above mentioned restaurant. From there its only 10 minutes walking until you reach Bari Vecchia .

My favorite places in Puglia

It took around 5 days to visit all of the above places but you can easily spend more time in this wonderful region in southern Italy. Or maybe add a visit to some other regions in Italy to your itinerary such as the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany or Umbria?

Below you can find a list of my favorite places in Puglia:

• Locorotondo

Map of the best places to visit in Puglia

🗺️  How to Use This Map:  Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is puglia famous for.

Puglia, a region located in southern Italy, is famous for its stunning coastline, rich history, and unique cuisine. Known as the “heel of Italy’s boot,” Puglia boasts beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns like Polignano a Mare and Ostuni. With a history dating back thousands of years , the region is home to numerous archaeological sites and ancient landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello’s trulli houses . Additionally, Puglia is renowned for its delectable cuisine, which includes dishes like orecchiette pasta, seafood specialties, and a variety of olive oil, as the region is one of Italy’s largest producers.

How many days do you need in Puglia?

If you’re planning a trip to Puglia, Italy, the number of days you need depends on your interests and itinerary. To fully explore the region’s charming towns, stunning beaches, and indulge in its culinary delights, a minimum of 5-7 days is recommended. However, if you have limited time, 3-4 days may suffice to experience some of Puglia’s highlights.

What is the prettiest seaside town in Puglia?

Oh, Monopoli! Nestled in the heart of Puglia, this seaside town is the epitome of Italian coastal charm. With its maze of cobbled streets winding through historic whitewashed buildings, the allure of its ancient harbor dotted with colorful fishing boats, and the sun-kissed beaches that seem to embrace the crystal-clear Adriatic waters, Monopoli effortlessly captures the essence of a Mediterranean dream.

📚 More articles about Puglia

• Tips For Renting A Car & Driving In Puglia Italy
• The Perfect Puglia Road Trip Itinerary – 5 Days In The South Of Italy
• The 10 Very Best Things To Do In Monopoli, Italy
• The 8 Very Best Cave Hotels In Matera

All rights reserved © Charlies Wanderings. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.

Charlotte Lint is the founder, main photographer and writer of Charlies Wanderings . She has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing insightful hiking guides and creating unique and efficient travel itineraries . Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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Stretching 400km from north to south, the long, narrow Puglia peninsula forms the heel of Italy . For centuries it was a strategic province, colonised, invaded and conquered by just about every major power of the day – from the ancient Greeks through to the Spanish. These days clean seas and reliable sunshine are the draws for holiday-makers both Italian and foreign. Acres of campsite-and-bungalow-type tourist villages stud the shoreline, though there are still quiet spots to be found.

The best travel tips for visiting Puglia

What to do in puglia, food and drink, best places to stay in puglia, how to get around, how many days do you need in puglia, what is the best time to visit puglia, how to get here, travel ideas for italy, created by local experts.

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Each ruling dynasty left its mark on Puglia, whether it was the Romans’ agricultural schemes or feudal lords’ fortified medieval towns. Perhaps most distinctive are the kasbah-like quarters of many towns and cities, a vestige of the Saracen conquest of the 9th century. The one at Bari is the biggest and most atmospheric, as it is drawing visitors in the know for its ambience and excellent restaurants.

The Normans endowed Puglia with ornate cathedrals, while the Baroque exuberance of towns like Lecce and Martina Franca is a testament to the Spanish legacy. Lecce is definitely worth a visit for its crazed confection of Baroque churches and laidback café life.

But if there’s one legacy that stands out, it’s the imposing castles built by the Swabian Frederick II – foremost of which are the Castel del Monte and the remnants of the palace at Lucera.

Brindisi , best known for its ferry connections with Greece , lies just 15km away from the dunes of the Torre Guaceto nature reserve.

The forested Gargano promontory, fringed by sandy beaches, seaside hotels and campsite villages, makes a good place for a family holiday. The best escape is to the dry and rocky Salentine peninsula, where there are beautiful coves and sea caves to swim in.

RoughGuides tip: browse our Italy itineraries and find the best option to suit your tastes.

Torre Guaceto, Puglia © Shutterstock

There's enough to do in this charming region nestled in the southern part of Italy. With its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and delectable cuisine, Puglia offers an array of captivating experiences for every traveler to indulge in.

#1 Swim at the beaches near Vieste

Vieste is a popular holiday town, but its charm, character and fun nightlife make it worth braving the August crowds for – or visiting out of season. The most obvious day trip is to the beaches.

Head for the small one between the promontories; north to San Lorenzo, with fine, soft, gently shelving sand. Or just south of town, to sandy Pizzomunno. Nicest of all is the small Baia di San Felice, squeezed between two headlands and backed by pine trees.

If you want to swim away from the crowds, consider an organised boat trip to the grotto-ridden coastline around the headland of Testa del Gargano.

Salento Beach, Puglia, Italy © Shutterstock

#2 Marvel at the mysterious Castel del Monte

Although it lacks appeal today, Andria was a favourite haunt of Frederick II, who built its major attraction nearby in the 1240s.

The most extraordinary of all Puglia’s castles, Castel del Monte is an isolated fortress built around an octagonal courtyard in two storeys of eight rooms. Its mathematical precision, and the preoccupation with the number eight, have intrigued writers for centuries. Some say it is in fact an enormous astrological calendar, or inspired by the octagonal Omar mosque in Jerusalem.

Mystery surrounds its intended purpose. Although there was once an iron gate that could be lowered over the entrance, there are no other visible signs of fortification, and the castle may have served merely as a hunting lodge.

There is only one record of its use. The defeat of Manfred, Frederick’s illegitimate son, in 1266 signalled the end of Swabian power, and Manfred’s sons and heirs were imprisoned in the castle for more than 30 years.

Castel del Monte, famous medieval fortress in Puglia © Shutterstock

#3 Join in la dolce vita in Martina Franca

Martina Franca is a surprising town with a jubilant Baroque sensibility and a lively passeggiata at weekends. Southern Italy’s top performing arts festival, the annual Festival della Valle d’Itria, takes place here from mid-July to early August.

The main square, Piazza Roma, is dominated by the hulking 1688 Palazzo Ducale, now the town hall. A handful of rooms is open to the public on weekday mornings.

Across the square narrow Via Vittorio Emanuele leads right into the old town and Piazza Plebiscito, fronted by the undulating Baroque facade of the Chiesa di San Martino, an 18th-century church, of which only the campanile survives.

The roads running around the old town’s surviving 14th-century walls offer an excellent panorama of the Valle d’Itria and its neatly ordered fields dotted with trulli.

Martina Franca on a sunny summer morning, province of Taranto, Puglia © Shutterstock

#4 Wander whitewashed Ostuni

Ostuni is one of southern Italy’s most stunning small towns. Known as the “white city”, it is situated on three hills and was an important Greco-Roman city in the first century AD. Seven kilometres away, the popular sandy coastline has Blue Flag beaches.

The old centre spreads across the highest of the hills, a gleaming splash of sun-bleached streets and cobbled alleyways that provide a fascinating amble, and exceptional views.

Bits of Baroque twist out of unexpected places, including an ornamented 18th-century, a 21m-high obelisk dedicated to St Oronzo in Piazza della Libertà. On summer Saturday nights hordes of people drive in from the countryside, meet their friends here and pack out the bars and cafés.

Chiesa di San Vito church houses the Museo di Civiltà Preclassiche della Murgia Meridionale – its highlight is “Delia”, the crouched skeleton of a young pregnant woman, her bones decorated before burial some 28,000 years ago.

Ostuni, Italy © Shutterstock

#5 Linger in Lecce, the Florence of the South

Dubbed the “Florence of the South”, Lecce is a place to explore, with a wealth of fine architecture scattered about an appealing old town, as well as a few diverting Roman remains.

The exuberant building styles are the legacy of religious orders (Jesuits, the Teatini and Franciscans) who came to the region at the end of the 16th century, bringing an influx of wealth which paid for the opulent churches and palazzi that still pervade today’s city.

The flowery style of “Leccese Baroque” owed as much to the materials to hand as to the skills of the architects: the soft local sandstone could be intricately carved and then became hard with age.

For beaches, follow the Littoranea Otranto coast road through pinewoods where several paths lead to long stretches of dunes and rocky coves. Continue south to Roca Vecchia and Grotte Basiliane, a fascinating honeycomb of man-made caves carved into the soft sandstone. There’s a gorgeous natural sea pool here known as the Grotta della Poesia, a favourite spot for locals to launch themselves off the cliffs.

Scenic sight in Lecce, Puglia (Apulia), southern Italy @ Shutterstock

#6 Explore beautiful Otranto

Otranto, a kasbah-like town nestling around a harbour, is set in an arid, rocky and windblown landscape, with translucent seas to swim in.

The port overflows with tourists in August when Otranto’s nightlife is at its peak and the town is most entertaining, but the picturesque location and slow pace will reward visitors year-round, even if its gaudy souvenir shops detract a little from the charm of its winding whitewashed lanes.

The Romanesque Cattedrale di Santa Maria Annunziata is worth a visit, its marble-columned nave adorned by an incredible multi-coloured mosaic. Not far from the cathedral, Aragonese Castello juts out into the bay, defending the harbour. Large parts of it have recently undergone renovation, and its hulking walls incorporate fragments of Roman and medieval inscriptions.

#7 Make the most of Puglia’s produce

Puglia is known as the breadbasket of Italy. It’s the source of 80 percent of Europe’s pasta – the most distinctive being ear-shaped orecchiette – and much of Italy’s fish. It produces more wine than Germany and more olive oil than all the other regions of Italy combined.

Puglia is famous for olives (from Cerignola), almonds (from Ruvo di Puglia), dark juicy tomatoes (often sun-dried), cime di rapa (turnip tops), fava beans, figs (fresh and dried), cotognata (a moulded jam made from quince) and for its melons, grapes and green cauliflower.

The influence of former rulers is still evident in the region’s food. Like the Greeks, Pugliesi eat lamb and goat spit-roast over herb-scented fires and deep-fried doughnut-like cakes steeped in honey; and like the Spanish, they drink almond milk, latte di mandorla.

#8 Island hop in the Tremiti islands

These rugged islands 40km off the Gargano coast are almost entirely given over to tourism in the summer when the tiny population is swamped by visitors. Despite this, they remain relatively unspoilt and the sea crystal clear.

The main Tremiti group consists of three islands:

Only the first two are inhabited. San Nicola is barren and rocky with a fortress, tiny church and no beaches, although there is nude bathing on its east side and good swimming off the whole island.

From there, a regular ferry takes about a minute to cross to San Domino, whose pines offer welcome shade from the heat. Although there’s a sandy beach – Cala delle Arene – right where the ferry lands, it’s packed in the summer. Your best bet is to follow the signs for the Villaggio TCI and make for quieter coves such as Cala dello Spido.

Puglia, Italy - the Tremiti archipelago with the cliffs of Pagliai in the foreground and the island of San Nicola in the background © Shutterstock

#9 Bed down in a trulli

Curious-looking trulli are dotted throughout the Murge area of Puglia. Cylindrical, whitewashed buildings with grey conical roofs tapering out to a point or sphere, are often adorned with painted symbols.

Unique to Puglia, their ancient origins are obscure, but are probably connected to feudal lords who made people working their land build their houses without mortar so they could easily be pulled down if tax inspectors came around.

