best puglia (travel guide book)

The Best South Italy Guide Books (Puglia, Sicily, Amalfi Coast & More!)

Recently, I’ve been spending a lot of vacation time in South Italy, including upcoming trips to Puglia and Basilicata, along with recent trips to Sicily and the Amalfi Coast. As part of my trip planning I have read every South Italy guidebook I could find. And, like always, I am happy to share my reviews of these South Italy guide books with you, so that you can read and pack the right ones on your own trip to Italy.

In 2023 and 2024 there were major changes at some of the main guidebook companies, and some of those changes were not for the better. So, when you’re looking at this list of South Italy guide books, make sure to note the year of each book I recommend, as the newest editions may not be as helpful. If you have any questions about my recommendations (or about traveling in Southern Italy) let me know in the comments at the end of this guide.

Lonely Planet Southern Italy (2022 Edition or Earlier!)

Do not buy the 2023 edition of this guidebook!  Look for an older edition, like 2022 ( linked here ) or 2020!

In my opinion, this is the best South Italy guide book on the market.  Specifically, I am talking about the 2022 release (with the aerial view of the waterfront town on the cover), although I also looked at the 2020 version, which was equally useful.

The new edition (dated 2023) uses Lonely Planet’s new format, which is a significant downgrade from the earlier style.  For example, in the 2022 edition, the Otranto Cathedral is listed as one of the Top 8 highlights in all of the “heel” of Italy – but online reviews say Otranto isn’t even mentioned in the new version!

The Lonely Planet Southern Italy 2022 covers the regions of Naples and Campania (including the Amalfi Coast), Calabria, Puglia, Basilicata and Sicily.  For each region there is a useful map with markers to show the can’t-miss sights, plus dense text recommending things to see, restaurants, hotels and transportation connections. There are bonus boxes on many pages highlighting off-the-beaten-path attractions and important historical notes. The sections on Pompeii (three pages you could clip out and carry with you) and Sicilian desserts are top-notch.

Overall, the 2022 of this South Italy guide book is a classic, practical, useful book that you’d want to carry with you when you were out exploring.

Moon Guide – Southern Italy

I’ve never been a big fan of Moon Guides, but they are stepping up to fill a void left by the classic Lonely Planet series.  Their 2022 guide book for South Italy includes Sicily, Puglia, Naples and the Amalfi Coast.

This book feels like a step up from the Lonely Planet – the paper is soft and silky, there are way more color photos and overall it just has a more upscale vibe. This would be the perfect South Italy guide book to gift to someone planning a trip to the region.

I actually used this book quite a bit when planning my upcoming trip to Puglia, as the maps are really good and they helped me identify logical routes to travel around the region (including by train, bus and rental car).

The Amalfi Coast section had good information about both beaches and hiking, and the six-page Pompeii self-guided walking tour was also well-organized. Sicily is split into three separate sections, and I liked the color-coded map itineraries that showed where to go and what to do on each day.

I can definitely recommend the Moon Guide to Southern Italy , and I’ll probably carry a copy with me when I’m in Puglia later this year.

National Geographic Puglia

If your trip to South Italy only includes Puglia, this would be the perfect guidebook to carry.  The National Geographic Puglia contains more than 250 pages of information about traveling in Puglia, starting with the Gargano Region in the north and working its way south to the beaches of Salento.

What you won’t get in this book is itineraries, but what you will get is an exhaustive list of the things to see in each Puglia destination, including the history and tips for visiting today. There are full-color map and photos, plus a “Travelwise” section at the back with information about festivals, hotels, restaurants and shopping.  As long as you can plan your own route, this book is perfect for helping you figure out what to do along the way.

The downside of this book is that when they say Puglia they mean Puglia, so it doesn’t include anything about other destination that are commonly visited along with Puglia, such as the town of Matera (which is  extremely famous, and only about five kilometers away!).

Lonely Planet – Italy’s Best Trips: 40 Amazing Road Trips

This review is specific to the 3rd edition of this Italy guide book, which was published in 2020. You can find it on Amazon here. A new edition was published in December 2023 but I haven’t looked at it.

The Lonely Planet Italy’s Best Trips features about 120 pages specific to South Italy, including both Sicily and Sardinia.  As I’m planning to rent a car for a few days in Puglia, this book was really helpful in identifying places that are best visited by car, and how to get between the different cities and towns. There were some spots noted on these driving routes that I didn’t see in other guidebooks, possibly because they aren’t realistic for people getting around by bus or train.

The maps at the beginning of each section show the general route for each drive, and also help you identify which routes could be connected together as part of a longer trip.  There isn’t a ton of information about what to do in each stop, so you might want to pair this book with either the Moon Guide or the Lonely Planet Southern Italy books mentioned above.

Lonely Planet Experience Italy

This review is also specific to the 2020 soft-cover book shown above – Lonely Planet also wrote a completely different hardcover coffee table book by the same name in 2018.

This book won’t help you when you’re on the ground in Italy – it’s too short (clocking in at barely more than 200 pages for the entire country). However, if you know you want to visit South Italy but aren’t sure exactly where you want to go, this photo-heavy book is organized around fifty different destinations and experiences, so you can rifle through it to see what catches your eye.

In terms of South Italy specifically, Experience Italy has about twenty-four pages of content covering Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Basilicata and Sicily. Again, pair it with one of my first two recommendations for more comprehensive travel information.

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National Geographic Traveler – The Amalfi Coast, Naples & Southern Italy

This full-color guidebook from National Geographic covers Naples, day trips from Naples, the Amalfi Coast, nearby islands and most of southern Italy, including Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia.  Clocking in at less than 250 pages, this book is a good overview of the region but it’s not long enough to cover all these different destinations in depth.

One great thing about the National Geographic Traveler – The Amalfi Coast, Naples & Southern Italy guide book is the selection of full-page “experiences”: things that you might not think of doing, but that will create the unique lasting memories that a cookie-cutter guidebook might not inspire. For example, there is a guide to selecting the best olive oil to bring home with you… perfect for both souvenirs and gift-giving.  Another “experience” page offers tips for choosing the best Pompeii and Herculaneum guide, whether you’re thinking of visiting the archeological sites for a few hours or a few days. 

Rick Steves Naples & The Amalfi Coast (With Pompeii)

Just shy of 200 pages, the Rick Steves Naples & the Amalfi Coast guidebook is a great option for travelers whose trips are focused on this region of South Italy.  It contains easy-to-follow walking tours for Naples, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Paestum (one of my personal favorites – so underrated!), Sorrento and Positano. I love following Rick’s walking tours when I travel, and this guide book has some great ones.

As with all of Rick Steves’ guidebooks you can expect to find current restaurant recommendations (frequent updates mean you won’t walk hours to find a restaurant that closed years ago), budget-friendly accommodation and even a phrasebook to help you communicate in Italian with the locals.

Moon Guides – Amalfi Coast

This book opens with suggested itineraries for three, five, seven or fourteen days around the Amalfi Coast, and then supports those recommendations with helpful tips on what to see and do in each of the region’s most iconic destinations. Like most books in the series, the Moon Guide – Amalfi Coast is printed on thick paper and full of colorful photos and maps, which makes this book ideal for inspiration during the trip-planning phase.

The recommendations in this book are suitable for travelers on a mid-range or upscale budget; many of the recommended hotels run upwards of € 250 per night and many of the restaurants lean towards fine dining. If that’s your preferred travel style, you’ll love this South Italy guidebook.

Rick Steves Sicily

A new version of this book was published in December 2023, making the Rick Steves Sicily book one of the most current Sicily guidebooks on the market (if not the most current guidebook!).  This edition brings you 490 pages of super-helpful information about traveling in Sicily, from the most iconic sights in the island’s largest cities to the secret small towns that are worth a visit too.

As with the other Rick Steves book mentioned above, this is a budget-friendly guidebook with recommendations for reasonably-priced hotels, restaurants, attractions and tours.  Rick’s motto of “exploring Europe through the back door” means that you’ll get tips on how to have authentic experiences (like visiting local salt flats and wineries) without breaking the bank.

Eyewitness Top 10 Naples & The Amalfi Coast

Personally, I love reading Eyewitness Top 10 guidebooks when I’m planning a trip, and the Eyewitness Top 10 Naples & The Amalfi Coast is no exception! 

Some of the lists, like “Top 10 Icons of Popular Culture” and “Top 10 Moments in History” will give context to things you might see and do during your trip, while others, like “Top 10 Toledo to Chiaia” recommend specific sights in an area you could explore by foot, car or public transportation. I would say the layout is more inspirational than practical, but that’s perfect when you’re wanting to get hyped for an upcoming trip!

This South Italy guidebook has about 110 pages of content formatted in full-color Top 10 lists, followed by another fifteen pages of directory-style information about topics like arrival information, currency, transportation and safety.

Lonely Planet Amalfi Coast Road Trips

I salute anyone reading this who is brave enough to take on the twisting, turning, narrow roads of Italy’s Amalfi Coast. If that’s you, please let me know in the comments… and please pack the Lonely Planet’s Amalfi Coast Road Trips guidebook for your journey!

This little guidebook (about 125 pages of content) features general tips on driving in Italy, four suggested road trip itineraries (ranging from two to seven days in length) and information about what you’ll see en route.  In the back of the book a full-size pull-out map helps you envision the different drives, but I would still recommend having a great GPS system (or Google Maps) to help you find your way on the region’s notoriously hectic roads!

I spent a full month traveling around Sicily, so check out my recommended Sicily itinerary – no car required!

If you’re planning your first-ever trip to Italy, also make sure to read my guide to avoiding common Italy travel mistakes .

Planning a trip to Southern Italy?  Pin this post for later!

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PUGLIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Olive trees as far as the eye can see, deep red earth, whitewashed seaside towns, and the sparkling blue waters of the sea are just some of the things you can expect when visiting Puglia.

This is the Southernmost region of Italy and a place full of unique culture, food, and unforgettable landscapes. The locals are friendly and generous with their time, perhaps due to the incredible climate they’re blessed with – the sun shines 300 days a year here! 

A trip to the region might include sojourning through coastal towns, trulli hunting through the Valle d’Itria, sightseeing in Lecce, sometimes described as the ‘Florence of the South, hiking in the Gargano, or indulging in the freshest burrata cheese of your life. Most famous for the towns of Alberobello and Polignano al Mare, there is so much more waiting to be uncovered. Keep reading for our ultimate Puglia travel guide. 

Article contents

Where is Puglia

Puglia is located in the heel of the Italian boot in the very deep South. The Adriatic and Ionian Sea hugs the region from left to right, and the region shares borders with Molise in the north, and Campania and Basilicata in the north west.

South of Rome, the capital, Bari , is easily reached with the high-speed train in just under four hours. Naples lies to the West and a fast train will similarly get you there in less than four hours. 

Map of Puglia

Main cities and towns in puglia.

As one of the larger regions of Italy (in fact the 7th out of 20) there are a great number of cities and towns worth exploring when you travel to Puglia. Consider visiting the following: 

• Bari: The capital (pictured above) is a great place to start or end your trip to Puglia thanks to the well-connected railway station and International Airport. Don’t miss wandering through the labyrinth-like streets of Bari Vecchia, watching the locals roll orecchiette in the streets, exploring the elegant Murat neighborhood, and strolling along the promenade with a detour to the little fish market on the port. 
• Lecce : Also known as the ‘Florence of the South’, Lecce is beautiful and unique in its own right. An extremely elegant Baroque city, it is also a University town and it shows in its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss seeing the remains of the Roman amphitheatre, the Theatre Romain, the Porta Napoli gate, and of course make sure to take a sip of a caffe’ leccese .
• Polignano a Mare : Perhaps the most famous place in Puglia thanks to Instagram (or one of the many weddings in US soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful) is Polignano a Mare. Perched high up on the cliffs, there is an iconic sea view that looks out onto the little beach known as Lama Monachile. Wander the pretty streets of the old town and have your camera handy – you’re going to want to take lots of photos!
• Monopoli : A small fishing village, Monopoli is as pretty as a picture. A stroll through this whitewashed town that rests along the Adriatic Sea will unveil the beautiful Cathedral, a seaside fortress, fabulous restaurants and bars, and of course the beach! If you’re looking for picturesque fishing boats, you’re in the perfect town for a photo opportunity.
• Otranto : Looking for a popular beachside town? Otranto could be your ideal destination. A trip there should also include visiting its UNESCO listed old town ‘centro storico’ and beautiful Medieval castle.
• Alberobello : The other VIP town of Puglia is surely Alberobello, famous for its spectacular streets full of trulli, the traditional dry stone huts with conical roofs. Whilst Puglia is still relatively undiscovered by the crowds, the same cannot be said for this town so aim to arrive here very early for unimpeded walking. It also pays to do a guided tour here to understand the town on a deeper level. 
• Martina Franca : A jewel of Baroque beauty, Martina Franca is a little off the beaten track when it comes to Puglia towns worth visiting. Not overrun by tourists, you can easily lose yourself for a few moments in the little streets. Be sure to try capocollo here, a delicious local cured salami and try to time your visit to coincide with the popular Sunday Flea Market. 
• Locorotondo :  Whitewashed buildings and civic pride are a feature of this pretty town close to Alberobello, and Martina Franca. Locorotondo gets its name from its round like shape, so enjoy a wander through the streets and look out across the valley dotted with trulli . This town is also famous for its white wine so be sure to try some while you’re there.
• Grottaglie : In the center of the region, Grottaglie is the undisputed capital of ceramics in Puglia. Visit the ancient ceramics quarter and while away the hours as you visit workshop, after workshop in search of the perfect piece. 
• Ostuni : F amous for its stunning whitewashed buildings, Ostuni is another breathtakingly beautiful hilltop town to visit in Puglia. Catch glimpses of the Adriatic Sea as you wander through the narrow streets of the old town towards its Gothic style Cathedral. While not directly on the beach, you’ll find several only a short drive away from the center of town.
• Gallipoli : One of the most famous Pugliese towns, Gallipoli is on the Ionian Sea. The old town, connected to the new town by a bridge, is full of lovely Baroque architecture and pretty palazzi. Go for a swim at the sandy beach and relax at one of the many bars along the promenade with a spritz. 
• Vieste : Located in the Northern Gargano area of Puglia, Vieste is a stunning seaside town. Visit the Swabian Castle, relax at the beach here and use it as a base to access the Gargano National Park.
• Taranto : Taranto has a very long and fascinating history reflected in its culture and architecture. Relatively free from tourists, the archeological museum is worth a trip as is the 15th century Aragonese Castle. Look out for Greek remains and don’t skip a visit to the fish market.

Top things to do in Puglia

No matter your interests, this travel guide to Puglia aims to show you how many great activities and experiences to have when traveling in Puglia! Whether you’re a foodie, beach lover, or history buff, you’ll find plenty of choice in this sunkissed region. Some of our favorite activities include: 

Taste olive oil

Puglia is the most important region in Italy for olive oil, producing 40% of the country’s total supply! Gain a deeper understanding as to how extra virgin olive oil is made and the difference between store bought and locally produced with a guided tasting. Try Acropoli di Puglia in Martina Franca!

Visit spectacular beaches

Puglia has some of the best beaches in the country, so you can’t miss a visit to at least one or two! The Grotta della Poesia in Roca is one of the most spectacular with a now Instagram famous sheltered natural pool to dive into. Others include the Beach of Purity in Gallipoli, Santa Maria al Bagno, and Mora Mora Beach near Lecce.

Stay in a trullo

One of the most unique experiences you can have in Puglia is staying in a trullo, the characteristic hut from the Valle d’Itria. There are many options for staying in a trullo from B&B style to luxury trulli resorts .

READ: Our full guide to the Best things to do in Puglia .

Eat pesce crudo (Pugliese sashimi)

Pugliese love their raw fish! In particular, Barese (the people from Bari) are famous for it thanks to the absolute freshness of their seafood. Wander along the old port early in the morning and buy some raw squid, calamari, and sea urchins for a fresh, healthy snack.

Learn to make orecchiette pasta

One of the best souvenirs you can bring home from your travels is the ability to cook something from the region you visited. Pasta from Puglia is very easy to make at home and requires just durum wheat flour, water, and a knife – no machine required. Learn how to make pasta with this class in Lecce .

Explore the Baroque churches in Lecce

Marvel at the sheer beauty and richness of the Baroque churches in Lecce. There’s an old Pugliese joke that the town has more churches than residents and it might seem just the way as you wander through the streets. In particular, take time to visit the Duomo and Basilica di Santa Croce.

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What to eat and drink in Puglia

The cuisine of Puglia is rustic and full of wholegrains, vegetables, fresh fish, and creamy cheeses. Whilst the region is the biggest producer of wine in Italy, it was historically used for cheap, table wine. That’s all changing now and the region is full of up and coming wineries that celebrate the local grapes of Primitivo, Aglianico, Negroamaro, Fiano, and Greco.

Besides indulging in as much raw seafood as possible (don’t miss the gamberro rosso or red prawns), look out for these tasty dishes on your trip: 

• Orecchiette with cime di rapa: The typical pasta of the region takes its name from its little earlike shape. It’s made from durum wheat of which the region is full of and water – no eggs here. The most typical pairing is with vibrant cime di rapa (broccoli rabe).
• Bombette : If you’re not a seafood lover, or simply prefer meat then this dish is for you.  Bombette are fried pork meat skewers filled with cheese, and seasoned with salt and pepper. The best place to try them is in the Valle d’Itria.  
• Taralli : The typical savoury biscuits of Southern Italy, you’ll spot these frequently at aperitivo hour served alongside your spritz. You can find them spiked with fennel seeds, chilli, nuts, raisins or even sweet versions. 
• Focaccia Barese : This focaccia is seriously life-changing! The dough is light and fluffy and thicker than its Northern relative in Genoa thanks to being made with mashed potatoes. The most classic version is topped with ripe tomatoes, oregano, olive oil, and sometimes olives. The best place to try this is at Panificio Fiore in Bari.
• Mozzarella, burrata and stracciatella: Puglia is the land of creamy cow’s milk cheeses! Look out for mere hours’ old mozzarella, burrata and stracciatella or go and visit a local caseificio, dairy farm, to get it seconds after its made.   
• Pasticciotti: The perfect breakfast treat to have at the bar in Puglia is undoubtedly a pasticciotto . This little tart is filled with ricotta, custard, pistacchio paste, or jams.
• Caffe Leccese: Upgrade your coffee order to a caffe’ leccese when in Puglia! It’s a shot of espresso on ice and topped with almond syrup. Locals will tell you not to mix it, but it’s very refreshing either way. The best place to order this is unsurprisingly in Lecce.  
• Rustico Leccese: Another Lecce special, look out for this savoury pastry filled with mozzarella, bechamel, and tomato sugo. Be sure to enjoy this piping hot at  one of the city’s wonderful bakeries like Il Fornaio di Greco Francesco .

