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Undiscovered italy - highlights of puglia, book your trip from, view hotels, your guided group holiday to puglia.

Travel with us to discover the enchanting region of Puglia, on the heel of Italy’s ‘boot’. On this trip to Italy, we’ll have plenty of time to explore both the culture and the heritage of this area including landmark cities like Lecce - the ‘Florence of the South’, Bari with its atmospheric seaport, and the unspoiled heritage towns of Trani and Ostuni. We’ll discover sandy beaches, rolling green hilltops with panoramic views and incredible art and architecture. Known for its superb olive oils and wines, Puglia has its own unique cuisine, including the famous ‘orecchiette’ pasta. We’ll have the opportunity to sample some of these local flavours on a full day excursion to Alberobello for homegrown produce and regional wines, and Martina Franca for fresh olive oil. With a convenient direct flight from Dublin to Bari, there’s never been a better time to discover this unique part of Italy!

Trip Itinerary

Activity Level: Moderate

Travel to italy, transfer to hotel.

Depart for Bari today where we will be met on arrival by our expert guide, who will accompany us on the transfer to our hotel.

(Arrivals from London will visit Bari & Trani today before transferring to the hotel)

Alberobello & Martina Franca

Full day guided excursion.

We set off from our hotel this morning for an excursion to Alberobello, known for its UNESCO protected conical-shaped Trulli constructions. We will savour a tasting at one of the local wine cellars and more local flavours with olive oil tasting in Martina Franca. There will be free time for some independent sightseeing in Alberobello before returning to our hotel

Free Time in Puglia

Enjoy a day at leisure to see more of Ostuni and perhaps take a trip to the coast, just 6km away.  Our guide will be pleased to provide information on getting around in the area.

Guided Excursion to Lecce

Let’s join our guide this morning and travel to the baroque city of Lecce, also known as the Florence of the South. Our guided walking tour takes us through the historic centre, which is characterised by the white and gold colour of the famous Lecce stone. (Entrances not included)

There will be free time for lunch in Lecce (not included) and our guide can suggest places which offer delicacies unique to the region.

At Leisure or Optional Excursion to Matera

Free time at leisure.

Today is a free day, to relax and discover the charms of Ostuni.  Explore the historic town centre and enjoy a coffee or a refreshing  gelato  while admiring the panoramic views. Our expert local guide will be happy to suggest activities and advise on must-see highlights.

Optional Excursion to Matera

Optional full day excursion to the European Capital of Culture 2019 and UNESCO listed town of Matera. Home to the Sassi di Matera cave-like dwellings your excursion will include a guided walking tour through the labyrinth of alleys and streets followed by free time at leisure for sightseeing and shopping before returning to your hotel. This excursion is subject to minimum numbers.

Trani & Bari

This morning we set off from our hotel to visit the beautiful town of Trani, where traces of Arab, Byzantine and Norman civilisations can be found.

After some free time for lunch (own arrangements) we continue with a visit to Bari, capital of the Puglia region. We will uncover more on a guided walking tour of the old town centre, including visits to the churches of San Nicola and San Gregorio.

Day at Leisure

Explore puglia at your own pace.

We'll enjoy a free day for relaxing or independent sightseeing. Our guide will be on hand to suggest activities based on your interests.

Return Home

Depart italy.

Time to say 'arrivederci' to lovely Puglia, and transfer to the airport for our flight home. 

* We aim to operate your tour itinerary according to the format shown. Occasionally, local conditions and unexpected events may result in adjustments to the planned schedule. We kindly ask for your understanding and flexibility in the event of any changes.

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Will I be met at the airport?

You will be met on arrival at your destination airport and transferred to your accommodation. You will be accompanied on all included excursions by your Travel Department guide. Your expert local guide is also available to give you tips and advice on any aspect of your holiday.

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10 reasons to visit Puglia region in Italy

Georgina Willcox | 12 May 2023

Puglia, also known as Apulia, is situated at the heel of Italy and if often overlooked by many. Unfairly so, as it’s a fantastic Italy holiday destination. It is an enchanting region with an intriguing history, remarkable cities to rival any in Italy, beautiful scenery and delicious cuisine including many unique specialities.

Let’s uncover the top reasons to visit Puglia .

Why Should You Visit Puglia, Italy?

1. trulli of alberobello.

Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its unique conical-shaped Trulli constructions stretching 15km along the Alberobello-Martina Franca road.

2. Amazing Italian food

What is Puglia, Italy famous for? It’s food, of course! This region has produced many unique Italian foods, such as orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese and the Italian version of paella - tiella. Stuzzichini is the word for the small snacks that are often served with an ‘aperitivo’ in Puglia. They might include plump, juicy olives, bites of local cheese, sun dried tomatoes, or Tarallini. These crispy little rings of baked dough, made with extra virgin olive oil and aromatic fennel seeds are lovely with a glass of wine, and are a feature of the ‘treats cupboard’ in every Puglian household!

3. Architecture in Lecce 

Puglia is also known as the ‘Florence of the South’. This is due to its Roman ruins and beautiful baroque architecture, characterised by the white and gold colour of the famous Lecce stone.

4. Beautiful coastlines 

It has the longest coastline on mainland Italy, so you’re guaranteed to find a stunning beach with crystal clear waters on Puglia’s Adriatic and Ionian Coasts. 

5. It produces a lot of olive oil for Italy

With over 50 million olive trees, it’s an easy answer to the question, “What is Puglia known for?” It makes up to 60% of the olive oil produced in Italy! If you’re looking to experience olive oil tasting in Italy, we recommend visiting Martina Franca, which is considered to be the best in the country. Its olive oil is hand harvested and cold pressed within hours of being picked, helping to preserve its delicious flavour.  

Bari, the capital of Apulia region, is more than a transport hub. You will find many architectural and historical gems like the 11 th Century church, Basilica di San Nicola. This is where the bones of Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Father Christmas, used to lay before being stolen by Bari sailors from Myra. The basilica of solid and powerful construction was the only building to survive the otherwise wholesale destruction of Bari by the Normans in 1152.

On our Puglia holidays, we’ll usually be based in the town of Ostuni, the “white city” due to its whitewashed buildings. Surrounding the old town are defensive walls built in the middle ages and it offers incredible views of the town, the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic sea. 

8. Fantastic weather in Puglia

Lying between the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea, Puglia enjoys a Mediterranean climate. The summers are hot and dry while spring and autumn enjoy fresh, warm breezes and cooler nights.

The European Capital of Culture in 2019, Matera is best known for its ancient cave dwellings, the Sassi di Matera, which have been inhabited since the Palaeolithic period! The city also has many museums and art galleries, and is renowned for its contemporary art and culture scene. 

10. Puglia wine 

Puglia makes more wine than any other region in Italy. Need we say more? The fertile soil, hot sun and sea breezes create an ideal climate for wine production. Reds made with the aromatic Negroamaro and Primitivo grapes are the perfect accompaniment to the rustic ‘Cucina povera’ style of cooking. Saluti!

Take a trip to this underrated part of Italy and experience a guided holiday to Puglia with Travel Department. If you're not sold yet, browse all of our holidays to Italy and find the perfect getaway for you.

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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.”

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Holiday highlights.

Explore Italy on this authentic 7-night holiday to the famous, coastal Puglia region with Travel Department.

Stay in the charming, historic towns of Ostuni or Martina Franca.

Sample the flavours & history of Puglia with a full day trip to Locorotondo, Alberobello & Martina Franca.

Enjoy an optional trip to the city of Matera, whose architecture is carved into the surrounding mountain.

Uncover baroque facades & an ancient Roman amphitheatre in the city of Lecce on a full day trip.

Take in the stunning Adriatic coastline on a visit to Puglia’s most beautiful seaside towns, Bari & Trani.

Relax with plenty of leisure time to enjoy the Italian “Dolce far Niente” or “sweetness of doing nothing”.

What's Included

Fully Guided

4* Half Board 

Flights & Transfers

Hotel Mont Sarago

Hotel Monte Sarago is ideally located, just ten minutes' walk from Ostuni’s attractive historic centre, and 6km from the sandy beach at Vilanova. The hotel is modern and stylish with a very good standard of accommodation. Hotel facilities include a rooftop bar and restaurant offering panoramic views and is the ideal place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Hotel Villa Rosa

The charming Hotel Villa Rosa is located in a pleasant neighbourhood of Martina Franca, just 900m from the town’s historic centre. The tastefully designed interior has a bright and airy ambience while the leafy garden setting offers plenty of space for relaxing in sun or shade. A local-style continental breakfast, plus traditional evening meal with salad buffet, are served daily in the welcoming dining room. This hotel is well placed for exploration of Puglia and on free days guests can avail of the local train service from Martina Franca, to discover more of this beguiling region. Please Note: The swimming pool is also open to the public, on selected days.

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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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The best things to do in Puglia

Over the past couple of years, Puglia has become one of Italy 's trending destinations – but there is more to the region than just photo-worthy locations. When you describe Puglia , the list of synonyms is endless. It’s home to numerous folkloric traditions, ancient histories, ornate baroque architecture and a rich gastronomic scene deeply rooted in tradition, not to mention the picturesque landscapes, with silvery olive groves spilling out towards turquoise Mediterranean waters. Two coastlines surround the region, enveloping Italy’s heel with gently lapping waters and rocky shorelines. The region is home to numerous folkloric traditions, ancient histories and diverse landscapes, from the dramatic coastline along the Parco Nazionale del Gargano to the scattered trulli in the Valle d’Itria and the crystalline beaches of Salento. It’s truly difficult to narrow down the best things to do in Puglia, but the following are the most spectacular experiences you need to consider on your next trip.

1. Spend a day aboard a 90s speedboat

Set sail for an adventure along the Apulian coastline aboard the Margherita II, a sleek 15-metre Italian speedboat from the 90s. Departing after breakfast from Gallipoli, the experience promises a day of exploration along the picturesque west coast of Puglia, guided by an experienced captain and skipper. Throughout the voyage, you’ll be able to dive into the Mediterranean, sunbathe, soak up the views and savour local, rosemary-scented focaccia with a glass of chilled wine.

Website:  masseriamoroseta.it

2. Soak up some sunshine at a beach club

Carved among the rocks of Santa Cesarea Terme, along the Adriatic coastline in the southern part of Italy’s boot, lies Bagno Marino Archi. Here, rows of red- and cream-coloured umbrellas line the shore, with steps leading down into emerald waters. Remember to pack your snorkelling gear – there’s a beautiful seabed filled with kaleidoscopic creatures – or book a pedalo for a little adventure to discover the neighbouring bays. Additionally, there’s a restaurant overlooking the shore, serving typical Mediterranean dishes of fresh fish, pasta and pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven.

Website:  instagram.com

3. Visit a contemporary art gallery in Lecce

US-born artist Jamie Sneider was fascinated by the Apulian history, culture and rituals, leading him to open his own experimental contemporary art project space. Situated within an 18th-century palazzo in the heart of the baroque city of Lecce, Progetto is a convivial, inclusive place for artists and curators to present and exhibit all forms of contemporary art, as well as offering an event space for symposiums, performances and readings. An exhibition by Brooklyn-based artist SoiL Thornton is marked for mid-July. You can visit Progetto by appointment only, so click  here  to book your slot.

Website:  progettospace.com

4. Join a secret supper club

Founded by hospitality consulting studio Effe, Supper Segreta is an intimate experience that brings like-minded individuals around a beautiful tablescape, savouring excellent cuisine in unexpected, marvellous locations that are usually closed to the public. Imagine period buildings, sometimes palaces, with frescoed interiors and a dining room lit by a sea of candles. The concept, however, is not just the location; it’s also about shining a light on local farmers, producers and brands. With a few dates in the diary already from April to July, you can discover their next appointments on their Instagram.

Website:   instagram.com

5. Visit the Radicenomade atelier

On the outskirts of Lecce in San Cesareo, Isabella Faggiano and her partner Emilio open the doors to their small wonderland. Located inside their home (in a merge of life and career traditionally known as “ casa e putea ”), delve into the workshop of their jewellery brand, Radicenomade. Isabella, with a background in architecture, styling and set design, has combined her three passions to create this space. This picturesque, 19th-century building encloses original frescoed ceilings, clementine-tiled floors and a beautiful Parisian-inspired winter garden is where the new collection of jewellery is exhibited and available to shop. Visits are upon request, and you can also book in for a jewellery-making workshop to learn the craft.

Website:  radicenomade.it

6. Taste the original pasticciotto in Galatina

Many think (quite rightly so) that the pasticciotto Leccese was born in Lecce, but the legend says differently. This perfect little boat-shaped shortcrust pastry filled with lemon-tinted custard was actually born by chance; it was pastry chef Nicola Ascolone from Galatina who, during the celebrations of Saint Paul on 28th June 1745, decided to put together a few ingredients he had left over after a day’s work to create something sweet for those who came to celebrate the patron saint. The original Ascalone pastry shop is still standing in the historic centre of Galatina, with its unassuming façade, original furnishings and top-rated pasticciotto. It’s recommended to call in advance and put in an order because their average of 300 daily pasticciotti sell out in the blink of an eye.

7. Stroll through the botanical gardens of La Cutura

The botanical gardens of La Cutura in southern Salento is one of the most spectacular spaces in the area. This former 19th-century rural country estate was renovated under the green thumb of estate owner Salvatore Cezzi, and it has now become one of Italy’s top-rated botanical gardens. A rich collection of plants, flowers and trees extends over 35 hectares of land; a fragrant, colourful path leads you through rose bushes and citrus groves, past grazing peacocks and neatly trimmed hedges until you reach the greenhouse, displaying over 2000 cacti and succulents from all over the world. There is also a little restaurant should you wish to stop for a bite to eat under the leafy trees.

Website:  lacutura.it

8. Learn to make fresh orecchiette

It was ten years ago that Julia and Francesco met working at a cooking workshop in Puglia. She had just travelled over from Vancouver, and it didn’t take long for them to fall in love. With a shared passion for country living, art history and cooking they launched E.A.T, a cooking class and workshop format hosted at their home in Oria and, only a few years later, they built their very own cooking studio in Altamura. They host daily group and private classes, weekend workshops and bi-annual four-day workshops. Based on cuisine, culture and history, each experience unfolds with a walking tour of the city followed by ingredient shopping from their favourite local producers. There’s a social aperitif pre-class to enjoy before digging into a three-course meal, wines and homemade digestifs, will be savoured all together around the dinner table.

Website:  everyone-at-the-table.com

9. Swim in Caribbean-like waters

The region is characterised by an extensive and diverse coastline (almost reaching 1,000 km) between the Adriatic and Ionian seas. From dramatic cliffs to the long swathe of sandy beaches passing through crescent-shaped rocky coves, finding the best beach can be daunting. But the formula is simple: catch the early morning sun along the east coast and golden sunsets in the south and west. One of the most enchanting beaches is Punta della Suina, in Gallipoli. Fringed by a dense pine forest, its rugged coastline descends into crystal clear, shallow turquoise waters. However, a true, hidden gem is Cala dell’Acquaviva – a small rocky cove among staggering rocks on the eastern coast between Santa Cesarea Terme and Tricase. The water, fed by both salt and spring water, is strikingly fresh, and there’s a small kiosk on site to stock up on cold drinks and snacks.

10. Go island hopping

Legend states that the Greek King Diomedes threw three rocks from the Gargano upon his return from the Trojan War, and these rocks created the Tremiti islands – one of the most fascinating archipelagos in Italy. The largest and greenest of the isles, San Dominio, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches , including the secret sandy patches of Cala Matano and the rocky coves of Cala del Pigno. From San Dominio, you can take a motorboat to explore San Nicola, best known for its historical sites such as the monastery Santa Maria a Mare and the 13th-century Badiali Castle, and the island of Capraia, where you can swim in the beautiful inlets amidst the rocks. Cretaccio, the smallest of the islands, and Pianosa, a protected Marine Reserve, are also stunning places to visit if you have time.

11. Visit Puglia’s most cultural city

Also known as the ‘ Florence of the South’, Lecce is a major attraction for culture-seeking travellers – the historic city feels like an open-air museum. Distinct Leccese limestone envelops the town, and its rich heritage is unveiled through numerous architectural styles. The most predominant is Baroque (hence the city’s reputation as the ‘capital of Baroque architecture’), with opulent decorations embellishing the façades of churches such as the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Cathedral dedicated to Maria Santissima Assunta. One of the best ways to truly embrace the southern lifestyle is to spend the afternoon in a café (we love the Caffè Alvino or Pasticceria Natale) and soak up the surroundings as you sip on your Caffè Leccese (iced coffee with fresh almond milk) and nibble on crema pasticcera filled pasticciotto.

12. Go shopping

When you think of Puglia, two things come to mind: food and ceramics. Travellers should always bring home taralli (ringed bread snacks), caciocavallo and cacioricotta (Southern Italian cheese), but purchasing the iconic Ceramiche Pugliesi is a way of permanently remembering the region's beauty long after your trip has ended. Grottaglie is the ceramics district of Puglia, where many ateliers have been for generations, each with countless years of history and stories to tell. Franco Fasano has been in the Fasano family for 18 generations, selling a large collection of tableware, vases and amphorae. The method of production is traditional, but Franco Fasano’s visionary approach with bold colours and creative patterns has caught the eye of notable clients from Francis Ford Coppola to Giorgio Armani. Visit the shop and ask to pop into the nearby workshop to see the magic happen.

13. Visit Trulli

Some people say that trulli look like little gnome houses scattered throughout the region. Driving through the Valle d’Itria, you can see a few trulli around, but visit Alberobello for the real experience. This small village is sprinkled with quaint restaurants, bars and shops, all housed inside this UNESCO-protected trulli. The conical roofs and thick stone walls keep the interiors cool (you are not allowed to install air conditioning in the trullo). To get the full experience, book a stay overnight – there are many masserie and B&Bs that offer rooms in trulli across Puglia.

14. Try Puglia’s most delicious coffee

With its crescent-shaped sandy beach between two spurs of rocky, narrow whitewashed streets, Polignano a Mare steals the heart of many travellers. It is here, in Piazza Garibaldi, where you’ll find the best ice cream place in Puglia. While the ice cream at Il Super Mago del Gelo is exceptional, travellers should also try the Caffè Speciale – created by Mario Campanella, who has been working alongside his father at the gelateria since he was seven. This unique recipe is espresso with panna, lemon peel and homemade Amaretto.

15. Feast on fresh seafood in converted fishing platforms

As you drive through the Gargano coastline between Peschici and Vieste, you’ll notice large wooden structures suspended above the sea. These are trabucchi, centuries-old machines used by fishermen to optimise their work. Today a few trabucchi have been restored and converted into restaurants, where guests can feast on fresh seafood with a view of the Adriatic. Al Trabucco da Mimì was founded by Mimì and Lucia, who decided to turn their family’s trabucco into a thriving, exciting restaurant where diners can eat local catches of the day on a wooden veranda. If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of working trabucchi in action as it brings up fresh mullet and bluefish from the sea.

16. Visit one of Puglia’s natural wonders

Puglia is home to some extraordinary landscapes, but one of the most jaw-dropping sites is located just below Otranto. The Cava di Bauxite is an old quarry lake once used to extract Bauxite for the production of aluminium. From the parking lot, follow a rocky path that leads you to a shallow, emerald-coloured lake surrounded by red rocks and Mediterranean scrub. It’s truly beautiful – visit at golden hour to watch the sun reflect intense, deep red hues from the rocks.

17. Go to the antique markets

In Italy, Sundays can mean one of two things: long, lazy and wine-infused lunches with family and friends, or spending the morning rummaging through unique finds at antique markets. Every so often, there will be a market in the Valle d’Itria where you can purchase beautiful homeware, clothing and collector's items. The most popular is in Ceglie Messapica, which runs on the last Sunday of every month, and Fiera dell’Antiquariato in Martina Franca, which only lasts for seven days in August each year (in 2023 it will run from Saturday 12 August until Sunday 20 August).

