On this publish, I’ll introduce you to a number of the greatest locations to go to in Puglia. I hung out in Puglia earlier this yr, and may confidently name it one in every of my favourite areas to journey to in Italy.
Making up the “heel” of the nation’s boot-shaped mainland, this sun-baked nook of Europe is dwelling to a number of the greatest seashores in Italy. As well as, Puglia is dwelling to many superbly atmospheric cities and villages, a spread of extremely tasty native dishes, and a few glorious wine.
Greatest Locations to Go to in Puglia
Regardless of having a great deal of superb issues to see and do, most of the most lovely locations in Puglia obtain far fewer vacationers than these in different better-known areas (similar to Tuscany, Liguria, and Rome), and with roughly 300 sunny days every year, it’s an exquisite place to discover any time of yr.
Right here’s my decide of the most effective locations to go to within the Puglia area.
1. Alberobello
When visiting Puglia, a visit to Alberobello is a should. This small city, positioned within the province of Bari, is greatest identified for its distinctive trulli homes. These conical-roofed properties are made solely of stone and date again to the 14th century.
Immediately, the city’s trulli homes are a UNESCO World Heritage Web site and some of the widespread vacationer sights in Puglia. I visited on the finish of the day and was there for sundown, which was really magical.
Whereas in Alberobello, make sure to go to the Trullo Sovrano, the most important and most spectacular of all of the trulli homes. Permit your self sufficient time to only wander via the city’s picturesque streets, exploring the hidden corners of this superbly distinctive place. See our full publish: 15 Greatest Issues To Do in Alberobello.
Location: Alberobello is positioned within the province of Bari, about 55 kilometers southeast of the area’s capital. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: From Bari, you possibly can both drive (1 hour) or take the bus from By way of Giuseppe Capruzzi (the street that runs subsequent to Bari Central Station). Alternatively, you might take this tour from Bari (which takes you to each Alberobello and Matera on the identical day).
The place to Keep: Expertise staying in a standard trulli! Take a look at this distinctive trulli lodging – you gained’t be dissatisfied. Click on right here for particulars.
Issues To Do: Go to the Trullo Sovrano; discover the maze-like Rione Monti district; go to the Museo del Territorio Casa Pezzolla.
Entrance Payment: €1.50 for Trullo Sovrano; €4 for Museo del Territorio Casa Pezzolla.
☞ SEE ALSO: Greatest Time to Go to Italy (Climate and Prices)
2. Ostuni
The “White Metropolis” of Ostuni is among the most lovely cities in Puglia. Perched atop a hill, this medieval city is a maze of slim, winding streets and whitewashed buildings.
One of the simplest ways to discover Ostuni is solely to get misplaced in its atmospheric streets and alleyways. To greatest orient your self, head to the Piazza della Libertà, the city’s predominant sq., and climb to the highest of the bell tower for some gorgeous views.
The close by Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta is made up of an fascinating combination of Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine structure and can also be value a go to. Should you’re visiting Puglia in October, Ostuni is a superb place to expertise the area’s conventional olive harvest pageant. See our full publish: 15 Prime Issues To Do in Ostuni.
Location: Ostuni is positioned within the province of Brindisi, about 30 kilometers northwest of town of the identical title. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: The simplest approach to get to Ostuni is by rental automotive (35 minutes from Brindisi or 1 hour and quarter-hour from Bari). You can even take the bus from both Brindisi or Fasano.
The place to Keep: Masseria Cervarolo gives distinctive lodging – each in its predominant constructing and within the conventional trulli stone buildings. This farm property is gorgeous. Click on right here for particulars.
Issues To Do: Climb the bell tower in Piazza della Libertà; discover the city’s atmospheric streets and alleyways; go to the Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta; be part of a strolling tour.
Entrance Payment: €5 for Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta.
3. Lecce
Lecce is also known as the “Florence of the South” due to its wealth of baroque structure. This lovely metropolis is greatest identified for its ornate church buildings and buildings, in addition to some well-preserved Roman ruins.
Among the greatest locations in Puglia to see baroque structure embody Lecce’s Duomo, the Church of Santa Croce, and the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli.