Where to stay in Puglia

Whilst tourism is still relatively new in Puglia, there are fantastic and unique accommodation options throughout the region. There are many traditional hotels, B and Bs and apartments in the major towns available at budget to luxury prices.

More interesting however are the masseria and trulli options you can stay in – provided you are traveling with access to a car. Masseria are traditional Pugliese farmhouses that were once used as fortresses in medieval times. Today, there are hundreds of these properties that dot the countryside including many luxurious options that come with swimming pools, spa services and on-site restaurants.

Trulli or traditional stone houses are another option which are also found in the Itria Valley countryside. 

When planning your trip to Puglia, Vieste is an excellent base if you’re planning on visiting the Gargano. Along the Adriatic Sea, Monopoli (pictured above) is a wonderful option with lots of facilities and a useful position on the train line.

For those wanting to stay in the Itria Valley, a car is absolutely necessary as there is limited public transport. Consider basing yourself in the countryside in a relaxing Masseria or Trulli house between Martina Franca and Locorotondo like Masseria San Michele . Further south in the Salento, Lecce makes for the best base as the major city (with a train line) so there are lots of accommodation and dining choices and easy access to the beaches.

When to go to Puglia

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Puglia and enjoy warm weather and beach time with fewer crowds.We visit the region in late May / early June on our Early Summer Puglia tour to take advantage of these ideal conditions.

Those who love the heat and swimming will enjoy the summertime in Puglia, although August is best avoided due to crowds, inflated prices, and the hottest temperatures.

There are incredible cultural festivals during the summer which are worth seeking out including the Night of San Giovanni in Ostuni, San Pietro e Paolo in Otranto, the Puglia Jazz Festival in Bari, the Alberobello Light Festival, La Notte della Taranta in the towns south of Lecce, and many more.

Early Autumn can be a lovely time for late season swimming and sightseeing with less tourists. You can join our Puglia tour in mid September to enjoy the longer sunny days and mild nights perfect for exploring the region and discovering its delicious cuisine.

Whilst Puglia enjoys a Mediterranean climate and plenty of sunshine throughout the year, it’s important to note that things get very quiet during the Winter. Many beachside towns essentially shut down in the colder months with beach clubs closing from early October and reopening in April.

With that said, Christmastime is one of the most magical times of the year in Puglia as the towns are lit up and decorated to the max and bands walk through the streets on Christmas Eve singing Christmas carols.

How to get to Puglia

There are two main international airports in the region at Bari in the North and Brindisi in the South. If you’re arriving in Puglia from abroad, it’s possible to get a connecting flight from most Italian cities here.

Alternatively, the fast train from Rome or Naples is a reliable option to get you to Bari the capital in less than four hours. Traveling by train in Italy is easy and comfortable with the added bonus of no security checks or luggage restrictions making this our preferred way to travel to Puglia.

If you’re arriving with your own wheels or with a rental car from Rome, it’s a four to five hour drive on the A1 and A16. From Naples, it’s a shorter three hour drive along the via A16/E842 and Autostrada A14/Autostrada.

How to get around Puglia

Travel in Puglia with public transport is not widely recommended as it is slow, there are few main train stations, and regional buses might pass through just once a day (leaving you without a way back).

For travelers who are determined to visit without a car, it is possible to get the train from Bari to Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, and Lecce easily. There is a train to Ostuni, but the station is a short distance away from the town so a taxi would be required to reach the old town. Whilst there are train stations at some of the other towns, there are not normally direct routes from Bari.

With that in mind, it is most convenient to rent a car to travel around Puglia. From Bari or Brindisi airport, you can pick up a rental car to travel around the region with ease, on your own schedule. We recommend using Auto Europe or Car Rental by booking.com to browse the best car rental options. You’ll find the best deals at Bari and Brindisi airports.

Let’s go to Puglia!

We hope our Puglia travel guide has Inspired you to visit Puglia. If you’re keen to learn more about this beautiful region of Italy have a listen to our podcast episode about Puglia’s Pilgrim Trails , or discover more Picturesque Towns of Puglia .

Want to discover Puglia with us? For a deeper local connection, why not join one of our Puglia small group tours . You can see what our guests think about our Untold Italy tours in Puglia by watching the video below.

©Matt Munro/Lonely Planet

In Puglia, everything the Italophile craves is here in abundance: ancient towns, extravagant churches, seas of olives, olive-green seas and food to equal of anywhere else in Italy.

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Must-see attractions.

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Valle d’Itria

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Basilica di San Nicola

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Basilica di Santa Croce

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Museo Faggiano

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Promontorio del Gargano

One of Italy's largest national parks, a place of sweeping coast and deep, ancient forests, sits on the spur of southern Italy in Puglia, jutting out into…

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Puglia and beyond

A Local’s Guide to Travel in Puglia, Italy

For the best info on all things Puglia travel planning, we sat down with local guide Paolo for his insider take.

Paolo is a Matera-based guide who offers Puglia travel advice at Go Ask A Local .

Affiliate disclosure: some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you book using one of them, we’ll earn a small commission. All of our info is free to read and free of ads, so we appreciate it!

My home region of Puglia, or Apulia in English, is one of Italy’s 20 regions and is located in the far southeast of the country, bordered by the Adriatic on its east and the Ionian sea to its west. Often referred to as the “heel of the boot”, it has a population of just over 4 million people and is a stunning and fascinating region.

Largely off the tourist map until the last 15-20 years, Puglia contains an unparalleled mix of historic towns and cities, fabulous beaches, terrific nature and outdoor activities, delicious food, and loads of art and culture.

And with 800 kilometers of coastline, a handful of good national parks, fairytale-like countryside, and countless elegant Baroque towns and cities, there’s a lot to explore.

Planning a trip to Puglia requires good organization and a bit of foresight on how to maximize your time and fine tune the logistics. So I’m here to help!

At the bottom of the article, you’ll seem some sample itineraries for trips ranging from 5 to 14 days.

More Puglia travel info:

For more ideas on Puglia travel, check out my 7-day Puglia itinerary and my list of 28 beautiful Puglia towns .

If you could use some one-on-one help planning your itinerary, schedule a Puglia travel consultation with me!

27 Puglia travel tips

City guide to Lecce

City guide to Matera

City guide to Bari

Guide to the Valle d’Itria

Guide to the Salento peninsula

Table of contents

Where is puglia, a brief history of puglia.

When to visit

How many days to spend

How to get to Puglia

Airports in puglia.

Transportation and getting around

Where to stay

Is Puglia expensive

Guide to Puglia’s regions and the best places to visit

Gargano Peninsula

Terra di Bari

Valle d’Itria

5, 10, and 14-day Puglia itinerary examples

Local help with your planning

In the article below I’ve shared lots of advice and many tips on how to plan a trip to Puglia. Even so, it’s impossible to mention everything that you might want to know in just one article. Also, no two travelers are alike so not everything I’ve mentioned will be the right fit for everyone.

If you could use some help coming up with a great plan for your visit, schedule a Puglia travel consultation with me!

These are one-hour Zoom calls where we can chat about the trip you’re planning and I’ll share my tips and advice, answer your travel questions, and help you perfect your itinerary.

Puglia is a long, thin region located in southeastern Italy. It makes up the “heel” of the Italian boot and contains Italy’s most eastern point. The region’s capital, Bari, is 455 kms (252 miles) away from Rome by road. Southern Italy’s largest city, Naples, is 259 km (160 miles) away from Bari. Getting from Rome to Bari takes a little under 5 hours while Naples to Bari takes about 3.

The eastern side of Puglia is on the Adriatic sea, directly across from the Balkan nation of Albania. The western side is on the Ionian sea, and borders the Italian regions of Basilicata and Campania.

Greece is not far away either, which is apparent from the frequent ferry connections to Greek islands like Corfu that are available from the ports of Brindisi and Bari.

A 400-year old Masseria outside of Ostuni

Puglia is a land that has been fought over by empires for millennia. Its fertile soil and flat table lands have long made it an ideal place for growing crops and grains, and therefore a coveted region for rulers looking for ways to feed their growing and hungry nations.

So much so that Benito Mussolini saw it as the potential breadbasket for all of Italy and had grand designs for the region. To this day, Puglia produces no less than 30% of all of Italy’s grain and olive oil. That’s no small feat.

Going way back, the ancient Illyrians crossed over from their homeland in the Balkans (now Albania and Montenegro) and settled on the coast near to Savelletri and Monopoli. The ruins of Egnazia bear witness to this ancient colonization.

During the Hellenic period, Greeks would colonize much of Salento and southern Puglia. During this time, huge swaths of southern Italy became part of Magna Graecia (Greater Greece), and the Pugliese port city of Taranto, its unofficial capital on the Italian peninsula, became one of the largest cities in the world with an estimated population of 300,000 people by 500 B.C.

Later, the Romans would come to vanquish the Greeks and fold Puglia into their ever-expanding empire. The Romans ruled here for almost 700 years before their empire collapsed.

Following the fall of Rome, the Byzantines, Normans, and Swabians all held sway for different periods of time. Finally, Puglia fell under the control of the Angevins (the Kingdom of Aragon in Spain) around the 1500s and remained theirs, as part of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, until Italian unification in 1860.

For most of its modern history, Puglia was largely ignored by the state. Tourists barely came here until the early 2000’s, when the region began to experience a tourism boom.

It may seem impossible to believe, but cities like Lecce, now often referred to as a Baroque masterpiece, were practically deserted. The capital city, Bari, was regarded as a place too dangerous to even visit. Times change!

Today’s Puglia is a dynamic region in which agriculture, tourism, and shipbuilding form the backbone of the economy. With its lovely towns, huge coastline, rugged hills, bucolic countryside, and primeval forest, there are countless places to explore.

Money is now flowing into the region and things are changing rapidly. Towns and cities are renovating and restoring their faded glory, residents are starting to return to places that were once long forgotten, and hotels and resorts are popping up in ever-increasing numbers.

My advice? Come now before it changes too much!

Otranto’s elegant seaside esplanade

The southern Salento coastline near to Castro Marina

Best time to visit Puglia

The sea by Torre Sant’Andrea in Salento

Best time to visit: spring or fall

The best time to visit Puglia is in shoulder season: spring and fall. Almost all tourism-related businesses in Puglia are open by May and stay open until at least the end of October, so in both periods you don’t have to worry about services being closed or things not being available.

The weather is great in both periods and prices and crowds are much better than in the summer.

Visiting in spring

In spring, visiting in March is hit or miss; it can be grey, rainy, and cold. April is better, but still has some of the same issues. By mid-to-late May, the threat of rain recedes, skies clear, and the temperature is warm enough for swimming while still being pleasant for urban exploring, hiking, biking, and more.

Visiting in the fall

In the fall, you get the absolute best of both worlds. By late September, parents are back to work and kids across Europe and North America are back at school, so the crowds are practically gone.

Prices have fallen back to normal and the weather is ideal. Clear, warm days allow for swimming and other outdoor activities, while crisp evenings mean that you can sleep without needing air conditioning.

Visiting in summer (high season)

High season, which in Puglia runs from June through early September, is best avoided for many reasons. The summer months are hot and crowded.

Temperatures in July and August routinely run into the high 90s and it can be pretty scorching. Along with the packed crowds, prices for hotels and car rentals also go through the roof in this period, doubling or more.

How long to spend in Puglia

A bucolic scene in the Valle d’Itria countryside

I’ve already said it, but it bears repeating: Puglia is big! Lots of guides tell you that you can visit the whole region in only 5 days, but that’s just not true.

For a visit to Puglia, you need a minimum of 7 days. And for an ideal trip that lets you relax instead of rushing, you really want 7-14.

If you have a week, you should try to focus on 2 areas and pick a base in each. A good idea could be to spend 3-4 days in the area around Ostuni, Savelletri, and the Valle d’Itria , and then 3 days in Salento, either in Lecce or a nice town on the coast like Otranto or Gallipoli.

By organizing your trip this way, each base puts you within easy driving distance of the main places to see in that region (and plenty of beaches) and lets you see everything without having to pack and unpack your bags 5 times in a week.

If you want to see the Itria valley and Salento, but also include Matera, the area around Bari , or the Gargano peninsula in your itinerary, you need more than a week.

You can’t cover all of Puglia in just 7 days, so don’t even try it. You’ll just wind up regretting all the time in the car.

For a little help on how to plan a good Puglia road trip, check out my one-week Puglia itinerary .

A country lane in the Valle d’Itria outside Alberobello

Connect with Paolo, our Puglia-based local expert, for help perfecting your itinerary, answers to all your travel questions, and fabulous local tips for a better visit!

Photo: Chris0693 , CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Getting to Puglia from within Italy is much easier now than even just a few years ago. You can arrive without much hassle via plane, train, bus, or car. International arrivals will almost all be via plane. If coming via plane from outside of Europe, you’ll have to make a connection in Rome or Milan or other European cities like London, Paris, or Zurich.

Puglia has two international airports, in Bari and Brindisi, and both have direct connections to cities all over Italy and many European capitals. Both airports are served by national carriers like Alitalia, AirFrance, and Lufthansa as well as low cost airlines such as RyanAir, WizzAir, and EasyJet.

Within Italy, you have many direct flights each day into both Bari and Brindisi airports from Milan, Rome, Venice, Bologna, and Pisa.

Milan has far and away the most flights to Puglia; usually over 20 direct flights each day. From Milan, flights to Bari and Brindisi take 1.5 hours. Tickets can cost from 20-150 euros. Most flights are offered via low cost carriers and flights depart from all 3 of Milan’s airports: Linate, Malpensa, and Orio al Serio.

From Rome, you have 5-8 direct flights daily to Brindisi or Bari. Flights take 1 hour and tickets can cost anywhere from 25 euros to 150, depending on when you purchase them and if you fly with a legacy carrier or a low cost airline.

High-speed trains from Rome connect with the Pugliese cities of Bari, Brindisi, and Lecce . All trains headed to Brindisi and Lecce will first pass through Bari.

Trenitalia’s high-speed Frecciarossa trains run from Rome to Bari (and Brindisi and Lecce) about 6 times per day, with the first departure usually at 8:00 am and the final run leaving at 6:00 pm. Trains depart from Roma’s Termini train station and the journey takes about 4 hours.

If purchased in advance, tickets can cost as little as 13.90 euros. Getting to Brindisi takes an additional hour (5 hours total) while getting to Lecce adds 1.5 hours (5.5 hours total).

The cheapest tickets are usually with slow Regionale or Intercity trains, but the journey can take 6-10 hours and typically requires making a change.

You can also buy tickets with the private company ItaloTreno , which offers additional daily departures from Rome to Bari with similar travel times and similar prices.

Oddly, getting to Bari from Naples by train, only 3 hours away by car, almost always takes almost as long as coming from Rome due to most trains being slower Regionale trains and requiring a change.

If taking the train from somewhere like Venice, Milan, or Florence, you will most likely have to make a change in Rome.

Where to book train tickets

Your best bet is to purchase your tickets online on either train company’s official website: https://www.trenitalia.com/ and https://www.italotreno.it/en. However, you can also purchase tickets directly at any train station at a ticket window or on the electronic ticketing machines located just before the tracks.

Keep in mind that tickets become more expensive as you get closer to the departure date.

Omio is also a convenient website/app to use if you want to compare options from Trenitalia and Italo at the same time. It’s a 3rd party aggregator so tickets cost a bit more than booking direct, but comparing prices is easy, the site has a great design, and you can keep all your bookings in one place.

Direct buses are available from Rome, Naples, and the neighboring regions of Basilicata and Molise. From Basilicata and Molise, your transport hubs into Puglia are Matera, Potenza, and Termoli.

Taking the bus to Bari from Rome takes about 6 hours. It’s 3.5 hours if coming from Naples. Bus tickets from Rome, purchased via Flixbus, can cost as little as 4 euros.

By car, the drive takes a little under 5 hours from Rome and 3 hours from Naples. Road conditions are good and driving is a breeze.

Coming from Rome, you’ll take the A1 superhighway south to the outskirts of Naples (near the city of Caserta), where you’ll exit and switch to the A30 and E842. You’ll take the E842 all the way across the Campania region, through Basilicata, and into Puglia. Your last leg of the journey to Bari (or beyond) will be a quick stretch on the E55 highway.

Puglia has two cities with international airports: Bari and Brindisi. The airport in Bari is called Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla (BRI). In Brindisi, the airport is named Papola Casale Airport (BDS), though it’s sometimes also referred to as Salento Airport.

Both airports offer direct connections with the rest of Italy and much of Europe. Bari airport also has non-stop flights to Egypt and Israel. Neither airport in Puglia has direct connections with the United States or Canada, so most flights from North America will first stop in Rome or Milan.

As Bari and Brindisi are just an hour apart, which airport you fly into doesn’t make much difference for your trip.

Transportation and how to get around

Puglia is firmly road trip territory, so you really need to have a car when visiting.

Public transport does exist and it can get you to most of the places that you’ll want to go, but connections are limited and travel times are long. The only real exception to this is around Bari, where train service is pretty good and you can actually visit many of the towns to the city’s north without much hassle.

As you go south, things change and train service drops off, leaving you mostly reliant on buses. While getting from Lecce to Ostuni might be fairly easy, if you want to explore further to places like Alberobello, Locorotondo, or Martina Franca, suddenly you’re stuck spending half your day switching buses.

If you have only a week, you just can’t afford to lose the time in public transit.

Another thing to consider is that much of the pleasure of a visit to Puglia is exploring the countryside and the coast. To experience the bucolic country lanes in the Itria valley and the gorgeous stretches of coastal road in Salento and the Gargano, you need your own car.

If you’re relying on public transit, you are entirely confined to visiting Puglia’s cities and large towns.

Where to find a car rental

If you choose to rent a car, there are lots of companies to choose from, with widely varying prices and car conditions. You’ll find all the big international companies here, as well as a host of smaller, locally owned ones.

The easiest places to get a car rental are Bari and Brindisi. Lecce has some selection, but because the airports are in Bari and Brindisi, they’re also where the majority of rental agencies are.

To check prices and book, I recommend using the following two car rental websites:

DiscoverCars includes offerings from all the major international rental companies as well as lots of smaller local agencies, which often have much better pricing. You can often find great deals.