18. Experience a local sagra

Paper plates, long tables, live music and Cucina Casereccia are the key staples of La Sagra, a culinary festival that rolls out in squares or fields across Italy. Upon arrival, guests are handed a piece of paper with a scribbled menu (usually limited to a couple of starters, some options for primi courses and a few main dishes), and there are typically funfairs, small markets and post-dinner entertainment. The best ones in Puglia to try and visit are the Sagra delle Orecchiette nelle ‘Nchiosce in Grottaglie on Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 August 2023, and Sagra del Fico Mandorlato in Piazza Marconi, San Michele Salentino from Monday 21 August to Sunday 27 August 2023.

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Puglia Travel Guide

There’s a reason Puglia is the region of the moment, or rather several: the excellent food, exuberant architecture dotted in the South, the breathtaking coastline and heaps more. Puglia is much bigger than you might first expect, but you’ll get both a wonderful and varied Italian experience here. Use our Puglia travel guide as a nifty sidekick to help you plan the holiday of a lifetime.

We’ve covered everything you need to know; indigenous hangouts, family-friendly adventures, the best restaurants, group activities and so much more. So, whether you’re looking for an authentic experience, or just hoping to relax – you can take as much as you want from our endless guide. And don’t forget we’ve got a selection of  villas in Puglia  that will add that extra special touch to your trip.

• HIDDEN GEMS

Italian holidaymakers have been basking in the sunshine here for an age, but only the savviest of UK travellers know it is a must-visit, making it a dream destination for those looking for an authentic taste of Italy away from the crowds.

When to visit

Puglia shines in spring  when wildflowers blanket the countryside and the typically mild weather is spot-on for hiking and cycling in the countryside. If you’re heading here for the beaches, time your trip for the height of summer in July and August , when the sea is toasty and the mercury lingers around 30 degrees Celsius.

Festivals and events are around every corner during the summer months, and the whole of southern Italy has more of a party atmosphere during this time. Puglia clings on to mild weather throughout the autumn and the accompanying lack of crowds make the latter part of the year a delightful time to visit the region.

Typical sights

• Lecce – Gorge on a whole town’s worth of Baroque architecture.
• Parco Nazionale del Gargano – Hike through the lush forests of this giant national park.
• Bari – Dine out at the best of the region’s traditional trattorias.
• Castel del Monte – Explore the striking 13th-century grandeur of Puglia’s finest castle.
• Vieste – Fill your Instagram feed with medieval alleyways and white sandy beaches.

Getting around

Airport:  Fly direct from the UK to Bari and Brindisi, where you can then rent a car to continue your journey.

Trains: Little Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE) trains connect nearly all the major destinations in Puglia, including the likes of Lecce, Alberobello and Otranto, with scenic routes through the countryside that are perfect for day-tripping. Smaller, private train lines head into the remoter areas of Le Murge and Gargano.

Buses: Buses connect Puglia’s coastal towns during the summer and have various routes across the region throughout the year. Services to the more isolated villages, however, are often infrequent or scheduled very early, and the latest timetables can be near impossible to get your hands on. It is worth persevering though, as many of Puglia’s top sights can be reached by public transport and taxis are generally quite rare and pretty expensive.

Hiring a car: The roads linking Puglia’s main towns, Brindisi, Bari and Lecce, are pretty good and renting a car for your trip gives you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace and on a schedule that suits you. Puglia is a much larger area than most folks realise, and your own set of wheels puts all of its remote villages, coastal towns and beaches at your fingertips. Most visitors arrive in Puglia via one of its two international airports, Bari and Brindisi, and car hire from numerous international companies is available at both.

By Bike:  Puglia has a wealth of beautiful bike routes, in fact, it’s one of the best ways to discover the region. With unspoilt coastlines, ruined castles and nearby villages, there’s never a dull moment in Puglia.

Hidden gems

• There’s not much to shout about for the first 50 kilometres north along the coast road from Bari, but that all changes when you hit the miniature medieval fort of Trani . This gem of a fishing village centres around a centuries-old stone built harbour where, jutting out into the sea, is the town’s centrepiece: a striking 11th-century cathedral made up of three churches built on top of one another, wedding cake style.
• Nestled among the olive groves and vineyards in the town of Alberobello are crowds of trulli – unusual, whitewashed stone buildings that this part of Italy is famous for. The origins of the round, cone-roofed structures are unclear, but today they’re mostly used as shops and even hotels. Alberobello is full of them and is consequently a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Frequently called upon to provide the backdrop for biblical scenes in film and TV, the ancient cave town of Matera is a striking and cinematic old city. Thought to have been around since the Palaeolithic period and inhabited for 9,000 years, Matera has more layers of history than just about any other town in the world. Spend a day admiring its 3,000-plus habitable cave dwellings, rock churches and snaking alleyways.
• Part of Gargano National Park, Puglia’s giant nature reserve, the five tiny Tremiti islands offer superb off-the-beaten-track scuba diving. The waters here are chock-full of underwater caves and coral reefs and there’s even a Roman shipwreck offshore.
• Bari’s grandest basilica, Basilica di San Nicola , dates back to the 1100s and has magnificent features from across the centuries, including Puglia’s oldest ciborium (canopy) over the altar. More importantly, it houses the remains of St. Nicholas, better known as Father Christmas, which are held in a shrine inside a vaulted crypt.

Best family activities in Puglia

• Torre Guaceto is no typical beach, in fact, these sands are completely untouched. Grab yourself a cooler with a few sandwiches and spend the day basking in nature walks, snorkelling and cycle trips.
• Water babies will love Carrisisland Acquapark , a popular water park in Cellino San Marco, perfect for those scorching days.
• Saddle up and take in the rustic landscape of Serranova at family-run horse riding school CEAS Centro Equitazione Altosalento .
• Experience farming like a local with Made in Love tour guides. Spend the day working a real farm, harvesting crops and even turn milk into cheese!

If you’re looking for more family friendly ideas, make sure to check out the best kid activities in Puglia .

Kids friendly cycling or walking routes

• Visit the enchanting Porto Selvaggio natural park and embark on a 20-minute walking trail that leads to a little creek surrounded by white rocks. The water glistens and the area doesn’t get too busy so the kids will have their very own playground to explore.
• If you have a day to spare, make a trip to Matera , the unique city built of rock and traverse the stunning area by bike. A voyage through this city will include winding roads, uphill peaks and whirlwind views. Though, a little challenging, your teens will take it in their stride and enjoy every moment.
• The cycle route from Gallipoli down along the coastal road to the southernmost point of Puglia is stunning. You’ll reach the point where the Ionian and the Adriatic Sea meet and it will be a memory for the ages. Make sure you take a moment to let it all sink in.

Things to do in Puglia

• You’ve heard about windsurfing, but what about kitesurfing? Don’t worry, you’ll be in good hands with the instructors at Locals Slento Kitesurf . Courses for all ages, it’s a new water sport to try your hand too. And with a one-to-one with a tutor, it’s all about having fun.
• Take to the waters on a luxury yacht as you glide across the Ionian Sea. Day trips have an exclusive feel to them with only a limited number of passengers. Perfect for families, friends and lovers, it can be as relaxing or as lively as you like.  
• Rent a bicycle and see the best sights up close and personal. You can go at your own pace and stop off leisurely to take the perfect Instagram pic. It’s well worth taking a look at Velo Service .
• Whilst you’re in the olive oil capital, it would be rude not to have a taste. Azienda Olearia Schrinzi  has some brilliant tours to immerse you into the heart of olive oil production.

If you’re looking for more activities to explore with your clan, visit our blog on the best group activities in Puglia .

Visiting a new holiday destination can be challenging – sometimes you wish you knew someone who could give you the genuine lowdown. Luckily, we’ve got the local’s guide to an authentic Puglia that will make your trip just that little bit more special.

Plan your holiday around the best festivals in Puglia

• If you’re lucky enough to be here early August, don’t miss the Sagra della Polpetta in Felline . It’s the Glastonbury of meatballs, so treat those tastebuds to little pieces of meaty heaven.
• La Festa di San Nicola attracts thousands of travellers from all over the world in May to celebrate the arrival of  San Nicola’s relics in Bari. The three-day homage includes carrying a large statue of the patron along the coast on a colourful flotilla and finishes with a firework display.
• The Carnevale di Putignano is one of Puglia’s most loved and important festivals. Beginning Boxing Day, the festival continues for an explosive two months, making it not only the longest but one of the oldest festivals in the world. Expect floats, masked merryman and heaps more.
• La Notte di San Giovanni makes for one of the most magical summer nights in Puglia. The celebration of St. John’s Night usually falls on the solstice in June and the event includes street theatre with the themes of superstition and mystery. It’s an evening to remember.
• La Notte della Taranta is Italy’s biggest music festival, dedicated to celebrating traditional culture. Every August, the towns of Grecia Slentina, south of Lecce, including Melpignano come alive with fusion concerts and dancing. If you love rock, mixed with folk music, this is the festival for you.
• Tens of thousands of visitors from Italy and Europe gather around the magical streets of Locorotondo in August for Sagra Pirotecnica della Valle d’Itria  a celebration of their patron saint San Rocco. Some of Italy’s renowned firework specialists come together to compete in pyrotechnists – the action begins at midnight but it’s worth staying up for.

Puglia has some remarkable festivals, each so distinct from each other, if you’re seeking more check out the yearly festival lineup .

Based on age-old peasant traditions, the region’s cuisine is earthy, unfussy and, in short, pretty superb. Simple cooking doesn’t mean limited ingredients though. In fact, the landscape of Puglia is rich in home-grown produce. There are some 60 million olive trees, for example, which produce the bulk of Italy’s olive oil in 1,000 different mills.

Plus, most of the country’s pasta is made from wheat grown in Puglia. The favourite variety locally is orecchiette, known as ‘little ears’ for their shape, which you’ll find paired with all sorts of things, from mussels to courgette flowers. Puglia also produces a lot of wine, with some hearty local reds that you can try while standing in the very vineyards where the grapes grow.

You don’t have to work too hard to find traditional cooking and winemaking in Puglia or local experts who are keen to share their knowledge and skills. But if you want some recommendations to get you started, a few of our favourites are listed here.

Best restaurants in Puglia

• We couldn’t talk about Italian food without mentioning seafood, la crème de la crème of Italian cuisine. Ristorante Al Trabucco da Mimi is one of a kind, mixing old-fashioned fishing practices with modern techniques. Take a bite of the catch of the day or even try your luck a catching your own dinner.
• Had enough of the carbs? MINT Cucina Fresca in Polignano a Mare is the go-to restaurant for healthy dishes. The menu is entirely vegetarian, but don’t let that stop you, the flavours pack a powerful punch.
• Eat like a local at La Cantina di Cianna Cianne  in Bari. The menu is packed with Italian classics; antipasti, pasta and risotto to give you an authentic taste of the region.
• With a setting almost as good as its menu, Il Bastione restaurant is a must for those in Gallipoli. Classic flavours served with elegance – combined with sea views, it doesn’t get any better.

Looking for more recommendations, check out our blog with the  best foodie experiences in Puglia .

Must try dishes

• Pasta is a staple in Italian cuisine but in Puglia, they eat Orecchiette pasta . The name comes from its shape as it resembles a small ear – when served al dente it’s divine.
• Puglia is known for its exquisite fresh seafood and take it from us, it’s always best served with some vino.
• Dine out on lamb meat and you most definitely won’t regret it – you can thank us later.

Food and wine tours in Puglia

Now you’ve tasted the flavours, it’s time to recreate them at Cucina in Masseria . Learn to cook cakes and hearty pasta dishes, and of course, no cooking class would be complete without eating the fruits of your labour. Buon appetito.

A glass of local wine never goes amiss, and in Brindisi, you can sample the delicate flavours of Tenute Rubino . This brand has charmed wine drinkers across the world and you’ll soon find out why. You can sample the wine alone or pair it with food, regardless you won’t have any complaints.

Featured villas: Villa Trullo , Masseria Crocevia , Villa Paringa ,  Trulli Fioritura , Villa Ciottolo , Villa Silva ,  Trulli Lagorio , Villa Ribezzo , Trullo Ava.

So there you have it, your ultimate Puglia travel guide! Take a look at all of our villas in this radiant region of Italy, and if you need any help, advice and loca knowledge, just contact our friendly concierge team who will be happy to help.

4 Responses

I loved Italy when last over there in particular the Amalfi Coast and would love to return and of course the Italian people.

[…] Puglia Travel GuideSicily Travel GuideThe Local’s Guide to Sardinia […]

Loved it here, first time in that area & will return. Really enjoyed Bari, somewhere you wouldn;t think of but was really ‘buzzing’. Food good & wine even better! We went in October 2019 & the weather was superb.

Nothing better than finding somewhere with great weather as late as October 🙂 fewer crowds means more space to appreciate it all!

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The Republic of Rose

A California-based travel and lifestyle blog

The Ultimate Guide to Puglia (All the Best Things to do in Puglia, Italy!)

Looking for the best things to do in Puglia? From the charming small town of Polignano a Mare to the olive trees of the countryside, there is beauty in every corner. In this guide, you’ll find the best places to see in Puglia as well as the best beaches to visit and where to day trip.

Puglia is the talk of the town in southern Italy these days, as there are many things to do in Puglia, drawing visitors from far and wide to experience the beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and delicious cuisine.

Known as the “heel of Italy,” Puglia has long been overshadowed by more well-known destinations like Florence and Positano . But now, as more and more travelers are looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, Puglia is finally getting the attention it deserves.

Here are the best things to do in Puglia!

About Puglia

One of the biggest draws of Puglia is its rich history and cultural heritage. The region has been shaped by the many conquerors who have passed through over the millennia, and this is reflected in the ancient hilltop towns and maze-like city centers that are found throughout the region.

From the whitewashed Trulli houses of Alberobello to the medieval castles of Lecce, there is no shortage of architectural treasures to explore in Puglia.

Puglia is also known as the “land of two seas,” as it is washed by both the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea. This makes for a diverse range of landscapes, from the white sandy beaches of the Adriatic coast to the rocky cliffs of the Ionian coast.

One of the most interesting things about Puglia is the meaning and origin of its name. Some historians believe that it comes from “a-Pluvia,” which means “land without rain.” This is fitting, as the region is known for its dry, sunny climate. Others believe that the name means “land without mountains” or “land densely populated.” Regardless of the meaning, one thing is certain: Puglia is a unique and fascinating destination that is well worth a visit.

Where is Puglia?

Located in the southeastern tip of the country, Puglia covers over 7,469 sqm and has a population of more than 4 million people. The Adriatic Sea is to the east, the Ionian Sea is to the southeast, and the Gulf of Taranto is to the south. Molise, Campania, and Basilicata are all to the north, west, and southwest of Puglia, respectively. It has a coastline of almost 800 kilometers and captivates many visitors with its small bays lined with white sandy beaches, ancient villages perched atop rocky outcrops, and the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic.

How to Get to Puglia

Looking for the best way to Puglia? It depends on where you’re coming from, as the region is connected by air, train, bus and car. Let’s dive in!

To fly to Puglia, you have three main airport options: Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla, Salento Airport in Brindisi, and Airport of Foggia “Gino Lisa.”

Bari International Airport is the main airport of the region and is located 30 minutes from the city center. It is well connected by many airlines with regular and cheap flights from major European cities.

Salento Airport in Brindisi is a newly opened airport that is well-served by many airlines and is strategically located to cover the provinces of Brindisi, Taranto and Lecce.

The Airport of Foggia “Gino Lisa” is mainly used for tourist flights that connect the region to its archipelago of Tremiti Islands and internal flights to the main cities in Italy.

Bus services and both international and domestic car rental agencies provide convenient access to and from all of these regional airports. Naples, Rome, and Pescara all have airports within a reasonable driving distance of Puglia, and domestic flights from Milan and Rome to Bari or Brindisi make getting there a breeze.

If you’re looking to travel to Puglia by train, it’s a great option as the national railway service covers most of the region. The Adriatic railway connects Bologna to Lecce and Taranto and also stops in Foggia and Bari. The railway between Rome and Taranto also stops in Bari and Naples. The main train stations are located in Foggia, Bari, Brindisi, Lecce, and Taranto and are all within easy reach and close to the city center. Additionally, regional companies run regular local services across the six provinces, allowing you to easily move around the region.

Traveling by bus can be a great and cheaper alternative to trains and a fantastic opportunity to see numerous places at once. Buses also stop at smaller cities, and local companies provide regular services within and from Puglia. To get more information on routes, prices and timetables, you can visit the bus services companies’ websites, such as Marozzi, Marino Bus, Miccolis, Scoppio, and Lentini Autolinee. These companies offer routes to and from major cities such as Naples, Rome, Florence, Pisa, Siena, Milan, Verona, Vicenza, Livorno, Empoli, Potenza, Salerno, Catania, and Palermo.

Puglia has a good road network and a clear international sign system, making it easy to navigate. If you’re traveling to Puglia from the north, you’ll be driving on the A14, also known as the “vacation highway,” which is the most heavily traveled highway in the summer. It is a flat, easily navigable road. Alternatively, the A16 can be used if traveling from the west, such as from Naples or Rome. This highway has some hilly tracts and can be windy. Remember that vehicles drive on the right in Italy and overtake on the left.

The Best Time to Visit Puglia

The best time to visit Puglia is in the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is mild and the days are long. With hot summers, it’s perfect for long days of sightseeing, outdoor activities, swimming, and even nightlife. The blooming coastline along the Adriatic Sea is especially beautiful during this time. Alternatively, you could visit in the quieter autumn months of October and November, when the coast is less crowded, and the landscape is at its most colorful.

I planned a last minute trip to Puglia in early September.  While we found that many of the most popular masserias were already booked up, we were still able to find some lodging that we ended up loving and we didn’t find the towns to be too crowded either!  Plus, the weather was absolutely beautiful and ideal for a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters.

How Many Days to Spend in Puglia

When it comes to deciding how many days to spend in Puglia, it really depends on what you’re hoping to do. You could definitely see some of the main sights in around 3 days, but if you want to explore the entire region, then you’ll need at least a week. To really experience the culture, take a 2-week trip and stay in a few different areas. There are enough things to do in Puglia!

I spent a week in Puglia and I found it was the perfect amount of time to see all of the major highlights and gorgeous towns the region is home to.

How to Get Around Puglia

When it comes to getting around Puglia, your best bet is to rent a car or use public transport. The major cities are well connected by train and bus, although some smaller towns will only have limited public transportation. Having your own car makes it much easier to explore the region and all its treasures. Alternatively, you could always take a guided tour.

Renting a car and making it into a road trip definitely allowed us to be more flexible and explore some spots off the beaten path! Plus, I found driving in Puglia was quite easy as the road navigation signs were clear and drivers were mostly very courteous.

Things to do in Puglia

From wandering through ancient towns to swimming at the best beaches, I’ve rounded up all the best things to do in Puglia that you won’t want to miss.

Visit Polignano a Mare

One of the most popular things to do in Puglia is to visit Polignano a Mare. From the turquoise waters and beautiful beaches to the old city center and cobblestone streets, it’s a picture of perfect Italian beauty. Wander around and explore the historic buildings and narrow alleys, or take a boat tour along the coast to experience the best of this breathtaking city.

Take in the Charm of Monopoli

Another must-see destination when it comes to things to do in Puglia is Monopoli, an enchanting and ancient port town. Stroll around the picturesque marina and take in the views from the old fortress, or grab a bite to eat, starting with the delicious focaccia bread at Baffi bakery. On a day excursion, you can also visit the breathtaking limestone cliffs called Cala Bianca, carved into the sea.

Sleep in a Trullo

The perfect place to sleep during your trip to the Puglia region is in a trullo! Trulli (plural of Trullo) are traditional Apulian dry-stone houses made of limestone with a conical roof. They are painted white and sometimes have beautiful designs on the roof.

