Looking for the best things to do in Puglia? From the charming small town of Polignano a Mare to the olive trees of the countryside, there is beauty in every corner. In this guide, you’ll find the best places to see in Puglia as well as the best beaches to visit and where to day trip.
Puglia is the talk of the town in southern Italy these days, as there are many things to do in Puglia, drawing visitors from far and wide to experience the beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and delicious cuisine.
Known as the “heel of Italy,” Puglia has long been overshadowed by more well-known destinations like Florence and Positano. But now, as more and more travelers are looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, Puglia is finally getting the attention it deserves.
Here are the best things to do in Puglia!
About Puglia
One of the biggest draws of Puglia is its rich history and cultural heritage. The region has been shaped by the many conquerors who have passed through over the millennia, and this is reflected in the ancient hilltop towns and maze-like city centers that are found throughout the region.
From the whitewashed Trulli houses of Alberobello to the medieval castles of Lecce, there is no shortage of architectural treasures to explore in Puglia.
Puglia is also known as the “land of two seas,” as it is washed by both the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea. This makes for a diverse range of landscapes, from the white sandy beaches of the Adriatic coast to the rocky cliffs of the Ionian coast.
One of the most interesting things about Puglia is the meaning and origin of its name. Some historians believe that it comes from “a-Pluvia,” which means “land without rain.” This is fitting, as the region is known for its dry, sunny climate. Others believe that the name means “land without mountains” or “land densely populated.” Regardless of the meaning, one thing is certain: Puglia is a unique and fascinating destination that is well worth a visit.
Where is Puglia?
Located in the southeastern tip of the country, Puglia covers over 7,469 sqm and has a population of more than 4 million people. The Adriatic Sea is to the east, the Ionian Sea is to the southeast, and the Gulf of Taranto is to the south. Molise, Campania, and Basilicata are all to the north, west, and southwest of Puglia, respectively. It has a coastline of almost 800 kilometers and captivates many visitors with its small bays lined with white sandy beaches, ancient villages perched atop rocky outcrops, and the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic.
How to Get to Puglia
Looking for the best way to Puglia? It depends on where you’re coming from, as the region is connected by air, train, bus and car. Let’s dive in!
By Air
To fly to Puglia, you have three main airport options: Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla, Salento Airport in Brindisi, and Airport of Foggia “Gino Lisa.”
Bari International Airport is the main airport of the region and is located 30 minutes from the city center. It is well connected by many airlines with regular and cheap flights from major European cities.
Salento Airport in Brindisi is a newly opened airport that is well-served by many airlines and is strategically located to cover the provinces of Brindisi, Taranto and Lecce.
The Airport of Foggia “Gino Lisa” is mainly used for tourist flights that connect the region to its archipelago of Tremiti Islands and internal flights to the main cities in Italy.
Bus services and both international and domestic car rental agencies provide convenient access to and from all of these regional airports. Naples, Rome, and Pescara all have airports within a reasonable driving distance of Puglia, and domestic flights from Milan and Rome to Bari or Brindisi make getting there a breeze.
By Train
If you’re looking to travel to Puglia by train, it’s a great option as the national railway service covers most of the region. The Adriatic railway connects Bologna to Lecce and Taranto and also stops in Foggia and Bari. The railway between Rome and Taranto also stops in Bari and Naples. The main train stations are located in Foggia, Bari, Brindisi, Lecce, and Taranto and are all within easy reach and close to the city center. Additionally, regional companies run regular local services across the six provinces, allowing you to easily move around the region.
By Bus
Traveling by bus can be a great and cheaper alternative to trains and a fantastic opportunity to see numerous places at once. Buses also stop at smaller cities, and local companies provide regular services within and from Puglia. To get more information on routes, prices and timetables, you can visit the bus services companies’ websites, such as Marozzi, Marino Bus, Miccolis, Scoppio, and Lentini Autolinee. These companies offer routes to and from major cities such as Naples, Rome, Florence, Pisa, Siena, Milan, Verona, Vicenza, Livorno, Empoli, Potenza, Salerno, Catania, and Palermo.
By Car
Puglia has a good road network and a clear international sign system, making it easy to navigate. If you’re traveling to Puglia from the north, you’ll be driving on the A14, also known as the “vacation highway,” which is the most heavily traveled highway in the summer. It is a flat, easily navigable road. Alternatively, the A16 can be used if traveling from the west, such as from Naples or Rome. This highway has some hilly tracts and can be windy. Remember that vehicles drive on the right in Italy and overtake on the left.
The Best Time to Visit Puglia
The best time to visit Puglia is in the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is mild and the days are long. With hot summers, it’s perfect for long days of sightseeing, outdoor activities, swimming, and even nightlife. The blooming coastline along the Adriatic Sea is especially beautiful during this time. Alternatively, you could visit in the quieter autumn months of October and November, when the coast is less crowded, and the landscape is at its most colorful.