The thick walls insulate equally against winter cold and summer heat, while local limestone is used to make the two-layered roofs watertight. Most trulli have just one room but when more space was needed, a hole was simply knocked in the wall and an identical structure was built next door.

Although originally they were both dwellings and storehouses, these days they’re being snapped up as holiday homes, and some are rented out as self-catering or B&B accommodation.

Rough Guides tip: Planning a trip to Italy? Check our Italy itineraries !

Puglia is known as the breadbasket of Italy. It’s the source of 80 percent of Europe’s pasta and much of Italy’s fish; it produces more wine than Germany and more olive oil than all the other regions.

The region's sun-kissed landscapes yield a bounty of fresh ingredients that have shaped its unique gastronomy. From olive groves to vineyards, Puglia's cuisine is a celebration of the land's rich bounty.

Some iconic dishes not to miss include:

• Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa: Puglia's signature pasta, orecchiette, pairs perfectly with the bitterness of cime di rapa (broccoli rabe), garlic, and chili flakes.
• Burrata: A luscious cheese with a creamy interior, burrata is often served with ripe tomatoes and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.
• Friselle: These twice-baked bread rounds are a staple, enjoyed soaked in water and topped with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and oregano.
• Fava Bean Purée: Creamy and flavorful, this purée is served with bitter wild chicory or enjoyed as a spread.
• Sagne 'Ncannulate: Homemade pasta, typically served with a rich meat sauce, embodies the warmth of Puglian kitchens.
• Tiella: A layered dish of rice, potatoes, mussels, and saffron, slow-cooked to perfection.
• Pasticciotto: A delightful pastry filled with custard or chocolate, exemplifying Puglia's sweet side.

Otranto town in Puglia © Shutterstock

In Puglia, a land of ancient olive groves and charming villages, finding the perfect place to stay is an integral part of your unforgettable experience. From luxurious masserie amidst the countryside to stylish boutique hotels by the sea, discover the best accommodations that will add a touch of magic to your stay in this captivating region.

The best base on the Gargano peninsula is Vieste, jutting out into the Adriatic on two promontories.

Fifty years ago there wasn’t even a proper road here, but today Vieste, with its excellent beaches, is the holiday capital of Gargano, and the streets and sands are packed in August.

Despite the crowds, it is a lively and inviting town, with an interesting historic core and, in summer at least, a fairly lively nightlife.

Most accommodation is in the modern part of Bari although some small B&Bs are opening up in the old city. The most affordable hotels are found around the train station, though the area takes a turn for the worse after dark.

Dubbed the “Florence of the South”, Lecce is a place to linger, with a wealth of fine architecture scattered about an appealing old town, as well as a few diverting Roman remains. Expect high-end hotels and a restored palazzo .

Monte Sant'Angelo

If you intend to stay overnight , don’t count on finding anywhere to sleep at the last minute during the main festival times. For snacks, ignore the touristy places in the lower town and head instead for the bakery outside the castle.

The Tremiti islands

Accommodation on the islands is limited to San Domino and is largely full board in high season. Finding a place on spec in the low season won’t be a problem, though you’ll need to sail from Termoli in Abruzzo, in high season you should book in advance .

Browse the places to stay in Puglia.

Bari, Italy @ Shutterstock

Navigating through the enchanting region of Puglia is a delightful adventure in itself. From its historic towns to its sun-kissed coastline, here's a guide on how to effortlessly explore the diverse beauty of Puglia and make the most of your journey.

FS trains connect nearly all the major places, while small, private lines head into more remote areas – in the Gargano and on the edges of Le Murge.

Most other places can be reached by bus, although isolated village services can be infrequent or inconveniently early. In July and Aug buses connect coastal towns.

Most problems can only really be solved by having your own transport.

Considering the diverse attractions and experiences Puglia offers, you will need at least 5-7 days here. That's enough time to visit a couple of main destinations, explore the coastal areas, and immerse yourself in the region's culture.

Allocate a couple of days to explore the main cities like Bari, Lecce, or Alberobello. Then set aside a few days to discover the coastal towns and beaches. Gallipoli, Otranto, Monopoli, and Santa Maria di Leuca offer picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters.

You should only need a day in Alberobello, famous for its trulli houses, and a day at Matera, with its fascinating cave dwellings, which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Check our Italy itineraries or talk to our Italy travel experts .

Trulli houses in Puglia, Italy © Shutterstock

If you’re planning to visit popular Puglia areas, especially beach resorts, avoid July and especially August when the weather can be too hot and the crowds at their most congested.

In August, when most Italians are on holiday, you can expect the crush to be especially bad in the resorts, and the scene in the major cities to be slightly artificial, as the only people around are fellow tourists.

The nicest time to visit, in terms of the weather and lack of crowds, is from April to June, and in September or October.

Find out more about the best time to visit Italy .

Torre Guaceto, Puglia, Italy © Shutterstock

Getting around Puglia by public transport is fairly easy, at least as far as the main towns and cities go.

Of the scheduled airlines flying to Italy, British Airways (Wba.com) has direct flights year-round to Brindisi, the region's main airport alongside Bari. The majority of the routes are from London, and flights from UK provincial airports have been severely cut back following the pandemic, but it is always worth checking to see if there are flights from your local airport.

Unless you book well in advance, flying between June and September will cost more than in the depths of winter (excluding Christmas and New Year).

The main train stations are located in Foggia, Bari, Brindisi, Lecce and Taranto .

It’s difficult to see why anyone would want to travel to Pugliua by bus from the UK. Book through operators like Eurolines and FlixBus and expect several changes

Find out the best ways to get to Italy .

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 17.07.2023

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Puglia travel guide

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There are some very good reasons why everyone seems to be going to Puglia in southern Italy right now. The remote heel of Italy 's boot dramatically combines fairytale cottages, Baroque architecture and some of the best sandy beaches in mainland Italy. Italian families head for the coast every year in July and August. But handsome Baroque towns such as Martina Franca and the engaging Lecce see only a handful of visitors each day. And if you decide to explore some of Puglia's more remote Basilian chapels or prehistoric dolmens, you will be gloriously alone. But the most recent attraction of the region is the food scene - a combination of top-quality local produce and authentic Italian home cooking.

Where to stay in Puglia

The best hotels in puglia.

Where to eat out in Puglia

The best restaurants in puglia.

What to see in Puglia

The gargano peninsula.

The region of Puglia extends a good way up the Achilles' tendon of Italy to a wild spur, the Gargano peninsula, whose northern shore is on the same latitude as Rome. This area is, in fact, a lost chip of Yugoslavia, left behind when two geological plates separated to form the Adriatic. The Gargano is a world apart: a place of dark, ancient forests, caves, shrines, coastal watchtowers and intricate fishing villages. The creation of the Parco Nazionale del Gargano in 1991 attracts some tourists, but not many. BARI Explore the labyrinthine old town and the Basilica di San Nicola.

MOLFETTA, TRANI AND BARLETTA

Molfetta is the first of a trio of port towns north of Bari whose present-day sprawl radiates from a tight, walled medieval centre. Trani, just up the coast, is dominated by a glorious, bleached-out Romanesque cathedral. In Barletta, the most northerly of the three, a third-century bronze colossus stares into space with a stolid, vacant expression.

MARTINA FRANCA

See the frescoes in the Palazzo Ducale and the baroque Chiesa di San Martino.

LOCOROTONDO

This circular, whitewashed town has views over the trulli-peppered Valle d'Itria, and excellent wines.

A limestone plateau scored by deep ravines (gravine) and sudden sinkholes (pule). Olives and vines on the lower slopes give way to scrubby, rock-strewn grazing land. Remote and aloof, Alta Murgia is the perfect setting for the castle of an enlightened philosopher-king.

CASTEL DEL MONTE

Under Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, between 1220 and 1250, the region became a crossroads between the Roman Catholic Byzantine and Arab worlds. The emperor himself was a poet, a philosopher, and the author of a treatise on falconry. During his reign, castles were built, or repaired, all over southern Italy to defend the Kingdom of Sicily from its many enemies. But Castel del Monte, the most memorable and iconic, was not built to defend anything. Nobody ever lived here and there is no town or strategic crossroads nearby.

BASSA MURGIA AND THE VALLE D'ITRIA

The Trulli are strange, cylindrical peasant houses with beehive roofs which are still in use today. The Valle D'Itria, between the towns of Putignano and Martina Franca, is the best place for trullo-hunting. If there is no evidence of trulli older than the 16th century, this may be because they are easier to rebuild than to restore. Like the dry-stone wall, the fanciful trullo served an eminently practical function: it was a way of using up all the stones that peasants cleared from their difficult, rocky fields. It was easily made and easily knocked down again.

ALBEROBELLO

Only here have trulli strayed from country to town. In the quartieri known as Monti and Aia Piccola there are whole streets of them, rising in neat terraces. The fabric of the trulli is now protected by UNESCO.

Lecce has been called the 'Florence of the baroque', more than 40 churches and at least as many noble palazzi were built or renovated here between the middle of the 17th century and the end of the 18th to create one of the most unified urban landscapes in Italy. It is a relaxed place; the locals sit outside bars such as Pasticceria Alvino in piazza Sant'Oronzo, sipping iced coffee with almond syrup (latte di mandorla, an eminently southern soft drink), or they window-shop along corso Vittorio Emanuele.

THE SALENTINE PENINSULA

South of Lecce, the landscape flattens and the sky opens out. Stony olive groves extend between dry-stone walls bordered with oleander. Around Capo d'Otranto, Italy's easternmost point, crumpled red cliffs fall to the sea from an upland plain. If it weren't for the blue-green sea and the view across to Albania, this could be Cornwall . In the villages here you may witness a festa di paese, a village festival where men with tambourines and accordions beat out a tarantella and women sing. Nearby Galatina, with a wonderful set of Renaissance frescoes in the 1392 church of Santa Caterina is also worth a visit.

The cathedral has a 12th-century mosaic floor of the 'tree of life', intertwining Norman, Greek and Byzantine ideas of fate.

Visit Galatina for the frescoes in the Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria.

Puglia's beach scene

Italy-expert Lee Marshall on the best beaches in Puglia

Laid-back seafaring town

Savelletri is home to six of Puglia 's most luxurious masseria hotels; but, at heart it's still a modest, laid-back fishing town and seaside resort. Pescheria 2 Mari is a working fishmonger's at the southern end of the passeggiata that now doubles as a cool lunch stop and aperitivo bar, where raw seafood platters command attention. Nearby, Ristorante Maddalena has a lovely sea-level terrace and serves reliable southern Italian seafood. The old-school waiters are presided over by owner Vito Nardelli, who previously worked at Locanda Locatelli . Vittorio Muolo, owner of Masseria Torre Coccaro and Torre Maizza , has two of the best beach clubs - the relaxed Coccaro Beach Club , with Bali-style daybeds shaded by palm-fronded canopies, and the younger, more Ibizan -style White Beach , where the parties are legendary. Anchored by Borgo Egnazia's seafood restaurant Pescheria da Vito , Cala Masciola beach club drapes itself rather lazily around a pretty rocky cove, port of departure for fishing expeditions and coastal jaunts. San Domenico a Mare is the smartest place to stay: a romantic enclave on a platform above the waves. In 2013, four waterfront suites were added to the exisiting La Nassa bar-restaurant to make this Puglia 's most exclusive shoreline boutique hotel.