We stayed in a gorgeous Trullo home between Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, called Trullammare!

→ Book a Stay at Trullammare

Explore Ostuni (“The White City”)

Continue to Ostuni, the “white city,” so named because the buildings have been painted white since the Middle Ages. Here, you can pay a visit to the dozens of churches, explore the 1st-century remains, and walk along antique cobblestone lanes as you take in the incredible sights and sea views.

Swim at Torre Sant’Andrea

Further south is Torre Sant’Andrea, a beautiful swimming spot with dramatic cliffs and stacked rock formations. Here you’ll find dazzling views of the Ionian Sea and its crystal blue waters. Spend an afternoon relaxing on the rocks and jumping in the water.

Some tips for visiting: check the wind forecast before you visit to make sure it’s not too windy and pack some water shoes (the rocks can be sharp!), a dry bag , and a mask or goggles for swimming.

Jump into the Cave of Poetry

Just a short drive away from Torre d’Andrea is the Grotta della Poesia, or the Cave of Poetry. This beautiful spot is an archeological site located in the heart of the southern Adriatic Coast, and is definitely one of the best things to do in Puglia.

Walk down the steps carved into the rocky side of Vernazza and experience the majestic beauty of this stunning cave. Enjoy the panoramic views of the ocean, which can even be seen from the mouth of the cave. Aside from being a fantastic place to go swimming or snorkeling, this location has also emerged as one of the best spots to go diving in the area.

Take in the Views at Torre dell’Orso

Another must-see destination when it comes to things to do in Puglia is the Torre dell’Orso. This little tourist town is home to one of the largest sandy beaches in the Salento peninsula. The beach is located in a cove of calm, clear waters making it the perfect place for a relaxing swim or float. You can even take a walk up to the nearby cliffs to cliff jump or take in the views of the “I Caraibi del Salento,” the iconic rock formations in the sea.

The beach has plenty of beach clubs where you can rent sun loungers for the day, eat lunch and even rent paddle boats to go exploring.

Stay at a Traditional Masseria

A masseria is a traditional fortified farmhouse that is typical of the region of Puglia. Dating back to the 16th century, these farmhouses have turned into private homes or small hotels where guests can enjoy country life among the olive groves.

We stayed at the gorgeous Masseria San Paolo Grande and loved experiencing a traditional farm-stay!

→ Book a Stay at Masseria San Paolo Grande

See the Famous Trulli of Alberobello

Head inland to Alberobello, where the city is a mishmash of curious old stone buildings and cobbled streets. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perhaps one of the best examples of Apulian-style architecture and is home to two main attractions: the Trulli Houses and the Church of Saint Antonio Abate.

Trulli are typical buildings of the region that are iconic for their conical roof and white color. And they can be seen all over Alberobello!

Before you leave, be sure to stop by one of the many artisan shops in the area, offering everything from olive oil and jewelry to handmade shoes and ceramics.

Wander Around Martina Franca

Located in the Valle d’Itria, Martina Franca is another of Puglia’s white towns (or Citta Bianche in Italian). Similar to Locorotondo or Cisternino, this white town is completely white washed! Spend the day getting lost in its charming streets and indulging in some local cuisine (like their traditional ham, capocollo).

Step Back in Time in Matera

Finish your Puglia adventure in Matera, where restaurants, hotels and businesses are built directly into the ancient limestone caves – from which the city derives its name. Spend a night among the subterranean churches, archaeological ruins, and narrow streets before dining in one of the old caves-turned-restaurants.

We stayed in a luxury cave hotel called Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort and it was such a cool experience sleeping in a thousand-year-old cave (and with lux amenities!)

→ Book a Stay at Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort

Get Lost in Lecce

Known for its baroque architecture, Lecce is the cultural capital of Puglia. This relaxed yet lively town is sometimes called the “Florence of the south” for its history, churches, museums, and dining scene.

Make sure to visit the city’s main square, Piazza del Duomo, and walk through the ancient city gates (Lecce is a walled city!).

Best Hotels in Puglia

Wondering where to stay on your trip to Puglia? If you’re planning a week-long trip (like I did!) then you’ll likely pick between 2 – 3 places to stay so you can explore as much of the region as possible. I stayed at Trullammare between Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, Masseria San Paolo Grande near Ostuni, and finally at Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort in Matera. But I’ve also rounded up some of the other top hotels and lodging I considered during my trip.

Polignano a Mare / Monopoli

• Residenza Il Sole : This bed & breakfast is located just outside Monopoli and features a gorgeous swimming pool and terrace.
• TRULIVO : A farm-stay in an iconic trullo house? Yes, please! This charming country house has it all: an authentic trulli experience, homemade breakfast and a swimming pool.
• Aquamarea : This bed & breakfast has the most iconic view of Polignano a Mare! Just imagine watching the sun go down with views of the famous Cala Monachile beach.
• Sei Stelle Mama : Another wonderful b&b option in Polignano a Mare that features beautifully updated rooms and a rooftop with views over the town square.
• Masseria Donna Nina : this traditional farmhouse in the Apulian countryside dates back to the 18th century. It features a charming white-washed facade and a pool (perfect for those hot summer days!).
• Regina di Ulivi : Another delightful countryside stay near Ostuni, this bed & breakfast is made up of iconic trulli homes!
• Patria Palace Lecce : If you’re looking for a little luxury in Lecce, this gorgeous hotel is for you! With beautifully appointed rooms, views of Basilica of Santa Croce and a gorgeous roooftop, you’ll love your stay at Patria Palace.
• La Fiermontina : Get the feel of a farm-stay in the urban center of Lecce! This hotel feels more like a traditional masseria and features an outdoor pool surrounded by olive trees.

Alberobello

• Charming Trulli : if you’ve been dreaming of staying in a Trulli while visiting Alberobello (the home of the Trulli!), this stay is for you!
• Palazzo Degli Abati : What could be cooler than sleeping in an ancient cave? Maybe an ancient cave that feels like a 5 star hotel!? With gorgeous views, you can’t go wrong with a stay at Palazzo Degli Abati.
• Locanda Di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae : Swimming in an indoor pool inside of a cave is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. This stunning hotel also features a home-made breakfast and views of Matera!

Tips for Visiting Puglia

• Bring a camera:  You’ll want to capture Puglia’s coastal towns, whitewashed farmhouses, and cobblestone streets. Don’t forget to record the beautiful churches, bridges, and cultural artifacts that give this region its unique charm.
• Try the local cuisine:  Puglia’s cuisine is heavily reliant on bread, pasta, and local seafood. Make sure to sample some of the region’s traditional cuisine, such as the famous orecchiette pasta made in Bari and the seafood-rich dishes of Gallipoli.
• Wear comfortable shoes:  Puglia is mostly rural, so you’ll want to make sure you have comfortable shoes for your excursions into the countryside, exploring villages, and walking on beaches.
• Buy local:  Not only will you be supporting the local economy but you’ll also be rewarded with exquisite souvenirs. Pottery, lace, jewelry, and textiles are particularly popular.
• Learn some Italian:  Though English is spoken in most cities and towns, having a few phrases under your belt will help you feel more at home in Puglia. Anyone visiting should know some basic Italian phrases and expressions, such as “ciao,” “Grazie,” and “Buon Giorno.”

What to Wear in Puglia

That’s a wrap on my guide… now you know all the best things to do in Puglia! With so many places to see in Puglia, you can rest assured that your vacation will be packed with adventure, charm and beauty. Whether you are visiting for its spectacular scenery, indulging in its delicious cuisine, or just immersing yourself in the culture and language, you are sure to be delighted with everything Puglia has to offer. So, pack your things and get ready for the ultimate Puglia adventure!

How to Spend One Day in Matera, Italy

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The Best Things to Do in Puglia

Over the past couple of years, Puglia has become one of Italy 's trending destinations—but there is more to the region than just photo-worthy locations. Puglia is home to numerous folkloric traditions, ancient histories and diverse landscapes, from the dramatic coastline along the Parco Nazionale del Gargano to the scattered trulli in the Valle d’Itria and the crystalline beaches of Salento. It’s truly difficult to narrow down the best things to do in Puglia, but the following 11 are the most spectacular experiences you need to consider on your next trip.

Swim in waters that rival the Caribbean

The region is characterized by an extensive and diverse coastline (nearly 600 miles long) between the Adriatic and Ionian seas. From dramatic cliffs to the long swath of sandy beaches passing through crescent-shaped rocky coves, finding the best beach can be daunting. But the formula is simple: catch the early morning sun along the east coast and golden sunsets in the south and west. One of the most enchanting beaches is Punta della Suina, in Gallipoli. Fringed by a dense pine forest, its rugged coastline descends into crystal clear, shallow turquoise waters. However, a true, hidden gem is Cala dell’Acquaviva—a small rocky cove among staggering rocks on the eastern coast between Santa Cesarea Terme, and Tricase. The water, fed by both salt and spring water, is strikingly fresh, and there’s a small kiosk on site to stock up on cold drinks and snacks.

The Thremiti Islands are one of Italy's most fascinating archipelagos, with some of the world's most beautiful beaches on the shores.

Go island hopping

Legend states that the Greek King Diomedes threw three rocks from the Gargano upon his return from the Trojan War, and these rocks created the Tremiti islands—one of the most fascinating archipelagos in Italy. The largest and greenest of the isles, San Dominio, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches , including the secret sandy patches of Cala Matano and the rocky coves of Cala del Pigno. From San Dominio, you can take a motorboat to explore San Nicola, best known for its historical sites such as the monastery Santa Maria a Mare and the 13th-century Badiali Castle, and the island of Capraia, where you can swim in the beautiful inlets amidst the rocks. Cretaccio, the smallest of the islands, and Pianosa, a protected Marine Reserve, are also stunning places to visit if you have time.

Lecce is known as the Florence of the South for its open-air museum quality, with a rich heritage unveiled through numerous architectural styles.

Visit Puglia’s most cultural city

Also known as the ‘ Florence of the South’, Lecce is a major attraction for culture-seeking travelers—the historic city feels like an open-air museum. Distinct Leccese limestone envelops the town, and its rich heritage is unveiled through numerous architectural styles. The most predominant is Baroque (hence the city’s reputation as the ‘capital of Baroque architecture’), with opulent decorations embellishing the façades of churches such as the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Cathedral dedicated to Maria Santissima Assunta. One of the best ways to truly embrace the southern lifestyle is to spend the afternoon in a café (we love the Caffè Alvino or Pasticceria Natale) and soak up the surroundings as you sip on your Caffè Leccese (iced coffee with fresh almond milk) and nibble on crema pasticcera filled pasticciotto.

Go shopping

When you think of Puglia, two things come to mind: food and ceramics. Travelers should always bring home taralli (ringed bread snacks), caciocavallo, and cacioricotta (Southern Italian cheese), but purchasing the iconic Ceramiche Pugliesi is a way of permanently remembering the region's beauty long after your trip has ended. Grottaglie is the ceramics district of Puglia, where many ateliers have been for generations, each with countless years of history and stories to tell. Franco Fasano has been in the Fasano family for 18 generations, selling a large collection of tableware, vases and amphorae. The method of production is traditional, but Franco Fasano’s visionary approach with bold colours and creative patterns has caught the eye of notable clients from Francis Ford Coppola to Giorgio Armani. Visit the shop and ask to pop into the nearby workshop to see the magic happen.

The small village of Alberobello is sprinkled with quaint restaurants and shops housed within the conical roofs and thick stone walls of trullo.

Visit Trulli

Some people say that trulli look like little gnome houses scattered throughout the region. Driving through the Valle d’Itria, you can see a few trulli around, but visit Alberobello for the real experience. This small village is sprinkled with quaint restaurants, bars and shops, all housed inside this UNESCO -protected trulli. The conical roofs and thick stone walls keep the interiors cool (you are not allowed to install air conditioning in the trullo). To get the full experience, book a stay overnight—there are many masserie and B&Bs that offer rooms in trulli across Puglia.

Try Puglia’s most delicious coffee

With its crescent-shaped sandy beach between two spurs of rocky, narrow whitewashed streets, Polignano a Mare steals the heart of many travelers. It is here, in Piazza Garibaldi, where you’ll find the best ice cream place in Puglia. While the ice cream at Il Super Mago del Gelo is exceptional, travelers should also try the Caffè Speciale—created by Mario Campanella, who has been working alongside his father at the gelateria since he was seven. This unique recipe is espresso with panna, lemon peel, and homemade Amaretto.

Several trabucchi between Peschici and Vieste have been restored and converted into seafood restaurants.

Feast on fresh seafood in converted fishing platforms

As you drive through the Gargano coastline between Peschici and Vieste, you’ll notice large wooden structures suspended above the sea. These are trabucchi, centuries-old machines used by fishermen to optimize their work. Today a few trabucchi have been restored and converted into restaurants, where guests can feast on fresh seafood with a view of the Adriatic. Al Trabucco da Mimì was founded by Mimì and Lucia, who decided to turn their family’s trabucco into a thriving, exciting restaurant where diners can eat local catches of the day on a wooden veranda. If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of working trabucchi in action as it brings up fresh mullet and bluefish from the sea.

The Cava di Bauxite is an old quarry lake from which Bauxite was once extracted for the production of aluminum—it's now one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Visit one of Puglia’s natural wonders

Puglia is home to some extraordinary landscapes, but one of the most jaw-dropping sites is located just below Otranto. The Cava di Bauxite is an old quarry lake once used to extract Bauxite for the production of aluminium. From the parking lot, follow a rocky path that leads you to a shallow, emerald-colored lake surrounded by red rocks and Mediterranean scrub. It’s truly beautiful—visit at golden hour to watch the sun reflect intense, deep red hues from the rocks.

A Sunday spent haggling flea market in Puglia is a Sunday well-spent.

Go to the antique markets

In Italy, Sundays can mean one of two things: long, lazy and wine-infused lunches with family and friends, or spending the morning rummaging through unique finds at antique markets. Every so often, there will be a market in the Valle d’Itria where you can purchase beautiful homeware, clothing and collector's items. The most popular is in Ceglie Messapica, which runs on the last Sunday of every month, and Fiera dell’Antiquariato in Martina Franca, which only lasts for seven days in August each year.

Seafood pasta is a staple of southern Italian cuisine, best tasted during an August sagra.

Experience a local sagra

Paper plates, long tables, live music and Cucina Casereccia are the key staples of La Sagra, a culinary festival that rolls out in squares or fields across Italy. Upon arrival, guests are handed a piece of paper with a scribbled menu (usually limited to a couple of starters, some options for primi courses and a few main dishes), and there are typically funfairs, small markets and post-dinner entertainment. The best ones in Puglia to try and visit are the Sagra delle Orecchiette nelle ‘Nchiosce in Grottaglie on Tuesday August 8 and Wednesday 9 2023, and Sagra del Fico Mandorlato in Piazza Marconi, San Michele Salentino from Monday 21 August to Sunday 27 August 2023.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller.

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Visit Puglia (Italy): Top 20 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

What are the best things to do in puglia, italy.

You’re planning to visit Puglia (sometimes also called Apulia), in Italy , during your next holidays? You want to know more about the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, i have prepared this guide of the 20 best things to do in Puglia , with all must-see attractions and points of interests.

In this beautiful region, you can discover the trulli of Alberobello , the stunning Baroque monuments of Lecce and numerous typical towns and villages.

And if you prefer natural landscapes, no problem! Go for a hike in Gargano National Park , spend a day on Tremiti Islands , or simply relax on the beach.

So, what are the best places to visit in Puglia ?

Let’s find out!

2. Polignano a Mare

3. monopoli, 4. ostuni, the white city, 5. alberobello and the trulli, 6. locorotondo / cisternino / itria valley, 7. castellana caves, 8. brindisi, 10. torre dell orso, 11. torre sant’andrea, 12. otranto, 13. gallipoli, 14. taranto, 15. the puglia canyon, 16. matera and the sassi, 17. castel del monte, 18. gargano national park, 19. the tremiti islands, travel to puglia: flight prices, you’re traveling in italy these articles will help you, visiting puglia: all must-see attractions.

In order to help you plan your stay in Puglia, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: 2, 3, 4 or 5 Days in Puglia – Perfect itineraries for a short stay
• Itinerary: One Week in Puglia – The ultimate itinerary for visiting Puglia in 7-8 days
• Itinerary: 10 Days in Puglia – How to visit Puglia in 10 days and not miss a thing!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

Let’s start this Puglia guide with the regional capital, Bari .

While the modern city may not be particularly interesting for tourists, its historic center is well worth a visit. Especially since you’ll probably be landing in Bari when you visit Puglia. On your arrival or before you leave, take the opportunity for a stroll through the old town of Bari.

Here are the best places to visit in Bari:

• Bari Vecchia: the historic center, with its maze of typical narrow streets where you can also watch women crafting orecchiette, a small ear-shaped pasta originating from Puglia
• The Basilica of San Nicola, built to house the relics of Saint Nicholas. You can visit the crypt where his tomb is located.
• Petruzelli Theatre, the fourth largest in Italy and one of the biggest private theaters in Europe
• The Norman-Swabian Castle: worth seeing mostly from the outside for its ramparts and square towers
• The Cathedral of San Sabino, a beautiful example of Puglian Romanesque architecture
• Palazzo Simi and its archaeological exhibitions
• The Metropolitan Art Gallery of Bari with its impressive collection of paintings. One of the main museums to see in Bari.

To make the most of your stay in Bari, you should read my dedicated article: The 12 Best Things to Do in Bari. 

Not far from Bari, heading south, is one of my personal favorites during my stay in Puglia , the charming town of Polignano a Mare.

The charm of Polignano comes from its white-walled houses perched atop cliffs, some 20 meters above sea level. Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and enjoy breathtaking views from the terraces built over the cliffs. It’s a fantastic opportunity to snap some beautiful photos.

Polignano also has a lovely pebble beach with clear waters, nestled between two high cliffs. It’s the perfect spot for swimming and, for the more adventurous, cliff diving.

For me, it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Puglia!

From Polignano, you can also embark on a motorboat tour to discover the nearby sea caves . Click here for details!

For a more romantic option, there’s also the catamaran excursion with a typical Puglian aperitif. Information and reservations by clicking here!

You’ve probably found yourself humming the famous tune “Volare, oh, oh,… Cantare, oh, oh, oh.” Well, its singer Domenico Modugno was born in Polignano a Mare. It’s a source of pride for the locals.

Another charming little town in Puglia that pairs perfectly with a visit to Polignano a Mare is Monopoli.

Located about 15 minutes by car from Polignano , Monopoli is also worth visiting for its historic center. You can take a 1-hour stroll to discover the main historical monuments:

• Castle of Charles V
• Cathedral of Santa Maria della Madia
• The Archaeological Museum
• Church of Santa Maria della Zafira
• Piazza XX Settembre

To visit Monopoli, park your car before reaching the historic center as cars are not allowed there.

Perched on a rocky promontory, overlooking the countryside and the vast plains of olive trees, Ostuni stands out as a must-visit destination in Puglia.

Known as the White City (Citta bianca) due to its lime-painted house walls, Ostuni is a delightful city to explore. Don’t hesitate to wander through all the narrow alleys of the historic center, the various passages, and stairways. It’s not very large, and there’s little risk of getting lost!

Your walk will inevitably take you to the upper part of the city. There, you’ll find the two main buildings: the Ostuni Cathedral and the Episcopal Palace.

This vantage point also offers you a stunning 360° panorama of the countryside around Ostuni.

Lastly, if you want to see something truly unique in the world, I recommend visiting the small Museum of Preclassical Civilizations of the Southern Murgia. It’s located in the historic center, on Cathedral Street.

It houses Ostuni’s claim to fame: the remains of a woman over 24,500 years old giving birth. The fetus of the young woman, named Ostuni I, is the only one of its kind in the world!