I planned a last minute trip to Puglia in early September. While we found that many of the most popular masserias were already booked up, we were still able to find some lodging that we ended up loving and we didn’t find the towns to be too crowded either! Plus, the weather was absolutely beautiful and ideal for a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters.
How Many Days to Spend in Puglia
When it comes to deciding how many days to spend in Puglia, it really depends on what you’re hoping to do. You could definitely see some of the main sights in around 3 days, but if you want to explore the entire region, then you’ll need at least a week. To really experience the culture, take a 2-week trip and stay in a few different areas. There are enough things to do in Puglia!
I spent a week in Puglia and I found it was the perfect amount of time to see all of the major highlights and gorgeous towns the region is home to.
How to Get Around Puglia
When it comes to getting around Puglia, your best bet is to rent a car or use public transport. The major cities are well connected by train and bus, although some smaller towns will only have limited public transportation. Having your own car makes it much easier to explore the region and all its treasures. Alternatively, you could always take a guided tour.
Renting a car and making it into a road trip definitely allowed us to be more flexible and explore some spots off the beaten path! Plus, I found driving in Puglia was quite easy as the road navigation signs were clear and drivers were mostly very courteous.
Things to do in Puglia
From wandering through ancient towns to swimming at the best beaches, I’ve rounded up all the best things to do in Puglia that you won’t want to miss.
Visit Polignano a Mare
One of the most popular things to do in Puglia is to visit Polignano a Mare. From the turquoise waters and beautiful beaches to the old city center and cobblestone streets, it’s a picture of perfect Italian beauty. Wander around and explore the historic buildings and narrow alleys, or take a boat tour along the coast to experience the best of this breathtaking city.
Take in the Charm of Monopoli
Another must-see destination when it comes to things to do in Puglia is Monopoli, an enchanting and ancient port town. Stroll around the picturesque marina and take in the views from the old fortress, or grab a bite to eat, starting with the delicious focaccia bread at Baffi bakery. On a day excursion, you can also visit the breathtaking limestone cliffs called Cala Bianca, carved into the sea.
Sleep in a Trullo
The perfect place to sleep during your trip to the Puglia region is in a trullo! Trulli (plural of Trullo) are traditional Apulian dry-stone houses made of limestone with a conical roof. They are painted white and sometimes have beautiful designs on the roof.
We stayed in a gorgeous Trullo home between Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, called Trullammare!
Explore Ostuni (“The White City”)
Continue to Ostuni, the “white city,” so named because the buildings have been painted white since the Middle Ages. Here, you can pay a visit to the dozens of churches, explore the 1st-century remains, and walk along antique cobblestone lanes as you take in the incredible sights and sea views.
Swim at Torre Sant’Andrea
Further south is Torre Sant’Andrea, a beautiful swimming spot with dramatic cliffs and stacked rock formations. Here you’ll find dazzling views of the Ionian Sea and its crystal blue waters. Spend an afternoon relaxing on the rocks and jumping in the water.
Some tips for visiting: check the wind forecast before you visit to make sure it’s not too windy and pack some water shoes (the rocks can be sharp!), a dry bag, and a mask or goggles for swimming.
Jump into the Cave of Poetry
Just a short drive away from Torre d’Andrea is the Grotta della Poesia, or the Cave of Poetry. This beautiful spot is an archeological site located in the heart of the southern Adriatic Coast, and is definitely one of the best things to do in Puglia.
Walk down the steps carved into the rocky side of Vernazza and experience the majestic beauty of this stunning cave. Enjoy the panoramic views of the ocean, which can even be seen from the mouth of the cave. Aside from being a fantastic place to go swimming or snorkeling, this location has also emerged as one of the best spots to go diving in the area.
Take in the Views at Torre dell’Orso
Another must-see destination when it comes to things to do in Puglia is the Torre dell’Orso. This little tourist town is home to one of the largest sandy beaches in the Salento peninsula. The beach is located in a cove of calm, clear waters making it the perfect place for a relaxing swim or float. You can even take a walk up to the nearby cliffs to cliff jump or take in the views of the “I Caraibi del Salento,” the iconic rock formations in the sea.
The beach has plenty of beach clubs where you can rent sun loungers for the day, eat lunch and even rent paddle boats to go exploring.
Stay at a Traditional Masseria
A masseria is a traditional fortified farmhouse that is typical of the region of Puglia. Dating back to the 16th century, these farmhouses have turned into private homes or small hotels where guests can enjoy country life among the olive groves.
We stayed at the gorgeous Masseria San Paolo Grande and loved experiencing a traditional farm-stay!
→ Book a Stay at Masseria San Paolo Grande
See the Famous Trulli of Alberobello
Head inland to Alberobello, where the city is a mishmash of curious old stone buildings and cobbled streets. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perhaps one of the best examples of Apulian-style architecture and is home to two main attractions: the Trulli Houses and the Church of Saint Antonio Abate.
Trulli are typical buildings of the region that are iconic for their conical roof and white color. And they can be seen all over Alberobello!