AutoEurope tends to be more expensive, but they only list options from large, well-reviewed companies and their customer service is excellent. Their deals often include “zero deductible” (i.e. full coverage) rental insurance.

Le Capase hotel and restaurant near to Otranto

Torre Maizza hotel near Savelletri

Puglia offers a near perfect trifecta for visitors: beautiful towns and cities, fabulous beaches, and unspoiled nature. Whether you’re looking for culture, seaside relaxation, or outdoor adventure, Puglia has it all.

If you want sandy beaches , the area around Savelettri in eastern Puglia or Gallipoli in the west are probably your best bets.

If you want charming countryside and cute towns, the Valle d’Itria is your obvious choice.

For urban exploring , art, and culture, Lecce and Bari are the two most interesting metropolitan areas.

If you’re interested in hiking and unspoiled nature , the Gargano peninsula offers both in droves, as does the area around the town of Altamura and the Parco Nazionale dell'Alta Murgia national park.

For wine lovers , the area around Manduria produces some of the best Primitivo wine in Puglia.

How much you can fit into your trip will just depend on how much time you have!

For more info on great places to visit and base yourself in Puglia, check out my guide to 28 fantastic Puglia towns .

Is Puglia expensive?

Ten years ago the answer to that question would have been a definite “no”. Not anymore.

Puglia is not a cheap destination. You should expect prices to be fairly similar to elsewhere in Italy, especially over the summer time when cities and towns are packed, hotels are sold out, and restaurants require advance reservations. Puglia is now a major tourist destination, and the prices reflect that.

Now, there are still great deals to be found in Puglia, but they require some work. If you want to save on hotels, you’ll probably have to stay in the countryside outside of main towns and cities or book outside of major booking platforms like Booking, Expedia, and Airbnb. Using Google Maps to find hotels and B&Bs and then calling them to book directly can often save you 30% or more. If you pay cash, expect to get even better discounts.

Another good way to save money is to avoid coming in high season. Hotel prices can double or triple in the summer months of June, July, and August (and even early September is still high season), but prices drop dramatically if you come in the spring or fall.

Food prices here are still much more reasonable than in big cities and hotspots like Rome, Florence, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast. If you eat at good local restaurants (and don’t exaggerate with the wine), you can expect to pay around 50 euros for a very nice meal, for two people. You can, of course, also spend much more.

For more things to know about travel in Puglia, check out my 27 Puglia travel tips .

Best places to visit in Puglia

North Puglia & the Gargano Peninsula

Tucked away in the far north of Puglia, the Gargano peninsula is a large forested region, mostly hilly, and sparsely populated. It starts a bit south of the town of Vieste and runs until the border with the neighboring region of Molise.

The peninsula is almost entirely contained within a national park, the Parco Nazionale del Gargano, and has rocky limestone beaches with deep emerald waters, dense primeval forest, excellent hiking trails, and charming medieval towns.

The Gargano is one of the least explored parts of Puglia, which only adds to its allure. Although visitors do now make their way here during the summertime, there are not nearly the same numbers as further south. Most of the other tourists you’ll come across are Italians and Germans as very few North Americans know of the area.

If you’re a fan of wilder beaches with no beach clubs, loungers, or big umbrellas in your way, you’ll probably like what you find. For outdoor enthusiasts, you have hiking, biking, boating, diving, and rock climbing all nearby.

The town of Vieste is a lovely medieval village with a stunning location. It sits on a slim promontory of karstic rock that juts out into the emerald sea. T

The city is surrounded on both sides by long sandy beaches and bears a certain resemblance to Dubrovnik in Croatia, with which it is often compared.

2. Monte Sant’Angelo

High on a hill overlooking the sea just south of Vieste sits the quiet village of Monte Sant’Angelo. While it might not seem like it at first, the town holds enormous religious significance to Christians and has been a sight of pilgrimage for well over a thousand years.

The main draw here is the Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel, a fascinating underground chapel literally carved out of the rock. There’s also a very well-preserved Aragonese castle that is entirely worth an hour of your time.

3. Foresta Umbra/Umbra Forest

The Umbra Forest is a protected area of one of Europe’s best preserved ancient woodlands. It is home to thousands of species of plants and animals (including the beautiful local deer), and contains over 100 km of hiking and biking trails.

4. Strada Provinciale 53 (SP53)

SP53 is a winding stretch of coastal road between Vieste and Mattinata that has forested cliffs on one side and a steep drop into the sea on the other. This road is now mostly out of use as a new super highway was built that tunnels through the cliff and shaves about 30 minutes off the drive.

The drive is great, but biking it gives you more time to enjoy the views.

5. Isole Tremiti (Tremiti Islands)

The Tremiti islands are an archipelago of 5 small islands located about 20 kilometers off the coast of the Gargano. Little known and even less visited, they’re quite wonderful.

Small enough to explore on foot and close enough to each other that you can rent your own zodiac boat and visit all of them in a weekend, a 2-day trip here is one of the coolest things you can do in Puglia.

For those with less time, they can be visited as a day trip from the Gargano towns of Vieste, Peschici, Manfredonia, and Rodi Garganico, all of which offer ferry services, as well as from the city of Termoli in Molise.

Terra di Bari - Greater Bari Region

The Terra di Bari (land of Bari) is the greater metropolitan region around Bari, Puglia’s capital. This has long been Puglia’s wealthiest region, and its most densely populated. The port towns and cities that dot the cost are cosmopolitan and rich in architecture, art, and culture. The food here is also some of the best in Puglia.

For those without a car, it’s also the easiest part of Puglia to get around via public transport.

The region’s center is around Bari and stretches north to Barletta and south to Monopoli. With a metro population of a little over 1.5 million people, more than 1/3 of Puglia’s residents live here.

If you’re more interested in exploring cities than lounging on the beach or meandering around the countryside, you’ll definitely want to spend some time here.

I can’t talk about the Bari region and not mention Bari! Puglia’s capital gets pretty shortchanged by most Puglia guides, but it shouldn’t.

With about 315,000 residents, it’s the second largest city in southern Italy (after Naples) and has a lot to offer. The food scene is fantastic, the old town is a maze of tight alleyways with lots to see, and the city’s seaside promenade and wide boulevards are gorgeous.

You probably don’t want to base yourself here, but you should certainly visit for at least a day.

Trani is one Puglia’s most elegant cities and far more cosmopolitan than you would think judging by its small population of 60,000. It has the best seafood restaurants of anywhere in Puglia, a charming old town by the port, a terrific Aragonese castle, and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in southern Italy.

Trani is one of my absolute favorite places in Puglia.

8. Barletta

Barletta is a city of almost 95,000 about an hour north of Bari. As soon as you arrive, the many large monuments all over town indicate that this is an important place.

The main sight is the fabulously preserved castle from the 1200s which is very much worth entering. Barletta also boats a lovely cathedral, the excellent Palazzo della Marra museum, and the famous Colossus of Barletta, an enormous bronze monument to a Roman emperor that was accidentally dragged out of the sea by a local fisherman.

9. Giovinazzo

Giovinazzo is undergoing a major facelift and residents are starting to move back into the historic quarter. That’s good news for visitors as the town is an absolute gem.

The cobblestoned streets of the old town are pedestrianized and lined by lovely whitewashed buildings and the lungomare (boardwalk) is a fabulous place for a stroll.

Even better, almost no one visits outside of the peak of high season, so for much of the year it feels like you have the town all to yourself!

10. Bitonto

Bitonto is rough around the edges and it’s not always the prettiest place in Puglia. However, it’s totally authentic and a very interesting place to stop for a few hours while exploring the towns and cities north of Bari.

The star of the show is the Duomo di Bitonto , a Norman cathedral built in the 1100s that is probably the finest example of Romanesque architecture anywhere in Puglia.

11. Polignano a Mare

If you’ve typed “Puglia” into Google, you’ve almost certainly seen a photo of cliffside Polignano a Mare.

The location of the town is truly stunning - houses and businesses crowd a tiny cliffside, practically tumbling into the sea. Turquoise waters and a sliver of beach lie beneath the cliffs and complete what is probably the most picturesque spot in the region.

Do be aware, it’s one of Puglia’s most popular places to visit and is completely overrun throughout most of the year.

12. Monopoli

Monopoli is a pleasant port city and fishing town just 8 kilometers south of Polignano. It’s a lively place all throughout the summer and strikes a nice balance between offering good tourism amenities and still being an authentic place.

Valle d’Itria - The Itria Valley

The Itria valley is a patch of bucolic countryside that stretches from the town of Ostuni in the east of Puglia towards Taranto in the west.

Its charming whitewashed towns are surrounded by orchards, wineries, and farmland, and its dotted all throughout with the iconic trulli houses, lending the entire area a dreamy, fairytale-like aura.

With the exception of Ostuni and Martina Franca, most of the towns in the Valle d’Itria are small and are not necessarily places you’d want to base yourself in for a few days. They’re fantastic to explore, but you can usually combine visits to 3-4 towns into a single day.

Most accommodation options are in nearby Ostuni or at Masseria- style accommodation in the countryside or along the Savelletri coast.

If you plan to stay in the region and will have a car, we generally recommend staying somewhere outside of Locorotondo, Cisternino, or Alberobello that gives you access to the quiet country lanes and charming rural area.

Another good option is to stay near Savelletri (outside of Ostuni), where you’re just a few minutes from the beach, but also no more than a half hour to Alberobello, Locorotondo, etc.

If you won’t have a car, I run private guided tours of the Valle d’Itria and would love to show you around.

13. Martina Franca

Martina Franca is not quite a hidden gem anymore, but it doesn’t see nearly the same number of visitors as other towns in the Itria valley. It’s a bit perplexing, as it may be the nicest of them all.

Like all the villages of the Valle d’Itria, Martina Franca boasts a white-washed historic core, but with the addition of intricate Rococo touches all around. The town is also home to the famed capocollo di Martina Franca, a local type of salami that is the most prized of Puglia.

The pearl of Puglia, as Ostuni is often called, is genuinely one of the prettiest towns in the region. It’s not actually in the Itria valley, but it’s close enough that it gets lumped in.

The city sits high on a hill with olive groves surrounding it on all sides and the Savelletri and Monopoli coastline just beyond. Its duomo (cathedral) is beautiful and features a stunning rose window.

The whole town is elegant and refined with pleasant pedestrianized streets, and it makes for an excellent base for exploring the Itria valley and hitting the nearby beaches.

15. Locorotondo

Locorotondo is a small hilltop town about 30 minutes from Ostuni. Its name, which literally translates as “round place” is because the town, surrounded by its original city walls, is shaped like a small oval.

It offers many of the same charms as Ostuni or Martina Franca, but in smaller size. While a definite must-visit, it’s not somewhere you need multiple days to explore and I wouldn’t recommend it as your base.

If you’re planning to base yourself in the Valle d’Itria for a few days and want to be in a town, I always recommend Martina Franca. It’s a real little city and has more to do. It’s also less touristy.

16. Cisternino

Cisternino is a tiny little town 10 minutes from Locorotondo whose centro storico was awarded a prize as one of the most charming borghi (small towns) in all of Italy.

You don’t need much time to visit, so can cover most of town in an hour or two.

Aside from being pretty, the town has long been famous for its excellent butcher shops which double as restaurants in the evening. If you find yourself here at dinnertime, be sure to order some bombette.

17. Ceglie Messapica

Though just 15 minutes from Ostuni, Ceglie Messapica somehow remains completely off visitors’ radars. While not fair to the town’s ego, you should take advantage of this odd fact and enjoy it before it becomes more discovered!

The joy of a visit to Ceglie is getting lost in the maze of alleyways and narrow streets that contain almost none of the tourist trappings of all the nearby towns. Locally, the town is also regarded as a gastronomic powerhouse.

If you get hungry, Cibus, one of the best restaurants in the region, is located here and you should also try the local specialty, a panino cegliese , which is a sandwich with some rather curious ingredients.

18. Putignano

If you look on Google Maps or Booking, you’ll immediately notice that Putignano has barely any accommodation options. That’s because almost no one knows it exists! I don’t have the slightest clue why.

While it doesn’t boast any major sites, its circular old town is incredibly atmospheric, especially after dinner when there’s barely a soul around. And speaking of dinner, for foodies with a budget, the first restaurant anywhere in Puglia to be awarded a Michelin star is here: Angelo Sabatelli Ristorante.

In Puglia, the city is famous for the enormous, colorful, and eclectic floats that feature in the local carnival celebration.

19. Alberobello

I’ve included Alberobello on this list because it’s probably Puglia’s most well known place and somewhere you’re all but certain to visit during your trip here. That said, it’s definitely not our favorite destination in Puglia.

Alberobello became famous because of the town’s incredible number of canonical, stone roof houses known as trulli. While they are quite a site to see, Alberobello has completely given over to mass tourism and the town is always overcrowded and is full of souvenir shops and tourist traps.

Additionally, you’ll find plenty of trulli houses all throughout the countryside here, so you won’t miss them if you don’t go to Alberobello. You’re probably going to visit anyways, so, when you do, go early in the morning before the tour buses arrive or late in the evening after they’ve left. Thank me later.

The Salento peninsula , anchored by the stunning Baroque city of Lecce, is what put Puglia squarely on the map for tourism. Interestingly, this isn’t actually an official geographic region and there is no “Salento province” in Puglia. It’s more of a cultural definition than a well-defined geographic one.

That said, the region is typically defined as starting where the hills of the Itria valley end, basically just after Ostuni, and extending until the southern tip of Puglia.

With everything from rocky coves to long stretches of sandy beach, this arid and coastal area is an art and beach lovers’ paradise.

Here, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet, and where civilizations have crossed paths for thousands of years, there is no shortage of ways to spend your time.

Lecce really needs no introduction. It is Puglia at its most decadent and the jewel of the Salento peninsula.

The city is steeped in Baroque and Rococo style and has countless fabulous churches, elegant streets, sophisticated eateries, stylish hotels, and just enough chaos outside the historic center to remind you that you’re still in southern Italy!

A few things not to miss: the recently restored Basilica di Santa Croce, the Duomo, and three of the city’s original gates: Porta Rudiae, Porta San Biagio, and Porta Napoli.

For more info on Lecce, check out my Lecce city guide .

21. Otranto

Otranto is little port town of 5,000 just 30 minutes south of Lecce. The entire town is beautiful, especially the lungomare, but the cathedral, with its mosaic-coated crypt and macabre altar to the martyrs of an Ottoman sacking of the city, is the main reason to visit.

Just north of the city you also have some fantastic beaches at Torre dell’Orso, Torre Sant’Andrea, Roca Vecchia, and San Foca.

22. Santa Maria di Leuca

Italy’s southeastern most point, Santa Maria di Leuca is located at the very tip of the Salento peninsula right where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet.

The sweeping piazza here with views to both seas is reason enough to go, but in the summertime you also have good beaches nearby, sea caves to explore, and boat trips that offer jaw-dropping views of the rocky coast.

23. Gallipoli

Gallipoli is a historic fishing village with a beautiful town center. The town makes a good base for exploring the nearby coast and beach hopping.

Unlike most of the Salento peninsula, the beaches to both the north and south of Gallipoli are sandy, with long stretches of beach and shallow waters ideal for families with kids.

Nardò is still almost totally off the map for tourism, but that is sure to change soon.

The city has invested heavily in restoring the historic core and the main square is one of the best of the entire province, with lovely rococo designs.

The church of San Domenico is a terrific example of the local Baroque style and city hall is housed in a gorgeous palazzo that you can actually enter and visit.

25. Galatina

Galatina’s main claim to fame is that it is the capital of Puglia’s regional dance, la pizzica.

Outside of this, the major attraction is the church of Santa Caterina and its stunning frescoes from the 1300s.

For a sweet treat, all visitors should also make time for a pit stop at a local pastry shop called “Ascalone” which has been open since 1745! It is practically obligatory that you try one of their pasticciotto , a local short bread pastry filled with custard.

26. Castro Marina, Santa Cesaria Terme, Tricase

I’ve included all three of these towns together because it’s not really the towns themselves that I recommend. Rather, it’s the route of Strada Provinciale 358 (SP 358), which runs through all 3 towns, that I suggest you “visit”.

This stretch of road is, beyond any doubt, one the most beautiful drives anywhere in Italy. For almost 60 kilometers between Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca, the road hugs the rocky coast, passing through sleepy towns whose marinas and beaches fill with visitors in the summer, and offers mind-boggling views over the Adriatic.

On clear days, you can even make out the mountains of Albania across the water. For those up for something a little more active, I think the best way to experience the road is on a bicycle!

5, 7, 10, and 14-day Puglia itinerary ideas

Here are a few sample itineraries to help you envision what you could do with anything from 5 days to two weeks in Puglia.

5-day itinerary - Bari & around, Savelletri coast, Valle d’Itria

Day 1 - Bari

Day 2 - Trani, Bitonto, & Giovinazzo

Day 2 - Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, & beach time by Savelletrii

Day 3 - Ostuni, Martina Franca, & Cisternino

Day 5 - Alberobello, Locorotondo, & Ceglie Messapica

5-day itinerary - Savelletri coast, Valle d’Itria, Lecce & Salento

Day 1 - Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, & beach time in Savelletri

Day 2 - Ostuni, Martina Franca, & Cisternino

Day 3 - Alberobello, Locorotondo, & Ceglie Messapica

Day 4 - Lecce

Day 5 - Gallipoli, Santa Maria di Leuca, & Otranto

7-day itinerary - Bari, Matera, Valle d’Itria, Salento, & Savelletri coast

Day 2 - Bari to Matera

Day 3 - Matera

Day 4 - Matera to Lecce via the Valle d’Itria

Day 5 - Lecce 

Day 6 - Gallipoli, Santa Maria di Leuca, & Otranto

Day 7 - Savelletri coast, Monopoli, & Polignano a Mare

10-day itinerary - Bari, Matera, Valle d’Itria, Lecce, & Otranto

Day 2 - Bari - visit Trani, Bitonto, and Giovinazzo

Day 3 - Bari to Matera with a stop in Altamura

Day 4 - Matera

Day 5 - Matera to Martina Franca

Day 6 - Martina Franca, Alberobello, Locortondo, Cisternino

Day 7 - Martina Franca to Lecce with a stop in Ostuni

Day 8 - Lecce

Day 9 - Lecce, Otranto, coastal drive on SP358 to Santa Maria di Leuca

Day 10 - Lecce, Nardò, Galatina, Gallipoli

14-day itinerary - Bari & Terra di Bari, Gargano peninsula, Matera, Valle d’Itria, Lecce, Otranto, Savelletri coast

Day 2 - Bari with visits to Trani, Bitonto, and Giovinazzo

Day 3 - Bari to Vieste in the Gargano peninsula with a stop in Monte Sant’Angelo

Day 4 - Vieste - explore town and hit the nearby beaches

Day 5 - Vieste to Matera with a stop in Altamura

Day 6 - Matera

Day 7 - Matera to Martina Franca with visits to Alberobello, Locorotondo, Cisternino.