To discover how to visit Ostuni in one day, check out my dedicated article on the white city: Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Ostuni.

Let’s continue this guide of the best things to do and see in Puglia with the very unique village of Alberobello, in the Itria Valley.

For sure one of the Puglia’s must-see attraction!

Alberobello is famous for its small white-washed stone houses with conical roofs, called trulli. The town has no less than 1,400 of them, earning it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

You can visit the village freely and admire the trulli from the outside. Most of them now house souvenir shops or cafés/restaurants.

To get a better idea of what a trulli originally looked like inside, you can visit the Trullo Sovrano, a two-story trulli with an interior staircase, or the Museum of the Territory, a complex of 15 trulli where you’ll find explanations about their origins, daily life inside trulli, and the traditions of the Itria Valley.

I admit the place is very touristy, but if you visit early in the morning or during the off-season , you should avoid the worst of it. In any case, Alberobello remains an essential stop during an itinerary in Puglia, there’s nothing else quite like it!

To learn everything about the trulli and to make the most of your visit to  Alberobello, read my detailed article: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Alberobello.

As you will see when visiting Alberobello or in the surrounding countryside, on the roofs of the Trulli, mysterious white-painted symbols are drawn. The origin and meaning of these are not precisely known, but some historians believe they were used to protect families from evil curses or to promote good harvests.

Just a short drive from Alberobello , you should not miss the villages of Locorotondo and Cisternino .

Also located in the Itria Valley, both feature charming historic centers that are easily walkable.

Locorotondo gets its name from its circular layout . Overlooking the entire Itria Valley, it’s considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Here, you can admire Cummerse, traditional rectangular houses with sloping roofs covered in flat tiles. It will take you around 1h to visit the town.

And when it’s time for lunch, try the local specialty: “u tridde”. Fresh pasta cooked in turkey broth sprinkled with finely chopped pecorino and parsley. To accompany your meal, choose a DOCG wine from Locorotondo.

In Cisternino, you’ll also find a lovely medieval historical center with a central square, white houses, narrow streets, and churches. Plus, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Itria Valley from the town’s three terraces.

Here, the culinary specialty is the “bombette”, slices of meat stuffed with ham and cheese. You can find them at Cisternino’s butchers , who will be pleased to prepare them for you on the grill. A truly typical Puglian culinary experience! After all, tourism is also about trying new flavors.

You can visit Cisternino in about an hour, slightly more if you decide to dine there.

If you’re visiting Puglia with family, a trip to the Castellana Caves is a must.

The caves, one of the most significant tourist attractions in Puglia, are located near Alberobello, Cisternino, and Polignano a Mare.

Stretching over 3 km long and 70 meters deep, they are among the largest and most fascinating underground caves in Italy, and even Europe. Guided tours are organized every day to admire the stalactites, stalagmites, and the impressive caverns and cavities.

The highlight is undoubtedly the stunning white cave, considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

The tour of Castellana Caves takes about 2 hours for the full route (3 km long), but there is also the option of a shorter route (1 km long, about 50 minutes). Guided tours are available at fixed hours, in English and Italian.

The caves also host Speleonight. Equipped with helmets and headlamps and accompanied by a guide, explore the Castellana Caves in the dark and experience what it was like for the first explorers. A truly unique and original activity to do in Puglia!

For timetables and pricing details, please visit the official website of the caves.

The cave temperature varies between 14 and 18°C, so remember to bring warm clothing. Also, sneakers or hiking shoes are recommended as the ground can be slippery.

Located by the Adriatic Sea, Brindisi is one of the most significant cities in Puglia.

For your stay in Puglia, you might choose to land there as, like Bari, Brindisi also has an airport offering flights to and from several European cities. Prices are generally similar to Bari, but I suggest checking both.

Brindisi is also known for being one of the main ports in Italy, from which ferries full of tourists set sail to Greece every year.

As with many Puglian towns, it’s mainly the historic center that’s worth exploring. Plan 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. Notably, most museums in the city offer free admission.

What to see in Brindisi, in Puglia:

• San Giovanni Battista Cathedral, located on the Piazza del Duomo
• The Swabian Castle or Castle of Land, formerly Frederick II’s residence and later a prison, now houses naval buildings
• Alfonsino Castle or Castle of Sea, used to lodge garrisons
• San Benedetto Church, a fine example of Romanesque art in Puglia
• Santa Teresa Church and the diocesan museum
• MAPRI, the Francesco Ribezzo provincial archaeological museum with its collection of sculptures and ancient objects
• The Sailor’s Monument located across the harbor, accessible by a water shuttle

Lecce is another must-visit city in Puglia, and particularly in the Salento peninsula.

The city is a Baroque jewel , home to an incredible number of historical monuments. With its many churches, plazas, and museums, you will for sure have plenty to discover while walking around.

The historic center is truly beautiful and expansive. Everything is very harmonious, with most buildings made from the same material, known as “Lecce stone”.

While not as well-known as Rome or Milan , this southern Italian city was a fantastic surprise!

There are so many sights to see in Lecce, you should spend at least 2 days there during your trip to Puglia.

Here are the best places to visit in Lecce:

• Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the heart of Lecce, where you can admire the Roman amphitheater and the Sant’Oronzo column
• The stunning Piazza del Duomo and its numerous landmarks: the bell tower, the cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace, the seminary palace, and the Diocesan Museum
• The magnificent Santa Croce Church with its richly detailed facade
• The Historical Museum of the City of Lecce (a MUST-see)
• The historic center gates, including Porta Napoli
• The Church of Saints Niccolo and Cataldo

If you want more details about the best things to do in Lecce, you should read my article: Visiting Lecce: the definitive guide.

Visiting Puglia also means discovering beautiful beaches . With its crystal clear water and fine sand, Torre dell Orso beach is definitely one of them!

This large beach is located on the East Coast of Puglia, in Salento, between Lecce and Otranto . You can take a long stroll along the water’s edge, and of course, take the opportunity to swim and relax.

Don’t miss going to the end of the beach to take pictures of the faraglioni found there. These two rocks (the Due Sorelle) are featured on numerous postcards of Puglia; they are indeed very photogenic!

You should then climb to the top of the cliff overlooking them to enjoy the best view . From up there, you will also be able to walk along the coast. It’s the perfect opportunity to admire stunning panoramas.

As another addition to this list of must-see places in Puglia , let’s talk about Torre Sant’Andrea.

Similar to Torre dell Orso, here you’ll find magnificent faraglioni, perfect to take pictures from every angle. The turquoise and transparent water invites you to take a dip in this amazing spot. However, there’s no sandy beach on this side; you’ll have to settle for laying your towel out on the rocks.

And for anyone disappointed at not having had the chance to see t he Azure Window in Malta before its collapse, you’ll find a miniature version at Torre Sant’Andrea. Just as charming, with far fewer crowds!

Otranto is another delightful small town to visit during your trip in Puglia region.

Otranto is situated at the edge of the Salento peninsula. Its historic center is characterized by the walls dating back to the 8th century BC which entirely surround it.

Inside the old town, there are 2 major tourist sites to see:

• The Aragonese Castle. Built in the 15th century, it features 3 round towers and a spur facing the sea, known as “Diamond Head”.
• The Cathedral of Otranto, where, during the Turkish attack in 1480, about 800 inhabitants took refuge. Asked to renounce their faith, they all refused. Subsequently, they were beheaded on Minerva hill. A chapel inside the cathedral pays tribute to the martyrs of Otranto. You can also admire its beautiful mosaic floor depicting the tree of life.

In Otranto, you can also enjoy a lovely sandy beach , take a seaside stroll, and dine at one of the excellent seafood restaurants.

After visiting Otranto, you should make a stop to see 3 places of interest in the vicinity:

• The bauxite quarry, notable for its ochre color, which makes you feel like you’re in Australia or Colorado
• Palascia Lighthouse and its wild landscape
• Porto Badisco with its small cove of crystalline water, ideal for snorkeling.

This seaside city is located along the Salento coast , in the Southwest of Puglia.

Comprising a modern town and an old town situated on a small island, Gallipoli reminded me quite a bit of the island of Ortigia and Syracuse in Sicily , as both are built on the same model. However, I found Gallipoli a little less charming, but the weather was not on our side that day, which didn’t help!

In Gallipoli, you can visit:

• The Angevin / Aragonese Castle
• The Greek Fountain
• The numerous Baroque palaces , including Palazzo Tafuri, Palazzo Ravenna, and Palazzo Pirelli
• The Cathedral of Saint Agatha, the largest in the city
• The Church of Santa Maria della Purità, one of the most ornate churches in Gallipoli

This destination in Puglia is also the gateway to the stunning beaches known as the Maldives of Salento and to its trendy establishments.

Lido Pizzo, Punta della Suina, Baia Verde , and the Porto Selvaggio Natural Regional Park are just a few places where you can swim in clear and transparent waters.

Taranto is the capital city of the province of the same name. It’s the second most populous city in Puglia.

Dubbed the “city between two seas,” here too, there is a separation between the modern city and the historic center situated on an island.

On one side, there is the Mar Grande with its commercial port, and on the other, the Mar Piccolo and its fishing boats . Both seas are connected by a swing bridge, the Ponte Girevole, which is one of Taranto’s curiosities.

The highlights of Taranto, in Puglia:

• Castello Sant’Angelo or Castello Aragonese, the city’s main tourist attraction. Free guided tours are organized every 2 hours starting at 9:30 AM.
• The National Archaeological Museum of Taranto housing an impressive collection of Greek, Roman, and Apulian objects
• The Cathedral of San Cataldo , where the relics of the city’s patron saint are located and which features a beautiful mosaic floor (somewhat comparable to the one in Otranto Cathedral). It’s the oldest cathedral in Puglia.

You might not know this (I had no idea before visiting Puglia) but there is a canyon that crosses several villages in Puglia .

This ravine, or Gravina in Italian, and the towns that surround it offer beautiful vistas , and are a complete contrast to what you would have seen in Puglia so far.

For the most beautiful views of the Puglia canyon, visit:

• Ginosa and its medieval castle
• Laterza , where several trails allow for walks along the edge of the canyon
• Castellaneta and its lookout over the gravine
• Massafra , completely split in two by the Gravina San Marco, the canyon that runs through it. The banks are connected by a bridge.

Matera was unquestionably a big highlight of our itinerary in Puglia.

However, I must admit, it’s a bit of a stretch including it in our top 20 things to do and see in Puglia, because in reality, Matera is part of the Basilicata region and not Puglia.

Still, being only 30 minutes away from Ginosa, 1h10 from Taranto, and 1h10 from Bari, it’s very easy to incorporate in a Puglia itinerary . It would really be a shame to miss it!

Matera is famous worldwide for its typical troglodyte dwellings: the Sassi. The city is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Occupied by humans since the Paleolithic era, over the centuries, the caves were transformed into real dwellings . Some even housed rock churches and were occupied up until the 1950s, when they were evacuated due to poor living conditions. The residents were relocated to Matera’s modern neighborhoods.

However, everything has been extremely well-preserved and restored . So today, you can stroll through the old town and admire the countless Sassi of Matera.

The city is divided into two areas: the Sasso Caveoso and the Sasso Barisano . If you want to do a complete tour and see all the magnificent viewpoints, it will take around 3 hours.

I was expecting more of a small village similar to Alberobello, but in reality, Matera is quite extensive and truly deserves detailed exploration. To make sure you don’t miss anything during your walk, get the map of Matera at the tourist office.

If you spend a night in Matera, you should also head to the old town for the sunset and evening, when everything lights up. The atmosphere is very special.

And, for a 360° panorama of the Sassi of Matera, go to the Murgia Belvedere, located on the other side of the ravine. It’s one of the most beautiful views of the city!

You will find every information you need to visit Matera in my article: The 13 best things to do in Matera.

Matera was used as a backdrop for Mel Gibson’s film “The Passion of the Christ”.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Castel del Monte stands in the midst of the Apulian countryside, seemingly lost in the middle of nowhere!

Built by Emperor Frederick II in the 13th century, the castle sits atop a hill overlooking the Murge region, at an altitude of 540 meters.

A unique medieval architectural work, its octagonal shape and the astronomical and mathematical precision of its design, have earned it recognition as a national monument of Italy and as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can visit the castle’s interior for around 10 euros, but I wouldn’t really recommend it as it’s quite empty. The exterior, however, is worth checking out for that memorable photo.

Bear in mind that in peak season (about March 30 to September 30), you will not be able to park at the foot of the castle. You must leave your car in a paid parking lot (5€) and then take a shuttle (or walk for about twenty minutes).

Off-season, which was the case for us, you are allowed to drive up to a small parking area just a 2-minute walk from the entrance of Castel del Monte. We didn’t have to pay anything.

No guide to Puglia would be complete without mentioning the Gargano National Park, a must-visit in Puglia!

Located in the northernmost part of Puglia, and covering over 118,000 hectares, this protected natural area is one of the largest in Italy. The park boasts diverse landscapes, including beaches, high cliffs, forests, charming villages, and more modern towns. It also encompasses the Tremiti Islands which I will talk about next.

Here are the best things to do in Gargano National Park, Puglia:

• Drive along the stunning coastal road from Manfredonia to Vieste to admire the spectacular coastline
• Hike in the Foresta Umbra to discover numerous endemic species
• Visit the picturesque town of Vieste
• Climb up to Monte Sant’Angelo, a perched village that offers a magnificent viewpoint
• Relax on beautiful beaches and wild coves
• Birdwatch at the two coastal lakes of Lesina and Varano
• Discover the Tremiti Islands

For more details and tips on organizing your visit to Gargano, you should check my article:  How to visit Gargano National Park?

The Tremiti Islands are for sure one of the most beautiful spots to visit in Puglia.

They are accessible by boat from the north of Gargano National Park, from Vieste and Peschici in summer or from Termoli during the off-season. Or even better, from Foggia, you can reach them by helicopter in just 20 minutes !

The Tremiti archipelago is made of 3 islands:

• San Domino, the largest island. Here you can wander beneath the shade of Aleppo pines and admire the Pagliai, a group of white monoliths.
• San Nicola with its fortress built on a sheer cliff by Benedictine monks.
• Capraia, renowned for Punta Secca, a stunning diving spot.

In the Imperial Puglia region, you should visit Trani, located just 50 minutes from Bari by car.

Once a prosperous medieval trading town and a departure point for the Templar Crusades, Trani is now a picturesque little town with a charming historic center and a lively port.

What to do in Trani, Puglia:

• Go admire its magnificent cathedral , which thanks to its exceptional seaside location, is featured on many Puglia postcards! A blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, it features an imposing 60-meter-high tower.
• Visit the castle of Emperor Frederick II. It hosts art exhibitions and numerous cultural events.
• Stroll along the docks and the port
• Explore the Jewish quarter

And you, what do you plan to visit in Puglia?

If you need help to plan your stay, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section below!

To get to Puglia, you’ll most likely need to take a flight.

Check out the rates right now using our flight price comparison tool . It’s quick, easy, and it’s the best way to ensure you pay the best price!

Once you’re on the results page, don’t hesitate to compare several sites to ensure no additional fees are added to the final fares.

Italy travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Italy : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Italy are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to Do in Puglia – All the best places to visit
• Itinerary: 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Puglia – The perfect short-stay itineraries
• Itinerary: A week in Puglia – The ultimate itinerary for visiting Puglia in 7-8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Puglia – How to visit Puglia in 10 days and not miss a thing!
• Alberobello : Visit the trulli village with my definitive guide!
• Bari: Top 12 things to do and see
• Gargano : The 10 best places to visit
• Lecce : The 12 must-sees attractions
• Matera: The definitive guide of Matera!
• Ostuni : Top 10 things to do and see

Rest of Italy

• The 20 Best Things to do in Italy – All the must-see places!
• Cinque Terre: The definitive guide to plan your visit
• Florence: The 27 best things to do and must-see attractions
• Milan: The Top 15 things to do in the city and around
• Pisa: Top 21 must-see attractions + Tips
• Rome: The 25 best things to do and see
• Siena: Top 20 best places to visit
• Turin: The 20 must-see attractions
• Venice: The 31 best things to do (+ Tips)
• 2 days in Florence
• 3 days in Florence
• 4 days in Florence
• 5 days in Florence
• 2 days in Milan
• 3 days in Milan
• 4 days in Milan
• 2 Days in Rome – How to visit Rome in 48h
• 3 Days in Rome – The best itinerary to visit Rome in 72h
• 4 Days in Rome – The best places to visit in 4 days
• 5 Days in Rome – How to spend 5 days in Rome
• 6 Days in Rome – The ultimate Itinerary + Where to stay
• One week in Rome – The perfect 7-day itinerary
• 2 Days in Venice – An Epic 48h itinerary
• 3 Days in Venice – The perfect 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Venice – Itinerary + Best Things to do + Tips
• Where to stay in Milan? My guide to the best areas and hotels for a perfect stay
• Where to stay in Rome? – The definitive guide of the best areas!
• Where to stay in Venice? My selection of the best hotels and districts for an epic stay
• Omnia Card: The definitive guide
• Colosseum: The 7 best skip the line tickets
• Trevi Fountain: History, Secrets and Facts
• Rome’s Hidden Gems : The Definitive Guide with 17 secret spots!
• The 20 Best museums in Rome – With all my best tips!
• Rome in May: The definitive guide to plan your visit: weather, things to do, itineraries and more!
• Rome in June: Guide + All my best tips

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Puglia Bucket List: 25 Beautiful Places To Visit In Puglia

Looking for some destination inspiration for a trip to Italy’s Puglia region? You’ve come to the right place. This is the ultimate guide to the most beautiful places to visit in Puglia, for your Puglia bucket list.

Captivating Puglia is nestled in Italy’s picturesque south on the “heel” of the boot. With its pristine beaches, charming towns, and rich history, Puglia offers a treasure trove of both natural and cultural wonders.

From the whitewashed towns perched on hilltops to the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, this enchanting region is a haven for those seeking authentic beauty, tranquility, and a truly delectable cuisine.

Overview Of The Puglia Region

There are six main natural areas in Puglia:

Gargano : The Gargano is located in the north of Puglia. It has beautiful beaches, the Umbria forest, and the islands of Lesina and Varano.

Central Adriatic Coast : This area includes the capitol of Puglia, Bari, and other beautiful coastal towns like Trani, Molfetta, and Conversano.

Murgia: The Murgia area is a vast area the includes centuries old villages and beautiful landscapes. You’ll find the towns of Altamura, Gravina, Noci, and Matera.

Itria Valley :

This is the trulli area of Puglia filled with historic towns. You will find the world famous stone dwelling scattered throughout the area and concentrated in the UNESCO-listed Alberobello. Apart from the fairytale Alberobello, you’ll find the enchanting towns of Martina Franca, Locorotondo, Cisternino, Osutni, and Monopoli.

Salento : The Salento peninsula is famous for the Baroque city of Lecce, its crystal clear waters, and beautiful coastline. You’ll also find the towns of Otranto, Gallipoi, Santa Maria di Leuca, and Nardo.

Taranto : The Taranto area boasts a beautiful coastline. It has stretches of sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and picturesque cliffs.

Beautiful Places To Visit In Puglia

Here’s my round up of the 25 most beautiful places in Puglia. These include the best cities, towns, and destinations to visit.

The Garagano area is the northern most part of Puglia. It’s a lesser visited region known for its lush national park, coastal villages, inlets, and sea caves.

One of the prettiest areas is the salt pans near Margherita di Savoia. The ecosystem is a protected wetland and home to pink flamingos and other bird species. You can visit on a trekking or biking tour.

The Gargano region is home to several enchanting coastal towns that are worth visiting. Those include Vieste (more below), Marrinata, and Peschici.

It’s also an ideal region for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go sailing or windsurfing along the coast, try your hand at fishing, or take a boat tour to explore sea caves and hidden beaches. The area also offers opportunities for horseback riding and birdwatching.