Take a look at the Piazza Sant’Oronzo within the middle of the outdated city, which is dwelling to an historical Roman column with a bronze statue and {a partially} excavated Roman amphitheater.
Lecce can also be an important place to attempt a few of Puglia’s best-known foodie specialties, together with orecchiette pasta and polpette (a type of Italian meatball). See our full publish on the 15 Greatest Issues To Do in Lecce.
Location: Lecce is positioned inland, about 40 kilometers southeast of Brindisi. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: You may take a direct practice to Lecce from Bari, Brindisi, and numerous different cities and cities all through Puglia. Renting a automotive is one other nice possibility.
The place to Keep: The gorgeous Palazzo Lecce gives fashionable lodging with an genuine really feel. There’s an onsite pool and a wellness space. Rooms have balconies, breakfast is included, and the property is inside strolling distance to all the principle sights. Click on right here for particulars.
Issues To Do: See the baroque structure; go to the varied church buildings within the outdated city; see the traditional Roman ruins; learn to make orecchiette pasta by hand in this class.
Entrance Payment: €9 mixed ticket grants entry to the principle church buildings; €3 for the Roman amphitheater.
4. Gallipoli
Gallipoli is a picturesque seaside city positioned on the west coast of southern Puglia (i.e. the within of the “heel” of Italy). The city’s historic middle is located on an island related to the mainland by a slim land bridge.
Make sure to go to the Castello Angioino, a medieval fortress positioned on the island, and the baroque Seventeenth-century Cathedral of Sant’Agata, which incorporates numerous intricate work and frescoes.
Gallipoli can also be the most effective cities to go to in Puglia for foodies. Given its lengthy historical past as a fishing port, yow will discover some actually glorious seafood right here. Attempt consuming at Trattoria Santa Monaca, within the historic middle, which may be very moderately priced given the standard.
Location: Gallipoli is positioned on the west (“inside”) coast of Puglia, within the province of Lecce, round 40 kilometers southwest of Lecce itself. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Gallipoli is by automotive. It’s roughly 40 minutes from Lecce or simply over an hour from Brindisi. There’s additionally a bus and a (very gradual) regional practice connecting Gallipoli with Lecce. Click on right here to go looking for the most effective rental automotive value.
The place to Keep: The highly-rated Xilhotel gives friends a rooftop bar and sundeck with expansive views of the ocean. Rooms within the historic constructing are well-decorated and clear and a few have balconies. Study extra right here.
Issues To Do: Go to the Castello Angioino; see the Cathedral of Sant’Agata; go on an informative strolling tour, wander across the outdated fishing harbor; take a enjoyable rickshaw tour.
Entrance Payment: €7 for Castello Angioino.
5. Otranto
Otranto is a beautiful coastal city positioned on the opposite facet of the “heel” from Gallipoli. It’s one of many closest factors in Italy to Albania and the Balkans.
Maybe the city’s best-known attraction is its imposing Norman cathedral, which overlooks the traditional harbor and incorporates a collection of ornate mosaics and colourful frescoes.
One other place that’s value testing in Otranto is the Fifteenth-century Castello Aragonese, a medieval fort that at the moment homes numerous exhibitions. The view from the highest of the tower out throughout the outdated city and the turquoise waters of the harbor is gorgeous.
Location: Otranto is positioned 50 kilometers east of Gallipoli and 40 kilometers southeast of Lecce, (within the province of Lecce). Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Otranto is by automotive, which takes about 40 minutes if touring from Lecce, though there’s additionally a bus. From Gallipoli, it’s about an hour by automotive, and there isn’t any direct public transport connection (it’s a must to go through just a little place referred to as Maglie). Seek for the most effective rental automotive value right here.
The place to Keep: The Bellavista Boutique Resort has an unbeatable location, only a few steps from the historic middle. Study extra about this high property, right here.
Issues To Do: Go to the Cathedral of Otranto; be part of a enjoyable strolling tour of town, see the Castello Aragonese; be part of a cooking class; go to the Church of San Pietro; swim within the clear, heat waters of the harbor.