Peninsula with the best beaches in Puglia

Salento has some of the best beaches on mainland Italy. Lido Punta della Suina 's deep-blue sun loungers and umbrellas are set about on a photogenic sandy bay and little islet, and the sea looks positively Caribbean . Nearby Makò is a little more rugged, like its mainly gay fans. For a classic seaside experience with a hipster twist, head for pretty Santa Caterina , a small, relaxed family resort with one super-cool beach bar, Beija-Flor . Though they have a few sunbeds, the main draws are the light, veggie-friendly lunch menu and the sunset aperitivo scene, when well-mixed Mojitos are served to a DJ set.

How to get to Puglia

There are airports in both Bari and Brindisi . Bari's airport is about 9km west of the city at Palese. Brindisi's Casale airport is 4km north of the city.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

Alitalia (0870 544 8259; alitalia.com ) flies several times a day from Heathrow and Gatwick to Bari and Brindisi. Flights are via Rome or Milan. British Airways (0870 850 9850; ba.com ) flies from Gatwick to Bari. Ryanair (0871 246 0000; ryanair.com ) flies daily from Stansted to Bari and Brindisi.

• Maps of Italy >

Puglia Maps and Travel Guide

Explore the heel of italy's boot.

What is there to see and do in Puglia? No single web page can cover it all, but our maps and travel guide will give you lots to think about.

Puglia, or Apulia, is the least mountainous region of Italy. It's got everything tourists might want: the flat lands are perfect for biking or walking, the warm, dry climate makes the season a long one, and the miles of Adriatic and Ionian coastline beg for swimmers and holiday makers.

Puglia is rich in cultural layers laid down by passers-by through the centuries. First the tribal Messpii speaking Messapian, then Mycenaean Greeks. Ancient Greeks arrived by the 8th century BC around Taranto, and there still exists a cluster of small towns in southern Puglia called the Grecia Salentina in which a dialect of Greek is spoken and still taught in schools.

The ancient Romans trumped them all, of course, and soon were building roads in the area, like the Via Traiana , a coastal alternative to the Via Appia built by Emperor Trajan in 109 AD.

Suffice it to say there are plenty of archaeological remains around for the budding archaeologist to visit, especially those interested in the cultural layers of a long-inhabited place.

But let's stop here and get our bearings. We'll start with the provinces.

Map: Puglia Provinces and historic areas

As you can see, the five provinces are based around the major cities of Puglia, Foggia, Bari, Taranto, Brindisi, and Lecce . Bari is considered the capital of Puglia itself. There are two other marks on the map, purplish blobs marking the Foresta Umbra , a high forest in the spur of the boot called the Gargano promontory, for which we've prepared a touristic itinerary: Gargano Itinerary .

North of the Taranto label is that area marked by the circular dwellings called Trulli centered on the town of Alberobello . The town's popularity with tourists has led to an evolution of its cuisine, which you can read about: In Alberobello, Cucina Povera gets an upgrade .

No doubt you've heard of towns like Alberobello in the province of Bari, famous for its trulli, many of which are still occupied today. The Trulli make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Salento Peninsula is the southeastern part of Puglia, taking in the Lecce province as well as much of the Brindisi and Taranto provinces.

Map: Cities and Attractions in Puglia

Click or tap the markers on the map below to show descriptions and links to content on the city or place. You'll find many of our discoveries on this map, from hidden monasteries to extraordinary cities and attractions.

The map is not a comprehensive guide to every attraction in Puglia; it's what we've found interesting over the years we've traveled in the region. Explore the possibilities--there are too many to be crammed into a map of this size.

Unique Attractions in Puglia

Trabucchi are fishing machines set out on promontories. A series of nets set with long poles made of the local Aleppo pine can be manipulated to catch fish feeding in the area. The idea is believed to have originated with the Phoenicians, making fishing safer than doing it from small, primitive boats.

The family-run trabucchi are no longer as profitable as they once were; modern fishing boats scour the sea and relieve it of its inner life much more efficiently. Today the trabucchi are protected as historical monuments. They still catch fish, and the families often run restaurants on the premises. If you like fish, don't miss the experience. You won't likely eat fish fresher then you'll get at lunch on a trabucco. See: Il Trabucco di Monte Pucci - Where to Eat Fish in the Gargano .

Abbeys and Monasteries tucked away in hidden spaces reflecting Greek and Byzantine spirituality are another rather unique characteristic of Puglia. Abbazia Santa Maria di Pulsano was founded in the 6th century and destroyed in 952 by the Saracens, but rose again and again to become one of the most powerful monasteries in Italy.

Many have heard of the Sassi, the cave dwellings of Matera in the region of Basilicata, but may not know that the architecture isn't limited to Matera or Basilicata. Cave churches are a feature of the delightful town of Gravina in Puglia , which is a half hour drive or bus ride from Matera and a twenty minute drive or bus ride from Altamura, where Italy's only DOP bread hails from. You will eat well for little in Gravina, which makes a fine base in Bari Province from which to explore these compelling tourist destinations.

A little further south we'll find a special dance of the Salento, the Pizzica Salentina , which is a special subset of the tarantella dances of the south and especially Sicily.

Altopiano delle Murge is the name of the Murge plateau, called la murgia or merge , which takes in the cities we've just mentioned, Gravina, Altamura, and the Castello de Monte. In the space bounded by these cities is the higher or Alta Murgia, which, since 2004 has been made into the  National Park of Alta Murgia . Dinosaur fossils dated from between 70 and 80 million years ago have been found here. 

The Alta Murgia Tourist Card gives you 72 hours of access to some of the attractions within the national park.

With it, you can walk through caves that have been inhabited for centuries at the Cavato San Marco ethnological and underground museum and admire a rosette wooden ceiling in the Chiesa, Convento e Chiostro di Santa Sofia. You can even go beneath Gravina and see its ancient, subterranean grid. Top it off with a regional delight by having a free coffee in the lovely town of Gravina in Puglia.

Caciocavallo Cheese

There are also some unique places to stay in Puglia , from the sometimes fortified family farms called Masserie , many of which have been restored into fine places to stay,to the humble domed dwellings called Trulli found around Alberobello.

In place of what you might call a "villa" in Tuscany, Puglia offers the Country House . Owners have restored large estates to be elegant once again, this time with the kinds of bathrooms folks expect.

All of these lodging options give you a chance to be part of the Puglian social environment, which you'll find to be friendly and open. While you might choose a hotel in a city, the rural side of Puglia should not be missed. Check below for our specific lodging recommendations for Puglia.

A Roman Itinerary in Puglia

Hop in your car and rumble down the Via Traiana , an alternative to the Via Appia built by Emperor Trajan in 109 AD.

Puglia in Pictures

If you're one to select your destinations by visual means, this Pinterest page might be of interest to you. Here's a sample of our favorite places to go in Puglia: Puglia Destinations .

Weather and Climate

Puglia's Mediterranean climate means that spring comes early--and the wildflowers in April can be stunning. By the beginning of May, the weather is starting to become warm enough for you to feel comfortable in short sleeves in the day time.

Don't entirely shun "bad" weather. Sometimes the rain clears and amazing things happen to the light .

Summers are warm, but not blistering hot. And all that beach access and the warmth of the water makes summer a decent time to come to Puglia. Mild winters with a little rain round out the package. To see how this all fits together, see our pages on the top destinations in Puglia:

Lecce Climate and Weather Foggia Climate and Weather Bari Climate and Weather

Just in case you don't know which season to travel in, here's an argument for springtime: The wildflowers can be spectacular, expecially after a wet winter.

Cuisine - cucina pugliese

Puglia is a rugged agricultural region. Sure, there's lots of coastline and you know the seafood is good and plentiful. But if you want citrus fruits and vegetables, Puglia is also where you must come. The sun is kind to things we like to eat: tomatoes, artichokes, fava beans, arugula, zucchini, beans, fennel, peppers, onions, and table grapes are all produced in abundance here. Agrumi , citrus fruit, was once a huge industry, especially around the Gargano peninsula; the climate there allows for two harvests every year.

Agrumi for sale

Oranges can show up on a plate in unexpected ways, as in a salad that consisted of anchovies, olive oil, pepper and orange slices. And you want different? Then you must try Lampascioni -- pickled wild hyancinth bulbs that were once the food of the very poor, who foraged for them. Now trendy and sold in markets, the bitter taste isn't to many American's liking--but I think they're one of the most perfect "appetizer" foods ever.

Puglia is sheep territory. You'll find fantastic sheep cheeses. You'll find an exception to sheep dominance on the Gargano peninsula in the local Podolica cattle, sturdy beasts which can graze on shrubs, stubbles and thickets and withstand a harsh climate to give a very rich milk used to produce the region's classic caciocavallo cheese. The cheese has only a small relation to the cavallo (horse) in its name, pairs of cheese are strung with a rope making it easy to transport; the name refers to saddlebags.

The pasta shape you'll encounter most often is orecchiette , little ears produced by hand from hard wheat and water. Eggs were a luxury, so the cucina povera has come to prefer an eggless but easily handmade pasta.

Puglia has some of the best bread in Italy. It's the thing I miss most when I'm away. Italy's only DOP bread is found in Altamura, marked on the map.

The cured meat that amazed me in Puglia was the Valle d'Itria product called Cappocollo di Martina Franca. It melts on your tongue. Meat lovers, don't miss it.

Need rustic and stick to your rib goodness? When you're in a restaurant that serves traditional food, try the dish called Fave e Cicoria , fava beans and potatoes boiled together, then whipped with olive oil and served with bitter greens.

Vegetables and oil? No. Bread!

There is, of course olive oil and wine , now celebrated for their quality. It wasn't always like this. Twenty five years or so ago we did a very extensive archaeological survey of the Salento, and beneath the olive trees we came across, the ground was usually raked like a Zen garden. The olive harvest procedure was this: olives would simply fall off the tree and get scooped up once in a while. While this production method was easy, the contact with the ground not only bruised the olives but began to ferment them, producing an inferior oil. Recently the production methods have been modernized and now the olives are shaken off the trees into nets and immediately put in boxes bound for the press. It's great oil, some of the best in Italy. If you're used to "extra virgin" olive oil from a US supermarket, you're in for a real surprise.

The wine, likewise, was inferior in those days . Puglia produced a deeply-colored, and rather harsh, high-alcohol wine the people up north used for blending, especially in years when their own grapes had trouble ripening. Today the Salento produces one of my favorite wines, Primitivo di Manduria . If you visit the town of Manduria, be sure to visit the little wine museum. If you are lucky enough to be staying a while, you can buy bulk wine from pumps by the liter. Then head over to the compact Archaeological Museum and ring the bell to see if they will let you in.

The picture on the left above shows a specialty bread being made with dough, olive oil, and whatever vegetables are in season. It's a favorite of everyone who takes a cooking class at Masseria Provenzani just north of Lecce .

Puglia, like other regions of Italy, has many festivals and musical events. Puglia has a fantastic site for you to check what events might be on when you're in Puglia: Puglia events.it .

Just in case they missed some, it's best to ask at your hotel or place of lodging--or a barista.

Tours of Puglia and the South of Italy

If Puglia is unfamiliar with you and you'd like to have it planned by someone else, we have some recommended tours with rate well and take you to interesting parts of the south. 

From the Amalfi Coast to Puglia: the Complete Southern Italy Tour takes you to the extremely popular Amalfi Coast to the Puglia region, where you might slice through the Itria Valley by e-bike or chow down on some street food in Naples, a culinary wonderland. 