>>> Click here to book a trekking tour in the Gargano

Vieste is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Puglia. It’s simly gorgeous.

The village has white-washed houses, pristine turqoise water, and beautiful beaches. In fact, it has an over 18 mile stretch of unspoiled beach and sea caves.

The Castle Beach is the most famous. It has golden white sand, a promeade, and plenty of restaurants and bars. It’s guarded by Pizzomunoo monolith rock, which is over 80 feet high.

Apart from its glorious beaches, Vieste also has a quaint old town. It features a mighty Swabaian castle, cathedral, and whitewashed homes set in narrow cobbled lanes.

>>> Click here to book a guided walking tour of Vieste

Bari is the largest city and a must visit place in Puglia. It boasts a delightful blend of history and charm, with an authentic and vibrant centro storico called Bari Vecchia.

The #1 attraction in Bari is undoubtedly the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas. It’s a magnificent Romanesque church. It’s also a pilgrimage site that houses the relics of the saint. Inside, you can marvel at 12th century frescoes.

Visitors should also see the Basilica of San Sabino. It’s another splendid example of Puglian Romanesque architecture.

The massive Norman-Swabian Castle is a fascinating fortress harking back to Bari’s medieval past. Inside you’ll find a large collection of archeological items from the prehistoric, Roman, and medieval eras.

For a taste of local culture and cuisine, take a stroll along the Strada dell’Orecchiette. You can witness Italian nonnas making and selling the traditional pasta known as orecchiette .

If shopping is on your agenda, head to Via Sparano da Bari, a bustling street dotted with designer stores.

To experience Bari’s waterfront charm, take a leisurely walk along St. Nicholas Pier. You’ll have splendid views of the Adriatic.

You can also observe local fishermen at work and perhaps witness the intriguing “curling of the octopus,” a traditional ritual that enhances the tenderness of this local delicacy.

For more information on what to do in Bari, you can check out my one day in Bari itinerary .

Top Experiences In Bari:

• g uided walking tour of Bari
• guided bike tour
• half day sailing tour  
• guided tour of the St. Nicholas
• street food tour

Trani is known as the “pearl of the Adriatic.” The town exudes a captivating charm with its picturesque streets, ancient edifices, and the laid-back ambiance of the Mediterranean. This hidden gem in Italy will definitely put a smile on your face!

At the heart of Trani lies its 12th century Romanesque cathedral, an architectural masterpiece made of pink limestone. It has a unique feature that sets it apart — a high pointed arch in the passage beneath the bell tower. The cathedral is especially beautiful at sunset when the stone captures the sun’s orange light.

Another highlight is the town’s Swabian Castle, an imposing fortress that evokes tales of medieval knights and battles of yore. It’s a classic example of medieval military architecture. It features massive stone walls, fortified towers, and a strategic location overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

Trani’s harbor is also enchanting. On a leisurely sunset stroll along the waterfront, you can admire the colorful fishing boats bobbing on the gentle waves, while the lighthouse adds a touch of romanticism to the scene.

For those with a penchant for gastronomy, Trani is a true foodie paradise. There are a remarkable six Michelin-starred restaurants featuring delectable seafood.

But Trani’s allure doesn’t stop there. The town’s golden sand beaches invite visitors to unwind and revel in the Mediterranean sunshine. You can also visit the nearby Castel del Monte, a UNESCO-listed site.

For more information, here’s my one day in Trani itinerary .

Top Experiences In Trani:

• city walking tour
• private walking tour with wine tasting
• walking tour with olive oil tasting
• Castel del Monte tour from Trani

5 . Barletta

Barletta is a charming town on the coast full of life. It’s considered a city of art and there’s plenty to do in this beautiful place in Puglia.

The town’s Norman-era castle houses the city’s Civic Museum. It’s home to historical artifacts, paintings by regional artists, and a lapidarium.

The Di Nittis picture galley is also worth a visit if you like Impressionism. It’s dedicated to a painter from Barletta that was known by the more famous French Impressionists. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions.

The top church is Barletta is the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher. It’s a Romaneque-Gothic medieval church dating back to the 12th century. Its facade features a rose window and intricate stone carvings.

Inside, you’ll find religious artworks, statues, beautiful frescoes, and treasures from Palestine. Right next to the church is the Colossus of Barletta . It’s considered one of the greatest examples of Byzantine sculpture.

>>> Click here to book a guided our of Barletta

6. Molfetta

Molfetta is a beautiful place to visit in Puglia located between Bari and Barletta. The seaside town exudes a unique charm, captivating visitors with its distinct “liquid” main square.

Like many villages in Puglia, Molfetta has seen centuries of history and art. The historic center stands on a small promontory called St. Andrew’s island.

It’s a warren of charming streets and cafes. In the center is the Passari Tower. From the top, you have stunning views of the Adriatic.

On the edge of the centro storico stands a majestic 13th century cathedral. It has distinctive twin bell towers that rise almost 130 feet. Inside is a unique nave with three aligned domes of different sizes.

Next to the cathedral is a splendid port. You’ll find a large lighthouse and a series of shipyards that have survived since the Middle Ages.

Molfetta is also home to crystal clear waters and free public beaches. The best one is Cala San Giacomo. There are also plenty of private lidos offering up water activities.

7. Cisternino

Nestled in the picturesque region of Puglia, Cisternino is another must visit in Puglia. It’s a charming town that exudes rustic beauty and a relaxed vibe.

Cisternino exudes old world charm, with lovely whitewashed buildings, narrow winding streets, and traditional stone houses. As you wander through the town’s historic center, you’ll discover enchanting alleyways, quaint squares, and ancient churches.

Head to the main square, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, where locals gather. Grab a seat at one of the charming cafes or trattorias. At History Vignola, you can sample the espresso fredo .

Experience the lively atmosphere of the local market, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and traditional products. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some souvenirs

8. Conversano

Conversano is a charming town in the Bari province. The town is known for its historical significance and architectural beauty.

The town’s historic center is lovely with narrow winding streets, medieval buildings, and a majestic castle.

Built in the 11th century, the Conversano Castle, also known as the Castello Aragonese, is a prominent landmark in the area. It’s a well-preserved medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

The castle is home to a museum complex, the Polo Museale. It houses several different museums, which house archaeological finds, historic artifacts, and contemporary art. The complex often hosts cultural events and exhibitions.

You can also visit the stunning Romanesque Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It has an impressive facade. The interior is quite majestic, with ornate altars, statuary, and chapels.

9. Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is a truly one of the best places to visit in Puglia. it’s a captivating snow-white town that boasts a fantastic centro storico .

Its winding streets are adorned with flowering plants. And, as you explore, you’ll be treated to incredible views of the sparkling Adriatic Sea.

Start your journey on Via Roma, the bustling main street. It’s filled with chic shops, delightful eateries, and gelato shops that will tempt your taste buds.

But the true charm of Polignano lies in its charming backstreets. Here, you’ll find tiny artisan shops and stumble upon poems written on walls and steps.

Polignano a Mare is renowned for its stunning inlets, hidden caves, and picturesque coves along the coastline. The crown jewel is Lama Monachile Beach, located right in the heart of the town.

For a truly unique experience, don’t miss the Grotto Palazzese. It’s an exquisite cave that houses a one-of-a-kind restaurant and 5-star hotel. You can dine within its ancient walls.

You’ll also want to take a leisurely stroll along Lungomare Domenico Modugno or Lungomare Cristofero Columbo. These promenades offer stunning views of the sea.

The Lungomare Domenico Modugno is home to a famous statue honoring the town’s native son, Domenico Modugno. The renowned singer-songwriter transfixed the world with the iconic song Volare .

Top Experiences In Polignano a Mare:

• boat tour of the coastal caves
• catamaran tour
• stand up paddle boarding adventure
• 2 hour walking tour
• day tour of Polignano & Monopoli

10. Monopoli

Monopoli is a less visited place in Puglia, except by beach lovers in the summer. But I really liked its authentic laid back vibe.

The first thing that stands out about Monopoli is its huge historic center. It’s full of ancient squares, noble palaces, and whitewashed houses.

There’s also a large concentration of landmarks and ancient churches. Monopoli Cathedral is an impressive edifice for a small town.

It’s dedicated to the Madonna della Madia, an icon that came from the sea in the 12th century. Inside, you’ll find an ornate Baroque interior with impressive frescos, marble statuary, and a Byzantine altar.

Another important monument in the historic center is the 16th century castle along the harbor. The defensive fortifications were built by Charles V.

Monopoli also boasts beautiful beaches and a picturesque coastline, which are its top draw. You can relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the clear blue sea, or explore the nearby coves and inlets for a more secluded experience.

The harbor area of Monopoli is vibrant and lively, with colorful fishing boats and charming waterfront restaurants. It’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, savor fresh seafood, and soak in the coastal ambiance.

Top Experiences In Monopoli:

• Walking tour of Monopoli
• Private walking tour
• Legends and Gastronomy Tour
• Snorkeling Tour around Monopoli
• Boat tour of sea caves
• sightseeing cruise

Ostuni is an absolute must visit place in Puglia. It’s known as the brilliant “White City” of Puglia. Other towns are positively beige in comparison to Ostuni!

It will transport you to a picturesque setting reminiscent of Greece. Ostuni boasts a captivating old town and several landmarks.

Ostuni Cathedral is an architectural gem with Spanish-influenced Gothic design. It boasts an impressive Venetian-style facade and rose window. Step through its doors to admire the stunning interior adorned with ornate decorations and breathtaking frescoes.

The enchanting old town is the highlight of Ostuni You’ll get lost in whitewashed streets and winding lanes. Every corner comes alive with the vibrant colors of blooming flowers, and friendly felines lazily lounge along the quaint paths. 

Pair a centro storico stroll with a leisurely walk along the city walls. They offer captivating views of the surrounding landscape and an Instagrammable blue door.

Shoppers will enjoy the local artisan shops and boutiques. You’ll find an array of unique handcrafted ceramics, textiles, and souvenirs to bring home a piece of Ostuni’s charm. 

For history enthusiasts, the Archaeological Museum, Museo Archeologico Francesco Ribezzo, has an impressive collection of prehistoric artifacts from the Paleolithic and Neolithic eras. Additionally, the Diocesan Museum, adjacent to the cathedral, showcases a treasure trove of religious and historic artifacts. 

You should also make your way to the vibrant Piazza della Libertà, the heart of Ostuni and its lively “living room.” The triangular square hums with activity. You can say hello to the towering sculpture of St. Oronzo, the town’s patron saint.

Top Experiences In Ostuni:

• Ostuni walking tour
• private tour of Ostuni
• cooking class
• o live oil tasting
• food and wine tasting

12. Brindisi

Brindisi is home to the largest port in Puglia. It’s a major point of embarkation for ferries and cruise ships to Greece and beyond.

In classical times, the city marked the end of the Via Appia from Rome. The spot is marked by the Colonne Terminali della Via Appia, two ancient Roman columns.

Today, Brindisi contains a number of attractions that make it worth visiting. The top sites are the Church of San Benedetto and the Church of San Giovani al Sepolcro.

San Benedetto is the city’s cathedral. It’s a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Step inside to admire the intricate details and beautiful interior.

The Sepolcro was built by the Knights Templar around 1000. It’s a unique round church. The church is a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic elements.

History buffs should also head to the Museo Archeologico Provinciale F. Ribezzo on the Piazza Duomo. The museum is housed in the 17th century Palazzo Ribezzo, a beautiful building in itself.

The museum’s exhibits include artifacts from prehistoric times to the Roman period. Displays include ancient pottery, statues, mosaics, jewelry, and relics from various archaeological sites and necropolises around Brindisi.

>>> Click here to book a guided tour of Brindisi

13. Castel del Monte

Castel del Monte is one of the most famous landmarks in Italy and a must visit destination in Puglia. It was built in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II.

The castle is known for its unique for its octagonal shape, with eight towers at its eight vertices. The innovative architectural design blends elements of Gothic, Romanesque, and Islamic styles.

The architecture has given rise to various legends about the castle. Some claim it was a place of initiation. Others say it’s in the shape of the emperors crown. Still others claim it once housed the Holy Grail.

Whether the stories are true or not, they indicate how much this beautiful place in Puglia was admired by all.

You can only visit the castle by reservation. Only 30 people are allowed in at one time. The car park is a mile away, but there is a shuttle bus.

>>> Click here to book a guided tour

14. Altamura

Altamura is a town in the Murgia region nicknamed the “Lioness of Apuglia.” The town has ancient origins, with evidence of human presence dating back to the Paleolithic era. The area has been inhabited by various civilizations, including the Peucetians, ancient Greeks, and Romans.

Altamura was the site of an incredible discovery — a well-preserved skeleton of a Neanderthal man, known as the “Man of Altamura.” A team of speleologists and paleontolists made the find in 1993.

It was discovered in the Grotta di Lamalunga, a limestone cave near Altamura. The discovery marked a significant finding in the field of paleontology. And a museum circuit has sprung up around this find.

The Lamalunga Visitor Center gives you an overview and history of the Altamura Man. The Palazzo Baldassare has a full scale reconstruction of the place where the skeleton was found. And the National Archaeological Museum covers a historical path from the Stone Ages to the Middle Ages.

Apart from the museums, Altamura is home to a splendid medieval cathedral, built on the orders of Frederick II. The cathedral is a stunning example of Apulian Romanesque architecture.

The interior has a Latin cross layout with three naves and several chapels. One of the main highlights inside the cathedral is the “Altare delle Stimmate” (Altar of Stigmata), a magnificent work of art created by the sculptor Stefano da Putignano in the 16th century.

Altamura’s historic center is known as Città Vecchia . It’s a dream to wander. It consists of a set of small cobbled streets, squares, and 80 cloisters. It features well-preserved Medieval and Renaissance architecture.

15. Grotte de Castellana

The grotto is a vast network of caves. It’s over 11,000 feet long and over 400 feet deep.

It was carved over the centuries by water pouring through limestone. It’s just 11 miles from Alberobello.

A long tunnel leads to the the Grave. It’s a huge chamber lit by a skylight, through which streaks of sun enter. The eerie light has given rise to all sorts of spooky legends about demons and lost souls.

From the Grave, a series of paths take you to other underground rooms, filled with stalagmites and stalactites. At the end is the Grotta Bianca. It’s a gleaming white cave with alabaster rock formations.

Visits are only by guided tour. Bring an extra layer of clothing because the grotto is chilly year round.

16. Alberobello

Alberobello is a captivating town and must visit place in Puglia. It’s world famous for its unique and enchanting trulli houses. Most date from the 16th to 19th centuries.

You can’t come to Puglia without seeing them! These traditional dry stone dwellings with conical roofs create a fairytale-like atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else.

As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll be surrounded by clusters of trulli. Each one is adorned with white symbols and religious motifs, adding to the town’s distinctive charm.

Alberobello’s main trulli district, known as Rione Monti, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true architectural wonder.

But the trulli aren’t just for show. Many locals still call them home, giving visitors a glimpse into the town’s traditional way of life.

Be sure to visit the Trullo Sovrano, the only two story trullo in Alberobello, It now serves as a museum, providing insights into the trullo’s history and construction techniques.

Alberobello is exceeding popular and can be very crowded in high season. For the best experience, come at off peak hours or stay overnight in a trulli hotel.

Top Experiences In Alberobello:

• guided walking tour  
• guided food tour
• e-bike tour with foccacia tasting

17. Martina Franca

Martina Franca is a lively town with a pretty historic center. It’s a mix of Baroque finery and whitewashed lanes. The town was founded in the 10th century by coastal residents fleeing Saracen attacks along the Adriatic Sea.

When you arrive, park outside the historic center on Bia Giuseppe Aprile or Via Verdi. The town’s two main squares are Piazza Plebiscito and Piazza Immacolata. The Main Street is Via Cavour.

In the former, you’ll find the Basilica of San Marino. The facade is richly adorned with Baroque relief sculptures depicting episodes form the life of St. Martin.

In Piazza Immacolata, stop in at a centuries old landmark, Caffe Tripoli. The specialty here is granita di caffe , espresso with whipped cream.

> >> Click here to book a Baroque and Rococo walking tour of Martina Franca

18. Locorotondo

Locorotondo is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Puglia. The cheerful small town makes a nice stop while driving from Alberobello to Ostuni.

Locorotondo means “round place” and you can see why. The town consists of a ring of bright white houses with pointed gable roofs called cummerse .

In the historic center, streets of light colored stone are flanked by white houses. They hug the contours of the hilltop in near perfect concentric circles. Surrounding them are the old protective walls.

Locorotondo is home to some lovely Baroque churches. You can see the domes rising above the rooftops.

One of the most notable churchesis the Church of St. George the Martyr (Chiesa di San Giorgio Martire). This church features a Baroque facade with intricate architectural details and decorative elements typical of the Baroque style.

Locorotondo is also famous for its white wine. You can sample it in any of the local bars and restaurants in town.

>>> Click here to book a guided tour of Locorontondo

The charming town of Noci is nestled in the picturesque Murgia region. Surrounded by rolling countryside and dotted with walnut trees, Noci offers travelers an authentic Italian experience.

Noci boasts quaint streets, well-preserved architecture, elegant palazzi, and rustic stone houses. Its historical landmarks, like the elegant Chiesa Madre and the beautiful Church of Santa Maria della Croce, reveal a rich cultural heritage.

The locals in Noci are known for their warm hospitality, making visitors feel right at home. As you explore the town, don’t miss the chance to indulge in the local culinary delights, from mouthwatering almond-based pastries to the finest regional wines.

Noci’s strategic location in the Murgia area also makes it an excellent starting point or base for discovering nearby attractions like Alberobello and Locorotondo.

Lecce is a sophisticated city that combines Baroque architecture, urban elegance, and typically southern Italian charm.

The handsome historic center is clad in an irresistibly warm golden limestone. The buttery limestone proved easy to carve. As a result, Lecce is an extravaganza of Baroque excess with intricately decorated churches and palaces.

Start your explorations of this must visit place in Puglia at Piazza Sant’Oronzo. There, you’ll find a 2nd century Roman column called Colonna Romano. It’s topped with a statue of the saint.

In the south side of the piazza there are ruins of a 1st century Roman amphitheater. Nearby is Lecce’s Roman Theater.

To the west of the piazza is a string of amazing Baroque churches. To get an eyeful of their facades, follow Via Vittorio Emanuele and its continuation, Via Giuseppe Libertini, past the Duomo.

You’ll pass the Chiesa di Sant’Irene, the Chiesa di Santa Theresa, and the Basilica di San Giovanni Battista.

But Lecce’s piece de resistance is the Basilica of Santa Croce, where the Barocco Leccese hits fever pitch. Designed by Italian architect Riccardo Zimbalo, the facade is crammed with goddesses, lions, angels, and sea creatures.

You should also admire the Duomo. Lecce’s cathedral stands in an enclosed square, a dramatic setting. The chiseled facade was reworked by a student of Zimbalo.

Top experiences In Lecce:

• architecture and underground tour
• pasta & tiramisu class
• Salento day tour

21. Otranto

Otranto is the easternmost city in Italy. It’s a coastal town of Greco-Mesapian origin, dating from the 8th century. Two colors dominate here — the turquoise blue of the sea and the gleaming white of the old quarter.

The most famous landmark is the formidable 11th century Otranto Cathedral. It boasts a stunning floor mosaic of the Tree of Life .

It was created in the 1160s by the artist-monk Pantleone. You will recognize some famous characters such as Adam and Eve, Noah, King Arthur, and Alexander the Great.

Another thing to see in Otranto is the Aragnese Castle. It’s a 15th century sea-facing castle surrounded in part by a moat. Today, the castle hosts temporary exhibitions.

To envision Otranto’s past, simply follow the path of the historic city walls that encircle the old town. These walls date back to a somber chapter in the 15th century when they were erected after a devastating siege.