Day 8 - Martina Franca to Lecce with a stop in Ostuni

Day 9 - Lecce

Day 10 - Lecce, Otranto, coastal drive on SP358 to Santa Maria di Leuca

Day 11 - Lecce, Nardò, Galatina, Gallipoli

Day 12 - Lecce to Savelletri with beach time

Day 13 - Savelletri, Monopoli, Polignano a Mare

Day 14 - Savelletri with beach time

Paolo is a local guide originally from Lecce in Puglia and now based in nearby Matera. He’s been helping travelers explore his home region and most of Southern Italy for almost 20 years. An avid cyclist and local travel aficionado, when not guiding you’ll usually find him cycling in the countryside and on the hunt for the best local restaurants.

A Local’s Guide to Visiting Porto, Portugal

28 fantastic places in puglia, italy - a local’s guide.

The Mini Rough Guide to Puglia

3.7, 6 reviews

This pocket-sized guide is a convenient, quick-reference companion to discovering what to do, what to see and how to get around Puglia. It covers top attractions like the Tremiti islands, the Gargano peninsula and Otranto, as well as hidden gems, including Alberobello - the centre of Puglia's famous trulli, the quaint, conical-shaped houses - Castel del Monte, a unique medieval masterpiece, and Lecce, Puglia's Baroque gem, packed with lavish architecture and fanciful facades. This will save you time, and enhance your exploration of this fascinating region. This title has been fully updated post-COVID-19. 

This Mini Rough Guide to  Puglia  covers: The Gargano Peninsula, Puglia Imperiale, Canosa di Puglia, Bari and beyond, Valle d'Itria, The Salento, An excursion to Matera

In this travel guide you will find: 

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EVERY TYPE OF TRAVELLER 

Experiences selected for every kind of trip to Puglia, from cultural explorations to family activities in child-friendly places or chilled-out breaks in popular tourist areas.

TOP TEN ATTRACTIONS Covers the destination’s top ten attractions not to miss, including Martina Franca, Lecce, Gallipoli and a Perfect Day/Tour itinerary suggestions.

COMPACT FORMAT Compact, concise, and packed with essential information, with a sharp design and colour-coded sections, this is the perfect on-the-move companion when you’re exploring Puglia.

HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL INSIGHTS

Includes an insightful overview of landscape, history and culture.

Detailed description of entertainment, shopping, nightlife, festivals and events, and children’s activities.

PRACTICAL MAPS Handy colour maps on the inside cover flaps will help you find your way around.

PRACTICAL TRAVEL INFORMATION

Practical information on eating out, including a handy glossary and detailed restaurant listings, as well as a comprehensive A–Z of travel tips on everything from getting around to health and tourist information.

STRIKING PICTURES

Inspirational colour photography throughout.

FREE EBOOK 

Free eBook download with every purchase of a printed book to access all content from your phone or tablet for on-the-road exploration. 

Description

Book details.

This title is a part of Mini Rough Guides

Pocket-sized travel guides packed with practical and cultural information for everyone from short city-breakers to longer holiday-makers, thanks to the blend of area-by-area descriptions, at-a-glance historical and cultural information, and comprehensive listings and travel tips, backed up by easily-accessible mapping

Practical travel information including getting there, getting around by public transport, accommodation, detailed food and drink highlights, and entertainment and activities in the region

Destination highlights not to miss at the beginning of each guide

Colour-coded chapters focus on where to go and what to do in a highly-readable descriptive style, featuring historical information and tips on what to look out for

Recommendations for accommodation, restaurants and leisure activities for all budgets

Colour-coded detailed maps on the book flaps with key sights marked up by number

Beautiful, inspirational full-colour photography throughout brings the destination to life

Printed on paper from responsible sources verified to meet FSC’s strict environmental and social standards

Free eBook with each purchased printed guide

Format: 105 x 144mm

Price: £6.99 | $9.99

Extent: 144 pages

BOOK DETAILS

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Customer Reviews

3.7 out of 5, 6 global ratings

Minimal not mini

Having used Rough Guides and Lonely Planet Guides for many years this is the first time I have been disappointed. "Book" has minimal coverage and offers very much less than reasonably expected, not a wise buy,

Very good book

Very good book .

Well put together

The Mini Guide is extracted from the Rough Guide to Italy, and easier to carry around.

Reviews (6)

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Carlo DeSando

Wonderful Time in Italy We were covered from the moment we landed in Rome. The drivers were great, the connections were flawless, and it was well-planned a...

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

The best travel tips for visiting Puglia

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

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From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Torre Guaceto, Puglia © Shutterstock

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

#1 Swim at the beaches near Vieste

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

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

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

Salento Beach, Puglia, Italy © Shutterstock

#2 Marvel at the mysterious Castel del Monte

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

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

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

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

Castel del Monte, famous medieval fortress in Puglia © Shutterstock

#3 Join in la dolce vita in Martina Franca

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

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

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

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

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

#4 Wander whitewashed Ostuni

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

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

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

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

Ostuni, Italy © Shutterstock

#5 Linger in Lecce, the Florence of the South

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

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

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

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

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

#6 Explore beautiful Otranto

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

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

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

#7 Make the most of Puglia’s produce

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

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

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

#8 Island hop in the Tremiti islands

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

The main Tremiti group consists of three islands:

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

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

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

#9 Bed down in a trulli

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some iconic dishes not to miss include:

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

Otranto town in Puglia © Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monte Sant'Angelo

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

The Tremiti islands

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

Browse the places to stay in Puglia.

Bari, Italy @ Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trulli houses in Puglia, Italy © Shutterstock

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

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

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

Find out more about the best time to visit Italy .

Torre Guaceto, Puglia, Italy © Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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• Alberobello

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updated 17.07.2023

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National Geographic Traveler: Puglia

By national geographic, part of national geographic traveler, category: travel: europe.

Jun 01, 2021 | ISBN 9788854417038 | 5 x 8 --> | ISBN 9788854417038 --> Buy

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About National Geographic Traveler: Puglia

The National Geographic Traveler guidebooks are in tune with the growing trend toward experiential travel. Each book provides inspiring photography, insider tips, and expert advice for a more authentic, enriching experience of the destination. These books serve a readership of active, discerning travelers, and supply information, historical context, and cultural interpretation not available on the Internet. With its long, narrow shape, Puglia has always acted as a bridge in the Mediterranean. To the north, it is crowned by the wild greenery of the Gargano promontory, the Daunian Mountains, and the sweet hills that roll down to the Tavoliere delle Puglie. With its infinite seafront and old city, medieval churches and genuine cuisine, Bari is the metropolitan city of the region. The Romanesque cathedrals line the Adriatic coast. Numerous beach resorts can be found as you wind along from the Gargano coast to Salento; the water is always crystalline, perfect for swimming or a refreshing dip. Further inland, Salento offers little villages of white houses and historical, Baroque-decorated town centers with dry stone walls bordering long bike paths.

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Travel Guide To Puglia, Italy: Top Things To Do And More!

This article may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy .

Ready to be transported into the charming and unspoiled beauty of Puglia? In this magical land in Southern Italy, sun-soaked beaches meet green rolling hills, and the rich history blends seamlessly with the mouth-watering local delicacies. Discover the hidden gems of this Italian paradise in this in-depth travel guide to Puglia !

Table of contents

Appealing to sun worshippers and culture lovers alike, Puglia, in Italy, is one of those places that deserves a place on anyone’s Travel Bucket List.

Although it’s seriously beautiful, this Italian region sometimes gets overlooked in favor of hotspots like Rome, Florence, and Venice. But as an Italian, I know this spot has so much to offer visitors.

Not only are Puglia’s olive groves and quaint piazzas incredibly romantic (hello, honeymooners!), but each town is an amazing historical tapestry woven with whitewashed buildings, intricately-carved basilicas, and iconic limestone Trulli.

I completely understand that traveling to new places can be overwhelming. So, I’m here to give you the ultimate local’s guide to Puglia that’ll have you hitting the most important sights and eating the most incredible Italian food.

That’s right – my priorities are always on point!

Whether you’re in the area for a week or a month, this handy guide (and my accompanying list of Italy travel tips !) should help you pad out your Puglia itinerary for the dreamiest trip imaginable.

Where is Puglia in Italy?

Puglia is a beautiful region located on the southeastern tip of Italy. In other words, it’s right on the famous heel of Italy by the Adriatic sea and the Ionian sea.

Why Visit Puglia?

It’s tricky for me to answer this question without gushing, but I’d say the main reason to visit Puglia is for the excellent food, historical buildings, and pristine coastline. 

From the culturally fascinating Trulli in Alberobello to the sprawling beaches of Salento, you can easily spend two weeks traveling through this charming region.

Travel Guide To Puglia

• 13 Best Places To Visit In Puglia

When To Visit Puglia

• Where To Stay
• What and Where To Eat
• How To Get There

13 Best Places To Visit In Puglia (Cannot Miss These!)

1. alberobello.

The town of Alberobello is tucked away in central Puglia and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 for its iconic Trulli huts. Believe it or not, there are over 1,500 of these unique limestone structures in this small part of Puglia, Italy. So, you’ll barely be able to walk a few steps without encountering a few conical roofs!

Trulli were generally constructed as temporary field shelters and storehouses that could easily be dismounted.

During the years, small agricultural proprietors or laborers started to use them as permanent dwellings. 

Although these structures make Alberobello uber-popular with tourists, you can usually stroll through the cobbled streets and quaint souvenir shops without ramming into too many people. Just try and avoid the high season if you can, as it can get ridiculously busy.

Most restaurants and places of interest are inside the Trulli, including Trullo Sovrano, which houses the town’s tiny (but wonderful!) Heritage Museum . It costs ~€2 to enter, and you can spend half an hour or so checking it out.

Once you’ve explored the museum, I suggest exploring the historically significant Casa D’Amore and the Sant’Antonio Church (the only church in the world built in the Trulli style, BTW!).

If you’re short on time, this History Walking Tour with Olive Oil Tasting is a must-do. It takes you through the main districts of Rione Monti and Aia Piccola and includes a tasting of local olive oil, which most tourists love. 

Better yet, it takes just 1.5 – 2 hours, leaving you tons of time to explore the rest of Puglia, Italy!

Here you’ll find my in-depth guide to visiting Alberobello !

A quick tip!

This small town has received tons of traction on social media lately and is almost unpleasantly busy during the peak season. May and October are the best months to visit . But if you want to avoid crowds during the busy season, get here as early as possible and try and move on to your next destination by noon.

2. Stay in A Real Trullo or Masseria in Val D’Itria

I’ve talked quite a bit about the iconic Trulli in my section about Alberobello, but there’s another wonderful structure that’s native to Puglia – Masseria!

If you’re wondering what masserie are, they’re fortified farmhouses that were built in Puglia during the 16 th century.

They were once used to protect country landowners and their workers from marauders, but most of them have been converted into luxurious large-scale hotels.

Trulli are slightly different. These cone-shaped houses weren’t designed to protect residents from invaders. But they were designed to be easily dismantled to avoid anyone having to pay property taxes. Hey, it’s certainly a creative way to go about things!

In my opinion, you can’t take a trip to Puglia, Italy, without staying in a Trullo or Masseria. They’re a huge part of the area’s character and offer an intimate look into Puglia’s vineyards, farmlands, and rich cultural history.

What I love about staying in these historical buildings is that you can find something for all budgets. I’ve outlined some of my favorite options in my Where to Stay section !

3. Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is one of Puglia’s most glorious seaside towns. It’s famous for its crystal-clear waters, pebbled beaches, and charming piazzas. Located just 25 miles from Bari, this place has plenty of coastal beauty and charm.

It’s home to a small Old Town with gorgeous winding alleys and whitewashed buildings.

As you’re walking through town, you may even spot the works of Guido Lupori, or Pablo Naruda scribbled onto the walls or steep steps that line the streets. Your best chance of finding poetry is on Vicolo Della Poesia (which is conveniently keyed into Google Maps – phew!).

When you’ve had your fill of artistry, head to the Lama Monachile Bridge , which backs onto the Instagrammable Cala Porto Beach with its distinctive white and turquoise pebbles. Then, spend a couple of hours sipping an aperitif Caffè Dei Serafini which boasts insane views over the waterfront.

Oh, and you simply can’t leave this spot without checking out the famous sea caves! Carved dramatically into the area’s seascape, the grottoes can be explored on a dedicated boat tour that’ll take you deep inside these natural wonders.

If you want to dine inside one of the caves, make a reservation at Grotta Plazzese . This epic restaurant was once used for hosting bougie banquets during the 1700s, but it’s now a spectacular cliffside restaurant that offers panoramas over the seafront. 

Just be aware that dining here costs an eye-watering €200 per person. So, bear that in mind before booking!

If you have time before leaving Polignano a Mare, head to Pietra Piatta , one of Puglia’s most famous rocks. 

This rock offers spectacular views over the historic center that you simply won’t find anywhere else.

Ostuni is a wonderful spot that’s often referred to as “The White City.” And you can see why in the picture below. 

The whole city is a labyrinth of alleyways, arches, and whitewashed houses. But don’t worry – you’ll find a kaleidoscope of color waiting for you in the glorious vases scattered around the streets and artisanal boutiques in the city center!

While you’re here, visit the spectacular fifteenth-century Ostuni Cathedral and the Piazza Della Liberta , which is full of charming shops and cafes. If you have time, the Museum of Preclassic Civilization of Southern Murgia is a fascinating spot packed with Paleolithic artifacts.

Before you call it a day, head to Corso Vittorio Emanuele II to watch the sunset. This is by far the best viewpoint in Ostuni, as you get an impressive view of the city’s olive trees and the Adriatic sea. 

If that wasn’t enough to convince you that this is one of the best things to do in Puglia, it’s just a 15-minute walk from the main square. So, it’s easy to slot into any Puglia Travel Guide!

You’ll want to wear sturdy walking shoes if you’re visiting Ostuni. This place is packed with stairs and slopes (especially if you’re planning to visit the Centro Storico). This means it’s not the most accessible city in the world if you’re wearing heels or slip-on pumps.

5. Vieste and Gargano Peninsula

Vieste is probably the best base for exploring the Gargano Peninsula, as it’s less crowded than most other destinations in Puglia.

It’s a charming seaside town known for its picture-perfect sunsets (thanks to the clear skies and warm temperatures!).

But you’ll also have access to beautiful beaches, waterfront restaurants, and the amazing Norman castle perched on the edge of town.

Once you’ve exhausted the beauty of Vieste, you can spend time frolicking around Gargano National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a panacea for outdoor enthusiasts and offers 15 marked trails that showcase the best of the area’s flora and fauna.

As you walk through the Foresta Umbra (Forest of Shadows), you’ll spot everything from rugged cliffsides and gliding yachts to the sprawling pebble beaches beneath you. 

The ancient Aleppo pines you’ll encounter also offer plenty of shade from the sometimes-blistering Italian heat. This makes trekking surprisingly comfortable during the height of summer.

If you’re visiting Gargano National Park, keep an eye out for the natural arches. The most famous of these is the San Felice Arch, which you can view from the Torre San Felice. The arch is approximately 9km from Vieste, and you can find it by keying this into Google Maps!

6. Locorotondo

If you’re planning to visit Puglia for the luscious olive groves (and the oil that comes with them!), you need to check out Locorotondo.

This fertile area is one of the most beautiful places in Italy , and its temperate climate means that it grows some seriously delicious grapes. As a result, it’s the place to be in Puglia for local wines and romantic strolls through vineyards.

Aside from sipping wines, you can spend your time in Locorotondo getting lost in the narrow streets, exploring the many churches (the Chiesa Madre di San Giorgio and the Chiesa Della Madonna Della Greca are the most impressive!), and eating fresh Italian dishes. 

If you get tired at any point during the afternoon, grab a smooth cup of coffee from any of the coffee shops in Piazza Vittorio Emmanuele. If you’d like to get away from the central buzz, Insòlito Café is a charming espresso bar just 10 minutes from the square!

If you want to explore this part of Puglia in 1.5 hours, I recommend this Locorotondo Walking Tour . It covers the historical center, the famous whitewashed houses, the church of San Giorgio, and the town’s stunning clock tower.

7. Cisternino

Okay – if you’re looking for incredible food in Puglia, you can’t leave without visiting Cisternino. Not only is it considered one of the most beautiful villages in the country (seriously, it’s won awards!), but this slow-paced area is committed to upholding its historic reputation for serving next-level meats.

Cisternino is famous for its street butchers, and you’ll want to grab a portion of bombette while you’re here. This delicacy is a tiny meat parcel typically packed with cheese, ham, and savory mince. Pair it with a generous serving of regional wine, and you’ll be living like a true local.

As you stroll through Cisternino, you’ll spot incredible points of interest like the Basilica di San Nicola and the Norman-Swabian Tower (built sometime around the 11 th century!). If you keep moving, you’ll see the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, home to the famous Clock Tower, several decorated balconies, and a handful of adorable coffee bars.

Once you’ve had your fill of the town, head to Villa Comunale Giuseppe Garibaldi to admire the panoramas over the olive trees and trulli that characterize the landscape.

If you’re wondering where to get the best bombette in town , I recommend heading to Zio Pietro or Antico Borgo . They both offer a range of regional wood-fired meats and wines. The service is always excellent too, which is a bonus!

8. Torre Guaceto

Just an hour’s drive from Alberobello lies the Reserve of Torre Guaceto , considered one of the most stunning parts of Puglia. It’s just a short drive from Brindisi and is worth the detour.

The reserve boasts an impressive 20km of coastline and is home to insects, migratory birds, turtles, and a bunch of local plant life that adds a lovely touch of greenery to the landscape. 

As Torre Guaceto is a protected marine area, it’s spotless and immediately draws you in with its sandy dunes, glimmering azure waters, and super-relaxing atmosphere.

If you’re willing to work your quads with a steep climb, you should check out the 13 th -century Monastery of Monte Sant’Angelo . Located on Mount Gargano, this Roman Catholic shrine is well worth visiting for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs.