A cycling tour of Puglia is ideal for the lazy ones like me who don't care for zipping up mountain passes. Puglia is mostly flat, so physical labor isn't the big selling point. Cyclists may prefer a Self-Guided / Independent Tour, and this one, Cycling Puglia (8 Days) , earns a 4.9 out of ten rating. 

Getting to Puglia

There are two major airports in Puglia, Brindisi and Bari, with Bari having the largest airport as well as being the more intersting destination. There are no flights to Bari from the US, but you can fly while you're within Italy. See the booking box below to check prices on flights to Bari.

Rail Travel

The Foggia to Lecce rail line (see our Puglia Rail Map ) gets you from north to south in Puglia in 2 1/2 to three hours, depening upon the speed of the train. It costs about 10 euro to ride. There are many compelling coastal cities to stop at along the route. There are some private rail lines in operation in Puglia like the Ferrovie Sud Est, which serves small towns on the peninsula and has a station in Lecce.

You can check all the options on getting around Puglia by using the box below and entering a start and end point. It will give you rail, airline, bus and even carpool information in return--and you can buy tickets if you like them in advance.

Where to Stay

We like the idea of staying in a Masseria. Some are working farms, others are totally made for lodging like a hotel or B&B. We have a couple of suggestions on our Recommended self-catering page .

Tenuta del Barco is a masseria with a Chef, and if you like good food you might like a small apartment there. There is a new winery on the premises, and wineries take some serious water to run, especially at harvest time and the owner has come up with a very ingenious way to filter the rain water collected from the roof and parking lot of the winery--using papyrus. See: Water into Wine - Ancient Egyptian Solutions to Puglia's Water Problem .

If you'd like to live like an Italian, even if only for a few days, Pizzicato Eco B&B in Vico del Gargano , is a fine choice. The mastermind behind the operation is Giuseppe Romondia, who speaks English fluently and will attend quite nicely to your needs. The idea is a sort of "holiday vacation homes and apartments diffuso ," places to stay spread out over the city and centered around the best bar in Puglia, the Pizzicato. The "Eco" in the name refers to the biological produce produced by the family farm, which isn't too far from Vico's public beach. Highly recommended.

Masseria Posta Santa Croce is a perfect place to stay for those of you interested in cooking, visiting nearby Castel del Monte , or looking for a rural paradise with easy access to the sea. The kitchen comes equipped with food for a first night traditional dinner if you've arrived late and just need something to eat and a little local wine.

An interesting lodging choice in a trullo comes from Trullo Cicerone . The hosts seem to be quite interesting people; she is an archaeologist who cooks ancient Roman cuisine and her husband is a former photographer. You can stay in a yurt in the summer.

Planning a Trip?

Here are some travel planning tools that are especially useful if you're planning your first or second trip to Italy.

• Travel Planning Timeline : Learn what you need to plan when.
• What Will an Italy Vacation Cost? : Tools for budgeting your Italian vacation.
• Unplanned Attractions : Save time for the good life in Italy.

The 8 best places to visit in Puglia

Feb 6, 2024 • 6 min read

Puglia is full of treasured places – here are our favorites © iStock / Getty Images

It’s hard to believe that Puglia once played second fiddle to the likes of Tuscany .

Spanning Italy’s sinuous stiletto, this luminous southern region has some of the country’s cutest villages, quirkiest architecture and most knockout beaches. From a wild, wooded promontory to baroque cities and curious Hellenic towns, the following places merit a spot on any "Must See" Puglian hit list. 

Forget the North Pole: you’ll find the real Santa in Bari . The city’s Herculean Basilica di San Nicola shelters the relics of St Nicholas, whose fondness for secret gift giving inspired the sleigh-riding legend of today. Yet, there’s more to this energetic port than its 12th-century Norman cathedral (and convenient ferry connections to Greece, Albania, Montenegro and Croatia).

Its lovable, labyrinthine old town – Bari Vecchia – also claims an excellent archaeological museum, not to mention the legendary pasta-making ladies of Arco Basso. Early each morning they set up their spianatoie (wooden boards) along the narrow backstreet and get to work, kneading, rolling and expertly shaping Puglia’s signature orecchiette. Ear-shaped pasta aside, the city also whets the appetite with focaccia barese (Bari-style focaccia), sgagliozze (polenta fritters) and panzerotti (deep-fried calzoni) – fortifying street snacks on any Bari bar crawl. 

2. Promontorio del Gargano

A chocolate box of photogenic paesi (towns) and arresting natural beauty, the Gargano Promontory is an all-in-one treat in Puglia’s northeast. Clifftop Vieste and Peschici make for ideal bases, their bright, Arabesque streets scattered with fluttering laundry, color-popping geraniums and seafood trattorie. In the warmer months, boat tours sail from their harbors to Gargano’s dazzling sea caves, coves and stacks.

Both towns are also summer gateways to the nearby Tremiti Islands, where fragrant hikes, crystal-clear seas and a medieval abbey make for an evocative offshore escape. Behind Vieste and Peschici, twisting backroads and hiking trails criss-cross the rugged, mountainous expanse of the Parco Nazionale del Gargano , home to ancient woodlands and brooding mountain villages. The prettiest of the lot is Monte Sant’Angelo, where, according to the faithful, the Archangel Michael made several apparitions in the fifth century.

3. Polignano a Mare

Flat-roofed, cube-shaped buildings sprout directly from the cliffs in Polignano a Mare , precariously perched above a turquoise Adriatic. Its nail-biting location and sun-peeled charm is not lost on the thousands of holidaymakers who squeeze into its centro storico (historic center) each summer. For many, trip goals include a dip at Insta-famous Cala Porto beach. For others, it’s a reservation at Grotta Palazzese , a fine-dining restaurant some may argue is better known for its spectacular setting (in a cave right above the sea) than its value for money.

Consider visiting the town either side of July and August to avoid the heftiest crowds, and make time for its excellent Museo Pino Pascali , an abattoir-turned-contemporary art gallery dedicated to the great, late Puglian artist Pino Pascali.

Local tip: Try the town’s caffè speciale , coffee spiked with sugar, cream, lemon zest and Amaretto. It’s said that the drink was invented by Mario Campanella at his eponymous bar-gelateria Mario Campanella Il Super Mago Del Gelo.

4. Valle d’Itria

Should Snow White and her seven besties ever move to Italy, World Heritage-listed Alberobello is where you’ll find them. The most visited town of the bucolic, vine-laced Valle d’Itria , its peculiar trulli (limestone abodes crowned with conical roofs) are a fabulously surreal sight, clustered together like giant beehives in a fantastical fairy tale. You can wine, dine and shop in many of them, as well as learn about their past at Trullo Sovrano , a "living" museum capturing trullo life in the 19th century.

While several of Alberobello’s trulli offer accommodation, consider exploring the town as a day trip and basing yourself instead in one of the valley’s lesser-known jewel-box towns. Among them is chic, whitewashed Ostuni , rustic Cisternino and baroque Martina Franca . Foodies know the latter for its capocollo, a delicately sweet cured meat regarded as the king of Puglia’s salami.

Planning tip: From mid-July to early August, Martina Franca hosts the Festa della Valle d’Itria , a renowned music festival focused on opera.

5. Grecìa Salentina

From Campania to Sicily , ancient Hellenic ruins attest to a time when much of southern Italy was part of Magna Graecia. Lesser known is the mark left by the Byzantine-era Greeks. It’s an influence still palpable in Puglia’s Grecìa Salentina (Greek Salentine), an area comprising of 12 low-rise towns (Calimera, Carpignano Salentino, Castrignano de' Greci, Corigliano d'Otranto, Cutrofiano, Martano, Martignano, Melpignano, Sogliano Cavour, Soleto, Sternatia and Zollino) to the south of Lecce. Here, Griko, a variant of neo-Greek, is still spoken and it’s not unusual to see signs written in Griko or Greek. If time is limited, focus your attention on Corigliano d’Otranto (home to one of Puglia’s most impressive castles), Melpignano and Martano. The latter two towns feature on the coveted Borghi Autentici d’Italia (Authentic Hamlets of Italy) list.

Planning tip: Several of Martano’s beautiful, private courtyards are open to the public during Cortili Aperti (Open Courtyards), a three-night event in late July. In August, Grecìa Salentina celebrates its soulful pizzica folk dance with the Notte della Taranta festival.

Erudite Lecce is often called the "Florence of the South." That said, Puglia’s architectural show-off leaves Renaissance restraint to the Tuscan capital, reveling instead in its high-octane take on baroque – barocco leccesse . For the city’s 17th- and 18th-century architects, more really was more, a philosophy captured in hyper-theatrical buildings like the Duomo , Palazzo Vescovile and Basilica di Santa Croce . The latter’s intricately carved facade is one of Italy’s architectural masterpieces.

Of course, Lecce’s backstory is much older than its Counter-Reformation showstoppers. On Piazzetta Castromediano Sigismondo, glass floor panels offer a glimpse of a Renaissance oil store. At nearby Museo Faggiano , a mundane search for a sewage pipe led to the discovery of millennia-old subterranean relics, among them a pre-Christian Messapian tomb and a Roman granary.

Over 800 locals were slaughtered when the Ottomans invaded Otranto in 1480. Today, their skulls make for an unconventional welcome committee at the city’s Romanesque cathedral . What makes this hulking landmark unmissable, however, is its action-packed mosaic floor, one of the largest and most intriguing ever executed in medieval Europe. Located a mere 72km (45 miles) from the Balkan coast, it’s not surprising that Otranto’s backstory is riddled with occupations and liberations. Sleuth around its compact old quarter to peel the past off in layers – Greek, Roman, Turkish and Napoleonic. In summer, peel down to your swimsuit; Otranto’s beaches are among the most inviting in Puglia.

8. Gallipoli

Gallipoli is the epitome of southern Italian seduction: Mauritian-blue seas, laid-back locals and a picture-perfect Old Town heady with the scent of freshly fried seafood. A dense warren of intimate squares and bar-studded alleyways, the Old Town occupies a tiny island connected to the mainland by a causeway. Come July and August, the hip and the beautiful descend en masse to lap up Gallipoli’s superlative beaches, chic vibe and hedonistic nightlife. Not that it’s all beach clubs and bronzed pin-ups. Gallipoli harbors the Cattedrale di Sant’Agata , a shining example of barocco leccese architecture, and the extraordinary Frantoio Ipogeo , a subterranean, 17th-century olive press. It’s also home to the mysterious Fontana Greca (Greek Fountain), an intricately carved monument whose exact origins are still up for debate.

Planning tip: Consider visiting Gallipoli in June or September to enjoy the beaches, clubs and warmth sans the peak-season masses.

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Guide to Puglia

When you think of vacationing in Italy, the usual hot spots come to mind: Rome, Milan, Tuscany. But in recent years, more and more vacationers have been flocking to Puglia, the southern “heel” of Italy’s boot. Dubbed the “Florence of the South,” this destination is teeming with idyllic beauty that takes you back to simpler times. With nearly 500 miles of coastline and gorgeous interior destinations, there’s so much to see and do in each of the six provinces that make up the region.

Each province offers visitors a unique experience and a glimpse into the region’s rich past. Travel to Lecce, the capital of baroque architecture, to witness the magnificent cathedrals built in the 17th century. Up north, in Bari, you can see Roman ruins underneath the San Sabino church or make your way to the small town of Alberobello to take in the charming cone-shaped roofs of the historic trulli. And, of course, you can’t miss the stunning views of the Adriatic sea when traveling along the coast.