>>> Click here to book a walking tour of Otranto

22. Cave of Poetry

The Cave of Poetry is in the province of Lecce in the southern part of the Salento peninsula. It’s a natural sinkhole with crystal-clear turquoise waters. It was formed by the erosion of limestone over time.

It’s become a popular swimming, diving, and cliff jumping spot. It’s a rare chance to swim in waters surrounded by rocky cliffs.

To swim in the Grotta della Poesia, there are two options. The first option is to take a leap of faith jump from the edge of the cliff. The second option involves descending a relatively narrow and sometimes slippery staircase carved into the rock.

Bring some cash becasue there’s a entrance fee and you’ll need to pay for parking.

23. Gallipoli

Gallipoli is an eye catching seaside town. Its wave washed old town is located on an island and connected to the mainland via a bridge. It’s a fetching labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming squares

The star attractions of the old town are the Angevin Castle and the Basilica of St. Agatha. There are 17 most Baroque churches and monasteries, some connected by secret tunnels.

The castle was constructed during the Angevin rule in the 13th century, serving as a defensive stronghold against various invaders. It features a robust and imposing medieval design, complete with thick stone walls, watchtowers, and battlements.

The Basilica of St. Agatha in Gallipoli features an elegant Baroque-style facade, adorned with decorative elements and statues that add to its visual appeal.

The interior of the basilica is equally impressive. It boasts a grand nave, high vaulted ceilings, and ornate altars that showcase intricate religious artwork. One of the highlights is the veneration of Saint Agatha’s relics, which are preserved within the church.

Gallipoli is, naturally, also known for its beaches. The Purity Beach is located at the foot of the old town. Other sandy beaches include the Baia Verde and the Spiaggia Degli Innamorati or “Lover’s Beach.”

>>> Click here to book a day trip from Lecce to Otranto and Gallipoli

24. Taranto

Like Brindisi, Taranto has a long and distinguished history. Though it’s now a major port and was bombed during WWII, its ancient heart survives. The city is home to many wonderful churches, quaint lanes, and an imposing fortress.

Taranto’s Duomo is largely unchanged since the 11th century. Officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of San Cataldo, this Romanesque-style cathedral is an architectural gem. The highlight is the Chapel of San Cataldo.

The old town is a warren of old, crumbling streets. And the fish market on Via Cariata is a must visit.

The market in Taranto is typically held in the early mornings, starting around dawn, when the fishermen bring in their fresh catches from the sea. It’s a lively and colorful affair, where you can purchase fish, shellfish, octopus, squid, and more.

The Museo Nazionale or MARTA on Via Cavour may be Taranto’s top attraction. In southern Italy, it’s second only to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples . It houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Magna Graecia period, including ancient Greek pottery and sculptures.

>>> Click here to book a guided history tour of Taranto

Matera is a captivating city in Italy’s Basilicata region. It’s also part of Murgia and considered a must-visit spot on any Puglia itinerary .

Matera is all about its enchanting caves called sassi . Over 9,000 years old, it’s the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city.

You’ll find around 3,000 cave houses and 150 cave churches in the town. In the past, when these dwellings fell into ruin and people faced poverty, Matera was labeled the “Shame of Italy.” But today, it proudly stands restored as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

There are two sassi districts, Barisano and Caveoso. Follow the signs, and you’ll be on the main route, Strada Panoramica dei Sassi. The districts are a vertical maze of lanes and stairways.

Don’t miss the remarkable rock cave churches. Santa Maria di Idris, for example, is a stunning example from the 10th century, with beautiful medieval frescoes inside and two viewpoints.

For a unique experience, visit the nearby Casa-Grotto di Vico Solaria. It’s a cave museum where you can explore former living quarters for donkeys and pigs, getting a glimpse into the town’s past.

Matera has more to offer with fascinating museums like MUSMA (contemporary sculpture), Museo Nazionale Ridola (archaeological finds), and Museo d’Arte Medievale e Moderna (sacred and contemporary art).

Top Experiences In Matera:

• book a walking tour of the sassi
• book a private tour
• food and wine tour
• tour of the rock churches
• ticket for Sasso Caveoso
• Matera Pass

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the most beautiful places to visit in Puglia. For more information on where to eat, stay, and play in Puglia, you can check out my one week in Puglia itinerary .

You may also enjoy these other southern Italy travel guides and resources:

• 10 Days in Southern Italy Itinerary
• One Week Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• 7 Ways To Spend 5 Days on the Amalfi Coast
• One Day In Naples Itinerary
• 3 Days In Naples Itinerary
• One Day In Bari Itinerary
• One Day in Monopoli Itinerary
• One Day In Ostuni Itinerary
• One Day In Polignano a Mare itinerary
• 2 Days In Ravello itinerary
• 2 Days In Capri itinerary
• Ultimate Guide To Pompeii

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Last Updated on July 31, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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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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• Puglia Travel Guide

Top Places to visit in Puglia

With so many beaches, art cities, Unesco sites and beautiful spots it's hard to narrow it down to just fifteen not-to-be-missed places during a holiday in Puglia.

• Castel del Monte - World Heritage Site in Andria
• Monopoli and Castellana Caves
• Salento Peninsula
• Gargano Promontory and Vieste
• Tremiti Islands
• Alberobello - The Trulli Town
• Itria Valley
• Polignano a Mare
• Santa Maria di Leuca
• Gravine di Puglia

1) Castel del Monte - World Heritage Site in Andria

Castel del Monte is one of the most mysterious places in Italy and, absolutely, a Puglia place worth visiting. Built around 1240 by Federico II, the castle is situated on the peak of an isolated hill in Andria  overlooking the Murgia Valley on one side, and with a sweeping view of the Adriatic Sea on the other. It is characterized by an unusual octagon shape with octagonal towers at each corner. In 1996, UNESCO included Castel del Monte on their World Heritage list for its outstanding universal value as much for its architectural beauty as for the mystery that still surrounds it.

Suggested hotels  around Andria: Lama di Luna

2) Monopoli and Castellana Caves

Monopoli is a small Apulia town whose historical and natural beauty never fails to capture the hearts of travelers. Its old town boasts 19 medieval churches and countless cobblestone alleys. Furthermore, just a few km from Monopoli, sitting in a location with amazing geological features, you can find Castellana Grotte’s stunning rock formations and unique stalactites. The Grotte di Castellana began to form about 90 million years ago and it is one of the most important attractions of Puglia and natural heritage of inestimable value to Italy.

Suggested hotels  around Monopoli: Il Melograno , Don Ferrante Dimore di Charme , Bellavista Suite Charming BB , Boutique BB Playa del Mar

3) Bari - The old town

Bari , the capital of Puglia, is a bustling, well-known port and university city. It is located on the Adriatic Sea and boasts great architecture, stunning churches, a nice seaside promenade and a very interesting historic center with narrow, winding streets and a castle on one side. It is also an off-the-beaten-path destination boasting spectacular gems.

Suggested hotels around Bari: Dogana Resort , CalaPonte Hotel

4) Salento Peninsula

Salento is most southern part of Puglia, home to small and charming towns as Gallipoli , Otranto , Lecce , Santa Maria di Leuca. Some of the best beaches in Puglia , and even in Italy, can be found on the Salento Peninsula: take a day trip along a variety of nearby sea resorts including Porto Cesareo, Torre Lapillo, the Alimini beach and the stunning “Maldive del Salento”. About 20 km from Brindisi, the protected marine area and wildlife reserve Torre Guaceto includes a stretch of coast six kilometers long, characterized by typical Mediterranean landscape ranging from the sea to sand dunes, Mediterranean scrub and marshes, bordered by centuries-old olive groves.

Suggested hotels in Salento: Vivosa Apulia Resort , Masseria Li Foggi , Le Dune Suite Hotel , Grand Hotel Riviera

5) Gargano Promontory and Vieste

The Gargano promontory is one of the most naturally diverse areas in all of Puglia. Jutting into the Adriatic Sea in Foggia province, it is sometimes described as the spur on the heel of the Italian boot. While much of the inland of Gargano is covered by a national park, the Foresta Umbra, along the coast you can find golden sandy beaches and little historical towns. Vieste , one of the most popular summer destination in Puglia, is a small, steep, cobbled town, spilling down the hillside above the sea on the eastern coastline of the Gargano.

Suggested hotels in the Gargano area: Hotel Il Porto .

6) Tremiti Islands

San Domino, San Nicola, Capraia, Cretaccio and Pianosa are the five tiny islands that make up the Tremitis. It is a small archipelago of rare beauty in the Adriatic Sea in the province of Foggia and a renowned tourist destination because of the clear seas and the beauty both above and below water. The islands are indeed a very popular diving destination because of the numerous coves and underwater caves in the archipelago’s waters. The Tremiti islands' tourist season runs from May to October, though a handful of hotels and restaurants are open year-round.

Suggested hotels near Tremiti Islands: Hotel Il Castellino Relais , Masseria La Chiusa delle More

7) Alberobello - The Trulli Town

Also known as the Trulli Town , Alberobello was named a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1996 because it is an exceptional example of a form of building construction deriving from prehistoric techniques that have survived intact and are still functioning in the modern world. A “Trullo” is indeed a small limestone house, made with drywall, roughly worked limestone boulders collected from neighboring fields and topped with a conical roof. The Trulli are typical of Alberobello, but you can find some great examples also in Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Cisternino and Fasano.

Suggested hotels in Alberobello: Le Alcove , Abate Masseria and Resort , Nina Trulli Resort

8) Lecce - The gem of the Salento peninsula

Often labelled as the Florence of the South . Due to the many Baroque monuments which can be found here, Lecce is also best known as a Baroque city. It boasts a marvelous historical centre, numerous churches and squares, such as St. Mary of Providence, the stunning Addolorata Square and Basilica of the Saint Cross. One of the most striking aspects of Lecce, is the Lecce stone (or pietra leccese) which has been used to construct buildings of the old town. Furthermore, Lecce is definitely a place to indulge in some delicious typical dishes, such as the “rustico leccese”.

Suggested hotels around Lecce: Mantatelure Dimora Esclusiva , Acaya Golf Resort and Spa

9) Itria Valley

Located in the heart of Puglia, this fertile valley spreads over the Province of Bari , Brindisi and Taranto . It is characterized by a flourishing vegetation and a large amount of olive groves, from which they obtain one of the most delicious Italian olive oil. The Itria Valley is also famous for the trulli, the secret masserias and the vineyards from which they obtain high quality white wine.

Suggested hotels in the Itria Valley: Borgo Eganzia , Masseria Cimino , Masseria Torre del Diamante

10) Ostuni - La Città Bianca

Settled in the province of Brindisi , Ostuni is also called the White City because of the low houses and narrow streets characterized by limestone rocks. The narrow streets and staircases of the old town are filled in history but also full of local and shops that enliven the nightlife. Ostuni and its countryside house also several masserias , ancient farmhouses typical in Southern Italy. Many were abandoned in the late 19th or 20th century, but luckily a lot of them have been snapped up, restored, and turned into wonderful accommodations.

Suggested hotels in Ostuni: Masseria Cervarolo , Nicolaus Prime Ostuni Rosa Marina Resort , Masseria il Frantoio

11) Otranto

It is situated in the Salento peninsula , on a rockery mass that falls down to the sea. The Aragonese walls surround the village where you will walk down characteristic streets made by stones and you can visit the Romanesque Cathedral with its Renaissance rose window. Do not miss the Castle built up at the end of the 15th century, as request by Alfonso d'Aragona. Outside the city center you can visit Punta Palascìa lighthouse and Grotta dei Cervi.

12) Polignano a Mare

The coast of Polignano a Mare is one of the most beautiful in Puglia. 30 minutes from Bari, it has a jagged coastline with very steep slopes. Its historic city center shows up the signs of the Arab, Byzantine, Spanish and Norman cultures, all places that we recommend you to visit, along with the Matrice Church from the 13th century and the Pino Pascali Museum .

13) Santa Maria di Leuca

Renowned seaside place in the southernmost part in Salento, it’s much appreciated by the tourists. The coast of Santa Maria di Leuca is very jagged and made of white rocks and natural caves. A beautiful white lighthouse overlooks the bay and just at its foot stands the Basilica of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae . Along the sea front, there are some elegant noble buildings and liberty-style villas and you’d also see the ending part of the Apulian Aqueduct with a fascinating impressive waterfall.

14) Gallipoli

Gallipoli is a seaside town that is situated along the coast of Salento, and is divided into two areas: the old Town, perched on a limestone island, and the new village, connected to the island by a bridge. In the old part of the town you can see the Fontana Greca, a monument of Renaissance origin, the Cattedrale di Sant'Agata one of the greatest examples of Baroque in Salento, the Church of Santa Maria della Purità with a beautiful majolica floor. Finally, you will admire the Castle of Gallipoli, a defensive stronghold belonging to the old Town along with its Torre del Rivellino.

15) Gravine di Puglia

It is a town nearby the city of Bari, located in the Alta Murgia National Park area. The Gravine are rocks shaped by the erosion of the water that has carved the limestone rock. They can reach a depth of over 100 meters and are very similar to the Canyons. There are rivers flowing at the bottom of the Gravine, they can become torrents that may further sculpt the rock, as they flow by. Thanks to the presence of these watercourses and natural caves located on the rock walls, several populations settled over the years, making these places their houses or using them for defensive purposes.

Informations on Puglia

Discovering Hidden Gems: Puglia’s Best Off-the-Radar Destinations

With its azure seas, whitewashed towns, and abundant olive groves, the Italian region of Puglia has become a must-visit destination for discerning travelers. Yet, beyond its well-known attractions, Puglia offers a wealth of lesser-known destinations ripe for exploration. This blog post illuminates the region’s hidden gems, guiding you on an unforgettable journey off the beaten path.

Why Puglia? What makes it unique?

Puglia, located in Italy’s southeastern tip, is a land bathed in sunlight, steeped in history, and brimming with natural and cultural treasures. Yet, its charm lies not only in its iconic destinations like Alberobello and Lecce but also in its lesser-known locales, where authentic experiences and unexpected discoveries abound.

Here are a few quick facts about Puglia:

• It’s known as the “heel” of Italy’s “boot”.
• It’s one of the largest olive oil-producing regions in Italy.
• It’s home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Alberobello and Castel del Monte.

Puglia’s Best Off-the-Radar Destinations

Let us now delve into four of Puglia’s most stunning off-the-radar destinations.

Locorotondo

Locorotondo, known for its circular structure, is a stunning hilltop town overlooking the Itria Valley. It’s a place where time seems to have stood still, with its whitewashed houses, narrow winding streets, and charming piazzas.

Must-visit Attractions in Locorotondo:

• Church of Saint George the Martyr
• Morelli Palace
• Locorotondo’s Historical Center

Local Cuisines and Specialties:

• Capocollo: A type of cured pork meat.
• Locorotondo DOC white wine

Polignano a Mare

Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare is a sight to behold. Its quaint old town, dramatic coastal cliffs, and deep blue waters make it a truly enchanting destination.

Must-visit Attractions in Polignano a Mare:

• Lama Monachile Beach
• Statue of Domenico Modugno
• Polignano a Mare’s Old Town
• Seafood dishes

Nestled in the Itria Valley, Cisternino is a gem often overlooked by travelers. Its beautiful old town, characterized by winding alleys and white houses adorned with flowers, offers a quiet charm and a step back in time.

Must-visit Attractions in Cisternino:

• Church of San Nicola
• Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II
• Cisternino’s Historical Center
• Bombette: A type of rolled meat dish.
• Orecchiette pasta

Otranto is a historic seaside town on Puglia’s easternmost point. With its beautiful beaches, impressive castle, and vibrant old town, Otranto is a destination that truly encapsulates Puglia’s allure.

Must-visit Attractions in Otranto:

• Otranto Cathedral
• Aragonese Castle of Otranto
• Otranto’s Old Town
• Pesce fritto (fried fish)
• Taralli: A type of Italian snack food.

Unique Experiences in Puglia’s Hidden Gems

Visiting these off-the-radar destinations in Puglia not only offers the chance to discover beautiful locales, but also to engage in unique experiences that provide a deeper understanding of the region’s culture and way of life. Here are a few experiences not to be missed:

• Participating in local festivals and events, such as the Feast of San Giuseppe in Polignano a Mare or the Festival of the Patron Saint in Locorotondo.
• Engaging in unique outdoor activities, such as cycling through the olive groves, hiking along the coastal paths, or boating in the Adriatic Sea.
• Savoring authentic culinary experiences, such as tasting the local olive oil, sampling the region’s wines, or learning how to make traditional Puglian dishes.

Practical Tips for Visiting Puglia

To make the most of your visit to Puglia’s off-the-radar destinations, here are a few practical tips:

• Best time to visit:  While Puglia is beautiful year-round, the best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer.
• How to get around:  The best way to explore Puglia is by car, which allows you to easily reach the region’s lesser-known destinations and discover its beautiful landscapes at your own pace.
• Local customs and etiquette:  When visiting Puglia, respect local customs and traditions. For example, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and try to learn a few basic Italian phrases.

Puglia’s off-the-radar destinations offer a wealth of experiences that go beyond the usual tourist trails. From the charming hilltop towns to the stunning coastal locales, these hidden gems offer a glimpse into the authentic Puglia, where tradition, culture, and natural beauty converge in an unforgettable tableau.

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16 Best Places in Puglia Italy You Must Visit

Puglia Italy is a breathtaking region in Italy’s south. Among the best places in Puglia, you’ll find all of what the region has to offer: the crystal-clear waters that you can admire from rocky cliffs or sandy beaches, the lush vegetation of the national parks, and small towns full of art, history, and amazing food.

It’s not surprising that Puglia is one of the most popular destinations in southern Italy. There are so many amazing places to visit, and whatever type of travel you are looking for, Puglia is for you.

From relaxing at the beach to visiting an ancient cathedral, Puglia should definitely be on your destination wishlist!

If you are planning a Puglia itinerary and are wondering about the best places to visit in Puglia Italy, I’ve got you covered. It’s also a region near and dear to my heart because it’s where my husband and his family are from. (Just writing that, I can taste my mother-in-law’s focaccia and panzerotti!)

In this guide, you’ll discover historic towns, beautiful beaches with their crystal clear waters, and countless unique places up and down Puglia’s Adriatic coast to fall in love with.

Where is Puglia Italy?

The teacher in me can’t help but start with a few basics. So, let’s first cover some practical information about this region of Italy, as well as helpful Puglia tips so you can plan a successful trip.

In Italy, Puglia is affectionately called the “heel of the boot” (in Italian “il tacco dello stivale”) because of its position.

Imagine Italy’s boot shape, and Puglia is located in the southeastern part, the heel. The region is bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the east and the Ionian Sea to the southeast.

Below you’ll find a map of Puglia in Italy with the places mentioned in this guide starred.

Puglia was first colonized by the Mycenaean Greeks who called it Iapygía (hence ‘Apulia’) for the presence of the three main Iapygian tribes that inhabited the region during the first millennium BC. This makes Apulia Italy an archaeological gem: a fantastic reason to visit it if you’re a history-lover like me!

Airports in Puglia

Puglia’s capoluogo (capital city) is Bari, which will likely be the starting point of your trip because the international airport is located here – the other one is further south in Brindisi.

There are no direct flights to Bari from the U.S. However, many carriers offer direct flights to Rome and Milan, as well as other European cities like Paris, Frankfurt, and Zurich making connections to Bari Airport quite simple. To reach Brindisi Airport, there are similar connections from other European cities.

How to Get Around Puglia

Another element you should keep in mind is transportation. Unfortunately, the Puglia region is not well served by public transportation or high-speed trains. While it’s possible to take a train to Bari from other Italian cities like Rome or Florence, it will be difficult to rely solely on trains or buses to explore the area.

The best solution would be to rent a car (or a motorbike) and to travel around. Finding a car to rent is very easy: both the two main Puglia airports (Bari and Brindisi) offer car rental services.