9. Martina Franca

Home to winding cobbled streets and large piazzas, Martina Franca is a real mecca for Europhiles. In the summer, you’ll find locals sipping aperitifs on the many outdoor terraces while tourists bustle around the city walls, Baroque churches, and four major gates.

The town was founded in 1310 and remains one of Italy’s finest examples of Baroque architecture. If you ask me, I’d argue that this place’s crowning glory was the immaculate Basilica di San Martino . The interior is worth exploring, but you can spend plenty of time admiring the elaborate carvings on the unique cream exterior glistening during daylight hours.

Then, walk through Piazza Maria Immacolata and check out the whitewashed buildings, porticoes, and restaurants that eagerly await you around every corner. If you’re visiting during the summer, it’s worth seeking shelter in the Palazzo Ducale to check out its impressive interior and enormous courtyard.

Oh, and don’t forget to stop by the famous Caffe Tripoli before heading home! It’s located on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi and serves some of the tastiest focaccia and gelato in Italy.

Before I forget!

Although Martina Franca is popular for its architectural wonders, don’t leave without trying capocollo. It’s a melt-in-your-mouth cured meat that you can pick up at most local butchers or grocery stores.

No trip to Puglia would be complete without visiting Lecce. It’s often referred to as “Florence of the South” thanks to its proximity to nearby seaside towns and a large number of Baroque monuments. 

Although it’s impossible to pin down an exact date of founding, the area dates to the 3 rd century BC, when Emperor Hadrian fortified it. However, most of its architectural influence comes from the early 17 th century.

I always recommend visiting Lecce if you’re an avid photographer, as everything from the Roman Amphitheatre to the stunning Basilica di Santa Croce is worth a place on your Instagram feed.

I mean, who doesn’t adore ornate pillars and intricate façades?

Lecce’s cathedral is particularly gorgeous at night, and you can admire the view with an Aperol from one of the many local bars in Piazza del Duomo. To make things even sweeter, the cathedral is free to enter!

Although most people stick to the historic center, you should try and fit in a visit to the Poetry Cave in Roca Vecchia. It’s a collection of open-air cave pools that offer a direct tunnel to the Adriatic sea. 

The pools are just 30 minutes from Lecce, and there’s decent parking nearby for ~€1.80/hour. It’s all clearly signposted, so don’t worry too much about finding it! 

Most tourists don’t know about this spot, so you’d be unlucky to find it rammed.

11. Salento and its beautiful beaches

If you’re traveling to Puglia via Brindisi Airport, you should make Salento your first port of call. This part of Puglia is home to the region’s most breathtaking sandy beaches, and it boasts a dramatic rocky backdrop that’s just *chef’s kiss* .

Although there are several beaches you could visit while you’re here, I’d start with Punta Prosciutto . This place is home to dazzling azure waters and balmy sands that stretch for an incredible 32km along the coast. Oh, and did I mention that it’s free to enter? Talk about a win-win.

If you’re looking for the perfect place for some TLC, check out Pescoluse (often called the “Maldives of Salento”). This area is tucked away between Torre Pali and Torre Vado and is a family-friendly area with shallow waters, chaise lounges, and cabanas. It can get busy during the peak season, so you’ll want to get here early to guarantee a spot.

But my all-time favorite beach in Salento is Torre Colimena . It has sandy dunes, bright white sand, and a low seabed (making it ideal for tiny tykes!).

While exploring this picturesque beach, keep an eye out for pink flamingos. You won’t always see them, but you have a decent chance as the beach is home to Salento’s saltpans ( Saline Dei Monaci ) which attracts these birds like moths to a flame.

12. Castel Del Monte

If you feel like stepping back in time, add Castel del Monte to your list of things to do in Puglia, Italy. This 13 th -century castle has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, and it’s easy to see why!

This place is one of Italy’s finest examples of Medieval architecture and truly looks as though it’s come straight out of Game of Thrones.

The castle is perched on a hilltop miles away from civilization and built in a striking octagonal style meant to fortify it against invaders.

If you’ve rented a car, you’ll be able to park at a nearby site for around €5. You can then hop on a shuttle from the bottom of the hilltop, which costs €1. If you don’t feel like shelling out for the shuttle, pull on your walking boots and prepare for a steep 500m hike to the top! 

Traveling by train? Just hop on the No. 6 bus from Andria railway station to the castle and walk (or shuttle) up.

The entrance fee to the castle is ~€7 for adults and €2 for concessions, but I recommend paying an additional €3 for the audio tour. I rarely find a truly awesome audio tour, but this one gives you everything you could hope to learn about this incredible historic site. 

It’s not one of the cheapest things to do in Puglia for families, but it’s worth the investment for that premium knowledge.

13. Grotte di Castellana

Although this attraction doesn’t always get much love, I couldn’t create a list of things to do in Puglia without mentioning the Caves of Castellana .  

If you were wondering what this attraction is, It’s essentially an underground system of Karst caves that runs for 3,348 meters beneath the town of Castellana Grotte.

Believe it or not, these ancient caves are more than 90 million years old (yep – you read that right!), and they boast rugged walls of stalactites, stalagmites, and fossils that give the entire area a spooky appearance. When you head in with your torch, you may even find a few bats or beetles flitting around!

Although two separate English tours run , I suggest doing the two-hour tour that includes the Grotta Bianca. This cave is defined by its incredible alabaster formations that look like carved marble. 

The longer tour costs €16, slightly more than the cheaper 50-minute tour for €12. But I honestly feel it’s worth the investment as you cover way more ground.

Oh, and don’t forget to pack a lightweight jacket or cardigan as it can get chilly in the caves (around 16.5 °C on average)!

How to get here

It may seem like it’s in the middle of nowhere, but this place isn’t too hard to reach from Bari. You just need to hop on the FSE Bari-Taranto train that runs directly to Castellana Grotte. 

It takes around an hour and fifteen minutes, and the trains run hourly during the week and on weekends. At just €3.20 per person, it’s a total steal.

Also, check the opening and closing times for your visit here before heading out. The opening hours vary depending on the month, so don’t get caught off guard.

The best time to visit Puglia is between April and June or during autumn. In my experience, visiting during high summer is a total non-starter. 

Although the water and beaches will be gorgeous , the crowd levels are ridiculous. As a result, you’ll spend half your vacation waiting in line for restaurants and attractions. The small towns can also get unbearably hot in July and August, which can drain even the hardiest Italians.

If you’re only able to travel during the height of summer because of the kiddos, you will get to catch the Alberobello Light Festival and La Ghironda (which is essentially an art festival that takes place in Valle d’Itria each July). 

But if I’m being honest, I wouldn’t say these events were worth braving the massive crowds for!

Where To Stay in Puglia

Borgo Egnazia, Savelletri 

Local, authentic experiences in a wonderful setting with panoramic views of the sea and beautiful countryside.

Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa, Ostuni

This 18 th -century boutique hotel boasts a luxurious spa area right in the center of Ostuni.

Palazzo De Noha

One of the best hotels in Lecce, located in the historic center, five minutes walk to cafes, restaurants, and main attractions.

Any of the towns and cities in Puglia are lovely.

I suggest staying around Ostuni or Alberobello if you love a relaxing countryside holiday, not too far from the coastline. 

Ostuni has way more to do during the day (and will be less busy), but I just had to include Alberobello for its incredible trulli. 

If you want to be near the beaches, look into Gallipoli (for a bit more nightlife), Porto Cesareo, or the area around Otranto.

La Mandorla Luxury Trullo : With a spa bath, impressive Wi-Fi, an incredible hot tub, and an enviable city-center location, this luxury trullo is one of the best places to stay in Alberobello for an authentic experience.

Borgo Egnazia : Featuring a blend of traditional architecture and modern comfort, this hotel offers local, authentic experiences in a wonderful setting with panoramic views of the beautiful countryside. It also offers 4 incredible swimming pools and a spiritual wellness center, where you can relax. 

Patria Palace Lecce : This incredible 5-star hotel dates to the 18 th century and boasts gorgeous frescoes, beamed ceilings, and onsite fountains that make the entire site feel oh-so-luxurious. What’s more – you’re just moments from the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Roman Amphitheatre.

Palazzo De Noha : Palazzo De Noha is one of the best hotels in Lecce and is just 550 yards from Piazza San’Oronzo, Lecce Cathedral, and Duomo Square.

Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa : This 18 th -century boutique hotel boasts a luxurious spa area, vintage décor, and sprawling rooms in the center of the beautiful White City (otherwise known as Ostuni!).

Masseria Moroseta : This is such an incredible place, but you’ll need to book months in advance. Surrounded by spectacular centuries-old olive trees, Masseria Moroseta is built with local materials and traditional techniques from the past. Plus, you’ll be able to experience their classy cuisine made with seasonal products from their olive trees, vegetable gardens, orchard, and small chicken coop. 

B&B Villa Maria Pia : B&B Villa Maria Pia is one of my favorite accommodation options in Monopoli as it’s just 12 minutes from the beach, minutes from the city center, and offers private parking onsite. The Tuscan color scheme and rustic décor don’t hurt either!

Hotel La Terra : This newly renovated hotel is just moments from popular attractions in Ostuni’s historical center. It offers elegant rooms (dating back to the 13 th century!), an excellent restaurant serving local wines, and easy access to the city’s finest architectural sites.

Abate Masseria & Resort : Staying in a trullo doesn’t have to break the bank. This option in Noci boasts the traditional stone walls and domed ceilings that rival any luxury trullo in Alberobello. But you’ll also have access to the amazing onsite restaurant and all the amenities you’ll need for a comfortable stay!

Central Suites Lecce : This 3-star gem in Lecce is just 100 yards from Piazza Sant’Oronzo and offers comfortable twin and family rooms for travelers on a shoestring budget.

What To Eat In Puglia And Where

Alberobello.

Quanto Basta : is away from the main tourist rush and has an incredibly relaxing atmosphere. You’ll be able to enjoy top-quality (and authentic!) pizzas and pasta while watching the world go by.

Trattoria Terra Madre : is all about farm-to-table cuisine and serves simple dishes that honor traditional Italian cooking methods. Oh, and you’ll be surrounded by olive groves and the city’s dry stone walls as you dine – talk about scenic. Try the orecchiette (literally little ears in Italian ), the most traditional Apulian handmade pasta.

Martinucci Pasticceria : is home to the best pasticciotti (sweet cream pastries, typical of Puglia – a must try) in town.  If you’re looking for more, the cheesecakes are truly divine.

La Lira : If you’re on the hunt for ridiculously good focaccia, stop by La Lira bakery. I adore their traditional focaccia, but you must try the typical Puccia . It’s a traditional sandwich made with pizza dough baked in a wood-fired oven, then filled with local produce.

Polignano a Mare

La Locanda Porta Picc is a rustic-chic restaurant that never fails to impress with its seafood and pasta dishes. The menu is largely seasonal and inspired by Apulian gastronomic traditions. So, everything is always fresh and authentic.

L’osteria del tempo perso : One of my favorite in Puglia. A quirky romantic restaurant that seems carved into rocks and located in the old town, only a few meters away from the cathedral. You’ll feel like you are eating in a candle-lit cave. The food is made with traditional, locally sourced, and seasonal Apulian ingredients, with a modern twist. So good!

Asso di Spade : Some say here they serve the best panzerotti in the world. And that’s why you’ll need to be ready to queue for a while. But trust me, it’ll be worth it. Panzerotto is a crunchy fried calzone, filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce. But here, you’ll find so many different varieties, including a sweet one filled with pistachio cream that you have to try.

Cremeria La Scala : You can’t visit any Italian region without grabbing a large scoop of gelato or two, right? This gelateria serves a fantastic range of artisanal gelato made with top-quality ingredients.

Torre Canne

La Baia : This waterfront little place next to the beach was recommended to us by our Airbnb host. They have a short menu based on fresh local seafood delicacies. You must try their grilled octopus sandwich (panino con polpo alla brace)!

How to Get There

Unless you plan to travel down from Naples or Rome, you’ll want to fly into Bari or Brindisi Airport. 

I’ve found that the cheapest flights tend to fly into Bari, so I’d hop on SkyScanner to compare prices before booking.

Once you land, you’ll need to rent a car or get on public transport to reach your destination.

The quickest way to get to Puglia by car is by flying into Bari Airport or Brindisi Airport and then driving down. It usually takes around an hour if you head down Strada Statale 100 from Bari and just over an hour from Brindisi via Strada Statale 379.

Rentalcars are an excellent resource for renting a car from these airports, as it allows you to compare prices across all the car hire companies for maximum savings.

The routes to Puglia are relatively simple (with some classic Italian winding roads thrown in for good measure!), and usually, there isn’t much traffic, except when you get close to some of the major cities like Bari or Lecce. 

Renting a car is also the easiest and more reliable way to get around and make the most of what this beautiful region has to offer.

The easiest way to get to Puglia by train is by flying into Bari and riding the Adriatic railway system. You can check the Trenitalia website for tickets and timetables.

And there you have it! My ultimate travel guide to Puglia, Italy.

I always love visiting Puglia, and I’m sure you’ll have an incredible time exploring everything this area offers! 

If you have any questions or want to talk about anything else regarding this Italian gem, just leave me a comment below.

And also, check out these great travel hacks for a stress-free vacation!

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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 breathtaking 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 absolute best places to visit in Puglia. Within this guide, you’ll uncover 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 practical advice.

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 hotels 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 hotels 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, and enjoy its beaches. Search for hotels in Polignano a Mare (Booking.com).

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.

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 .

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).

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

Southern Puglia 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. 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, Nardo 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.

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51 Responses

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!

Cheers, Keith

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

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

• Where to go in Puglia? — 10 best towns in Puglia & most beautiful places in Puglia
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When it comes to Italy, surely in your head will immediately appear cliché names like Venice, Rome or Milan. But the boot-shaped country has much more to offer than that. Have you ever heard of the land of Apulia or Puglia, located at the “heel” of the Italian peninsula? To many tourists, this name may not really widely know, but in Italy, Puglia is the most desirable place to visit. Surely, after reading this sharing of Puglia travel blog, you will want to pack your suitcase and explore this wonderful remote land.

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

Puglia travel blog: Overview of Puglia

Where is the Puglia region?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rich history and architecture

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

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

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

Friendly, generous locals

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

Peaceful countryside

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

Slow living pace

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

Great cuisine

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

Dreamy alleys and cobbled streets

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

Other reasons

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Puglia travel guide: How to get to Puglia?

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

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

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

Puglia Italy travel guide: Getting around Puglia

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

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

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

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

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

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

Puglia blog: Where to stay?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some good hotels in Bari you can refer to

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

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

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

Distance from Lecce to other places:

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

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

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

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

The White City of Ostuni

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

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

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

Polignano a Mare

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

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

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

Alberobello

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay at Masseria or Trulli

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

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

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

Puglia travel blog: What to eat?

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

Delicious food in Puglia

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

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

Where to eat

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

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

Puglia itinerary 7 days

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

Here is the suggested Puglia travel itinerary for 7 days:

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

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

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

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

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

Read more Italy guide here .

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The Perfect 7 Day Puglia Road Trip Itinerary

We always knew that we would fall in love with Puglia, but after diving deep into the region on an extended Puglia road trip, it’s safe to say that we’re near-obsessed with it.

From exploring whitewashed hilltop villages to dipping (again and again and again) into the sparkling Adriatic Sea, and from devouring endless plates of orecchiette to sleeping in one of the region’s famous trulli , Puglia is awash with delightful Italy travel experiences.

Longtime readers know that we have a tendency to fall in love with certain corners of Italy and return to them repeatedly, and, well–let’s just say we expect to have plenty of opportunities to continue updating this Puglia blog post over the years.

Located on the “heel of the boot”, Puglia (sometimes called Apulia) is known primarily as a beach destination to Italian and other European travelers.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

It’s less popular with North Americans (so far), but that balance seems to be shifting a bit more each year.

With a hidden gem as absolutely sublime as this one, though, it was only a matter of time until the secret got out.

If you’re looking to spend a week exploring a laid-back and beautiful corner of Italy, where the food is fresh (fun fact: around 40% of Italy’s olive oil comes from Puglia!), the driving easy, the and the swimming sublime, this Puglia road trip itinerary is for you.

(And, I didn’t even mention yet that Puglia is significantly less crowded and less expensive than hotspots like the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre ).

Here’s how to make the most of 7 days in beautiful Puglia, Italy!

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Puglia Itinerary

Renting a car for your road trip (+ traveling to puglia), can this puglia itinerary work without a car, other destinations to add to your itinerary for puglia, the best time of year to visit puglia, italy, what to pack for a 7 day puglia road trip, one week puglia travel itinerary map.

With a region as large and diverse as Puglia, narrowing down the best places to visit on a 7 day Puglia road trip is quite the challenge!

Unlike many of the itineraries on Our Escape Clause , we’ve structured this Puglia itinerary as a point-to-point trip leading (loosely) from Bari to Lecce, rather than as a loop.

However, as Lecce and Bari are less than 2 hours apart by either train or car, you’ll easily be able to return to Bari at the end of your trip if needed.

We designed this trip to Puglia around visiting whitewashed villages, historic cities, and–of course–lots of beaches and seaside landscapes.

It’s a fairly fast-paced itinerary in the sense that it packs a lot in and involves visiting many beautiful towns, but to drive this route straight through without traffic would actually take less than 5 hours!

You’ll drive a bit more than that, counting day trips and such, but the bottom line is that it’s a very doable distance in a week, even at a relaxed pace.

In other words, you have more time for beach time than you might think at first glance!

However, try as you might, it’s impossible to explore all of the best places to visit in Puglia in a week, so some (very worthy) destinations have been cut.

Because of this, in addition to the detailed 7 day itinerary for Puglia that we’ve outlined here, we’ve also made notes of several more incredible places in the region that you can add or swap in, depending on your travel style, the season, and how much time you have to enjoy the heel of the boot.

This Puglia travel guide is quite long, so feel free to use the table of contents above this section to navigate to the most important parts for you if you wish!

For most people, of course, taking a Puglia road trip will require renting a car

We recommend renting a small car through  Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare the prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

For the purposes of this itinerary, we recommend picking up your car in Bari.

To get to Puglia itself, you can either fly into Bari (Brindisi, to the south, has an airport as well, but Bari is more convenient for this itinerary), or take the train there.

If you’re coming from outside of Europe, there’s a good chance it will be more affordable to fly into Rome or Venice, and then take the high-speed train to Bari to start your road trip in Puglia.

If you’d like to investigate flying into a major city and then taking a train to Puglia, we recommend checking the train schedules and prices through Omio (bear in mind that tickets for high-speed trains can dramatically increase as the trip gets closer).