Entrance Payment: €12 for Castello Aragonese.
6. Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is among the prettiest cities in Puglia, on the coast simply down from Bari. Its location and handy public transport connections make this a preferred day journey from the Puglian capital.
Polignano a Mare is principally identified for its dramatic cliffs and movie postcard white pebble seashores, in addition to the Roman bridge that spans a slim gorge and gives beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.
The city will get pretty busy in the summertime months, and its reputation signifies that the costs have turn out to be just a little inflated in contrast with different locations within the area. I’d suggest visiting as a day journey slightly than staying right here in a single day.
Location: Polignano a Mare is positioned round 40 kilometers southeast of Bari. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: The practice from Bari Centrale to Polignano a Mare solely takes 35 minutes and runs pretty ceaselessly, making this an important possibility for these touring with no automotive.
The place to Keep: Should you select to remain in Polignano a Mare, FonteBlu B&B gives spectacular views, an onsite bar and bicycle rental. Click on right here for particulars.
Issues To Do: Stroll throughout the Roman bridge; go to Lama Monachile (some of the photographed seashores in Italy); head to the panoramic Mirador al Bastión de Santo Stefano viewpoint for the most effective views on the town; uncover superb sea caves on this boat journey.
7. Monopoli
Monopoli is one in every of my favourite cities in southern Italy and one of many high locations to go to in Puglia. Its lovely historic middle (centro storico) is a maze of slim cobbled streets, whitewashed outdated buildings, and atmospheric piazzas and little courtyards.
There’s a pedestrianized walkway that runs alongside the sting of the outdated city, subsequent to the seafront, and connects the traditional harbor to the seashores which lie just a little additional south.
Within the evenings, the place involves life with locals who collect right here to satisfy buddies, do a spot of fishing, or simply sit and watch the sundown. See Additionally: 15 Greatest Issues To Do in Monopoli.
Should you’re eager on some seashore time, head to Cala Porta Vecchia, which is among the nicest city seashores I’ve ever seen and is positioned simply south of the principle outdated city.
Location: Monopoli is positioned within the province of Bari, about 30 kilometers southeast of town of the identical title. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: The quick practice from Bari to Monopoli takes half-hour. From Polignano a Mare, the journey takes simply 12 minutes. You can additionally lease a automotive to discover the area.
The place to Keep: The small flats at Terrademare are an important self-catering possibility, or when you’re simply in search of a bit more room. Positioned near the seashore and providing sea views and balconies, it is a good lodging possibility.
Issues To Do: Get misplaced wandering the streets of the centro storico; spend time on the seashore at Cala Porta Vecchia; go to the Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia; uncover the Castello Carlo V; watch native fishermen land their catch within the historical harbor (porto antico), and ensure to take a look at this fascinating strolling tour.
Entrance Payment: €10 for Castello Carlo V.
8. Fasano
Fasano is a wonderful city greatest identified for its community of cave dwellings and church buildings carved into the rock.
The realm round Fasano is roofed with olive bushes and different Mediterranean vegetation that thrives in its scorching and arid local weather.
Fasano is among the best-hidden gems in Puglia. It’s a lot quieter than most of the different cities and cities on this publish, making it the most effective locations to see in Puglia when you’re seeking to escape the crowds, particularly throughout the busy summer time months.
Location: Fasano is positioned within the province of Brindisi, and is about 50 kilometers from Bari, Brindisi, and Taranto. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: Fasano has a practice station on the principle high-speed railway line that hyperlinks cities like Bari, Brindisi, and Lecce. The station is positioned round 3 kilometers exterior of the principle a part of the city; you possibly can both take the bus into the middle or stroll.
The place to Keep: the Masseriola Antiche Fogge gives a swimming pool, a backyard and a terrace. It’s near all the things, but gives a calming vibe. Click on right here for particulars.
Issues To Do: Discover the cave dwellings and church buildings (Parco Rupestre Lama D’Antico); go to the Scavi D’Egnazia historical Roman ruins & necropolis, and the adjoining museum. Don’t miss this market tour and meal with native chef, or this enjoyable cooking class.