Before you leave, be sure to stop by one of the many artisan shops in the area, offering everything from olive oil and jewelry to handmade shoes and ceramics.
Wander Around Martina Franca
Located in the Valle d’Itria, Martina Franca is another of Puglia’s white towns (or Citta Bianche in Italian). Similar to Locorotondo or Cisternino, this white town is completely white washed! Spend the day getting lost in its charming streets and indulging in some local cuisine (like their traditional ham, capocollo).
Step Back in Time in Matera
Finish your Puglia adventure in Matera, where restaurants, hotels and businesses are built directly into the ancient limestone caves – from which the city derives its name. Spend a night among the subterranean churches, archaeological ruins, and narrow streets before dining in one of the old caves-turned-restaurants.
We stayed in a luxury cave hotel called Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort and it was such a cool experience sleeping in a thousand-year-old cave (and with lux amenities!)
→ Book a Stay at Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort
Get Lost in Lecce
Known for its baroque architecture, Lecce is the cultural capital of Puglia. This relaxed yet lively town is sometimes called the “Florence of the south” for its history, churches, museums, and dining scene.
Make sure to visit the city’s main square, Piazza del Duomo, and walk through the ancient city gates (Lecce is a walled city!).
Best Hotels in Puglia
Wondering where to stay on your trip to Puglia? If you’re planning a week-long trip (like I did!) then you’ll likely pick between 2 – 3 places to stay so you can explore as much of the region as possible. I stayed at Trullammare between Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, Masseria San Paolo Grande near Ostuni, and finally at Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort in Matera. But I’ve also rounded up some of the other top hotels and lodging I considered during my trip.
Polignano a Mare / Monopoli
- Residenza Il Sole: This bed & breakfast is located just outside Monopoli and features a gorgeous swimming pool and terrace.
- TRULIVO: A farm-stay in an iconic trullo house? Yes, please! This charming country house has it all: an authentic trulli experience, homemade breakfast and a swimming pool.
- Aquamarea: This bed & breakfast has the most iconic view of Polignano a Mare! Just imagine watching the sun go down with views of the famous Cala Monachile beach.
- Sei Stelle Mama: Another wonderful b&b option in Polignano a Mare that features beautifully updated rooms and a rooftop with views over the town square.
Ostuni
- Masseria Donna Nina: this traditional farmhouse in the Apulian countryside dates back to the 18th century. It features a charming white-washed facade and a pool (perfect for those hot summer days!).
- Regina di Ulivi: Another delightful countryside stay near Ostuni, this bed & breakfast is made up of iconic trulli homes!
Lecce
- Patria Palace Lecce: If you’re looking for a little luxury in Lecce, this gorgeous hotel is for you! With beautifully appointed rooms, views of Basilica of Santa Croce and a gorgeous roooftop, you’ll love your stay at Patria Palace.
- La Fiermontina: Get the feel of a farm-stay in the urban center of Lecce! This hotel feels more like a traditional masseria and features an outdoor pool surrounded by olive trees.
Alberobello
- Charming Trulli: if you’ve been dreaming of staying in a Trulli while visiting Alberobello (the home of the Trulli!), this stay is for you!
Matera
- Palazzo Degli Abati: What could be cooler than sleeping in an ancient cave? Maybe an ancient cave that feels like a 5 star hotel!? With gorgeous views, you can’t go wrong with a stay at Palazzo Degli Abati.
- Locanda Di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae: Swimming in an indoor pool inside of a cave is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. This stunning hotel also features a home-made breakfast and views of Matera!
Tips for Visiting Puglia
- Bring a camera: You’ll want to capture Puglia’s coastal towns, whitewashed farmhouses, and cobblestone streets. Don’t forget to record the beautiful churches, bridges, and cultural artifacts that give this region its unique charm.
- Try the local cuisine: Puglia’s cuisine is heavily reliant on bread, pasta, and local seafood. Make sure to sample some of the region’s traditional cuisine, such as the famous orecchiette pasta made in Bari and the seafood-rich dishes of Gallipoli.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Puglia is mostly rural, so you’ll want to make sure you have comfortable shoes for your excursions into the countryside, exploring villages, and walking on beaches.
- Buy local: Not only will you be supporting the local economy but you’ll also be rewarded with exquisite souvenirs. Pottery, lace, jewelry, and textiles are particularly popular.
- Learn some Italian: Though English is spoken in most cities and towns, having a few phrases under your belt will help you feel more at home in Puglia. Anyone visiting should know some basic Italian phrases and expressions, such as “ciao,” “Grazie,” and “Buon Giorno.”
What to Wear in Puglia
That’s a wrap on my guide… now you know all the best things to do in Puglia! With so many places to see in Puglia, you can rest assured that your vacation will be packed with adventure, charm and beauty. Whether you are visiting for its spectacular scenery, indulging in its delicious cuisine, or just immersing yourself in the culture and language, you are sure to be delighted with everything Puglia has to offer. So, pack your things and get ready for the ultimate Puglia adventure!
Leave a Reply