And that’s just sightseeing! Puglia also offers incredible cuisine, from the region’s famous cherry tomato–stuffed focaccia to orecchiette pasta to, of course, the delicious seafood. Since Puglia is largely coastal, you can enjoy fresh and locally sourced seafood that pairs perfectly with their pasta dishes. 

Whether you’re going on a family trip or exploring the region solo, Puglia is the perfect setting for your next vacation.

Getting Around

If you want to experience the entirety of Puglia, it’s best to start north and make your way down south along the coast. Karol Wojtyla International Airport in Bari is the main airport serving the region and serves many international airlines, and it’s located just 30 minutes from the city center.

From there, you can either rent a car, a boat, or opt for train travel for the rest of your journey. Car or boat travel are the best choices to make your way down the coast and see all the small towns along the way—we guarantee you’ll want to make stops and snap photos throughout your trip! If you travel by train, we recommend choosing one or two of the larger southern towns to make your home base and then explore on foot or by taxi during the day.

We’ve organized our guide to this gorgeous region by province from north to south to help you navigate and learn where to stay, what to do, and most importantly, what to eat on your trip to Puglia.

   La Uascezze

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If you want a traditional Puglian meal, head to La Uascezze. There’s a wide range of dishes to choose from to give you a taste of the region all in one place: eggplant parmigiana, baked omelets, stuffed mussels, cicerchie (bean) soup and more. If, by chance, a splash of wine gets spilled on the tablecloth, say “Uascezze!” to take part in their festive tradition.

   Panificio Fiore

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Want a quick bite to go? Head to this quaint little bakery near the Basilica di San Nicola to get a taste of their famous focaccia barese. Made with cherry tomatoes, olives, and sweet doughy bread, you can enjoy this Bari staple straightfrom the oven. Make sure to go early—this popular spot often has a long but oh, so worth it line.

   Ristorante Antiche Mura

The name translates to “Ancient Walls Restaurant,” and that’s exactly what you see when you step into this seaside spot. Located in the heart of Polignano a Mare, this rustic restaurant features a gorgeous interior lined with antique white stones. Besides the lovely ambiance, you can enjoy a long list of local wines, seafood, and, of course, pasta.

   Ristorante Giampaolo

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This airy restaurant with high, vaulted ceilings is known for its pizza, which is only available at dinnertime, and unique, hearty pastas. Giada and Aunt Raffy had a delicious meal here, including orecchiette with tomato sauce, fried basil leaf, and spicy ricotta, the Pugliese cheese of choice for pastas, and scialatielli (a short, almost rectangular pasta shape) made with local wheat and mushrooms.

   Saleblu

Located in a former fishery, this restaurant is not just by the sea, it’s in the sea! The glass dining room is built on a rock promontory over the water, so it seems like there’s nothing between you and the waves. Of course, seafood is on the menu here—some of the freshest you’ll ever have, in artful crudos and innovative light dishes. Try the oyster martini!

   Trattoria San Domenico

This family-run restaurant is perfect for seafood lovers who want a taste of the ocean with a side of pasta. Try the rigatoni with octopus or spaghetti with mussels to appreciate the area’s abundance from the sea, and don’t forget to try one of their local wines.

   Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia

This cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary sits in a small square in the town of Monopoli. From the outside, you can admire its impressive Romanesque facade. But if you think the outside is picture-worthy, wait until you step inside the church; radiant marble, embellished paintings, and historical artifacts await.

   Cattedrale di San Sabino

Built over the remains of a Byzantine church during the 12th century, this cathedral is quite literally steeped in history. Go for a tour between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to see the Romanesque architecture and the underground crypt that features Roman ruins dating back to the first millennium.

   Lungomare di Bari

In the mood for a stroll with a view? Walk the longest waterfront promenade in Italy to take in breathtaking sights of the ocean and seaside cliffs. During your walk, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to step onto the sparkling beaches or grab a bite at one of the cozy cafés or bars that dot the streets.

   Strada delle Orecchiette

One of the most famous streets in the Puglia region is a small alley in Bari’s Arco Basso where you can see local women making fresh orecchiette pasta right in front of their homes. Not only can you watch the process and buy the orecchiette to go, you can also partner with one of the nonnas to make a batch yourself!

   See the Trulli

The past meets the present in Puglia, especially inthe small town of Alberobello, where the indigenous architecture is a UNESCO heritage site. The town is filled with trulli, limestone huts with an iconic cone-shaped stone roof that were originally constructed as temporary peasant housing in the 1500s. Visitors can walk the narrow alleys to get a closer look at the unique architecture that has been lovingly preserved.

   Il Melograno

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This masseria, a 17th-century farmhouse-turned-hotel just outside of Monopoli, is a gorgeous retreat surrounded by olive groves and lush gardens. Some of those gardens provide the produce for the stunning on-site restaurant, where Giada had a delicious stuffed pasta with tomato and squash topped with burrata and truffle. The whitewashed rooms are serene and restful, outfitted with amazing antiques and original art.

   Locanda Don Ferrante

Formerly an ancient fortress, this boutique hotel is perched above a cliff, giving you 360-degree views of the Adriatic Sea. Guests can relax on the rooftop terrace or enjoy breakfast inside a 16th-century gunpowder cellar. For a truly VIP experience, choose to stay in one of the luxury guest houses.

   Trattoria Bère Vecchie

This small restaurant in Cisternino serves up a wide range of meats, from sausages to lamb and roasted pork. Guests can select the meats they want straight from the butcher to experience a true Puglian dining experience.

   Borgo Egnazia

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Check into this luxury resort and spa to enjoy a relaxing getaway like none other. Featuring four pools, two private beaches, a state-of-the-art spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant, you won’t want to leave the property. The hotel sits beside lush fields where the property gets its fresh fare for your meals, including tomatoes, eggplants, and their own signature olive oil.

   Al Pescatore

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With a patio that overlooks the water, this restaurant and hotel is Giada’s choice for a relaxing lunch. Order eggplant parmigiana with mussels and clams, the gnocchi pomodoro, or their fried fish tower—a real show-stopper!

   Caffè Alvino

At this famous pastry and gelato shop in the provincial capital of Lecce, don’t try to take your goodies to go—you’re encouraged to sit down and enjoy the experience. Try the local pasticciotto leccese , a small, cream-filled pie, or any of the decadent flavors of gelato.

   Caffè Duomo

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In the shadow of the stunning cathedral of Sant’Agata in Gallipoli, this is the perfect stop for coffee and gelato when you need a little sightseeing pick-me-up, whether it’s a classic coffee or a less traditional Snickers gelato.

   Dolci Tramonti

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This coffee, pastry, and gelato shop is the perfect place in Porto Cesareo to start the morning with a multigrain cornetto (a croissant with an Italian twist) and a cappuccino. Get there early before the crowds arrive to enjoy the waterfront views.

   Enoteca Mamma Elvira

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This wine bar is the sister spot to the more formal La Cucina di Mamma Elvira, with the same dedication to local food and—most importantly—delicious local wines. About 250 Pugliese wines are available by the glass, ready for a supremely leisurely lunch.

   Gelateria Via Vai

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On the piazza next to the fortress, this small shop is Giada’s choice for a gelato stop to cool off and enjoy some people-watching in the energetic town of Otranto. Dig into a bombolo here: an ice cream sandwich made with a warm brioche roll split and stuffed with fresh gelato in your choice of flavors.

   LaltroBaffo

At this modern restaurant owned by chef Cristina Conte, traditional Salento cuisine is given an exciting update. Giada loved the orecchiette with a pesto made of mint and basil, spaghetti carbonara with local sea urchin, and anchovies marinated with chicory, almonds, and clementines.

   L'Aragosta da Cò

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Right on the waterfront of Porto Cesareo, this gorgeous restaurant is the spot for stunning sunset views to go with your dinner. The food is light and clean, with amazing fresh seafood options.

   La Cucina di Mamma Elvira

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This popular restaurant is known for perfectly executed Pugliese specialties like ciceri e tria, pasta with chickpeas topped with crunchy fried pasta, with a friendly, welcoming spirit. Aunt Raffy enjoyed a fried artichoke pasta here. Tip: Book in advance if you can!

   La Granita

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It wouldn’t be summer in Italy without frozen treats! This shop sells gelato, but the real draw is their icy-cold granita made with real fresh fruit. The lemon granita is tart, juicy, and so refreshing on a sunny afternoon.

   La Piazzetta

Get a taste of Italian home cooking at this amazing mom-and-pop restaurant. Mom is in the kitchen making handmade pastas and gnocchi di sorrento, a local variation made with both semolina and potato that is cooked in huge batches and spooned directly onto your plate. It’s a must-try, along with orecchiette alle cime di rapa (a type of broccolini), spaghetti with zucchini and shrimp, and casarecce with mussels.

   Matre

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Run by a husband-and-wife team, this restaurant is decorated with striking paintings in the baroque tradition of the city. The food is just as eye-catching, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and handmade pastas.

   Salumeria Rizzello

A great way to save money on food when traveling is to stock up at a local deli or grocery store. On her trip through the region, Giada picked up some delicious prosciutto cotto and mozzarella at this small shop, which also makes panini for quick and easy lunches.

   Santa Monaca

Dine indoors or out on the small piazza on which this charming trattoria is located for optimal people-watching. Either way, you’ll enjoy gorgeous fresh seafood pulled from the waters that are a literal stone’s throw away from where you sit.

   Ristorante Lo Scalo

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Stop in by boat to this beach club, hotel, and restaurant for a quintessentially Italian summer experience. Visitors can stay for a few hours or the night, all while enjoying delicious food and gorgeous views of the rocky coast. All of their produce comes from their own hilltop garden inland, and of course the seafood is as fresh as can be.

   Chiesa di San Pietro

Located in the historic center of Otranto on one of the highest hills in town, this small basilica is one of the oldest religious buildings. You can see its age quite literally on the walls: It features colorful Byzantine frescoes that date back to the 10th century!

   Frantoio Oleario Ipogeo di Palazzo Granafei

Under the cobblestoned streets of the old city of Gallipoli is an incredible glimpse of history in this restored olive oil cave-slash-museum. In the 17th century, Gallipoli was home to dozens of these underground mills, which supplied most of Europe with lamp oil pre-electricity. This is the only one that has been fully restored and is open to the public.

   Torres Sant’Andrea Beaches

There are beautiful beaches across Italy, but the Torres Sant’Andrea might top the list. You can soak up the sun with a stunning view of the rocky towers that jut out of the crystal-clear waters. When you’re not sunbathing, you can swim through the stone arches or (if you’re a pro) dive off of the cliffs.

   La Fiermontina

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A 17th-century home-turned-hotel, La Fiermontina is an ode to the owners’ grandmother, Antonia Fiermonte, an artists’ muse and model who left Puglia for Paris in the 1930s. Her romantic spirit (she left one artist husband for another) can be felt around the gorgeously modern property—in fact, she’s depicted in a number of artworks found in the lobby and gardens. The café here serves traditional caffè leccese, an iced espresso with sweet almond syrup, which Giada enjoyed with a soft, chewy almond cookie.

   Palazzo Bozzi Corso

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A sister to La Fiermontina, this hotel in a 17th-century palazzo is located in the heart of Lecce, just steps from the Basilica di Santa Croce. With purified air, en-suite saunas, and a “relaxarium,” it’s a serene, wellness-focused retreat from the city hustle.