Entrance Payment: €6 for Parco Rupestre Lama D’Antico caves; €3 for Scavi D’Egnazia Roman ruins.
9. Cisternino
Cisternino is a tiny city (or a big village, relying on the way you take a look at it) in Brindisi province. It was constructed by Byzantine monks within the 14th century and has a beautiful historic middle that’s remained remarkably intact for a whole lot of years.
The city has a number of panoramic viewpoints the place you possibly can get pleasure from gorgeous views out over the encompassing space. From these lookouts, you possibly can see numerous little clusters of conical trulli homes, gently rolling hills, and conventional farms.
Cisternino doesn’t have many “sights” per se, nevertheless it’s an extremely peaceable and atmospheric place to spend time.
One notable function of the outdated city is its “barbecuing butchers”. You decide a choice of meat and different items, which the butchers then proceed to prepare dinner completely for you over charcoal when you wait. You may both eat them there after which with a glass of native wine, or take them dwelling to get pleasure from later.
Location: Cisternino is positioned about 30 kilometers south of Monopoli and 60 kilometers northwest of Brindisi. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Cisternino is by automotive. There’s a bus from Brindisi, nevertheless it’s not notably frequent and takes fairly a very long time. Seek for automotive leases right here.
The place to Keep: Should you’re in search of a property with a pool, Borgo Canonica is a superb possibility! The rooms listed below are pretty and there’s an onsite restaurant as properly. Click on right here for particulars.
Issues To Do: Discover the outdated city; go to the Thirteenth-century Church of San Nicola; try the enticing Torre dell’Orologio clock tower; eat freshly cooked native meat from the barbecuing butchers. Additionally, take a look at this informative strolling tour.
10. Taranto
Taranto is among the bigger cities in Puglia and is positioned on a peninsula that juts out into the Gulf of Taranto, on the area’s west coast. The town has an extended historical past, relationship again to historical Greek and Roman occasions.
The outdated city of Taranto is positioned on an island, related to the mainland by two bridges. The island is dwelling to numerous fascinating sights, together with the Fifteenth-century Aragonese Citadel, and the baroque Cathedral of San Cataldo.
Taranto is among the greatest cities in Puglia for followers of historical past. Take a look at the Nationwide Archaeological Museum of Taranto-Marta (“MArTa”), which incorporates artifacts and reveals on the historical past of town, from Paleolithic occasions to the Center Ages.
Should you’re in Taranto on a Sunday, don’t miss the superb Spartan Museum of Taranto (sadly that is solely open in the future every week), which features a guided tour of a powerful historic underground chamber near the waterfront.
Location: Taranto is positioned on the west coast of Puglia, 90 kilometers west of Lecce. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: There’s a direct practice from each Bari and Brindisi to Taranto. It takes round 1 hour and quarter-hour from both place.
The place to Keep: With greater than 1,000 excellent opinions, the Resort L’Arcangelo Boutique Resort is a wonderful possibility. Positioned proper within the historic middle, the resort has unique frescos, wood-beamed ceilings, and lovely stone flooring. Study extra right here.
Issues To Do: Stroll throughout the bridges connecting the historic middle to the mainland; go to the Aragonese Citadel; see the Cathedral of San Cataldo; go to the museums, and be part of this historic strolling tour.
Entrance Payment: €4 for Spartan Museum of Taranto; €8 for MArTa museum (€2 when you’re aged 18-25 years).
11. Brindisi
Brindisi is one other main port metropolis in Puglia, within the southeastern a part of the area. The town has an extended and eventful historical past, a lot of which is obvious in its structure.
The well-known Roman Columns of Brindisi are an emblem of town and seem on its coat of arms. These are discovered near the port, alongside a grand staircase that descends to the waterfront.
Different notable sights in Brindisi embody the Swabian Citadel of Brindisi (at present closed to the general public however nonetheless spectacular from the skin) and the gorgeous church of San Giovanni al Sepolcro, which was in-built 1743.