Check rates & book your rental car for Puglia today!

This Puglia itinerary is specifically designed as a road trip, and we do strongly believe that driving is the best way to visit the heel of Italy’s boot!

From offbeat villages to quiet, out-of-the-way beaches, your trip to Puglia will absolutely be enhanced by having your own set of wheels.

That being said, if you can’t or would rather not drive, you can still cover the vast majority of the sights included on this Puglia road trip itinerary through a combination of public transportation and guided tours.

If you’re not planning to drive, you can still follow the bulk of this itinerary by train.

However, you’ll likely need to cut some of the smaller towns in the Itria Valley (as you won’t be moving as quickly), as well as stick to beaches/swim spots within walking distance of town.

You’ll also want to be sure to choose lodging that’s within walking distance of the train stations.

And, if you’re not attached the idea of sleeping in a trullo (though I’ll be the first to say it is a delight), you may consider spending longer based in Monopoli and visiting the interior towns via day trips.

If you want to structure your itinerary for Puglia without a car, we highly recommend using  Omio  to check exact ticket schedules and pricing for trains and buses in the region.

Check schedules and shop train and bus tickets in Puglia  today!

Day 1: Arrive in Bari and head to Monopoli.

Bari, Puglia’s capital and largest city, is the perfect launching pad for your road trip whether you arrive in the region by train or plane.

While Bari has several attractions worth exploring, for the sake of time, we won’t dedicate much time to Bari on this itinerary.

If you arrive by train and are a completionist at heart, it’s about a 15-minute walk from Bari Centrale to the heart of the old town, if you’d like to take a quick spin around the city’s central sights like the Basilica San Nicolo and the Cathedral of San Sabino.

Once you wrap up, though, it’s time to pick up your rental car and zip off to Monopoli!

It’s about a 45-minute drive between the 2 cities, depending on traffic, so you’re not in a rush.

After checking into your hotel (ideally in or near the historic center–more on that in a minute), it’s time to start exploring.

While Monopoli’s historic center has some interesting churches and such to check out, the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi is definitely worth a peek (as is the Bella Blu Gelateria right on it), what you’re most likely looking for is the sparkling Adriatic Sea!

Head to the Porto Antico (Old Harbor) to start your stroll past the Castello Carlo V and along the Lungomare.

As you head further away from the historic center, you’ll notice more and more people with their towels spread out on the rocks, going for a dip–and yes, this is highly recommended!

Where to Stay in Monopoli, Italy

We loved our stay at La Maison dello Zio : the property was clean, spacious, and very quiet (extra impressive considering its location in the heart of Monopoli’s small historic center).

We’d be happy to stay again!

Other popular, well-reviewed options in Monopoli include Corte Sant’Angelo or–if you’re looking for a splurge complete with incredible views–the stunning Hotel Don Ferrante .

We recommend staying in Monopoli for 2 nights.

Check rates & book your stay in Monopoli!

Day 2: Visit Polignano a Mare and explore Monopoli.

On the second day of your road trip in Puglia, head just 15 minutes north or so along the coast to the famous town of Polignano a Mare.

You’ll likely recognize Polignano a Mare’s picture-perfect beach: the views of this beach from above are some of the most iconic images of the region!

While the beach itself is small and very rocky (you’ll definitely want water shoes if you plan to swim there), the water is gorgeous and the views of the coast from above are well worth the trip.

Polignano a Mare is one of the most popular–read crowded–towns in Puglia, so we recommend getting an early start if you can.

Don’t miss the opportunity to wander through the old town, seeking out stunning views of the Adriatic along the way.

Terrazza Santo Stefano in particular is a must-see!

If you want even more unique views of the coast, joining one of the popular Polignano a Mare boat tours is a fantastic option (and will also give you an opportunity to swim away from the crowds at the beach).

Want a bucket-list dining experience while in Puglia?

The picturesque cave overlooking the sea found at Hotel Grotta Palazzese has been used as a restaurant since the 18th century (today, you’ll definitely need reservations if you plan to eat lunch there).

After wrapping up your morning exploring, eating, and possibly swimming your way through Polignano a Mare, head back to Monopoli and enjoy the afternoon and evening there!

To swim, check out Cala Porta Vecchia, or keep walking along the water until you hit Cala Cozze or Porto Bianco.

There are plenty of lidos (paid Italian beach clubs with umbrellas and chairs) around Monopoli, but for less than a full beach day, we prefer to stick with free swimming spots.

Day 3: Head inland to Alberobello and nearby whitewashed towns.

As difficult as it can be to leave the coast behind, it’s worth it to see another side of Puglia during your week in the region!

Puglia is famous for trulli –the dry, stone, conical buildings typical of the area, and the buildings are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

You can find them across the Itria Valley, but no town has a higher concentration of them than the famous–and stunning–Alberobello.

After Polignano a Mare’s central beach, the trulli of Alberobello are probably the most recognizable image of Puglia.

However, today won’t just be about Alberobello, but about the surrounding villages.

The nearby small towns of Locorotondo and Martina Franca are both also well worth visiting, and while they have fewer trulli , they’re beautiful and will be far less crowded.

We recommend saving Alberobello for the end of the day, and spending the night there–ideally in a trullo !

The crowds of day trippers that swarm Alberobello throughout the day can be downright overwhelming, making this down best enjoyed in the evening and the early morning (and if you’re visiting in the summer, this will help with the heat, too).

If you want to make sure you don’t miss any of the most iconic trulli , this popular walking tour is a great addition to your time in Alberobello.

Book your walking tour of Alberobello today!

Where to Stay in Alberobello, Italy

For a memorable stay in the Itria Valley, you can’t beat spending the night in a trullo!

We can’t rave enough about our stay in the Miratrulli Apartment & Trullo –everything from the structure to the location to the hospitality of the owner was flawless.

If it’s booked, though, Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso and Trulli Soav e also get excellent reviews.

We recommend spending 1-2 nights here.

Check rates & book your stay in Alberobello today!

Day 4: Continue exploring the Itria Valley or head to Matera.

As you hit the mid-point of your Puglia road trip, it’s time for a decision!

Option one: stay in the Itria Valley, continue exploring whitewashed hilltop towns, tasting wine, sampling olive oil, and enjoying trulli .

With this option, you may want to head over to the gorgeous city of Ostuni, a longtime favorite in the region that features magnificent views from its hilltop as well as plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.

Alternatively, you can head west to the fascinating city of Matera.

Matera, though located in the region of Basilicata rather than in Puglia itself, is a popular addition to Puglia itineraries.

Matera is an endlessly interesting place, known for being populated since the prehistoric area, its incredible views, and its Sassi area–the area populated by cave dwellings dating back thousands of years.

In the 1950s, Matera gained international notoriety for the poor living conditions in the Sassi, and was nicknamed the “Shame of Italy”.

The population was forcibly removed the the “new” (still quite old) town surrounding the Sassi, and the historic cave dwellings were abandoned.

Fast forward several decades, though, and Matera has achieved new life as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a popular filming location (for films ranging wildly from “The Passion of the Christ” to “James Bond: No Time to Die”), and a European Capital of Culture.

Many of the formerly shameful Sassi have been converted into popular boutique cave hotels.

Matera is absolutely, without a doubt, worth visiting–but it is also incredibly hot during the summer months, even by the standards of southern Italy.

If that sounds like a fair trade, or you’re enjoying 7 days in Puglia outside of summer, Matera is a great idea.

If you don’t have a high heat tolerance, consider sticking around the Itria Valley instead, where it still gets quite hot, but is easier to cool off.

Where to Stay in Matera, Italy

Unfortunately, as beautiful as the views from our balcony were, we can’t recommend the cave hotel we stayed in when visiting Matera.

However, Conche Luxury Retreat and Il Belvedere are both beautiful properties that get excellent reviews!

Matera in general is extremely affordable by Italian standards, making it a wonderful place to splurge on a memorable place to stay.

If you choose to visit Matera, we recommend spending one night there.

Check rates & book your stay in Matera today!

Day 5: Make your way back to the sea in Otranto.

Whether you’ve been exploring the Itria Valley or Matera, if you’re visiting Puglia during the summer, one thing is certain: at this point, you’re going to be ready to get back to the sea!

Make your way to Otranto (despite this being your longest drive of the trip, getting from Matera to Otranto is still likely to take you only about 3 hours), where you can enjoy wide, sandy beaches and plenty of coastal charm again.

Choosing a favorite between Monopoli and Otranto would be very, very difficult, but Otranto’s wide, sandy beaches located right next door to the center are definitely a plus.

(Monopoli has plenty of swimming near the center too, of course, but not as many sandy stretches quite as conveniently located).

While in Otranto, be sure to pay a visit to the gorgeous Duomo, the Castello Aragonese, and the tiny Church of St. Peter.

Walking along the town ramparts is also a must, but without a doubt, a good portion of your time in Otranto should be dedicated to beach time!

Where to Stay in Otranto, Italy

We loved our stay at the spacious Marimar Apartments , located a short walk from Centro Storico and an even shorter walk from the sea.

B&B Palazzo Marzo and Palazzo de Mori are both excellent options as well!

Otranto’s small size and location hugging the Adriatic make it simple to find places to stay near the water, a big advantage for a beach town.

We recommend staying in Otranto for 2 nights and wrapping up your 7 days in Puglia here.

Check rates & book your stay in Otranto today!

Day 6: Explore Otranto and visit the Cave of Poetry.

While we’ve tried to leave plenty of room for afternoon swimming in this 7 day itinerary for Puglia, today is the only day that is dedicated almost exclusively to it!

Other than perhaps a bit of sightseeing (gelato in hand, of course) in Centro Storico, today is all about the water.

We recommend taking a drive out to the Cave of Poetry (in Italian, Grotta della Poesia ) to enjoy one of the most stunning swimming holes we’ve ever had a chance to enjoy!

Featuring crystal-clear water, jaw-dropping views, a cave to swim through, and even some nearby ruins to explore, it’s a remarkable sight.

And, if you’re feeling particularly daring, you can even join the locals for a bit of cliff-jumping.

Looking for something a bit different, either as an alternative or an addition to your day?

The Bay of Turkey ( Baia dei Turchi ) is also nearby and boasts what is widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Puglia.

If you happen to be visiting Puglia outside the swimming season and are looking for an alternative away from the water, you could substitute a visit to Gallipoli and/or Lecce here.

Day 7: Make your way home, possibly stopping in Lecce on the way.

As you wrap up your 7 days in Puglia and prepare to head home, there’s one final stop we recommend making on the way: Lecce, the “Florence of the South”.

This university city is packed with stunning Baroque architecture and long history with ties to Ancient Greece and Rome.

It’s gorgeous and well worth a visit, but since it’s located inland in the southern part of Puglia, it doesn’t draw nearly as many visitors as the coasts.

If you have time, spend some time exploring the best things to do in Lecce’s Centro Storico, including the remains of the Roman Amphitheatre, the Basilica di Santa Croce, and the Piazza del Duomo and Duomo itself.

This well-reviewed walking tour can help you efficiently cover the highlights of the city in just a couple of hours!

If you don’t want to drive back to Bari to drop off your rental car (it’s about a 2-hour drive), consider checking prices for a one-way rental that you drop off in Lecce.

That’s what we did on our Puglia road trip, and it ended up being very affordable!

Lecce is home to a well-connected train station that can easily whisk you off to your next destination in Italy if you’re planning to continue your travels within the country.

If you’re flying home from Bari, though, it’ll likely be easiest to drive back yourself.

While this itinerary covers quite a bit of Puglia in 7 days, no one trip could hope to cover it all!

In addition to the choose-your-own-adventure modifications we’ve included throughout the itinerary, here are a few more stops you might consider adding on with more than a week in Puglia.

Located on the western edge of the Salento region of Puglia, Gallipoli is located more or less opposite Otranto on the peninsula.

Featuring the beautiful seaside Castello Aragonese, a charming center, and plenty of surrounding beaches, Gallipoli makes for a delightful seaside base in southern Puglia.

Gargano National Park

This itinerary for Puglia doesn’t stray further north than Bari, so sadly doesn’t pass through Gargano National Park.

However, if you’re looking for rugged, wild beaches, offbeat small towns like the gorgeous Vico del Gargano, and even a forest (the Forest Umbra is stunning), Gargano National Park has you covered.

Unless you have an exceptionally long time to spend on your Puglia vacation, this part of the region is probably best visited on a separate trip.

Tremiti Islands

This small archipelago, made up of 5 main islands, is known for its magnificent beaches, sea caves, cliffs, and brilliant turquoise water.

The Tremiti Islands are part of Gargano National Park, but you’ll need to hop on a boat–or, if you’re feeling like a splurge, a helicopter–to get there!

Castel del Monte

The mysterious Castel del Monte dates to the 13th century and was built by King Frederick II.

Its unusual shape has caused some to speculate over the centuries that it was never meant to be a defensive fortress at all!

Today, it is known as one of Puglia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is located just outside of Bari.

Located right on the Adriatic Sea and featuring a beautiful Duomo, charming Centro Storico, and the remains of once-important defensive structures, Trani has quite a bit in common with towns like Monopoli and Otranto!

Too far north to fit into this 7 day Puglia trip, it is nonetheless well worth a visit with more time in the region.

Grotte di Castellana

This stunning karst cave system is a feast for the eyes, and definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Puglia!

And, during the summer, “coolest” is literal: the caves maintain a constant temperature of around 62 ° F/16.5 ° C, making them a great place to escape the summer heat on a particularly hot afternoon.

You can reach the Grotte di Castellana in under 30 minutes from Monopoli or Alberobello.

We’ve designed this Puglia road trip for a visit that takes place during the swimming season–so late spring, summer, and early fall.

Personally, we find June and September to be the ideal months for visiting Puglia if you’re hoping to swim and have a typical beach trip: the water will be great for swimming, and the towns lively without being overrun as in July and August.

July and August are the most popular months for visiting Puglia, so if you want the height of the mid-summer, peak season experience, that’s when to go!

In May, the weather is a bit cool for swimming as far as we’re concerned, but some brave souls do take it on.

Spring and fall are both ideal for cultural trips to Puglia focused on exploring the villages of the Itria Valley, the region’s historic sites, and of course, its food.

We found sweating during mid-day when inland a fair trade-off for swimming in the Adriatic, but we definitely would have been far more comfortable in places like Locorotondo and Alberobello in the spring or fall.

Winter is a decidedly slow season in Puglia, however, the weather does stay mild and quite dry, making it a great choice if you’re looking to escape the cold, dark weather further north during winter in Europe !

Here are a few essentials that you should definitely add to your packing list as you prepare for your road trip in Puglia, Italy!

Travel Insurance  — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

We use and recommend  Safety Wing  for trips to Italy.

Travel Adaptors for Italy  — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

Hands-Free Phone Mount  — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is fumble with the GPS on your phone when driving in Puglia.

Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Dry Bag — Want to keep your electronics safe during a beach day or boat trip?

Securing them in a dry bag is the perfect low-cost solution!

Sunscreen — The day we visited Polignano a Mare, we forgot our sunscreen and ended up panic-buying a very overpriced bottle in town… that didn’t even work well.

Moral of this story: bring your own sunscreen!

Additional Car Insurance  — Whether you purchase a policy that covers car rental (only some do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: it’s worth the peace of mind.

Portable USB Charger  — Don’t stress about your phone dying while you’re spending long days driving from village to village: add a portable charger to your packing list.

Swiss Army Knife  — Want to open wine bottles in your hotel room, slice cheese from the market, or cut up that fresh focaccia from the bakery?

You’ll be so glad you brought a Swiss Army Knife along on your Puglia vacation!

Camera  — We absolutely adore our  Sony a7R III , but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works.

Just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories!.

Hand Sanitizer  — We carry this everywhere, and have never been sorry to have it floating around in our day bag.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

10 thoughts on “The Perfect 7 Day Puglia Road Trip Itinerary”

Hi there, absolutely loved all the info. I am from Canada and going to Italy(Verona) to visit family from May 24- June 29th. My friend is meeting me in Italy within those 5 weeks and we are going to Puglia. We are planning out our trip next week. This info was perfect. We will be renting a car and are planning for a 7-10 day trip. If we wanted to spend a couple of extra days to relax would you recommend just staying in Otranto?

Otranto is a great choice! Monopoli would be almost a tie with it for us–can’t go wrong with either. 🙂

Hi, Was it easy having the dog with you? Was the dog allowed eveywhere you went e.g. Beaches, restaurant etc. Or was it difficult? I’m asking as I would love to bring my dog with me

In general, it’s very easy to travel with dogs in Italy, and that’s true in Puglia, too. 🙂

Dogs are allowed on some beaches (some are limited to the winter and not all lidos are dog-friendly), so definitely check before heading out on that.

Outdoor dining at restaurants is more or less universally dog-friendly.

Not all hotels and apartments are dog-friendly, but a wide variety are, and we are never short on options for places to stay.

Hope you and your furry friend have a great trip!

Just read your 7 day itinerary for Puglia and so tempted to book almost everything you mentioned. Looks a great trip! So glad we found your site.

Thank you so much, Tina! Hope you have a wonderful time in Puglia!

Hi Kate, my husband and I are planning our 3rd trip to Italy this coming March (2024). Our 2nd trip was to the northern regions, and your advice was extremely helpful. This trip we are going to focus on the southern region. Is there a way to easily print your guides? I didn’t see a print bottom and the formatting changed a bit when I tried to print the page – cutting off some of the info. Thanks for all the great information!!

Thank you so much, that’s great to hear our posts already helped you once! 🙂

Unfortunately we don’t have a specific printable version available right now, though it is something we’ve considered setting up in the future!

Do you know of the Masseria Pote winery in Puglia? We are headed to a wedding there this fall and love your 7 day tour of the area.

I am not, but it looks beautiful! Hope you guys have a fantastic time–Puglia is such a special place. 🙂

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Puglia itinerary 2024 – a complete travel guide in Puglia for 3, 7 and 14 days

Discover the ultimate Puglia itinerary in this comprehensive guide, showcasing all the things to do in Puglia and the hidden gems of these region. Besides being italo-brasiliani (we both have Italian citizenship), we spent more than two months exploring from the upmost corner of Puglia to the most southern point. And we fell in love with Puglia. The region instantly became our favorite spot in Italy. Now we hope that Puglia becomes your favorite spot in Italy too.

In this itinerary for Puglia , you will find the best ways to explore the “heel of the boot”, whether it’s by renting a car, utilising public transport or an adventurous cycling trip – that was our choice, by the way. Also, read about all the attractions you cannot miss on your itinerary, all the most picturesque beaches and the details that will make your experience perfect, just like ours was.