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Puglia itinerary 2024 – a complete travel guide in Puglia for 3, 7 and 14 days

Discover the ultimate Puglia itinerary in this comprehensive guide, showcasing all the things to do in Puglia and the hidden gems of these region. Besides being italo-brasiliani (we both have Italian citizenship), we spent more than two months exploring from the upmost corner of Puglia to the most southern point. And we fell in love with Puglia. The region instantly became our favorite spot in Italy. Now we hope that Puglia becomes your favorite spot in Italy too.

In this itinerary for Puglia , you will find the best ways to explore the “heel of the boot”, whether it’s by renting a car, utilising public transport or an adventurous cycling trip – that was our choice, by the way. Also, read about all the attractions you cannot miss on your itinerary, all the most picturesque beaches and the details that will make your experience perfect, just like ours was.

As you are reading this article, I believe Puglia is already on your travel radar. So let this article be your gateway to an unforgettable journey. And as all unforgettable journey, we will start by creating yours Puglia travel itinerary with all the tips find here.

The Ultimate Puglia Itinerary

• Map of Puglia – understand the region

How to get to Puglia Italy

• How to get around in Puglia (car, bike and train)
• Best cities and attractions in Puglia
• Activities to Puglia to include in your itinerary

Best time to visit Puglia

• Puglia itinerary 7 days / 3 days and 14 days
• What cities to use as a base during your Puglia trip

Map of Puglia in Italy

Let’s start with the question where is Puglia? Puglia is in Southern Italy and is the “heel of the boot”. Although it might appear as the most southern part of the country, it is almost on the same line as Rome , as the country is “crooked” on the map!

Puglia has many regions , from Gargano all the way down to Santa Maria di Leuca, where both the Adriatic and the Ionian sees meet. There are over 800 km (497 mi) of beautiful beaches and endless charming historic cities for you to explore.

We lived in Italy for over a year and travelled quite a lot around and when people ask us “Is Puglia worth visiting “, our answer is a massive YES . Puglia is one of the most diverse, beautiful and interesting regions of Italy.

Both the Adriatic and the Ionian Sea give its beaches crystal clear water, let alone the charming towns. However, don’t mislead yourself into thinking tourism in Puglia is just about gorgeous landscapes. This is a destination full of history and tradition too.

Due to its strategic position, pilgrims, travellers and even invaders considered Puglia the gateway to and from Europe for many centuries. This convergence of so different cultures and people was vital in the development of their culture, which stands out for its plurality and hospitality.

If you are wondering how to get to Puglia Italy, it is super easy! There are a few options:

• Getting to Puglia by plane: for those travelling to Puglia by plane, there are three airports – Bari, Foggia and Brindisi. As the capital of Puglia, Bari has the biggest airport, and it is probably the best place for you to arrive. There are direct flights to Bari Airport from many European cities, such as London, Paris and Cologne.
• Getting to Puglia by train or car: Alternatively, you can fly to Rome and rent a car – check prices here or take the train to Bari. This 400 km (267 mi) long route is easily made both ways.

How to get around Puglia (car, bike and train)

Renting a car in puglia.

As opposed to North Italy, which counts on a good network of public transportation, the south of the country is more “lacking”. There are not so many railways in Puglia and buses won’t take you everywhere.

Therefore, we suggest a good old Puglia road trip . Renting a car in Puglia is surely the best way to go around and be able to visit the most remote villages and the best beaches in Puglia .

As we already explained, Bari is the capital of Puglia and the best place for you to kick off your Puglia road trip. If you are looking for a more flexible Puglia itinerary, you can easily pick up and drop off the car from different cities – you could arrive in Bari and leave from Rome for instance.

Cycling in Puglia

Another option not so much considered by the majority of tourists in Puglia – and extremely pleased by the way – is to cycle in Puglia. If just reading this previous phrase makes you breathless, a ride on a motorbike will do the job too. Cycling also demands time. If you don’t have much time for your travel in Puglia , then surely rent a motorbike or a car.

We spent a month cycling around the whole Puglia region and we cannot recommend a better way for a different Puglia road trip .

Most of the time, you cycle on a flat land and the scenery is stunning. Travelling by bike is extremely immersive and allows you to absorb everything you see and experience as no other means of transportation can. Is that something you are interested in, by the way?

Getting around Puglia by train

Travelling around Puglia without a car is possible by train (you can check prices and routes on Trenitalia ). Bear in mind though that this is not the most convenient, because trains do not reach all the most touristic cities. BlaBlaCar also works in Puglia.

Puglia itinerary – Best cities of Puglia

So, where to go when travelling to Puglia? We are going to lay out the most important cities and activities and then give you below our suggested itinerary according to the length of your holidays, such as what to do in Puglia in 3 days , or what to do in Puglia in 7 days .

We shall begin this Puglia guide with Bari, the capital city of Puglia .

Bari – the capital of Puglia

Time in Bari – Puglia : One to two days

Bari has one of the oldest historical city centres in the region. It’s walled and with many alleyways, which reminds some Middle Eastern countries.

Even though the old town of Bari looks slightly abandoned, don’t miss out on the opportunity to wander about it, at least for a few hours. You will probably feel the bohemian vibe and see nice old ladies chatting on their doors and windows, making fresh pasta or just standing still. It’s quite the stereotype of Southern Italy!

Make sure to visit the spectacular Bari’s main cathedral. You can see other tours available in Bari here .

You can easily explore the city of Bari in just a few hours. Unless you feel a strong connection with it, we advise you to cross Bari out of the itinerary and enjoy more time on other wonders of Puglia.

Find your accommodation in Bari  here.

Castel del Monte in Andria

Time in Castel del Monte : half-day activity

Another cool stop to add to your Puglia itinerary is the Castel del Monte, located in the city of Andria, near Bari. Also known in Italian as the castello otagonale (octagon castle of Puglia).

Adria is a charming little town with public parks, squares, churches and palaces. On the way there, you find the Castel del Monte, the mysterious fort built by Frederick II, now a UNESCO Heritage Site in Puglia.

The architecture of the castle aims at perfect symmetry, with a pinch of spooky fascination for the number 8. The octagonal castle has eight sides – obviously! – eight towers and eight rooms on each of its two floors. The centre has an eight-sided courtyard and used to have an octagonal fountain too. From there, you can see the sky, through an octagonal shape, of course.

Other sinister facts about this castle is that it has no kitchen, moat or bridge, which makes everyone think about the purpose of it. Surely, not for a comfortable living nor for a military purpose.

Anyway, the castle lies gloriously on top of the mount near Andria, overlooking the sea of Puglia.

Admission to the castle costs €7 and it is open every day from 9am to 5pm.

Grotte di Castellana

Time in Grotte di Castellana : half-day activity

The Grotte di Castellana is a complex of incredible caves and grottos with formations dating back more than 90 million years. There are two types of guided tours:

• Complete: It has a 3km of distance, takes 2 hours and passes through the famous Grotta Bianca (White Grotto). It costs €18.
• Short: The short tour takes about 50 minutes and walks around 1km. It costs €15.

Polignano A Mare

Time in Polignano A Mare : One to two days

This illustrious city is one of the best places in Puglia . It’s also the hometown of Domenico Modugno, the famous singer of “Volare”. Even if you are not fond of well-worn destinations – just like us – it is yet impossible to not fall in love with this town.

Its white houses, stone-paved alleyways, cliffs meeting a stunning blue sea, amazing restaurants and rather hospitable people will definitely win your heart over.

Polignano A Mare is one example of a city that makes you lose track of time. Don’t miss out on sunbathing on the beach, try one of the homemade ice creams and visit the Domenico Modugno statue. A Puglia itinerary is surely not complete without a stop in this charming city!

For those staying for one or more nights in Polignano, we recommend the cosy and centrally located Malu B&B , however, there are many other hotels to choose from.

Alberobello – the city of the Trulli

Time in Alberobello : One-day activity

The city, famous for the trulli, has long taken the fancy of tourists. Just like Polignano, Alberobello has lost some – or more – of its originality. Currently, there are not many people living in trulli as most of them were turned into shops, restaurants and hotels. Yet, visiting Alberobello is more than fascinating and also one of the best towns in Puglia .

Find out more about the history and legends of Alberobello in this article .

Tip: A cool thing, if you want to extend your visit to Alberobello, is to spend the night in one of the trulli houses .

Cisternino – the place to eat

Time in Cisternino : half-day activity

This was recommended to us by some locals and we simply loved it, so we are including it in this Puglia itinerary. Cisternino is a cute little town, typical of the Valle d’Itria region.

However, the purpose of your visit is not to wander about its alleyways. In Cisternino, you have a clear goal: Eat at the Al Vecchio Fornello Restaurant and try their famous bombetas . Seriously, it’s a must!

Ostuni – the Città Bianca

Time in Ostuni : One to two days

Ostuni is known as the Città Bianca D’Italia –  The White City of Italy. Well, it’s just a charming town with an old city centre and alleyways, but white. But let’s not undermine its charm too. The relaxing atmosphere is greatly appreciated over here.

Our greatest surprise, however, was to experience Ostuni at dusk. Just when the sun goes down, the Città Bianca turns into a bohemian scenario, with many restaurants illuminated by candles, bars with cushions on the stairs of the old city, live concerts and many more attractions.

To have a true feel of Ostuni, we recommend staying in a traditional house in the city centre, like The Welcome B&B , but there are many other hotels and B&Bs there.

PRO TIP : Locals do not see Ostuni as a gastronomical sight. So, avoid their expensive touristy restaurants and swing by the neighbour town Ceglie Messapica, just 12km – or 7 miles – away. Ceglie is the gastronomic hub of the region. Our advice is the L’Antico Arco Osteria, where local friends took us. Their food and hospitality are out of this world .

Lecce – the capital of the Baroque

Time in Lecce : One to two days

Lecce is also called the Capital City of the Baroque in Italy, and is another must-see in Puglia! The town has a gracious city centre, is full of churches, mansions, a Roman amphitheatre and many more interesting sights.

We stayed in an awesome B&B there,  the Le Giravolte, one of the best b&b in Puglia . But, as it only has three rooms available, you might want to book in advance .

Check here to see other accommodations in Lecce .

Otranto – the best of Salento

Time in Otranto : One to two days

Otranto was one of our favourite cities in our Puglia itinerary! Otranto is not just gorgeous, it’s very – really, very! – historical and has plenty of nice places to see.

The castle holds art expositions, including photo exhibitions, pictures and so on. There is a church with the largest medieval intact mosaic in the Western world. Also, you can see a sanctuary with the mortal remains of more than 800 men killed during the Turkish invasion in the XV century.

In addition, there is a Bauxite Lake that makes you feel you are inside a portrait.

But let’s not forget the charming alleyways, the turquoise sea and the gastronomy, as usual delicious. And obviously, the hospitality of the people in Otranto is incredible.

Find out where to stay in Otranto .

Grotta della Poesia

Time in Grotta della Poesia : half-day activity

A piece of the cliff – but not the edge – fell off, forming a wonderful natural swimming pool of seawater. The Grotta della Poesia is of extraordinary beauty and it cannot stay out of your Puglia itinerary. Have a look at the aerial video we did from there!

PS – This is an example of an incredibly remote place which you would hardly be able to visit via public transport.

Time in Gallipoli : Two to four days

Gallipoli is probably the most famous city of Puglia, mainly among youths. Mainly also because is one of the best beaches in Puglia . Therefore, if you are not much of a party-lover, this won’t be your cup of tea. If you are, though, you might be interested in reading our full guide about the Full Moon Party, in Thailand .