Brindisi can also be an important place to attempt some deliciously recent Puglian seafood, together with spaghetti ai frutti di mare, and fritto misto. I loved my eating expertise at Secca 48, a wonderful seafood restaurant on the town. There are numerous issues to do in Brindisi to maintain you busy.
Location: Brindisi is positioned in southeastern Puglia, on the coast. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Brindisi is by practice. There are direct trains from each Bari and Lecce, and the journeys take between 1-2 hours.
The place to Keep: The gorgeous rooms and small flats at Filia Solis Previous City Suites & SPA are fashionable and superbly embellished. A scorching tub, sauna and wellness middle solely add to the attraction. Click on right here for particulars.
Issues To Do: Stroll alongside the seafront promenade to find the Roman ruins on this strolling tour; see the Swabian Citadel of Brindisi; look across the church of San Giovanni al Sepolcro; get pleasure from recent seafood.
Entrance Payment: €3 for San Giovanni al Sepolcro church.
12. Bari
The capital of the area, Bari is a big, vibrant metropolis on the Adriatic Sea and is among the greatest cities to go to in Puglia.
Bari’s most well-known function is its outdated city (referred to as Citta Vecchia) which is sandwiched between the fashionable middle of town and the busy Port of Bari.
Citta Vecchia is a maze of slim alleyways and facet streets, with lovely outdated buildings, medieval church buildings, hidden piazzas, and enticing little cafes and eating places. Laundry hangs overhead and girls make pasta by hand on the road – it’s splendidly atmospheric.
Bari can also be dwelling to a number of the tastiest meals and greatest eating places in all of Puglia and is one thing of a gastronomic hub. Three glorious eating places that I’d suggest are Al Pescatore, Assaporando le Delizie Pugliesi, and Per Bacco. Learn extra in our publish on the most effective issues to see and do in Bari.
Location: Bari is positioned about midway down the jap Adriatic coast of Puglia. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: Bari is a serious transport hub for the area and is related through high-speed rail to different main Italian cities. It additionally has a global airport with flights to varied cities all through Europe, together with London, Paris, Dublin, and Frankfurt.
The place to Keep: There are quite a few locations to remain in Bari, with B&Z Luxurious being an important possibility. The clear and spacious rooms are centrally positioned and provide breakfast. There’s additionally a wonderful terrace. Discover out extra right here.
Issues To Do: Discover the Citta Vecchia; take a historic strolling tour; go to the Basilica Di San Nicola and Bari Cathedral; take a meals tour; sit back at Pane e Pomodoro seashore; go to the imposing Castello Svevo; eat as a lot unimaginable native meals as you possibly can.
Entrance Payment: €3 for Basilica Di San Nicola and Cathedral of San Nicola; €9 for Castello Svevo.
13. Trani
Trani is a medium-sized city and fishing port positioned 40 kilometers northwest of Bari. The city itself is sort of small and might be explored simply on foot in a day.
It’s greatest identified for its pretty Romanesque cathedral, which is constructed straight on the sting of the water and is a wonderful place to get images in Puglia.
Trani can also be dwelling to the medieval Scolanova Synagogue, which was constructed within the Thirteenth century, subsequently confiscated by the church, and eventually returned to its unique use in 2006. It’s an enchanting place to go to.
Location: Trani is positioned 40 kilometers northwest of Bari. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: The simplest approach to get to Trani is by practice from Bari, which takes round half-hour on the quick practice.
The place to Keep: Positioned within the historic middle, Palazzo Filisio gives friends an onsite restaurant and delightful views of the Duomo. The placement is superb and the rooms are pretty. Study extra right here.
Issues To Do: Go to Trani Cathedral and climb to the highest of the bell tower for a tremendous view of town; find out about Trani’s Jewish historical past on the Scolanova Synagogue; wander alongside the sting of the outdated port; see the harborside Castello Svevo, which was in-built 1233 and the way homes a museum. Don’t miss this enjoyable strolling tour with olive oil tasting.
Entrance Payment: €5 to climb the Cathedral’s bell tower; €9 for Castello Svevo (€4.50 for guests aged 18–25, or 65+).
