In this post, I’ll introduce you to some of the top places to visit in Puglia. Having spent time there earlier this year, I can confidently say it’s one of my favorite regions in Italy.
Located on the “heel” of Italy’s boot-shaped mainland, Puglia boasts some of the best beaches in the country, beautifully atmospheric towns, delicious local cuisine, and excellent wine. Despite its myriad attractions, Puglia receives fewer tourists than other popular regions like Tuscany and Rome, making it a lovely place to explore just about any time of year with roughly 300 sunny days annually.
Here’s my pick of the best places to visit in Puglia:
First up is Alberobello, known for its unique trulli houses, these conical-roofed stone homes dating back to the 14th century are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. Visit the impressive Trullo Sovrano and spend time wandering through the town’s picturesque streets. Alberobello is located about 55 kilometers southeast of Bari. You can drive from Bari, take a bus, or join a tour. Consider staying in a traditional trulli for an authentic experience.
Next is Ostuni, often called the “White City” for its whitewashed buildings. Lose yourself in its narrow, winding streets, and don’t miss the Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta. If you’re here in October, experience the traditional olive harvest festival. Ostuni is located around 30 kilometers northwest of Brindisi and can be reached by rental car or bus.
Lecce, dubbed the “Florence of the South,” is known for its baroque architecture. Stroll through the old town to see the Duomo, Church of Santa Croce, and the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, along with Roman ruins. Lecce is about 40 kilometers southeast of Brindisi and accessible by train or car.
Gallipoli is a scenic seaside town on the west coast known for its medieval Castello Angioino and the baroque Cathedral of Sant’Agata. Enjoy excellent seafood here, given its history as a fishing port. Gallipoli is located about 40 kilometers southwest of Lecce and is best reached by car.
Otranto, on the eastern side, is known for its Norman cathedral with ornate mosaics and colorful frescoes. The Castello Aragonese offers stunning views of the harbor. Otranto is around 50 kilometers east of Gallipoli and 40 kilometers southeast of Lecce, and it’s easiest to reach by car.
Polignano a Mare is famous for its dramatic cliffs, white pebble beaches, and the panoramic Mirador al Bastión de Santo Stefano viewpoint. It’s a popular day trip from Bari, located about 40 kilometers southeast, and easily reached by train.
Monopoli offers a charming historical center with narrow streets and beautiful old buildings. Cala Porta Vecchia is a must-visit beach. Monopoli is around 30 kilometers southeast of Bari and accessible by train or car.
Fasano is known for its cave dwellings and quiet, rugged landscapes filled with olive trees. It’s less crowded, making it a great escape during summer. Fasano is about 50 kilometers from Bari, Brindisi, and Taranto.
Cisternino is a small, peaceful place known for its panoramic views and the unique experience of “barbecuing butchers,” where you can pick your meat and have it freshly cooked. It’s best to get there by car.
Taranto, located on a peninsula, has a rich history with sights like the Aragonese Castle and the Cathedral of San Cataldo. The city is great for history buffs with the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto. It’s about 90 kilometers west of Lecce and accessible by train.
Brindisi is a major port city with notable sights like Roman Columns, the Swabian Castle, and the church of San Giovanni al Sepolcro. It’s a great spot for seafood.
Bari, the capital of Puglia, offers a vibrant old town with medieval churches and narrow alleyways filled with local life. Enjoy some of the best food in all of Puglia here.
Trani’s Romanesque cathedral on the water is a beautiful spot for photos and the medieval Scolanova Synagogue is a fascinating place to visit. Trani is about 40 kilometers northwest of Bari, reached easily by train.
Castel del Monte, an octagonal 13th-century castle, is an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Puglia’s most striking landmarks. It’s located about an hour’s drive from Bari.
Matera, just across the border in Basilicata, is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, with its prehistoric cave houses and churches in the Sassi district. It’s best reached by car from Bari.
For the best experience exploring Puglia, having a rental car is recommended to enjoy the freedom to visit various towns and attractions at your own pace. If you prefer not to drive, consider joining a tour to see multiple places without the hassle of transport.
Here are some itineraries to help you plan your trip:
3-Day Itinerary:
– Day 1: Explore Bari, then drive down the coast to Monopoli.
– Day 2: Visit Alberobello and Matera.
– Day 3: Explore Lecce.
7-Day Itinerary:
– Follow the 3-Day Itinerary.
– Day 4: Drive to Gallipoli.
– Day 5: Visit Otranto and Brindisi.
– Day 6: Relax on the beach in Polignano a Mare or Monopoli.
– Day 7: Explore Fasano and Cisternino.
10-Day Itinerary:
– Follow the 7-Day Itinerary.
– Days 8-10: Visit additional places like Trani, Castel del Monte, and other recommended towns.
Puglia’s beaches are quieter than those in other parts of Italy. Top picks include Lama Monachile and Cala Paura in Polignano a Mare, Cala Porta Vecchia in Monopoli, Punta Prosciutto Beach, and Pane e Pomodoro beach in Bari.
When it comes to food, must-try local specialties include orecchiette pasta, focaccia Barese from Magda in Bari, polpette, tiella, and fritto misto from Mare Chef in Monopoli.
Puglia is known for its beautiful coastline, delicious food, sunshine, and unique towns. It’s a safe and welcoming region, perfect for relaxing on the beach, enjoying local cuisine, or exploring its fascinating history and culture.