As you are reading this article, I believe Puglia is already on your travel radar. So let this article be your gateway to an unforgettable journey. And as all unforgettable journey, we will start by creating yours Puglia travel itinerary with all the tips find here.

The Ultimate Puglia Itinerary

• Map of Puglia – understand the region

How to get to Puglia Italy

• How to get around in Puglia (car, bike and train)
• Best cities and attractions in Puglia
• Activities to Puglia to include in your itinerary

Best time to visit Puglia

• Puglia itinerary 7 days / 3 days and 14 days
• What cities to use as a base during your Puglia trip

Map of Puglia in Italy

Let’s start with the question where is Puglia? Puglia is in Southern Italy and is the “heel of the boot”. Although it might appear as the most southern part of the country, it is almost on the same line as Rome , as the country is “crooked” on the map!

Puglia has many regions , from Gargano all the way down to Santa Maria di Leuca, where both the Adriatic and the Ionian sees meet. There are over 800 km (497 mi) of beautiful beaches and endless charming historic cities for you to explore.

We lived in Italy for over a year and travelled quite a lot around and when people ask us “Is Puglia worth visiting “, our answer is a massive YES . Puglia is one of the most diverse, beautiful and interesting regions of Italy.

Both the Adriatic and the Ionian Sea give its beaches crystal clear water, let alone the charming towns. However, don’t mislead yourself into thinking tourism in Puglia is just about gorgeous landscapes. This is a destination full of history and tradition too.

Due to its strategic position, pilgrims, travellers and even invaders considered Puglia the gateway to and from Europe for many centuries. This convergence of so different cultures and people was vital in the development of their culture, which stands out for its plurality and hospitality.

If you are wondering how to get to Puglia Italy, it is super easy! There are a few options:

• Getting to Puglia by plane: for those travelling to Puglia by plane, there are three airports – Bari, Foggia and Brindisi. As the capital of Puglia, Bari has the biggest airport, and it is probably the best place for you to arrive. There are direct flights to Bari Airport from many European cities, such as London, Paris and Cologne.
• Getting to Puglia by train or car: Alternatively, you can fly to Rome and rent a car – check prices here or take the train to Bari. This 400 km (267 mi) long route is easily made both ways.

How to get around Puglia (car, bike and train)

Renting a car in puglia.

As opposed to North Italy, which counts on a good network of public transportation, the south of the country is more “lacking”. There are not so many railways in Puglia and buses won’t take you everywhere.

Therefore, we suggest a good old Puglia road trip . Renting a car in Puglia is surely the best way to go around and be able to visit the most remote villages and the best beaches in Puglia .

As we already explained, Bari is the capital of Puglia and the best place for you to kick off your Puglia road trip. If you are looking for a more flexible Puglia itinerary, you can easily pick up and drop off the car from different cities – you could arrive in Bari and leave from Rome for instance.

Cycling in Puglia

Another option not so much considered by the majority of tourists in Puglia – and extremely pleased by the way – is to cycle in Puglia. If just reading this previous phrase makes you breathless, a ride on a motorbike will do the job too. Cycling also demands time. If you don’t have much time for your travel in Puglia , then surely rent a motorbike or a car.

We spent a month cycling around the whole Puglia region and we cannot recommend a better way for a different Puglia road trip .

Most of the time, you cycle on a flat land and the scenery is stunning. Travelling by bike is extremely immersive and allows you to absorb everything you see and experience as no other means of transportation can. Is that something you are interested in, by the way?

Getting around Puglia by train

Travelling around Puglia without a car is possible by train (you can check prices and routes on Trenitalia ). Bear in mind though that this is not the most convenient, because trains do not reach all the most touristic cities. BlaBlaCar also works in Puglia.

Puglia itinerary – Best cities of Puglia

So, where to go when travelling to Puglia? We are going to lay out the most important cities and activities and then give you below our suggested itinerary according to the length of your holidays, such as what to do in Puglia in 3 days , or what to do in Puglia in 7 days .

We shall begin this Puglia guide with Bari, the capital city of Puglia .

Bari – the capital of Puglia

Time in Bari – Puglia : One to two days

Bari has one of the oldest historical city centres in the region. It’s walled and with many alleyways, which reminds some Middle Eastern countries.

Even though the old town of Bari looks slightly abandoned, don’t miss out on the opportunity to wander about it, at least for a few hours. You will probably feel the bohemian vibe and see nice old ladies chatting on their doors and windows, making fresh pasta or just standing still. It’s quite the stereotype of Southern Italy!

Make sure to visit the spectacular Bari’s main cathedral. You can see other tours available in Bari here .

You can easily explore the city of Bari in just a few hours. Unless you feel a strong connection with it, we advise you to cross Bari out of the itinerary and enjoy more time on other wonders of Puglia.

Find your accommodation in Bari  here.

Castel del Monte in Andria

Time in Castel del Monte : half-day activity

Another cool stop to add to your Puglia itinerary is the Castel del Monte, located in the city of Andria, near Bari. Also known in Italian as the castello otagonale (octagon castle of Puglia).

Adria is a charming little town with public parks, squares, churches and palaces. On the way there, you find the Castel del Monte, the mysterious fort built by Frederick II, now a UNESCO Heritage Site in Puglia.

The architecture of the castle aims at perfect symmetry, with a pinch of spooky fascination for the number 8. The octagonal castle has eight sides – obviously! – eight towers and eight rooms on each of its two floors. The centre has an eight-sided courtyard and used to have an octagonal fountain too. From there, you can see the sky, through an octagonal shape, of course.

Other sinister facts about this castle is that it has no kitchen, moat or bridge, which makes everyone think about the purpose of it. Surely, not for a comfortable living nor for a military purpose.

Anyway, the castle lies gloriously on top of the mount near Andria, overlooking the sea of Puglia.

Admission to the castle costs €7 and it is open every day from 9am to 5pm.

Grotte di Castellana

Time in Grotte di Castellana : half-day activity

The Grotte di Castellana is a complex of incredible caves and grottos with formations dating back more than 90 million years. There are two types of guided tours:

• Complete: It has a 3km of distance, takes 2 hours and passes through the famous Grotta Bianca (White Grotto). It costs €18.
• Short: The short tour takes about 50 minutes and walks around 1km. It costs €15.

Polignano A Mare

Time in Polignano A Mare : One to two days

This illustrious city is one of the best places in Puglia . It’s also the hometown of Domenico Modugno, the famous singer of “Volare”. Even if you are not fond of well-worn destinations – just like us – it is yet impossible to not fall in love with this town.

Its white houses, stone-paved alleyways, cliffs meeting a stunning blue sea, amazing restaurants and rather hospitable people will definitely win your heart over.

Polignano A Mare is one example of a city that makes you lose track of time. Don’t miss out on sunbathing on the beach, try one of the homemade ice creams and visit the Domenico Modugno statue. A Puglia itinerary is surely not complete without a stop in this charming city!

For those staying for one or more nights in Polignano, we recommend the cosy and centrally located Malu B&B , however, there are many other hotels to choose from.

Alberobello – the city of the Trulli

Time in Alberobello : One-day activity

The city, famous for the trulli, has long taken the fancy of tourists. Just like Polignano, Alberobello has lost some – or more – of its originality. Currently, there are not many people living in trulli as most of them were turned into shops, restaurants and hotels. Yet, visiting Alberobello is more than fascinating and also one of the best towns in Puglia .

Find out more about the history and legends of Alberobello in this article .

Tip: A cool thing, if you want to extend your visit to Alberobello, is to spend the night in one of the trulli houses .

Cisternino – the place to eat

Time in Cisternino : half-day activity

This was recommended to us by some locals and we simply loved it, so we are including it in this Puglia itinerary. Cisternino is a cute little town, typical of the Valle d’Itria region.

However, the purpose of your visit is not to wander about its alleyways. In Cisternino, you have a clear goal: Eat at the Al Vecchio Fornello Restaurant and try their famous bombetas . Seriously, it’s a must!

Ostuni – the Città Bianca

Time in Ostuni : One to two days

Ostuni is known as the Città Bianca D’Italia –  The White City of Italy. Well, it’s just a charming town with an old city centre and alleyways, but white. But let’s not undermine its charm too. The relaxing atmosphere is greatly appreciated over here.

Our greatest surprise, however, was to experience Ostuni at dusk. Just when the sun goes down, the Città Bianca turns into a bohemian scenario, with many restaurants illuminated by candles, bars with cushions on the stairs of the old city, live concerts and many more attractions.

To have a true feel of Ostuni, we recommend staying in a traditional house in the city centre, like The Welcome B&B , but there are many other hotels and B&Bs there.

PRO TIP : Locals do not see Ostuni as a gastronomical sight. So, avoid their expensive touristy restaurants and swing by the neighbour town Ceglie Messapica, just 12km – or 7 miles – away. Ceglie is the gastronomic hub of the region. Our advice is the L’Antico Arco Osteria, where local friends took us. Their food and hospitality are out of this world .

Lecce – the capital of the Baroque

Time in Lecce : One to two days

Lecce is also called the Capital City of the Baroque in Italy, and is another must-see in Puglia! The town has a gracious city centre, is full of churches, mansions, a Roman amphitheatre and many more interesting sights.

We stayed in an awesome B&B there,  the Le Giravolte, one of the best b&b in Puglia . But, as it only has three rooms available, you might want to book in advance .

Check here to see other accommodations in Lecce .

Otranto – the best of Salento

Time in Otranto : One to two days

Otranto was one of our favourite cities in our Puglia itinerary! Otranto is not just gorgeous, it’s very – really, very! – historical and has plenty of nice places to see.

The castle holds art expositions, including photo exhibitions, pictures and so on. There is a church with the largest medieval intact mosaic in the Western world. Also, you can see a sanctuary with the mortal remains of more than 800 men killed during the Turkish invasion in the XV century.

In addition, there is a Bauxite Lake that makes you feel you are inside a portrait.

But let’s not forget the charming alleyways, the turquoise sea and the gastronomy, as usual delicious. And obviously, the hospitality of the people in Otranto is incredible.

Find out where to stay in Otranto .

Grotta della Poesia

Time in Grotta della Poesia : half-day activity

A piece of the cliff – but not the edge – fell off, forming a wonderful natural swimming pool of seawater. The Grotta della Poesia is of extraordinary beauty and it cannot stay out of your Puglia itinerary. Have a look at the aerial video we did from there!

PS – This is an example of an incredibly remote place which you would hardly be able to visit via public transport.

Time in Gallipoli : Two to four days

Gallipoli is probably the most famous city of Puglia, mainly among youths. Mainly also because is one of the best beaches in Puglia . Therefore, if you are not much of a party-lover, this won’t be your cup of tea. If you are, though, you might be interested in reading our full guide about the Full Moon Party, in Thailand .

Nevertheless, it’s worth visiting its historical city centre and one of the best Puglia beaches . Moreover, you cannot miss the Frantoio Ipogeo and its history . It was down in these cellars that local workers lived in sub-human conditions, pressing olives to produce oil that would keep the lights of most European capitals on over the XV to XIX centuries. The oil of Gallipoli was exported all over Europe and that gave them international recognition and wealth.

TIP of accommodation : Just 7km away you will find the Tenuta La Baronessa , a very traditional Masseria which can serve as a base for you to explore the region of Salento. It is one of the best places to stay in Puglia. You can read more about this Masseria over here.

Otherwise, find more accommodations in Gallipoli here .

Salento – the West coast of Puglia

Time in Salento : A day trip to four days

The west coast beaches of Puglia can very well be the most beautiful beaches in Puglia . But they can very well be the wildest too. For this reason, if you are travelling with children, perhaps, is wiser to check if the place you are planning to visit has the infrastructure to welcome the little ones.

Santa Maria Al Bagno, Porto Selvaggio, Porto Cesario, Torre Colimena, Torre Chianca, and Punta Prosciutto are to name a few of the best beaches in Puglia you should make an effort to visit or spend the weekend in Puglia .

We recommend staying in Porto Cesareo. Find accommodation here .

Time in Taranto : One to two days

Visit Taranto is more of an anthropological visit than a touristy one. The city suffered greatly from the construction of a factory, which let the place practically impossible to live in. Taranto is ugly, dirty and with a historical city centre that many judges as dangerous. Yet, it is interesting and quite historical too.

If you have some spare time, make sure to spend a day in Taranto. It is worth going even if it is to understand the question about emptying historical city centres of Puglia during the economic boom of post-II World War .

Find your accommodation in Taranto here .

Activities to include in your Puglia Itinerary

Watch a Pizzica Concert

The Pizzica is the traditional music/dance of Salento and has its origins in an exorcism ritual that used to be carried out mainly on women a long time ago.

Put a visit to Matera in your Puglia itinerary

Matera was the Europe’s Capital of Culture 2020. Even though is not in Puglia but in Basilicata, the neighbouring province, it is definitely worth including in your Puglia itinerary. It was the place where the film The Passion of the Christ , with Mel Gibson was filmed. It’s different than anywhere else and everything else you have seen. It most definitely should be on anyone’s itinerary of Italy. You could add Matera at the end of your Puglia itinerary, on your way back driving to Bari or Rome.

Visit the wild Gargano region

If you have some spare time, don’t miss this authentic and pristine area in northern Puglia .

Include staying in a Masseria in your Puglia itinerary

Masserias are the traditional Puglian farms, where you can have a sense of the countryside life in Puglia. There are many beautiful Masserias around Puglia, more specifically in the Salento region.

Well, with that alert being given, I think it is fair to explain what is Ferragosto . By the way, you can find more information about the country in our dedicate page about Italy . But to sum up, the factories agreed a long time ago that all the workers should take their holidays all together to avoid disruption in the work. And up to date, the second and third week of August we have cities completely empty, while others are packed , in Italy. You can imagine where Puglia fits in between those two categories, being a very beautiful holiday destination.

The high season is July and August , with temperatures at its peak (as well as prices). From the end of June onwards, expect queue in most tourist activities and the necessity o book things in advance.

The low season is November to March , with temperatures at its low (and quite a few places closed too). It is definitely not the best season to enjoy the gorgeous beaches, but if you don’t mind the cold, don’t like the mass and not found of touristy things, then why not.

Anything in between is the sweet spot . If you can actually pick when to go, I would go the end of May or first weeks of June . Or the month of September too, but you will see that people that work with tourism, such as beach clubs and restaurants, will be less enthusiastic with you there as they were in early season. Easy to understand that too though.

Our suggested Puglia itinerary for 3, 7 or 14 days

It is worth emphasising that this is a rather flexible travel guide. The idea is to provide you with enough information so you can make a decision about the order of the cities and tailor your Puglia itinerary towards your taste and needs. If you have any comments, advice, or doubt, be sure to leave them in the comment section below or get in touch with us directly.

Puglia itinerary 7 days

A week in Puglia is perfect. You will be able to visit quite a few places and enjoy both the Adriatic and Ionic coasts.

• 01 day – Bari
• 02 day – Polignano a Mare
• 03 day – Alberobello (sleep in Ostuni)
• 04 day – Ostuni
• 05 day – Lecce
• 06 day – Otranto
• 07 day – Return to Bari by car – 2h10min

Tip: If you are the kind of traveller who prefers to avoid daily check-ins and check-outs, our suggestion is to choose two cities as a base for this 7-day itinerary in Puglia. Our recommendation is Polignano A Mare and Lecce.

3 days in Puglia itinerary

If, for the unfortunate event of having only three days to travel in Puglia, we recommend you to:

• Option 1: you can arrive from Bari and stay three days in Polignano a Mare , using it as a base to visit the nearby cities of Monopoli, Polignano A Mare, Alberobello and Ostuni.
• Option 2: Focus on the Salento region, more on the South. Use Gallipoli or a Masseria as your base and explore the beautiful beaches and cities of Maria Al Bagno, Porto Selvaggio, Porto Cesario, Torre Colimena, Torre Chianca, and Punta Prosciutto.

Puglia itinerary 14 days

Two weeks in Puglia is what we recommend if you want to enjoy the most of Puglia.

• 02 day – Castel del Monte (Bari)
• 03 day – Polignano A Mare
• 04 day – Polignano A Mare
• 05 day – Grotta Castellana & Alberobello (sleep in Ostuni)
• 06 day – Ostuni
• 07 day – Ostuni
• 08 day – Lecce / Otranto
• 09 day – Lecce / Otranto
• 10 day – Lecce / Otranto
• 11 day – Gallipoli
• 12 day – Gallipoli
• 13 day – Porto Cesario
• 14 day – Porto Cesario (return to Bari by car – 2h)

Where to stay in Puglia – what cities use as a base

A good way to visit Puglia, considering that cities are very close to one another, is to choose two or three cities as a base and, from there, explore the rest of the peninsula. Otherwise, you would spend one night in each city and that can be exhausting. To have as a base, we recommend:

• Bari or Polignano A Mare to explore the northeast;
• Ostuni to visit the Vale D’Itria
• Lecce for the southeast and west
• A Masseria in the countryside of Salento to better know the beautiful Puglia beaches of the west coast
• Vieste for the Gargano Region

* This article was updated in October 2023 *

See the summary of this Puglia Itinerary in these FAQs

We lived in Italy for over a year and travelled quite extensively around the country and can say for sure Puglia is one of the most beautiful and interesting regions in Italy. There are over 800 km of beaches with crystal clear water and many charming historical towns too.

01 day – Bari 02 day – Polignano a Mare 03 day – Alberobello (sleep in Ostuni) 04 day – Ostuni 05 day – Lecce 06 day – Otranto 07 day – Return to Bari by car – 2h10min

There are 3 airports in Puglia, but the biggest one is Bari, with direct flights to many European cities. Alternatively, you can use Rome airport (430 km away) and take the train or rent a car to Puglia.

Yes, but with many restrictions. There are trains from the biggest cities, but not the small charming villages and beaches. Thus, our recommendation is for a road trip.

1. Polignano a Mare 2. Ostuni 3. Alberobello 4. Otranto 5. Gallipoli 6. Lecce 7. Grotta della Poesia 8. Porto Selvaggio 9. A Masseria 10. Punta Prosciutto.

Option 1: Arrive from Bari and stay three days in Polignano a Mare, using it as a base to visit the nearby cities of Monopoli, Polignano A Mare, Alberobello and Ostuni. Option 2: Focus on the Salento region, more on the South. Use Gallipoli or a Masseria as your base and explore the beautiful beaches and cities of Maria Al Bagno, Porto Selvaggio, Porto Cesario, Torre Colimena, Torre Chianca, and Punta Prosciutto.