14. Castel del Monte
Castel del Monte is an unimaginable Thirteenth-century fort on high of a hill in central Puglia. It was constructed round 1240 by Emperor Frederick II and is among the best-preserved Gothic castles in Italy. It’s undoubtedly some of the spectacular issues to see in Puglia.
The fort has a particular octagonal form, with an uncommon geometric design. It’s been the main focus of in depth debate, and historians are nonetheless not sure whether or not it initially served as a defensive citadel or an opulent nation retreat and searching lodge for members of the the Aristocracy.
Immediately, the fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site and a preferred vacationer vacation spot. It’s one of many must-see locations in Puglia for followers of historical past and structure. Tickets have to be bought on-line upfront of your go to, right here.
Location: Castel del Monte is positioned on the sting of the Alta Murgia Nationwide Park in central Puglia. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Castel del Monte is by automotive. From Bari, the drive takes roughly 1 hour. You can even be part of a day journey from Bari.
Issues To Do: Discover the fort; go to the gardens and courtyards; climb to the highest of the towers; hike within the surrounding Alta Murgia Nationwide Park.
Entrance Payment: €7 for adults; €2 for EU residents aged 18-25.
15. Matera
The traditional hilltop metropolis of Matera is definitely simply throughout the border within the neighboring area of Basilicata. Nevertheless it’s some of the unimaginable locations to go to in all of southern Italy, so I needed to embody it on this Puglia vacationer information.
Matera is among the oldest regularly inhabited cities on this planet, and plenty of historians consider folks have lived right here for no less than 9,000 years. The oldest a part of town is the Sassi district, the place yow will discover numerous prehistoric cave homes and church buildings carved out of the rock.
In addition to an enchanting historical past, Matera’s location – perched on high of a rocky mountain – is basically gorgeous.
Throughout my most up-to-date journey to southern Italy, I visited Matera and was blown away by this spectacular place. I’d extremely suggest a go to when you get the possibility. Study extra concerning the issues to do in Matera in our article.
Location: Matera is positioned within the province of Basilicata, about 30 kilometers southeast of town of Taranto. Click on right here for the placement in Google Maps.
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Matera is by automotive. From Bari, the drive takes roughly 1 hour. Surprisingly, there’s a bus from Bari airport to Matera, however not from the middle of Bari itself. Click on right here to go looking for the most effective value on rental automobiles.
The place to Keep: Staying in a cave-turned-hotel is the most effective expertise in Matera. Take a look on the stylish Palazzotto Residence&Vineyard which is in a wonderful location. Click on right here for particulars.
Issues To Do: Discover the Sassi district; go to Santa Maria di Idris and the opposite cave church buildings; take a historic strolling tour; admire the gorgeous views, and get pleasure from this eating expertise.
Entrance Payment: €4 for Santa Maria di Idris cave church; or €8 for this and two different rock church buildings.
Getting Round Puglia
Lots of the hottest Puglia vacationer sights are accessible by public transport, and Bari is a serious transport hub for the area.
You may take the practice between a number of the main cities, similar to Bari, Taranto, and Lecce. There’s additionally a regional bus service that runs between most cities. Nonetheless, this may be fairly gradual and rare, so it’s not the best choice when you’re quick on time.
If you wish to journey off the crushed observe in Puglia, I like to recommend you set up your individual rent automotive in case your price range will permit it. Wherever you want to go to in Puglia, having your individual automotive will provide you with the pliability to discover the completely different cities and sights at your individual tempo.
Another choice is to take a tour, which can take you to a couple of place and embody all transport. This could be a wonderful possibility for many who don’t have a lot time and would slightly not rent transport.
Fast Itineraries for Puglia
Listed below are a number of easy itineraries that will help you determine the place to go in Puglia.
For every, I like to recommend hiring a automotive as this can cut back the period of time it’s a must to spend messing round with public transport, enabling you to see extra of the area with no matter time it’s a must to spend there.
3 Days in Puglia
In 3 days, you’ll be capable of get pleasure from the most effective of Puglia, however you’ll have to maneuver pretty rapidly.