Nevertheless, it’s worth visiting its historical city centre and one of the best Puglia beaches . Moreover, you cannot miss the Frantoio Ipogeo and its history . It was down in these cellars that local workers lived in sub-human conditions, pressing olives to produce oil that would keep the lights of most European capitals on over the XV to XIX centuries. The oil of Gallipoli was exported all over Europe and that gave them international recognition and wealth.

TIP of accommodation : Just 7km away you will find the Tenuta La Baronessa , a very traditional Masseria which can serve as a base for you to explore the region of Salento. It is one of the best places to stay in Puglia. You can read more about this Masseria over here.

Otherwise, find more accommodations in Gallipoli here .

Salento – the West coast of Puglia

Time in Salento : A day trip to four days

The west coast beaches of Puglia can very well be the most beautiful beaches in Puglia . But they can very well be the wildest too. For this reason, if you are travelling with children, perhaps, is wiser to check if the place you are planning to visit has the infrastructure to welcome the little ones.

Santa Maria Al Bagno, Porto Selvaggio, Porto Cesario, Torre Colimena, Torre Chianca, and Punta Prosciutto are to name a few of the best beaches in Puglia you should make an effort to visit or spend the weekend in Puglia .

We recommend staying in Porto Cesareo. Find accommodation here .

Time in Taranto : One to two days

Visit Taranto is more of an anthropological visit than a touristy one. The city suffered greatly from the construction of a factory, which let the place practically impossible to live in. Taranto is ugly, dirty and with a historical city centre that many judges as dangerous. Yet, it is interesting and quite historical too.

If you have some spare time, make sure to spend a day in Taranto. It is worth going even if it is to understand the question about emptying historical city centres of Puglia during the economic boom of post-II World War .

Find your accommodation in Taranto here .

Activities to include in your Puglia Itinerary

Watch a Pizzica Concert

The Pizzica is the traditional music/dance of Salento and has its origins in an exorcism ritual that used to be carried out mainly on women a long time ago.

Put a visit to Matera in your Puglia itinerary

Matera was the Europe’s Capital of Culture 2020. Even though is not in Puglia but in Basilicata, the neighbouring province, it is definitely worth including in your Puglia itinerary. It was the place where the film The Passion of the Christ , with Mel Gibson was filmed. It’s different than anywhere else and everything else you have seen. It most definitely should be on anyone’s itinerary of Italy. You could add Matera at the end of your Puglia itinerary, on your way back driving to Bari or Rome.

Visit the wild Gargano region

If you have some spare time, don’t miss this authentic and pristine area in northern Puglia .

Include staying in a Masseria in your Puglia itinerary

Masserias are the traditional Puglian farms, where you can have a sense of the countryside life in Puglia. There are many beautiful Masserias around Puglia, more specifically in the Salento region.

Well, with that alert being given, I think it is fair to explain what is Ferragosto . By the way, you can find more information about the country in our dedicate page about Italy . But to sum up, the factories agreed a long time ago that all the workers should take their holidays all together to avoid disruption in the work. And up to date, the second and third week of August we have cities completely empty, while others are packed , in Italy. You can imagine where Puglia fits in between those two categories, being a very beautiful holiday destination.

The high season is July and August , with temperatures at its peak (as well as prices). From the end of June onwards, expect queue in most tourist activities and the necessity o book things in advance.

The low season is November to March , with temperatures at its low (and quite a few places closed too). It is definitely not the best season to enjoy the gorgeous beaches, but if you don’t mind the cold, don’t like the mass and not found of touristy things, then why not.

Anything in between is the sweet spot . If you can actually pick when to go, I would go the end of May or first weeks of June . Or the month of September too, but you will see that people that work with tourism, such as beach clubs and restaurants, will be less enthusiastic with you there as they were in early season. Easy to understand that too though.

Our suggested Puglia itinerary for 3, 7 or 14 days

It is worth emphasising that this is a rather flexible travel guide. The idea is to provide you with enough information so you can make a decision about the order of the cities and tailor your Puglia itinerary towards your taste and needs. If you have any comments, advice, or doubt, be sure to leave them in the comment section below or get in touch with us directly.

Puglia itinerary 7 days

A week in Puglia is perfect. You will be able to visit quite a few places and enjoy both the Adriatic and Ionic coasts.

• 01 day – Bari
• 02 day – Polignano a Mare
• 03 day – Alberobello (sleep in Ostuni)
• 04 day – Ostuni
• 05 day – Lecce
• 06 day – Otranto
• 07 day – Return to Bari by car – 2h10min

Tip: If you are the kind of traveller who prefers to avoid daily check-ins and check-outs, our suggestion is to choose two cities as a base for this 7-day itinerary in Puglia. Our recommendation is Polignano A Mare and Lecce.

3 days in Puglia itinerary

If, for the unfortunate event of having only three days to travel in Puglia, we recommend you to:

• Option 1: you can arrive from Bari and stay three days in Polignano a Mare , using it as a base to visit the nearby cities of Monopoli, Polignano A Mare, Alberobello and Ostuni.
• Option 2: Focus on the Salento region, more on the South. Use Gallipoli or a Masseria as your base and explore the beautiful beaches and cities of Maria Al Bagno, Porto Selvaggio, Porto Cesario, Torre Colimena, Torre Chianca, and Punta Prosciutto.

Puglia itinerary 14 days

Two weeks in Puglia is what we recommend if you want to enjoy the most of Puglia.

• 02 day – Castel del Monte (Bari)
• 03 day – Polignano A Mare
• 04 day – Polignano A Mare
• 05 day – Grotta Castellana & Alberobello (sleep in Ostuni)
• 06 day – Ostuni
• 07 day – Ostuni
• 08 day – Lecce / Otranto
• 09 day – Lecce / Otranto
• 10 day – Lecce / Otranto
• 11 day – Gallipoli
• 12 day – Gallipoli
• 13 day – Porto Cesario
• 14 day – Porto Cesario (return to Bari by car – 2h)

Where to stay in Puglia – what cities use as a base

A good way to visit Puglia, considering that cities are very close to one another, is to choose two or three cities as a base and, from there, explore the rest of the peninsula. Otherwise, you would spend one night in each city and that can be exhausting. To have as a base, we recommend:

• Bari or Polignano A Mare to explore the northeast;
• Ostuni to visit the Vale D’Itria
• Lecce for the southeast and west
• A Masseria in the countryside of Salento to better know the beautiful Puglia beaches of the west coast
• Vieste for the Gargano Region

* This article was updated in October 2023 *

See the summary of this Puglia Itinerary in these FAQs

We lived in Italy for over a year and travelled quite extensively around the country and can say for sure Puglia is one of the most beautiful and interesting regions in Italy. There are over 800 km of beaches with crystal clear water and many charming historical towns too.

01 day – Bari 02 day – Polignano a Mare 03 day – Alberobello (sleep in Ostuni) 04 day – Ostuni 05 day – Lecce 06 day – Otranto 07 day – Return to Bari by car – 2h10min

There are 3 airports in Puglia, but the biggest one is Bari, with direct flights to many European cities. Alternatively, you can use Rome airport (430 km away) and take the train or rent a car to Puglia.

Yes, but with many restrictions. There are trains from the biggest cities, but not the small charming villages and beaches. Thus, our recommendation is for a road trip.

1. Polignano a Mare 2. Ostuni 3. Alberobello 4. Otranto 5. Gallipoli 6. Lecce 7. Grotta della Poesia 8. Porto Selvaggio 9. A Masseria 10. Punta Prosciutto.

Option 1: Arrive from Bari and stay three days in Polignano a Mare, using it as a base to visit the nearby cities of Monopoli, Polignano A Mare, Alberobello and Ostuni. Option 2: Focus on the Salento region, more on the South. Use Gallipoli or a Masseria as your base and explore the beautiful beaches and cities of Maria Al Bagno, Porto Selvaggio, Porto Cesario, Torre Colimena, Torre Chianca, and Punta Prosciutto.

Hi, loved your article, lots of food for thought. We are planning a trip to Puglia for 10ish days at the end of May ‘24. Should we plan to book accommodation in advance or do you think we can book nearer the time I.e 2-4 days in advance. We are spending a month in southern Italy and if possible would like to be flexible. We will be driving and happy to stay in the countryside / less busy areas. Many thanks. David

Hello David. Thanks for getting in touch. What a fantastic trip! So, we will always recommend booking your accommodation as early as possible to avoid disappointments. However, when we travel, we do like you are planning to do. We leave to book a few days before-hand so we can be flexible on our itinerary. As you are travelling not in high season (but just about – in fact, perfect timing to visit Puglia), I don’t think you will have problems to book a few days before, particularly because your trip will go through countryside and less busy areas. Just keep in mind that some activities is better to book in advance, such as the restaurant Grotta Palazzesse. You can save this article and always go back to it to book your accommodation, car rental, insurance and reorganise your itinerary. And whenever you need to contact us, I will be more than happy to help. Safe travels,

Hi, Great information, thank you for sharing. I am trying to plan a trip for my birthday in June, and I wanted to know if you had recommendations for a great place to eat, preferably one with a great view. The lunch/dinner place could be a splurge within reason. I look forward to your reply.

Hello Roy, Thank you very much for your comment and amazing to spend your birthday in Puglia! I recommend the Grotta Palazzese, in Polignano A mare. But you have to book before as it gets really busy, particularly at this time year you are going. Let us know if you need any assistance to design your itinerary. Safe travels,

Hi, Wonderful article,I’m planning to go to Puglia in April, can I use Uber over there?

Hello Julia. Thank you very much, I’m glad you liked Unfortunately not. We recommend renting a car (check availability above) or, if you have to use public transportation, it is also possible, but it will require a bit more planning. You can save this page so you can come back easier later on to plan your trip in Puglia. Otherwise, we have a service to prepare a personalised itinerary for you too. If that is something that interest you, please let me know. Safe travels, Tiago

Hi, I’m a solo traveler. First I will arrive from Asia to Rome. I want to visit Rome, Naples, Sorrento, Alberobella, and Matera. Can I use a train/flight to go to Bari? From Bari, I must arrange a taxi from the airport, right? How I can travel from Trulli to Matera? Please take note that I don’t want to drive. Any suggestion?

Hello Thiru!! Where about in Asia, just out of curiosity 🙂 ? So, you can indeed take a train from pretty must anywhere to Bari. Flights is also a good option if you are going from Rome to Bari. From the airport, you can take buses to the city – or taxis, if you prefer. From Alberobello to Matera I don’t think is the best option. You can either go on a tour from Bari ( have a look at this tour for instance: Tour to Matera ). Apart from tours leaving to the main cities, you can also take the train too. Have a look at Trenitalia for prices and availability: Trenitalia . Hope it helps, Safe travel

Hi Tiago and Fernanda

We are going to explore the Puglia region in June for 10 nights. Aiming for equal split of City and Coast. Our itinerary is currently; Bari, down to Coast of Polignano a Mare, Ostuni and then we want to travel further South to Lecce and finally Ortranto, going by train if possible. Does this look feasible? Have we missed any key “must see” places especially furthest South?