How Many Days in Puglia

Puglia is not a small region. Two weeks are perfect to see everything this beautiful region has to offer. However, traveling for so long is not always possible. All the places you will find in this post are listed in a way that can be used to create Puglia Italy itineraries if you’ve got 7-10 days free to travel.

If you plan to spend a few days in Puglia as part of your Italy trip, focus on a specific part of Puglia (Gargano, Valle d’Itria, or Salento) to maximize your time. Travelers with limited time tend to focus on the Valle d’Itria and the Bari area. The Salento region has grown in popularity as places like Lecce and some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy have been “discovered” in Puglia.

Of the three areas within Puglia, the Gargano area is the one least effected by mass tourism. So if you’re looking for a more untouched part of Puglia, look no further than the beautiful towns and natural places on the Gargano promontory. Perhaps even take a day trip to the Tremiti Islands.

With a week itinerary in Puglia, you could choose to base yourself in 1 or 2 places and explore from there. The important thing is to balance too much moving from hotel to hotel while also avoiding long tiring drives that eat up big chunks of your day.

What to do in Puglia depends on what you like because the region has a ton to offer. Decide on a few of your must-see and dos, like sightseeing at ancient churches, lounging on white sandy beaches, enjoying wine and olive oil tastings, or visiting the Trulli houses. Then, craft your own Puglia road trip around your interests.

Best Time to Visit Puglia Italy

Given its surge in popularity, Puglia is a busy destination during the summer months. Italians and travelers from all over go to enjoy the sun and sand. Puglia beaches are considered to be among the best in Italy.

My advice is to visit the region during late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October). You will find amazingly warmish weather, while avoiding the bulk of tourists that visit during the high season.

Where to Stay in Puglia

You can break the Puglia region into different areas. The Gargano Peninsula, the Valle d’Itria, and Salento are the northern, central, and southern parts, respectively. There’s also Bari and the immediate seaside towns and villages surrounding it.

If your plan is to explore Puglia from north to south or vice versa, you’ll want a base in each area. This is the best way to maximize your time so you can day trip comfortably and not spend long hours behind the wheel of your car.

In Puglia, you’ll find boutique B&Bs, independent hotels, trulli accommodations, and masserie, characteristic farmhouses that have been restored to offer authentic yet comfortable stays. Many of these masserie are even quite luxurious, with pools, spa services, and, of course, delicious food and wine.

You might even choose to rent your own house in Puglia to relish your own slice of the Italian lifestyle!

Rather than focus on a particular town in Puglia, look for the best Puglia hotels and accommodations that match your style and budget. Then, take day trips within that area before moving on to your next “base.”

That being said, here are some places to start planning your Puglia accommodations.

Best Areas to Stay in Puglia

• Ostuni – Central in the Valle d’Itria making it easy to reach places on both coasts. Plus, you’re right in the middle between Bari and Lecce.
• Martina Franca/Locorotondo/Cisternino – Villages smaller and less busy than Ostuni; perfect for immersing yourself in beautiful countryside setting.
• Monopoli – Best if you want to stay in a small seaside village and experience a bit more of the local vibe. There’s also easy access to Bari and Lecce by train.
• Polignano a Mare – Also on the coast near Monopoli and along the train line connecting Bari and Lecce. Attracts more visitors than nearby Monopoli but comes with some of Puglia’s most iconic seascapes.
• Lecce – If you’re looking for a city vibe in Puglia, you’ve found it. Plenty of places to see and eat; destinations in the Salento area like Gallipoli and Otranto are 30-40 minutes by car.
• Gallipoli – Very pretty old town overlooking the sea; close to some of Puglia’s most gorgeous beaches.
• Vieste – Ideal base in the Gargano area, beaches and a historic town center. As mentioned above, you’ll feel like you’ve found you’re own slice of Italy in this lesser-visited part of Puglia.
• Peschici – High season beach town vibes in an area more visited by locals. Both Vieste and Peschici have ferries to the Tremiti Islands.

16 Best Places in Puglia You Must Visit

Once you arrive in Bari, don’t rush to leave! Stay and explore this beautiful coastal town. The best part to visit is the Old Town, called ‘Bari Vecchia’ in Italian. Within the historic center, there are so many things to do in Bari.

Walk down the narrow streets (or bike to Bari’s main sites with a guide), learn how to make handmade orecchiette , admire the stone walls and the iron balconies, and finally arrive at the sea. Bari’s promenade is decorated with characteristic streetlamps, and it is the best place to sit and have a drink or grab a bite.

The Basilica di San Nicola in Bari dates back to the 1100s and has a striking Romanesque facade. The church is also home to some of the relics of St. Nicholas who is known for his care for children and his generous heart. His legend continues today with the idea of St. Nick bringing toys to good girls and boys.

You will need just a day to see the best of Bari’s historic city center. But if you want to experience something special, I suggest you stay overnight and get up bright and early, to see the city slowly wake up.

It’s truly memorable to see how seafaring people’s lives go on in the morning as if rocked by the waves themselves. Bari Vecchia is a perfect way to start your Puglia trip!

If you plan to spend more than a day/a night in Bari, book a hotel with parking or wait to pick up your rental car until you’re ready to move on. Parking can be tricky in the city center otherwise.

ProTip: I would be remiss not to point out how close you are to the ancient town of Matera when you’re in Bari. It’s only 50 minutes by car to reach this UNESCO World Heritage Site just over the Puglian border in the region of Basilicata. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world and has homes built right out of caves (called sassi) that have been and continue to be lived in and used today. It’s a sight like no other in Italy and throughout the world.

Leaving Bari and proceeding north, you can reach the gorgeous town of Trani within a 45-minute ride. Trani is still a Puglia hidden gem!

Those who don’t have a lot of time to travel in Puglia, often don’t stop here. So, it’s a great way to get off the beaten path…at least while this town remains a secret. (shhh…)

However, Trani is just magical: it is a typical town in the region of Apulia, with its port, the fishermen who are busy catching and selling, and the locals happily going about their daily lives.

The best place to visit? Trani Cathedral, or Cattedrale di San Nicola Pellegrino – its Italian name.

The cathedral is built in the Romanesque architectural medieval style, but it presents an unusual element: a high pointed arch in the passage beneath the bell tower, which renders the cathedral even more majestic.

It is constructed using the Trani’s local pinkish limestone, which makes the visit to the cathedral perfect at sunset when the stone captures the sun’s orange light painting the cathedral with incredible color.

Another Puglia must-see in Trani is the Jewish quarter (the Giudecca), with its maze of streets and its two synagogues, the Sant’Anna and the Scalanova. You can stroll on your own or join a Trani walking tour.

Just 25 minutes from Trani, there is the town of Andria. Andria has three incredible worship sites to visit: Chiesa di Sant’Agostino, Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, and Basilica di Santa Maria dei Miracoli.

The history of the first church is linked to the presence of the Knights Templar, and its construction dates back to the 13th century.

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta is more commonly known as Andria Cathedral. Its original structure was created in the 12th century, but it was reconstructed two centuries later in a Baroque style. Andria cathedral houses the Crypt of the Holy Savior, which contains the tombs of the wives of Emperor Frederick II.

The Santuario di Santa Maria dei Miracoli is located in the main square, Piazza San Pio X. The most stunning element of the church is the ornate ceiling, with the central picture of the Virgin Mary surrounded by gold designs.

When you are done exploring the churches, there is another stop you shouldn’t miss: the Museo del Confetto, a museum entirely dedicated to the making of all kinds of candies and chocolates, but also to the Mucci family’s story and long history of keeping the business running since the 1890s.

4. Alta Murgia National Park

Puglia is known for its beaches and charming towns, but there are immense areas of pristine nature. If you love trekking, or just admiring different plants and trees, and animal species, then the Alta Murgia National Park should be your next stop.

Located a little less than a 40-minute drive from Andria, inside the National Park there is the magnificent Castel del Monte , a gorgeous symmetrical castle on the top of a hill. Legend says that the castle was commissioned by Emperor Frederick II to hide the Holy Grail, once delivered by the Knights Templar.

This iconic castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical significance and unique architectural style.

5. Gargano Peninsula

The spur of the heel of Italy’s boot, the Gargano is an oft-overlooked part of the region of Puglia. It is another green and lush area; most of it is part of the Gargano National Park.

Pine forests, olive groves, limestone cliffs along the coastline, and sandy beaches are what you can experience if you decide to take your trip into the northern part of Puglia Italy.

There are several must-see places on the Gargano Peninsula including the Puglia coastal towns of Vieste and Peschici, and the lovely town of Vico del Gargano, which is considered one of the most gorgeous villages in Italy.

The Vieste coastline is what makes this place a tourist attraction: long beaches and sea caves, and the characteristic Pizzomunno, a massive monolith over 80 feet tall! The Pizzomunno is so popular that it became the symbol of Vieste.

Vieste is full of history, with a central cathedral, a castle, and the typical trabucchi, old fishing contraptions built from wood that look like houses suspended above the water. You can admire the trabucchi in Peschici as well.

Peschici’s historical center is small but breathtaking: white houses and narrow streets that lead up to the Norman Castle from which you have a panoramic view of the Adriatic coastline. But what makes Peschici so popular are its beaches: take a stop at Spiaggia di Calenelle and Spiaggia di Zaiana to make your stay in Peschici simply perfect.

Lastly, the Gargano is also home to more than one sacred place. Monte Sant’Angelo and San Giovanni Rotondo are home to sanctuaries that pilgrims come to pay their respects to St. Michael the Archangel and Padre Pio, respectively. The sanctuary in Monte Sant’Angelo has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site while famed architect Renzo Piano designed the sanctuary in San Giovanni Rotondo.

6. Isole Tremiti

An archipelago of four main islands, located 12 nautical miles from Vieste, the Isole Tremiti (Tremiti Islands) are accessible by ferry boats that run every day. The area of Isole Tremiti is a protected natural marine reserve.

The four islands are: San Domino, San Nicola, Capraia, and Pianosa, with the last two almost completely uninhabited. Close to the island of Capraia, sunk in the crystal-clear water and standing on the seabed, there is the statue of Padre Pio, made by artist Domenico Norcia. It’s a popular site for divers.

The Isole Tremiti hides another surprise: the population speaks the Neapolitan dialect! In fact, in the 18th century, the archipelago was made into a place of exile for prisoners by Ferdinand IV, King of Naples.

When the camps were dismantled half a century later, the new King Ferdinando II of Sicily sent fishermen from Ischia (an island under the administration of Naples) to repopulate the archipelago.

The Isole Tremiti are a real gem of the Adriatic Sea, and visiting them should be included during a trip to Puglia!

Valle d’Itria: The Central Part of Puglia

In this central part of the region, you’ll find a few of the best towns in Puglia. This is where the countryside with its olive groves and vineyards fill the rolling countryside.

As you decide where to go in Puglia, you’ll undoubtedly have quite a few places to explore in the Valle d’Itria whether you’re looking for wine, local food, Trulli, and/or spectacular panoramas of the landscape.

7. Polignano a Mare

From a walk outside Abbazia di San Vito, a stop at Domenico Modugno Statue, and a selfie in the famous Cala Porto (also known as Lama Monachile), Polignano a Mare cannot be skipped if you are traveling to Puglia, Italy!

Polignano is a poetic destination – quite literally: numerous verses by famous poets are painted on stairs, entry doors, and the façades of the homes.

Equally magical is the Rock of the Hermit (also called Island of San Paolo), a giant rock located 320 yards from the coast on top of which stands an iron cross placed there by the missionaries.

If you have time, experience Polignano’s natural beauty along the coast by boat to explore the sea caves and catch a glimpse of the famous Grotta Palazzese, the restaurant set inside a cave!

8. Monopoli

The town of Monopoli is less known among tourists, but stopping here is a must. Monopoli encapsulates the contrast between the pleasing whitewashed houses with the turquoise waters of the Adriatic sea.

Its centro storico has the typical maze of narrow streets that make walking around so special, the squares and promenade are dotted with restaurants that serve delicious food, and the coast is full of hidden bays and coves.

As a less touristy town, Monopoli is the perfect place to visit if you are planning your trip to Puglia during the busy summer months.

9. Alberobello

You can’t say you have visited Puglia if you don’t see a trullo! The trullo is the traditional white, cone-shaped house of farmers. Trulli (in its plural form) are constructed by using the drywall technique, which is still in use in Puglia.

The absolute best place to admire trulli is the town of Alberobello. The modern part of the city embraces the old town, called Rione Monti, where the trulli are located.

One of the most fascinating trulli is the Trullo Sovrano, located behind the Church of Santi Medici Cosma e Damiano. This is the only trullo with two floors, and today hosts a small museum.

Next, you should visit the most iconic trullo, the one that you can see in countless pictures on the Internet: the Trullo Siamese, the only conical roof home with two centrally joined domes.

ProTip: Arrive early if you can to avoid the tour buses that begin arriving around 10 a.m.

10 & 11. Ostuni and Locorotondo

Ostuni is the whitest town you can find in Puglia. A shiny pearl nestled in the heart of Valle d’Itria that has been subsequently nicknamed the “White City.” The reddish soil and the intense green and brown of the secular olive trees of the countryside, paired with the deep blue-green of the sea, make Ostuni one of the most spectacular places you will ever visit.

The Valle d’Itria offers countless places to explore. Besides Ostuni, a must-see in Puglia is Locorotondo, known for being among the “Borghi più belli d’Italia” (which means one of the most beautiful villages in Italy). Locorotondo is just another reason why you will fall in love with Puglia!

ProTip: Nearby Martina Franca is another gorgeous stop if you’re touring Valle d’Itria villages. Both Locorotondo and Martina Franca are unforgettable lunch stops.

12. Exploring the Salento: Lecce

Salento is the name given by the locals to the southern part of Puglia. It makes the “heel” of Italy, and it’s a breathtaking area to travel to. One of the main cities in the area is Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South”.

Located 30 minutes by car from Brindisi Airport, Lecce is a gorgeous example of the richness of the baroque architecture. Intricate details embroider every corner of the city, and its streets and buildings will leave you speechless. There are walking tours , too, that can help you learn more about this southern Italian gem!

Lecce is a great starting point if you are planning a trip to Salento and absolutely one of the best places to visit in Puglia.

13. Roca Vecchia and Grotta della Poesia

Only a half-hour south of Lecce, there is the seaside town of Roca Vecchia.

Here, you will find a very special place: Grotta della Poesia, a cave immersed in turquoise waters. The cave is situated in a protected area, the Oasi di Roca Vecchia, that is becoming more and more popular.

The Grotta della Poesia is considered one of the most beautiful natural pools in the world. It’s name is a bit of a romantic legend: once there was a princess who used to bathe in the cave, and her beauty was so stunning that it inspired the verses of many many poets (in fact, the word “poesia” means poetry).

Whatever the origins of its name, the Grotta della Poesia is one of the best places in Puglia you can visit! Just a warning: if you go there in July and August, the peaks of the summer season, get ready to find the spot very busy!

14. Otranto

Proceeding south, a must-see place is for sure spectacular Otranto.

This small town has all the elements that characterize a typical Apulian city: the narrow streets, the white houses, several churches and the cathedral, the clear blue sea, and lots of restaurants, bars, and cafes.

But Otranto is in a special location: the city overlooks the strait of Otranto, the body of water that connects the Adriatic Sea with the Ionian Sea. This position makes Otranto really special!

Here you can find two different types of beaches, sandy on the Adriatic part and rocky on the Ionian.

There are plenty of other reasons to visit Otranto, too. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its centro storico (the old town) and its medieval castle.

The Castle of Otranto is a huge building, with three round towers, and an imposing bastion that almost reaches the dock area. This castle also inspired the first-ever gothic novel, written by Horace Walpole in 1764, titled The Castle of Otranto.

Without a doubt, of all the Puglia best places, Otranto is among the top spots to visit!

And right outside of Otranto, there are two more gems you should go to: the Bauxite Cave and Punta Palascìa lighthouse.

The Bauxite Cave is only six minutes by car from the city center. As the name suggests, it was a cave used for the extraction of bauxite. The main characteristic of this sedimentary rock is its bright reddish color, which creates a Martian-like landscape.

The color of the rocks is the perfect frame for the water basin inside the cave, making the emerald green waters shine. The Bauxite Cave is still not known among tourists, so it’s a magical place to visit during your trip.

The other special location you can easily access from Otranto is the Punta Palascìa lighthouse. The site is the most easterly point of Italy, where the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea meet.

15. Santa Maria di Leuca

One of the most popular places in the Salento area, Santa Maria di Leuca is located at the Southern end of Italy’s heel.

The city has been a holiday destination since the 1900s, where the richest Pugliesi (as the people who live in Puglia are named) built stunning villas in the Liberty style that you can still admire on the promenade.

The name Santa Maria di Leuca traces the city’s history. Leuca derives from the Greek leukos, which means “bright”, while the name Santa Maria refers to the Basilica-Santuario Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae, named as such because, for the Romans, Leuca was the site where the land ended.

Not far from the Basilica, also known as the Church of Cristo Re, there is the lighthouse. Constructed in the 19th century, it is more than 150 feet tall and is shaped like an octagon. Overlooking the sea, it is one of the most impressive sights in town.

The sea is another reason to visit Santa Maria di Leuca. From the town, you can sail the Salento’s Coast to explore its legendary sea caves. Leuca has a myriad of marvelous caves: the Cave of the Three Doors, the Devil’s Cave, the Lovers Cave… you are truly spoiled for choice!

Music is another important part of the Santa Maria di Leuca and Salento experience. If you visit during feast day celebrations, you will notice that everyone dances pizzica, the traditional folk dance. The pizzica (which means bite) is similar to the well-known tarantella. It is a fast-paced partner dance with a long history.

Traditionally both pizzica and tarantella were performed by women as attempts to get rid of the venom of the bite of a tarantula spider if they were bitten while working in the agricultural fields.

Don’t you worry if you don’t know the steps of the dance: grab a bandana and join the crowd… the irresistible music will do the rest!

16. Gallipoli

Gallipoli is probably the most touristic place in Salento, and rightly so. Called “the pearl of the Ionian”, Gallipoli is famous for its spectacular sandy beaches and its legendary nightlife – that starts being “legendary” in the late afternoon!

The spot to be if you want to have the night of your life? Definitely Samsara Beach!

To avoid the crowds of young people, I suggest visiting Gallipoli in the off-season to really enjoy the beauty of this town and the surrounding area.

Gallipoli’s Old Town is placed on an island connected to the mainland via a bridge, which makes walking around a real adventure. The contrast of looking at both the Old Town and the modern part on the other side of the bridge will make you wonder if you’re still in the same city!

Not far from Gallipoli (at a maximum 40-minutes ride), there are some of the most beautiful places in the Salento area: Punta della Suina , Porto Selvaggio , Porto Cesaro , and one of the best beaches in Puglia and all of Italy, the sensational Punta Prosciutto !

So, What are the Best Places to Visit in Puglia?

Whether you are thinking of taking a trip to Puglia or you have already booked your plane ticket, there are countless amazing Puglia destinations you can visit. You simply can’t go wrong.

A land kissed by the shining sun and the breeze of two different seas, and painted with the colors red, blue, green, and white, visiting Puglia will be an unforgettable and authentic Italian experience.

What questions do you have about the best places in Puglia Italy to visit?

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4 thoughts on “16 best places in puglia italy you must visit”.

Beautiful place

Thanks for reading. It sure is! 🙂

If you only have 3 days which Town would you recomend me. I’m thinking in go to Lecce, one day for the city, another day to go to the beach and coast sightseeing and the other day go to Trani or Bari, but I wish I could stop at Alberobello. We probably won’t rent a car because they are expensive, we will move by train or bus. But we want to rent a vespa or scooter at Lecce. Any help with this?

Is a really beautiful area but we only have 3 days in betwen Napoli and Rome, but I don’t want to miss this.