Day 1: Begin within the metropolis of Bari and go to the outdated city, the fort, and the seafront. Then take a drive down the coast to Monopoli, the place you possibly can calm down on one of many many seashores. Within the night, get pleasure from some recent seafood at one of many eating places overlooking the ocean.
Day 2: Drive inland to Alberobello, dwelling of the well-known trulli homes. Discover the city after which proceed on to the gorgeous metropolis of Matera.
Day 3: Spend your ultimate day exploring Lecce, Puglia’s baroque metropolis. Stroll across the atmospheric outdated city, go to one of many many church buildings after which get pleasure from some lunch in one of many conventional pizzerias.
One Week in Puglia
Begin as per the above 3-day itinerary. Then proceed as follows.
Day 4: Drive down the coast to Gallipoli, the place you possibly can calm down on the seashore or discover the historic outdated city.
Day 5: Head throughout to Otranto, then make your manner again up alongside the coast to Brindisi.
Day 6: Immediately is all about stress-free. Spend the day at one in every of Puglia’s many seashores, similar to those present in Polignano a Mare or Monopoli. Within the night, get pleasure from a leisurely dinner and watch the sundown.
Day 7: Spend your ultimate day exploring a few of Puglia’s different cities, similar to Fasano and Cisternino.
10+ Days in Puglia
With 10 days or extra, you might in all probability go to most, if not all, of the locations described on this publish, and/or spend extra time in every.
Right here’s the order I like to recommend:
Day 1: Arrive in Bari and spend a day exploring the outdated city, fort, and seafront.
Days 2-3: Drive down the coast, spending time in Monopoli and Polignano a Mare.
Days 4-5: Head inland to discover Alberobello, and Matera.
Days 6-8: Go to Lecce, Gallipoli, and Ostuni.
Days 9-10: Spend time exploring a number of the different locations talked about on this better of Puglia information, similar to Cisternino and Fasano. Should you fancy some extra seashore time on the finish of your Puglia sightseeing journey, you can also make time for this too.
Greatest Seashores in Puglia
Puglia is dwelling to a number of the greatest seashores in Italy. Whereas these are nowhere close to as undiscovered or untouched because the seashores simply throughout the Ionian Sea in southern Albania, they’re nonetheless often a lot quieter than these present in different components of Italy.
Listed below are a number of of my favorites. Throughout high-quality climate and calm seas, you possibly can safely swim in any respect of them.
Lama Monachile
Positioned within the fairly city of Polignano a Mare, Lama Monachile might be probably the most well-known seashore in Puglia. The turquoise water is crystal clear and the small white pebble seashore is positioned on the finish of a dramatic rocky canyon, crossed by a Roman bridge.
This seashore is basically gorgeous, though it may well get very busy throughout the peak summer time season.
Cala Paura
One other lovely seashore in Polignano a Mare, and often (barely) much less busy than Lama Monachile, is Cala Paura. A small pebble seashore positioned on the base of a rocky cliff.
My favourite approach to attain it’s by swimming (or paddleboarding) from Lama Monachile, though there’s additionally a steep path that leads down from the principle street.
Cala Porta Vecchia
In romantic Monopoli, Cala Porta Vecchia is a small, sheltered cove with crystal-clear water and some eating places and bars positioned subsequent to the seashore.
It’s the proper place to calm down with an excellent guide and a cocktail.
Punta Prosciutto Seaside
Punta Prosciutto Seaside is among the greatest seashores on the Puglian coast. It’s an extended, sandy seashore with crystal-clear water, positioned in a protected nature reserve.
There are only a few facilities right here, nevertheless it’s the proper place to flee the crowds and revel in some peace and quiet.
Pane e Pomodoro seashore
Pane e Pomodoro seashore is a sandy seashore 3 kilometers southeast of the middle of Bari and is widespread with locals of all ages. It’s not fairly as picturesque as those above however is an ideal possibility in order for you a little bit of seashore time with out having to depart town.