Katy, Monica, Massimo & Matteo

Ciao Katy Sounds good. An option is, instead of going to Ostuni, be based in Polignano or Bari and go on a tour to Alberobello and Ostuni. Then, go straight to Lecce. That is less checking-ins and outs. It does look feasible, though you might be limited to the hours you can travel. Just make sure you book your train tickets before hand. Even though Early June is not the high season, you don’t want to risk. I believe 10 nights you will cover the main parts of Puglia indeed! There are a ton more to explore, which I am sure you will definitely go back later 🙂 If you need assistance on your itinerary, we make tailored itineraries with suggestions of accommodations and activities. Let us know if that interests you. Safe travels,

Amazing article! Can´t wait to visit Puglia and all these places on our upcoming trip to Italy next month!

I am sure you are going to have an amazing time in Puglia! Make sure to save the article to visit later too and let us know if we can help with anything with your trip. Safe travels,

Hello! This article is great! My fiancé and I are currently planning are honeymoon and are considering Puglia! We are looking for a more local authentic experience and hoping for something a bit active, but we are also on a pretty tight college budget haha… can we bike down the coast from Bari and stay along the way, then rent a car to get back to a main airport? And would this be doable on a small budget?

Hello Caroline. Thank you for getting in touch! Wowww, congratulations!!! Puglia is definitely a great option for honeymooners. It is totally doable. However, renting a bike is something I wouldn’t know really how to tell you. Most of the renting bike shops are not really prepared for a long-trip. I believe it is something you would have to organise once you arrive in Bari. But as soon as you have the bike, it is totally doable and worthy. We actually did that (as you probably read) and the views are amazing. Then, on your way back, you can try to put both bike on the car and drive back.

Hi , Mu husband and I will be going to visit for a 14 days in the Puglia region from April 1 to April 16 2024. We will be taking a train from Rome to Bari and then renting a vehicle. During our stay we would like to organize a cooking class with a family for a day. Where would be the best place to do this during our stay. Another activity we would like to do is visit an Olive oil farm and also Vineyards to do wine tasting. This means that we have days that we will not be traveling to visit has we will want to enjoy the local people in the Puglia region. Do you have any suggestion of where we should base ourselves to do these different activities.. We also want to visit the region of Matera during our stay. Any suggestion would help as we have not reserved any place to stay as of yet. We would appreciate your suggestions of an itinea

Hello Monique. Thank you so much for stopping by. Wow, I am sure you will have a wonderful trip in Italy!! And April is good timing too. Cooking class you can do it in most of the big cities, so I recommend Bari. To visit an olive oil farm, do it in Salento. In fact, in Gallipoli, look for the Frantoio Apogeo, which were old oil making areas underneath the earth. Really interesting. I recommend staying in a Masseria, where you can enjoy the organic food and feel the country atmosphere. Wine tasting is pretty much everywhere in Italy :). Some places are great for food though, such as Ceglie Messapica, Locorotondo… If I were you, I would choose three base cities (Polignano/Bari; Masseria; Lecce/Gallipoli). And definitely visit Matera!!! We offer a tailored itinerary service, which we give you information about Italy, curiosities, two recommendation of hotel, activities to do, beaches to visit, all tailored to your preferences and pocket. If that’s something that interest you, send me an email to [email protected] . I would love to arrange a call to discuss this further. Safe travels,

I am planning a 10 day stay in Pulia in May 2024.. we have rented a villa in Ostuni and will explore from there. Thanks for your article, it’s a great reference..

It’s amazing to hear that! Enjoy Puglia 🙂

Hi Can you recommend anyone that would do a private driving tour around Puglia for two people Thx

Hello Gabby, I don’t know anyone in particular. You can have a look at this guy here (day tour choose own itinerary). If you can’t find anything, let us know and we can ask around. Safe travels,

Would you recommened visiting Trani? What are the highlights to see there?

Hello Natalie.

Trani is a very cute little town. We stopped in Trani for no more than 2h and we felt it was enough. I would not spend a night there and I would say that if you miss it, it wouldn’t be so much of a miss. However, if you are driving (or cycling, like us) down the coast from Gargano, then it is worth stopping by to check it out. By the way, depending on the time of the year (May and June mostly), if you are actually coming from Gargano down south, you can see the the pink flamingos in between Zaponeta and Margherita di Savoia. Then, in Trani it is worth checking Il Duomo (Basilica Cattedrale Beata Maria Vergine), both Molos (the piers), the very beautiful park on the right of the port (Villa Comunale) and the Castello Svevo di Trani.

Enjoy you trip,

Such an amazing article – thank you so much!! Wondering if you would recommend any beach clubs for a group of us going in our late 20s? Wanting something fun with music and am curious if there is anywhere in particular you went that was fun. Thank you so much regardless!

Cheers, Sydney

Hello Sidney. Thank you very much for your comment. And yes, Gallipoli is quite famous for that, particularly in July and August. You might find other beaches with beach clubs, such as Porto Cesario, but definitely Gallipoli for having fun!

Hi – We are planning a 10 -12 day trip to Puglia in May. Our plan is to land in Bari, rent a car and immediately drive to Ostuni to stay in a Masseria for three nights and from there visit a few places. Then drive to Lecce and stay two nights (maybe three) and then to Matera and stay two nights and then back to Bari and stay two nights, flying home from there. Does that sound like a doable itinerary and are we missing anything that we should be including? Thanks for this great article.

Do you do any travel arrangements for people?

Hello Nina, thank you for stopping by. Yeah, it does sound like a perfect itinerary! I think you got all covered and I’m sure you are going to have an amazing time!

We do offer a service of bespoken itinerary and travel consultancy. But to be honest with you, it seems like you are set. Travel in Puglia, particularly driving, is not a hassle. But if you do need any assistance, please do get in touch. It will be a pleasure.

Also, if this article was of any help to you, I would really appreciate if you could use our affiliate links to rent your car, book your hotels, insurance and tour activities. You won’t pay any more and it will help us creating content such as this one.

Safe travels,

Hi! I will be traveling to puglia in September 2023. I like your 7 day itinerary. Where should I set base for this itinerary? Also, can I travel by train to the different towns?

Sincerely, Sandra Zaragoza

Hello Sandra! I’m glad to hear that. We love Puglia. So, with regards to set base, try either Bari, Polignano a Mare or Ostuni. And even though you can travel by train, I don’t really recommend. It is not very reliable and it won’t take you to the most places you want to visit. Definitely renting a car is the best option here and prices are not too expensive. Check it out some deals in this link . I hope we helped. Safe travels,

Thank you!!

Anytime! Please be in touch if you need any more assisstance with your itinerary. Safe travels,

Great article. If you were going to rent a villa for a 6 day stay, what would you recommend as a central location. We don’t mind driving by car in any direction to visit other places, and would prefer to do this then picking up and moving unless you feel like we will miss out on the experience of staying in multiple cities/towns?

Hello Nanette. Thank you for stopping by. I would definitely have a place as a central location for my 6-day visit to Puglia, so I save time and money on moving a few times. The place, though will depend on what you want to visit. If you want to stay in Gargano region, then Vieste. In the mid-region, to visit the most traditional places of Puglia, such as Ostuni and Alberobello, then Polignano A Mare is a great point – or perhaps Bari. Now, if Salento is your desired region in Puglia, then I would focus in either Lecce or Gallipoli. I don’t believe you would miss out on anything by not staying the night in some cities. If you would like some help on making an itinerary for your trip, including accommodation and places to visit, please do let us know as we offer this service. Hope you have a lovely time in Italy and do let us know how it went. Safe flights,

Buongiorno. My husband and I (we are from India), are planning to spend about 2 weeks in Puglia, in October 2023. We would like to hire a car and drive around. Is it difficult to drive in Bari and Lecce? Is it difficult to find parking? Would you recommend Airbnb properties? Any advice and recommendations will be helpful. Thank you.

Ciao Girija! Ah, that’s amazing! I’m sure you will love Puglia and I hope this article can help you out. Please do let us know any doubts and questions about a trip to Puglia. So, with regards to your question, driving in Bari and Lecce is not difficult. You do have to pay attention when driving in “centri storichi”, which are the historical city centres. Driving in these areas is limited and inspected, so you should ensure you can drive. Normally, if you rent a room in the historical city centre, the renter will let you know if you can drive or, like most cases, you give them your registration to allow you to drive there. Apart from that, just mind some narrow roads and you will be fine. The way between Bari and Lecce is amazing too! I do recommend downloading an offline map: click here-> maps.me , which will help you greatly. I also do recommend AirBnB properties too, but I don’t have any specific. The accommodation we recommended in this article, we actually stayed and totally recommend it. Again, lease feel free to send us as many questions you want. In case you would like us to provide you with a tailor itinerary too, we have this service. Safe travels, Girija

Would you reccomend a stay in Santa Maria di Lueca?

We will shortly be flying to Bari and spending 10 days in Puglia.

Many thanks

Robert and Jean Fraser

Hi Robert, I definitely recommend a stop-by in Santa Maria di Leuca, because you can see both seas, the Adriatic and Ionian, divided by the colours. They don’t mix up. I have to be honest that we didn’t really see it very well. I suppose it depends on the time of the year or the condition of the weather to clearly see the division between both seas. Anyway, is interesting to visit the most southern town in the heel of the boot 🙂 However, I might sure about staying for the night though. As you have 10 days in Puglia, I would most definitely stay somewhere like Gallipoli, Otranto, Lecce or a nice masseria, such as Tenuta La Baronessa, to use as base and depart to other places in Salento.

If you plan to rent a car – and is surely a good idea – I would use Bari as base for about 4 nights and explore the surroundings. Then, Tenuta La Baronessa (or other masseria in Salento) for another 3-4 nights and explore around. That will also gives you room for one or two nights somewhere else you would like to spend the night, perhaps Polignano A Mare or Ostuni, or any other mentioned above.

If you would like a tailored itinerary, we do offer this service. Drop us an email and we can sent you a document explaining how that would work. But anyway, feel free to ask us as many questions as you would like!

Excellent list! We are weighing up Puglia and this may have just convinced us!

That´s fantastic. I’m sure you won’t regret Puglia!!

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Puglia in 2022 is the favorite destination of Italian tourists

From a recent Confcommercio-SWG study, Puglia is the favorite destination for Italians who decide to spend their holidays in their country.

In 2022 Puglia surpasses other regions such as Emilia Romagna, Tuscany, Sicily, Sardinia boasting a record number of Italian tourist presences and arrivals, waiting for the official statistics of Pugliaturismo.

88% of Italians choose Italy for their holidays

The numbers of 2022 are close to those of the pre-pandemic 2019, however tourists are more attentive to the costs and travel in general is reduced by a few days on average.

Italians once again prefer the sea (51%) to the mountains and cities or small villages. It is not difficult to understand why Italians who love the sea have preferred Puglia.

Puglia is number 1 in Italy for sea water quality

A control and monitoring work conducted by the National System for the protection of the environment has provided the excellent result:

«Every year the bathing waters are subjected to periodic checks to ensure the health of bathers - explains the general manager of Arpa Puglia -. We are pleased to note that Puglia is again first in Italy this year for the healthiness of its bathing waters. Not only. It is also first for the number of bathing samples analyzed in the laboratory, and second only for the number of points monitored, after Sicily which enjoys a much more extensive coastline ".

out of 1000 kilometers of coastline, more than 600 places analyzed for water quality, only 1% did not achieve an excellent score. More information on official communication of the Regione Puglia .

Italian tourists: the numbers of each year

Waiting for the official data of Puglia Promotion regarding the current year 2022, we can browse the data of the past years on the arrivals and presences of tourists in Puglia. Official data can also be consulted based on the type of accommodation facility.

Data: Osservatorio Turismo - Puglia Regio ne

Source: Confcommercio