Hi, loved your article, lots of food for thought. We are planning a trip to Puglia for 10ish days at the end of May ‘24. Should we plan to book accommodation in advance or do you think we can book nearer the time I.e 2-4 days in advance. We are spending a month in southern Italy and if possible would like to be flexible. We will be driving and happy to stay in the countryside / less busy areas. Many thanks. David

Hello David. Thanks for getting in touch. What a fantastic trip! So, we will always recommend booking your accommodation as early as possible to avoid disappointments. However, when we travel, we do like you are planning to do. We leave to book a few days before-hand so we can be flexible on our itinerary. As you are travelling not in high season (but just about – in fact, perfect timing to visit Puglia), I don’t think you will have problems to book a few days before, particularly because your trip will go through countryside and less busy areas. Just keep in mind that some activities is better to book in advance, such as the restaurant Grotta Palazzesse. You can save this article and always go back to it to book your accommodation, car rental, insurance and reorganise your itinerary. And whenever you need to contact us, I will be more than happy to help. Safe travels,

Hi, Great information, thank you for sharing. I am trying to plan a trip for my birthday in June, and I wanted to know if you had recommendations for a great place to eat, preferably one with a great view. The lunch/dinner place could be a splurge within reason. I look forward to your reply.

Hello Roy, Thank you very much for your comment and amazing to spend your birthday in Puglia! I recommend the Grotta Palazzese, in Polignano A mare. But you have to book before as it gets really busy, particularly at this time year you are going. Let us know if you need any assistance to design your itinerary. Safe travels,

Hi, Wonderful article,I’m planning to go to Puglia in April, can I use Uber over there?

Hello Julia. Thank you very much, I’m glad you liked Unfortunately not. We recommend renting a car (check availability above) or, if you have to use public transportation, it is also possible, but it will require a bit more planning. You can save this page so you can come back easier later on to plan your trip in Puglia. Otherwise, we have a service to prepare a personalised itinerary for you too. If that is something that interest you, please let me know. Safe travels, Tiago

Hi, I’m a solo traveler. First I will arrive from Asia to Rome. I want to visit Rome, Naples, Sorrento, Alberobella, and Matera. Can I use a train/flight to go to Bari? From Bari, I must arrange a taxi from the airport, right? How I can travel from Trulli to Matera? Please take note that I don’t want to drive. Any suggestion?

Hello Thiru!! Where about in Asia, just out of curiosity 🙂 ? So, you can indeed take a train from pretty must anywhere to Bari. Flights is also a good option if you are going from Rome to Bari. From the airport, you can take buses to the city – or taxis, if you prefer. From Alberobello to Matera I don’t think is the best option. You can either go on a tour from Bari ( have a look at this tour for instance: Tour to Matera ). Apart from tours leaving to the main cities, you can also take the train too. Have a look at Trenitalia for prices and availability: Trenitalia . Hope it helps, Safe travel

Hi Tiago and Fernanda

We are going to explore the Puglia region in June for 10 nights. Aiming for equal split of City and Coast. Our itinerary is currently; Bari, down to Coast of Polignano a Mare, Ostuni and then we want to travel further South to Lecce and finally Ortranto, going by train if possible. Does this look feasible? Have we missed any key “must see” places especially furthest South?

Katy, Monica, Massimo & Matteo

Ciao Katy Sounds good. An option is, instead of going to Ostuni, be based in Polignano or Bari and go on a tour to Alberobello and Ostuni. Then, go straight to Lecce. That is less checking-ins and outs. It does look feasible, though you might be limited to the hours you can travel. Just make sure you book your train tickets before hand. Even though Early June is not the high season, you don’t want to risk. I believe 10 nights you will cover the main parts of Puglia indeed! There are a ton more to explore, which I am sure you will definitely go back later 🙂 If you need assistance on your itinerary, we make tailored itineraries with suggestions of accommodations and activities. Let us know if that interests you. Safe travels,

Amazing article! Can´t wait to visit Puglia and all these places on our upcoming trip to Italy next month!

I am sure you are going to have an amazing time in Puglia! Make sure to save the article to visit later too and let us know if we can help with anything with your trip. Safe travels,

Hello! This article is great! My fiancé and I are currently planning are honeymoon and are considering Puglia! We are looking for a more local authentic experience and hoping for something a bit active, but we are also on a pretty tight college budget haha… can we bike down the coast from Bari and stay along the way, then rent a car to get back to a main airport? And would this be doable on a small budget?

Hello Caroline. Thank you for getting in touch! Wowww, congratulations!!! Puglia is definitely a great option for honeymooners. It is totally doable. However, renting a bike is something I wouldn’t know really how to tell you. Most of the renting bike shops are not really prepared for a long-trip. I believe it is something you would have to organise once you arrive in Bari. But as soon as you have the bike, it is totally doable and worthy. We actually did that (as you probably read) and the views are amazing. Then, on your way back, you can try to put both bike on the car and drive back.

Hi , Mu husband and I will be going to visit for a 14 days in the Puglia region from April 1 to April 16 2024. We will be taking a train from Rome to Bari and then renting a vehicle. During our stay we would like to organize a cooking class with a family for a day. Where would be the best place to do this during our stay. Another activity we would like to do is visit an Olive oil farm and also Vineyards to do wine tasting. This means that we have days that we will not be traveling to visit has we will want to enjoy the local people in the Puglia region. Do you have any suggestion of where we should base ourselves to do these different activities.. We also want to visit the region of Matera during our stay. Any suggestion would help as we have not reserved any place to stay as of yet. We would appreciate your suggestions of an itinea

Hello Monique. Thank you so much for stopping by. Wow, I am sure you will have a wonderful trip in Italy!! And April is good timing too. Cooking class you can do it in most of the big cities, so I recommend Bari. To visit an olive oil farm, do it in Salento. In fact, in Gallipoli, look for the Frantoio Apogeo, which were old oil making areas underneath the earth. Really interesting. I recommend staying in a Masseria, where you can enjoy the organic food and feel the country atmosphere. Wine tasting is pretty much everywhere in Italy :). Some places are great for food though, such as Ceglie Messapica, Locorotondo… If I were you, I would choose three base cities (Polignano/Bari; Masseria; Lecce/Gallipoli). And definitely visit Matera!!! We offer a tailored itinerary service, which we give you information about Italy, curiosities, two recommendation of hotel, activities to do, beaches to visit, all tailored to your preferences and pocket. If that’s something that interest you, send me an email to [email protected] . I would love to arrange a call to discuss this further. Safe travels,

I am planning a 10 day stay in Pulia in May 2024.. we have rented a villa in Ostuni and will explore from there. Thanks for your article, it’s a great reference..

It’s amazing to hear that! Enjoy Puglia 🙂

Hi Can you recommend anyone that would do a private driving tour around Puglia for two people Thx

Hello Gabby, I don’t know anyone in particular. You can have a look at this guy here (day tour choose own itinerary). If you can’t find anything, let us know and we can ask around. Safe travels,

Would you recommened visiting Trani? What are the highlights to see there?

Hello Natalie.

Trani is a very cute little town. We stopped in Trani for no more than 2h and we felt it was enough. I would not spend a night there and I would say that if you miss it, it wouldn’t be so much of a miss. However, if you are driving (or cycling, like us) down the coast from Gargano, then it is worth stopping by to check it out. By the way, depending on the time of the year (May and June mostly), if you are actually coming from Gargano down south, you can see the the pink flamingos in between Zaponeta and Margherita di Savoia. Then, in Trani it is worth checking Il Duomo (Basilica Cattedrale Beata Maria Vergine), both Molos (the piers), the very beautiful park on the right of the port (Villa Comunale) and the Castello Svevo di Trani.

Enjoy you trip,

Such an amazing article – thank you so much!! Wondering if you would recommend any beach clubs for a group of us going in our late 20s? Wanting something fun with music and am curious if there is anywhere in particular you went that was fun. Thank you so much regardless!

Cheers, Sydney

Hello Sidney. Thank you very much for your comment. And yes, Gallipoli is quite famous for that, particularly in July and August. You might find other beaches with beach clubs, such as Porto Cesario, but definitely Gallipoli for having fun!

Hi – We are planning a 10 -12 day trip to Puglia in May. Our plan is to land in Bari, rent a car and immediately drive to Ostuni to stay in a Masseria for three nights and from there visit a few places. Then drive to Lecce and stay two nights (maybe three) and then to Matera and stay two nights and then back to Bari and stay two nights, flying home from there. Does that sound like a doable itinerary and are we missing anything that we should be including? Thanks for this great article.

Do you do any travel arrangements for people?

Hello Nina, thank you for stopping by. Yeah, it does sound like a perfect itinerary! I think you got all covered and I’m sure you are going to have an amazing time!

We do offer a service of bespoken itinerary and travel consultancy. But to be honest with you, it seems like you are set. Travel in Puglia, particularly driving, is not a hassle. But if you do need any assistance, please do get in touch. It will be a pleasure.

Also, if this article was of any help to you, I would really appreciate if you could use our affiliate links to rent your car, book your hotels, insurance and tour activities. You won’t pay any more and it will help us creating content such as this one.

Safe travels,

Hi! I will be traveling to puglia in September 2023. I like your 7 day itinerary. Where should I set base for this itinerary? Also, can I travel by train to the different towns?

Sincerely, Sandra Zaragoza

Hello Sandra! I’m glad to hear that. We love Puglia. So, with regards to set base, try either Bari, Polignano a Mare or Ostuni. And even though you can travel by train, I don’t really recommend. It is not very reliable and it won’t take you to the most places you want to visit. Definitely renting a car is the best option here and prices are not too expensive. Check it out some deals in this link . I hope we helped. Safe travels,

Thank you!!

Anytime! Please be in touch if you need any more assisstance with your itinerary. Safe travels,

Great article. If you were going to rent a villa for a 6 day stay, what would you recommend as a central location. We don’t mind driving by car in any direction to visit other places, and would prefer to do this then picking up and moving unless you feel like we will miss out on the experience of staying in multiple cities/towns?

Hello Nanette. Thank you for stopping by. I would definitely have a place as a central location for my 6-day visit to Puglia, so I save time and money on moving a few times. The place, though will depend on what you want to visit. If you want to stay in Gargano region, then Vieste. In the mid-region, to visit the most traditional places of Puglia, such as Ostuni and Alberobello, then Polignano A Mare is a great point – or perhaps Bari. Now, if Salento is your desired region in Puglia, then I would focus in either Lecce or Gallipoli. I don’t believe you would miss out on anything by not staying the night in some cities. If you would like some help on making an itinerary for your trip, including accommodation and places to visit, please do let us know as we offer this service. Hope you have a lovely time in Italy and do let us know how it went. Safe flights,

Buongiorno. My husband and I (we are from India), are planning to spend about 2 weeks in Puglia, in October 2023. We would like to hire a car and drive around. Is it difficult to drive in Bari and Lecce? Is it difficult to find parking? Would you recommend Airbnb properties? Any advice and recommendations will be helpful. Thank you.

Ciao Girija! Ah, that’s amazing! I’m sure you will love Puglia and I hope this article can help you out. Please do let us know any doubts and questions about a trip to Puglia. So, with regards to your question, driving in Bari and Lecce is not difficult. You do have to pay attention when driving in “centri storichi”, which are the historical city centres. Driving in these areas is limited and inspected, so you should ensure you can drive. Normally, if you rent a room in the historical city centre, the renter will let you know if you can drive or, like most cases, you give them your registration to allow you to drive there. Apart from that, just mind some narrow roads and you will be fine. The way between Bari and Lecce is amazing too! I do recommend downloading an offline map: click here-> maps.me , which will help you greatly. I also do recommend AirBnB properties too, but I don’t have any specific. The accommodation we recommended in this article, we actually stayed and totally recommend it. Again, lease feel free to send us as many questions you want. In case you would like us to provide you with a tailor itinerary too, we have this service. Safe travels, Girija

Would you reccomend a stay in Santa Maria di Lueca?

We will shortly be flying to Bari and spending 10 days in Puglia.

Many thanks

Robert and Jean Fraser

Hi Robert, I definitely recommend a stop-by in Santa Maria di Leuca, because you can see both seas, the Adriatic and Ionian, divided by the colours. They don’t mix up. I have to be honest that we didn’t really see it very well. I suppose it depends on the time of the year or the condition of the weather to clearly see the division between both seas. Anyway, is interesting to visit the most southern town in the heel of the boot 🙂 However, I might sure about staying for the night though. As you have 10 days in Puglia, I would most definitely stay somewhere like Gallipoli, Otranto, Lecce or a nice masseria, such as Tenuta La Baronessa, to use as base and depart to other places in Salento.

If you plan to rent a car – and is surely a good idea – I would use Bari as base for about 4 nights and explore the surroundings. Then, Tenuta La Baronessa (or other masseria in Salento) for another 3-4 nights and explore around. That will also gives you room for one or two nights somewhere else you would like to spend the night, perhaps Polignano A Mare or Ostuni, or any other mentioned above.

If you would like a tailored itinerary, we do offer this service. Drop us an email and we can sent you a document explaining how that would work. But anyway, feel free to ask us as many questions as you would like!

Excellent list! We are weighing up Puglia and this may have just convinced us!

That´s fantastic. I’m sure you won’t regret Puglia!!

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The Best Puglia Airbnbs for Your Next Trip to Italy's Southern Coast

By Charley Ward

Away from the well-trodden streets of Sicily , Rome , or the Amalfi Coast , the buzz surrounding Italy’s southern region, Puglia, has been steadily increasing. With its rows upon rows of olive groves, delightful jumble of whitewashed towns and villages, and traditional trulli homes, it’s easy to see why. The region's smattering of homestays offer a slice of southern Italian culture unmatched by the area’s best hotels —think tucking up at night inside a cave house after a dip in the underground hot tub, or padding up the spiral staircase in a former astronomy observatory tower to admire the views. Below are the best Airbnbs in Puglia to book now.

We've vetted these listings based on Superhost status, ratings, amenities, location, previous guest reviews, and decor. All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Il trullo della Gallina, Ostuni

In the heart of the Itria valley, this little trullo hides out among a lush garden of gently swaying olive trees, where the only noise pollution comes from the birds chirping. You’ll need a car to reach this little guesthouse—and likely a 4x4 to traverse the rural roads—but on arrival, you’ll be rewarded with an almost 108,000-square-foot olive grove to explore, along with a dreamy courtyard and an azure blue saltwater pool —just right for a few lazy laps to cool off in after a day under the Italian sun. Despite the secluded feel, you’re actually very well placed to explore the area’s most beautiful towns—Ostuni, Cisternino, and Locorotondo are all within three miles.

Sleeps: Two Price: From around $224 per night, with a three-night minimum

Traditional sandstone suite, Lecce

This is a proper traditional trullo, all high ceilings, barrel vaults, and dusty sandstone walls—a perfect romantic hideaway for two. Everything comes finished in that understated rural Italian way—big Chesterfield armchairs, a stone bathtub, and simple wooden furniture keep the attention firmly on the architecture—and big shuttered windows showcase the views over one of Lecce’s prettiest squares. You’re close to the action—just a few minutes walk and you’ll be among all the baroque architecture, cafes, and restaurants of the town center.

Sleeps: Two Price: From around $161 per night

Torre Gigliano, Ruvo di Puglia

Once a watchtower, then an astronomical observatory, this 12th-century tower on the cusp of the owner’s farm is a historical gem to explore among the olive trees. A stone spiral staircase makes a statement inside, but it’s the surrounding scenery that steals the show. Depending on the season, the fruits and vegetables grown on the farm will be available for guests to cook up in the evenings, along with a glug or two of homemade olive oil. Should you wish, the hosts can book you a massage or sessions with a personal trainer, along with guided hikes in the Alta Murgia Park. An outdoor pool, complete with a shower, gives you somewhere to cool off on lazy days.

Sleeps: Three Price: From around $171 per night, with a three-night minimum

Lamia Cervone, Ostuni

Just a few minutes walk from Ostuni’s city center, this bijou gem offers pared-back luxury among the fruit trees. Thoughtfully designed for two, there’s a comfy double bed under an alcove, plus a hot tub sat next to an atmospheric crackling fire. Outside, you can barbecue on the verandah (or sit in the hammock while your partner does), or take a dip in the pool, before setting up on the outdoor dining table. Extra services, including yoga or pilates classes, along with aperitive boards and bubbles, are available upon request.

Sleeps: Two Price: From around $351 per night, with a three-night minimum

Shannon McMahon

Hannah Towey

Madison Flager

Caitlin Gunther

Musa Aqua, Carovigno

Puglia’s traditional pared-back aesthetic has been given a jaunty zhuzh here. Splashes of color —a yellow vase, a blue checkered tile—add joy and texture to the otherwise neutral scheme. But all the usual Puglian delights are present: tall vaulted ceilings, creamy sandstone walls, and a dreamy plunge pool in the courtyard. You couldn’t be closer to the center of town—a wealth of bars, restaurants, and shops to potter about await just a few hundred feet from your door.

Sleeps: Four Price: From around $261 per night, with a three-night minimum

Alesia Cave, Ostuni

Few caves can claim to be as thoughtfully renovated as this one, smack bang in Ostuni’s charming center. Enter the cave and you’ll find a plush king-size bed, a spa-like walk-in shower, and a kitchenette for making tea and coffee. But head further down for the best bit: a private underground hot tub, deep in the heart of the cave, adorned with twinkly lanterns—all terribly romantic. There are no cooking facilities, but the host has partnered with nearby restaurants to offer breakfast, and there’s a launderette close by should you need it. Previous guests do say that the space is a little small, so this is perhaps not one for a long stay, but the allure of unfettered access to your own cave hot tub wins out over practicality here.

Sleeps: Two Price: From around $258 per night

Masserina D'Aloia, Carovigno

The scent of citrus and almonds will greet you as soon as you arrive at this smart Airbnb. Once a building used to press grapes, this striking stone bolthole is now one of the area’s chicest stays, finished with striking modern furniture that plays perfectly with the area’s historical roots. The location simply couldn’t be better—a five-minute drive from both the sea and the pretty towns of Ostuni and Corvigno. There are two double bedrooms, making it a good choice for group trips, along with a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, dryer, and dishwasher—no washing up on holiday here. Outside, there’s a firepit to keep you warm while chatting into the evening, along with a vegetable garden guests can harvest from for dinner.

Sleeps: Four Price: From around $369 per night, with a four-night minimum