Should-Attempt Meals in Puglia
Like most Italian areas, Puglia has a wealthy culinary historical past, and consuming out is among the many highlights of Puglia. If you journey to Puglia, Italy, there are a number of native specialties that I like to recommend you attempt. For a full listing, see our publish on the greatest meals to attempt in Puglia.
Orecchiette
Orecchiette is a sort of pasta that originates from Puglia. It’s made with semolina flour and water, and its title comes from its form, which resembles a small ear.
Orecchiette is commonly served with a easy vegetable-based sauce. My favourite is one constituted of broccoli rabe (a bitter leafy inexperienced) and garlic – it’s actually scrumptious!
A tremendous little restaurant to do that dish is Assaporando le Delizie Pugliesi, in Bari’s outdated city.
Focaccia Barese
Focaccia Barese is a sort of flatbread that originates from town of Bari. It’s a bit like different focaccia that you will have tasted, made with a easy dough of flour, water, salt, and yeast, however can also be topped with tomatoes, onions, and olives.
The most effective focaccia Barese I’ve ever eaten is bought at a bakery referred to as Magda, on Bari’s By way of Prospero Petroni. Contemporary out of the oven, it manages to be each extremely wealthy and lightweight on the identical time, and isn’t greasy in any respect, not like many different focaccias. Don’t miss it!
Polpette
Polpette are fried dumplings constituted of stale bread, eggs, cheese, and parsley. They often additionally include meat, greens, and/or fish, and might be served both by themselves or in a tomato sauce.
Yow will discover polpette on menus all through Puglia. Should you’re in Bari, a wonderful place to attempt them is Per Bacco.
Tiella
Tiella is a sort of Puglian layered casserole made with potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and onions. My favourite model of tiella additionally incorporates mussels (unimaginable), though you can too get a vegetarian selection made with eggplant and zucchini.
It’s often baked in a wood-fired oven, which provides it a stunning smoky taste. A tremendous place to eat tiella is Ristorante Tiella in Bari.
Fritto Misto
“Fritto misto” interprets actually as “blended fried”. In Puglia, this primarily means a choice of deep-fried seafood, often squid, octopus, and fish. It’s usually served as an appetizer however may also be eaten as a predominant course.
The most effective fritto misto I’ve ever had was from a tiny meals truck referred to as Mare Chef, near Cala Porta Vecchia seashore in Monopoli. Tremendous low cost, recent, and juicy, this place is avenue meals at its most interesting.
FAQs About Visiting Puglia, Italy
Solutions to some generally requested questions on visiting the gorgeous locations in Puglia.
Puglia is a area positioned in southeastern Italy, forming the “heel” of the nation’s boot-shaped mainland.
Sure, Puglia is certainly value visiting! It’s one in every of my favourite components of Italy.
There are numerous widespread locations to go to in Puglia, however a number of the hottest embody the cities of Bari, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare.
The most effective time to go to Puglia is within the spring (April-Could) or autumn (September-October), when the climate is heat however not too scorching, and there are fewer vacationers.
That is considerably subjective, however I believe the prettiest a part of Puglia is the area’s Adriatic Sea shoreline. Among the greatest locations to go in Puglia, Italy are positioned alongside this stretch.
Bari, the capital of Puglia, is a superb place to base your self. There are a great deal of nice issues to do within the metropolis itself, it’s conveniently positioned close to the middle of the area, and is a serious transport hub which makes it simpler to make use of this as a base to go to different locations from.
Puglia is greatest identified for its unimaginable meals (assume recent pasta, seafood, and many olive oil), lovely seashores, conical trulli homes, and distinctive picturesque cities.
Sure, Puglia is simply as protected to go to as some other a part of Italy (which may be very protected general). Offered you are taking the identical smart precautions that you’d anyplace else, you’re unlikely to expertise any issues.
In Conclusion
Puglia is an extremely lovely and welcoming area of Italy, greatest identified for its scrumptious meals, gorgeous shoreline, year-round sunshine, and distinctive cities and cities.
Whether or not you’re seeking to calm down on the seashore, get pleasure from scrumptious meals, or discover a few of Puglia’s fascinating historical past and tradition, I’m sure you’ll love your go to to Puglia.