Thank you for reading, Cristina. I agree. You don’t want to miss an opportunity to see some of Puglia. Lecce is fantastic. You can’t go wrong with the old town of Bari or Trani. I would look at the train schedules because if you plan accordingly you might be able to spend half a day in each since they are so close to each other. Trani definitely takes you a bit of the beaten path whereas Bari vecchia is typically where people dedicate some time. Hope that helps! And have a great trip!

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10 Days in Puglia: Spectacular Spots That Can’t Be Missed

Planning a visit to Puglia might seem daunting as it is a less well-known region in Italy. I spent three weeks exploring Puglia in September 2022, which allowed me to deeply understand the area and return to key spots when friends visited.

Plus, I am a former luxury travel agent who created custom itineraries; therefore, I have planned every inch of these 10 days in Puglia.

In this travel guide, I will advise you on the best places to visit in Puglia and suggest how to combine different destinations to make a road trip itinerary. From Matera’s ancient caves to the picturesque beaches of Salento, this guide aims to provide all the information you need for an unforgettable visit to Puglia and beyond.

How to Get to Puglia?

Puglia is served by two main airports: Bari Airport (BRI) in the north and Brindisi Airport (BDS) in the south. Both airports offer direct flights from major European cities, as well as domestic connections from within Italy.

If you arrive in Puglia by train, Bari is the main hub. However, to explore the region fully, you need to rent a car . Consider booking with Discover Cars that offer a range of companies to choose from to help you find the best price.

How to Get Around Puglia?

Renting a car is the best option to explore on a Puglia 10-day road trip itinerary. Public transport is limited; therefore, renting a car is worth it .

We rented our car directly from Avis because we have Avis Preferred Status and a corporate rate through our American Express credit card. However, if you do not have a status or corporate code, you should look on RentalCars.com for the best price .

How Long to Spend in Puglia?

There is so much to see in Southern Italy. Ten days in Puglia would allow you to explore the region extensively and see the southern region of Salento, plus allow some time in nearby Matera. Additionally, the longer you stay, the more chances you have to eat at some of Puglia’s best restaurants .

It is possible to spend as little as four days in Puglia , but you would struggle to pick the best sites to prioritise as there are so many incredible things to do in Puglia.

A one-week itinerary would also work, but it will give you less relaxation time, or you will miss some destinations.

Detailed 10-Day Puglia Itinerary

Day 1 – arrival in puglia and matera.

Begin your 10-day Puglia trip by flying into Bari, the main international airport in the region. Once you arrive, pick up your rental car at the airport.

From Bari, drive directly to Matera. The 50-minute drive brings you to Matera, a UNESCO Heritage Site famous for its ancient cave dwellings.

Upon arrival in Matera, check in to your hotel.

Accommodation in Matera

• Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort
• Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel
• Palazzo Del Duca Luxury Hotel
• Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita

I stayed at the Palazzo Del Duca Luxury Hotel and recommend it because of its central location and for the opportunity to stay in a cave hotel at a great price. However, there was no door to the bathroom in our bedroom, which is not good for friends or couples who need their privacy.

Depending on what time you arrive, you should have some time to explore Matera . Take some time to get your bearings as it can feel easy to get lost in Matera at first, but Matera is small, so you will quickly become familiar with the maze-like streets in the Sassi.

Walk through the narrow streets, admire the buildings, and take in the distinctive atmosphere of this ancient city.

This evening, go to Terrazza Cavaliere for a drink on their back terrace. It is a small area, so you may need to be willing to wait for a table – but it is worth the wait for the view. Order an Aperol Spritz as soon as you sit down because the service can be slower on the terrace.

For dinner, there are numerous options to choose from. You could try one of the Michelin Guide restaurants in Matera , or one of the restaurants I ate at Dedalo (for a true cave dining experience), Osteria MateraMì (excellent food), or Ristorante Francesca (great food in a traditional Matera-style restaurant).

Overnight in Matera

Day 2 – Matera

Start the morning with breakfast at your hotel.

I highly suggest learning some history about Matera during your full day exploring the town. It will give you a new perspective and the history is truly fascinating.

Therefore, you should book tickets to Casa Noha where you will go on a journey through different rooms and watch informative videos about the history of Matera. I suggest pre-booking your ticket ahead of time because if you show up, you will have to wait for a time slot to return and it can waste time.

Another must-see in Matera is Casa Grotta nei Sassi, where you can go into a preserved cave that gives you a good impression of the living standards in Matera.

Casa Grotta is a small cave so it can get busy, hence I would suggest arriving at the first time slot. You are given an audio guide that tells you about the different features of the cave. You can book online, or buy your tickets at the ticket office.

You can also book a guided tour of the Sassi which includes a visit to Casa Grotta.

After learning all the history of Matera, you are free to roam the streets. Some areas are must-see, so you can use these spots as a rough point to guide you through the city.

• Chiesa Rupestre di Santa Maria di Idris (Church of Saint Mary of Idris)
• Belvedere – Raffaele Giura Longo – storico
• Piazza Duomo
• Pathway between Palazzo Gattini and Palazzo Del Duca
• Chiesa Rupestre di San Giuliano o Madonna delle Grazie (viewpoint)
• Piazza San Giovanni (for James Bond fans)

Tip: The mid-afternoon sun can be intense, so plan your sightseeing for the cooler hours or take a siesta back at your hotel.

When it has cooled down, head back out for some pre-dinner drinks at Area 8 (pronounced Otto). They have a cool outdoor seating area and a decent list of unique cocktails.

Try out another place for dinner from my list of restaurants on day one.  

Day 3 – Gravina in Puglia and Ceglie Messapica

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and travel to your next destination—Ceglie Messapica. On the way, consider a stop at Gravina in Puglia, home to a famous viaduct seen in the James Bond movie, No Time to Die.

My biggest advice for visiting Gravina in Puglia is not to set your navigation to Ponte Acquedotto because the streets leading up the viaduct are extremely narrow and only large enough to fit miniature vehicles.

We learnt this the hard way and nearly got our rental cars physically stuck in the streets. Instead, try parking on a street further away, such as via Casale, and walking over.

By parking a little further away and walking, you will get the chance to see more of the town. Your total visit time in Gravina in Puglia can be as little as 30 minutes if you want to see the viaduct quickly.

Although, it is worth noting that this detour adds an extra 45 minutes of driving to your itinerary. So, it may only be worth the visit if you are eager to see this James Bond filming location.

Drive to the Ceglie Messapica area. Depending on your timings, you may need to head straight to your accommodation to check in.

If you are in time for lunch, you can detour to the main town for lunch at Osteria da Guiseppe, which is open from 12 – 3:00 PM.

I suggest booking a trullo on VRBO for your accommodation for the next few days. They are authentic to the region and unique places to stay. Many trulli have pools, so spend the afternoon at your pool relaxing after a long drive.

Trullo Accommodation

• Trullo Canopo
• Trullo San Giovanni
• Trulli Foggie di Sauro
• Villa d’Itria with Trullo

Overnight at Trullo

Day 4 – Alberobello, Martina Franca, and Locorotondo

Start your day early by driving to Alberobello, one of the Itria Valley’s most iconic towns. The journey takes about 45 minutes, and it is best to arrive before 9:00 AM to beat the crowds. After 9:00 AM, busloads of tour groups flood in, so an early start is essential.

Parking is available at several paid lots around Alberobello. Be sure to have cash, although some parking areas may accept card payments.

Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its picturesque streets lined with Trulli—distinctive white, dome-shaped buildings that house boutiques, residences, and restaurants. While it is a popular tourist spot, the town’s unique charm makes it a must-visit.

Although trulli can be found in other parts of Puglia, nowhere else offers such a concentration of these structures as Alberobello.

Be sure to explore both sides of the town. The Rione Aia Piccola area is quieter and more residential, yet still draws visitors. It offers numerous viewpoints and photo opportunities, often with fewer people around.

On the other hand, Zona Rione Monti is the famed trulli zone, bustling with shops and trulli open for visits. This area is also filled with scenic spots perfect for photos.

If you have not had breakfast or need a quick snack, stop by NeWynd for a pasticciotto. The café features a hidden terrace at the back if you prefer to dine in, or you can take your treat to go as you continue to explore Alberobello.

After soaking in Alberobello’s charm, drive to Martina Franca, about 20 minutes away. Parking is available on the outskirts of town, with a pleasant walk leading into the main centre.

Martina Franca is a treasure trove of charming streets and stunning architecture. Don’t miss the Basilica San Martina on Piazza Plebiscito—a short stroll will also bring you to Piazza Maria Immacolata, a lovely square worth visiting.

For lunch, head to Garibaldi Bistrot , a delightful restaurant where we experienced welcoming staff and excellent cuisine. Our group of six sampled various dishes, all of which were outstanding, so it was an ideal spot for a leisurely meal. Ristorante Garibaldi open from 11:30 – 3:00 PM.

If time permits, consider a quick detour to Locorotondo, just 15 minutes from Martina Franca. The approach to Locorotondo by car offers breathtaking views, which is more impressive than the view of other towns from the Belvedere di Locorotondo.

Spend about an hour wandering the quaint, peaceful streets of Locorotondo before returning to your accommodation.

Day 5 – Polignano a Mare, Monopoli and Cisternino

Start your afternoon by driving to Polignano a Mare, a stunning cliffside town.

As you explore, walk toward the coastline for some impressive scenery. Do not miss the iconic viewpoints that offer famous views of Lama Monachile and the pebbly beach below. You can also see a glimpse of Grotta Palazzese, the renowned restaurant built into the cliff, from a nearby vantage point .

For lunch, you have two options in Polignano a Mare: Olio Su Pane or Pescaria . Both are famous for their delicious sandwiches, though Pescaria often has long queues. We devoured the meatball sandwich at Olio Su Pane.

Afterward, head to Monopoli, a charming port town. Park in the free car park about a 15-minute walk from the town centre or find free street parking nearby.

Monopoli has a historic centre with a beautiful coastline. Stroll along the Lungomare (its coastal promenade) to enjoy the highlights and spend time weaving through the streets filled with shops, bars, and restaurants.

Consider a boat tour that takes you from Monopoli to the caves around Polignano a Mare.

This evening, drive to Cisternino, where you should arrange dinner at Vattelappesca . We just walked in, but you can make a reservation by phone call.

I had one of my favourite ever pasta dishes at Vattelappesca – it was a cacio e pepe with red wine and leek. Plus, they served one of our favourite local wines from l’archetipo.

Day 6 – Grottaglie and Ostuni

Today, you will have the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs from your Italian adventure. Begin by driving to Grottaglie, a small town renowned for its ceramics.

Head straight to the Quartiere delle Ceramiche, known as the ceramic quarter, where you will see numerous workshops and storefronts with handcrafted goods.

Most ceramic shops open around 9:00 AM but tend to close in the mid-afternoon, so it is a good idea to check their opening hours before your visit.

One of my favourite spots is Bottega Vestita , where there is an impressive array of items, from mugs and bowls to plates and ornaments.

Many shops also offer international shipping, but if you prefer to carry your items home, the workshops can wrap them for you to travel with. I bought some stunning pasta bowls, which were carefully packed for me to bring home in my backpack.

While in Grottaglie, take some time to explore the town’s charming Centro Storico and visit the Ceramics Museum.

For lunch, you could try Osteria La Capasa. This afternoon, I recommend going to Ostuni. You should park at this paid car park in Ostuni and walk towards the old town.

Wander the winding streets and go in the small souvenir stores. My favourite spots for drinks in Ostuni are Bar Perso , Hanky Panky , and Borgo Antico Bistrot .

Reserve a table for dinner at Osteria Del Tempo Perso and dine in a stunning cave with exceptional food.

Day 7 – Lecce

Check out of your accommodation in Ceglie Messapica and drive to Lecce, which will take a little over an hour.

Parking in Lecce can be a challenge, but we managed to have luck with a particular car park in Lecce town centre .

You will likely have to park at a carpark like the one above and walk to your accommodation – particularly if you are staying in an Airbnb. Therefore, do not bring more luggage than you can easily carry.

We had packed our belongings in duffle bags, which made life so much easier as we did not have to lug any baggage over the cobblestones.

Accommodation in Lecce

• La Fiermontina Palazzo Bozzi Corso ( Michelin )
• Patria Palace Lecce
• Chiostro dei Domenicani – Dimora Storica

For lunch, you can grab a sandwich from Porcaria or pizza from La Succursale Pizza & Cucina .

Spend the rest of the day exploring Lecce. There are numerous buildings and structures with spectacular architecture, such as Basilica di Santa Croce, Porta Napoli, Cathedral of Lecce (Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta e S.Oronzo), Roman Amphitheater in Piazza Sant’Oronzo (Anfiteatro Romano di Lecce), and Church of Saint Clare (Chiesa di Santa Chiara).

Make sure you also stroll through Giardini Pubblici Giuseppe Garibaldi.

However, the main charm of Lecce is its meandering streets. If you dedicate some time to exploring the above locations, plus you allow time for lunch and or dinner in Lecce, you will walk amongst the streets.

Find my reviews of all the restaurants I tried in Lecce here to help you decide where to eat tonight.

Overnight in Lecce

Day 8 – Southern Salento Beaches

Start the day with breakfast in Lecce. If you want a traditional Italian breakfast of a pastry and a coffee, visit Caffe Alvino. If you fancy something bigger and more substantial, you can try 00 Doppiozero , but the service can be slow, so do not go there when you are in a rush.

Start your Salento beaches day trip by driving to Il Ciolo, which will take around 1 hour to get there from the car park in Lecce. Il Ciolo is a great place to start your day before exploring other beaches as you head north along the coast.

Il Ciolo is located near the southern tip of Salento and is a stunning rocky cove with a beautiful stone beach. The clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and the impressive bridge that spans the cove adds to the dramatic landscape.

There is free parking at Il Ciolo, but you may need to wait around if there is no spot immediately. People do not stay too long unless they are hiking the nearby trail.

This beach is rocky, so wear waterproof sandals to walk to the water’s edge. If you are feeling adventurous, you can go cliff jumping from a rock under the bridge – but bring your shoes for climbing, as the rock is sharp.

After swimming, grab a snack or drink from the small kiosk next door. There is a portable toilet available, but only customers can use it.

Next, drive to Porto Tricase Beach, a scenic port town with rocky shores and a charming swimming area. Place your towel on the pier and take a dip to cool down. Porto Tricase is a lido-style beach, making it more protected from wind and waves, so it is great for breezy days.

Parking is easy, with plenty of spaces available on the north side of the swimming area, though you need to wear sturdy shoes for the short rocky walk to the water.

When you get hungry, stop by one of the nearby restaurants like Menamè Tricase Porto or Taverna del Porto, where you can enjoy stunning views and access the restrooms.

We ate at Menamè Tricase Porto and it had lots of deep-fried seafood on the menu, which was a challenge for one of the members of our group who is gluten-free.

For the final stop of the day, head to Cala dell’Acquaviva. It is a small and cozy rocky cove with crystal-clear water. There are spots to sit around on the rocks, but they are sharp and bumpy, so bring a towel for some padding. There was a bar selling drinks including, mojitos and beers, but no bathrooms that I could see.

There are several parking bays at the top of the steps leading to the beach but bring coins for the meter and type in your license plate (it is in Italian, so it was unclear initially). The steps are rocky and steep, so the beach is inaccessible for those with mobility concerns.

After a day of beach hopping along the southern coast, head back to Lecce for a relaxing evening.

Day 9 – Eastern Salento Beaches

Start your day with a leisurely morning in Lecce. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at one of the city’s cafés.

Around midday, drive to Supersano (approximately 45 minutes from Lecce) for lunch at Bro’s Trattoria . Bro’s Trattoria was one of my favourite dining experiences of my entire trip to Puglia .

Your first stop is Torre Sant’Andrea, known for its dramatic coastline and natural rock formations. It is not ideal for swimming due to strong waves at spots like Faraglioni di Sant’Andrea, but the sea stacks make it a breathtaking location for walking or taking photos.

Next, head south to Torre dell’Orso, just a 10-minute drive away. This beach is known for its wide sandy shores and clear blue water. It can get crowded during peak season, especially in the public beach areas, but it is still a beautiful spot to visit.

There are free public sections and paid lidos where you can rent a sunbed and umbrella at Torre dell’Orso.

Do not miss the view of Le Due Sorelle—two large rock formations offshore.

Finish your afternoon by exploring Baia dei Turchi, a more secluded beach that requires a bit more effort to reach but is well worth the trip.

From the car park at Parcheggio “BAIA DEI TURCHI” Tenuta Schito , it’s only a 5- to 10-minute walk through a pine forest to reach the beach, which makes it less crowded compared to some of the other beaches along the coast.

Baia dei Turchi offers both free beach areas and spots to rent sunbeds and umbrellas, so it caters to both those wanting a simple beach day and those looking for more comfort. The setting here is idyllic, with soft sand and vibrant blue waters, making it a perfect way to end the day’s beach explorations.

You may notice that I omitted Grotta della Poesia from your 10 days in Puglia and that is because I do not believe it is worth a visit. You can learn more about why in my article on the best beaches in Puglia .

After a relaxing beach day, drive back to Lecce (about 40 minutes from Baia dei Turchi).

Day 10 – Departure

Depending on the time of your departing flight, you may need to head straight to the airport. When we visited Puglia, our flight from Brindisi was in the evening, so we had all day to occupy ourselves.

Whether you are flying out of Bari or Brindisi, you can visit some of the coastal areas you did not already cover. I would suggest visiting Savelletri for lunch because there are some outstanding restaurants.

I had an incredible meal at Serri Bistrot in Savelletri , but there is also the Michelin-starred Due Camini nearby.

If you still have more time to explore, check out Torre Guaceto before or after lunch (depending on what airport you have booked).

When is the Best Month to Go to Puglia?

The best time to visit Puglia is from June to early September when the weather is warm enough to enjoy the beaches, and restaurants and beach clubs are fully open.

What are the Best Things to Do in Puglia?

The best things to do in Puglia include:

• Visit Alberobello – It is famous for its trulli, white dome-shaped houses, and charming streets.
• Discover Polignano a Mare – Admire cliffside views, Lama Monachile beach, and explore nearby Monopoli and Cisternino.
• Relax in Southern Salento Beaches – Enjoy rocky coves like Il Ciolo, Porto Tricase, and Cala dell’Acquaviva.
• Explore Lecce – Wander through stunning Baroque architecture, including Basilica di Santa Croce and the Roman Amphitheater.
• Experience local ceramics in Grottaglie – Shop for unique souvenirs in the ceramic quarter.
• Stroll through Ostuni – Known as the “White City,” Ostuni’s hilltop old town features narrow winding streets, whitewashed buildings, and panoramic views over the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy drinks at local bars like Bar Perso and dine in a cave setting at Osteria Del Tempo Perso.

Note: Matera is not in Puglia but is easily accessible and a must-see when traveling through the region.

What is the Prettiest Part of Puglia?

One of the most beautiful parts of Puglia is the Itria Valley, with its postcard-perfect towns like Alberobello, known for its iconic trulli houses, and Locorotondo, where winding streets and whitewashed buildings give it a timeless charm.

Ostuni, often called the “White City,” is another highlight, offering stunning hilltop views and magical sunsets.

For coastal beauty, Polignano a Mare and the beaches of Southern Salento are hard to beat, with dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful hidden coves.

Samantha is the founder of Continuous Roamer, a travel website focusing on adventure and the outdoors.

With a love for adventure and the great outdoors, Samantha shares tips on skiing, luxury safaris, camping, and finding hidden food gems in different destinations.

With over 20 years of skiing experience across Europe, North America, and beyond, she's also an expert in luxury accommodations and experiences.

Whether camping in Canada or dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant, Samantha always seeks out the best experiences and accommodations, and her blog highlights the best of them for her readers.

Samantha is currently living in London.

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