Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is a region brimming with rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re captivated by ancient architecture, crystalline waters, or cuisine which I believe is the best in the world, Puglia has a lot to offer. But for first-time visitors, the sheer number of charming towns can be overwhelming!
Visit Puglia: a travel guide
To help you plan your itinerary, here’s a guide to the top 10 must-visit towns in Puglia:
1. Alberobello
Why visit Alberobello? Alberobello is synonymous with the iconic trullo – whitewashed, cone-roofed houses that make the town look like something out of a fairy-tale. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is unique to Puglia and offers a glimpse into the region's architectural heritage.
Top things to see in Alberobello:
Trullo Sovrano: The largest trullo in Alberobello, now a museum.
Rione Monti: A district with over 1,000 trulli, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Trulli Church of St. Anthony: A unique church designed in the trullo style.
Top tip: get there early, or late, to miss the crowds - it gets SUPER busy, especially during peak months.
Nearest airport: Brindisi
Where to stay in Alberobello: here's some recommended accommodation
2. Lecce
Why visit Lecce: often referred to as the "Florence of the South," Lecce is renowned for its baroque architecture. The city's buildings are crafted from the local soft limestone, giving Lecce its distinct golden hue.
Top things to see in Lecce:
Basilica di Santa Croce: a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
Piazza del Duomo: the heart of Lecce, surrounded by stunning historical buildings.
Roman Amphitheatre: a testament to Lecce's ancient past.
Top tip: early evening is a great time for a 'passeggiata' here, and grab yourself a glass of wine in the Piazza del Duomo.
Nearest airport: Brindisi
Where to stay in Lecce: here's some recommended accommodation
3. Ostuni
Why visit Ostuni: known as the "White City" due to its whitewashed buildings, Ostuni sits on a hilltop offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic Sea.
Top things to see in Ostuni:
Ostuni Cathedral: A beautiful Gothic cathedral with a unique rose window.
The Old Town: Wander through the labyrinthine streets, lined with shops and cafes.
Archaeological Park of Santa Maria di Agnano: Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the region's history.
Top tip: enjoy a guided tour in an 'ape' ('ape' means 'bee' in Italian, and is the original TukTuk), as it'll get you up the hilly centro. Otherwise, simply get lost in the whitewashed centro storico and explore all the little alleys - you'll often find cute bars and restaurants tucked away.
Nearest airport: Brindisi
Where to stay in Ostuni: here's some recommended accommodation
4. Polignano a Mare
Why visit Polignano a Mare: Polignano is a picturesque town perched on limestone cliffs above the Adriatic Sea, famous for its dramatic coastal scenery and crystal-clear waters. On social media you'll often see the famous Lama Monachile beach, and the Grotta Palazzese restaurant.
Top things to see in Polignano a Mare:
Lama Monachile: a stunning beach nestled between cliffs.
Old Town: explore narrow streets and enjoy views from the many terraces.
Grotta Palazzese: an extraordinary restaurant set inside a cave overlooking the sea.
Top tip: Lama Monachile and Grotta Palazzese both look fantastic, but to spoil your fun, I'm going to say avoid both: the beach gets very crowded, and the restaurant is expensive with average food. There are a thousand better beaches and restaurants in this area of Puglia!
Nearest airport: Bari
Where to stay in Polignano a Mare: here's some recommended accommodation
5. Matera
Why visit Matera: While technically in the neighboring region of Basilicata, Matera is often included in Puglia itineraries due to its proximity and historical significance. Known for its Sassi districts, where ancient cave dwellings are carved into the rock.
Top things to see in Matera:
Sassi di Matera: Explore these ancient cave dwellings, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Matera Cathedral: Offers stunning views of the Sassi and the surrounding area.
Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: A reconstructed cave dwelling showing how people lived in Matera for centuries.
Top tip: there is extremely limited car parking in the old town, but wherever you stay, your host (or hotel) will be able to advise where's best to leave your car. AND if you're a 007 fan, look out for various landmarks which featured in the 2021 Bond film, No Time To Die!
Nearest airport: Bari
Where to stay in Matera: here's some recommended accommodation
6. Monopoli
Why visit Monopoli: a charming coastal town with a picturesque historic centre, Monopoli offers a blend of beautiful beaches and rich history. It's not far from Polignano a Mare, so either are a good base for exploring the other.
Top things to see in Monopoli:
Castello di Carlo V: A fortress with panoramic views of the sea.
Cathedral of Santa Maria della Madia: A stunning baroque cathedral.
Old Harbour: Perfect for an evening stroll and enjoying fresh seafood.
Top tips: enjoy a lovely walk along the marvellous sea front after your meal - and there's a cute little marina (pictured) with lots of pretty little boats in it, where you'll also find nearby an art gallery, for the culture vultures amongst us.
Nearest airport: Bari
7. Gallipoli
Why visit: Gallipoli, meaning "Beautiful City" in Greek, lives up to its name with its stunning beaches and historical old town located on a limestone island. It's a nice stop-off if you're in the very southernmost tip of Puglia, perhaps en route to or from Santa Maria di Leuca (purported to be the most stunning of all Puglia's beaches).
Top things to see in Gallipoli:
Castello Angioino: A fortress at the entrance of the old town.
Purità Beach: A popular spot for sunbathing and swimming.
Frantoio Ipogeo: An underground olive oil mill, showcasing Gallipoli’s olive oil production history.
Top tips: Gallipoli is a great place to just wander around, especially the centro storico, beyond the fortress in the old town. Avoid any of the overly typical little restaurants (especially with people standing outside trying to get you in) and use Google Maps to find highly rated ones instead, with lots of recent reviews. There are some bars dotted around the edge of the old town where you can enjoy a drink with fantastic views out to sea. Finally, if you go in the morning, check out the fresh fish market - order some fresh red prawns ('crudo' - meaning raw, but totally safe and delicious to eat), and you'll get a little glass of white wine with it too.
Nearest airport: Brindisi
Where to stay in Gallipoli and Salento: here's some recommended accommodation
8. Martina Franca
Why visit Martina Franca: one of the 'Little 3' in the beautiful Valle d'Itria, Martina Franca is known for its elegant architecture and vibrant cultural scene. It’s the perfect spot to experience Puglia's less touristy but equally charming side - and it's well known for its food, including 'Capocollo', the undisputed king of Puglia's salami!
Top things to see:
Palazzo Ducale: A grand palace with beautiful frescoes.
Basilica di San Martino: An impressive baroque church.
Valle d'Itria: Explore the scenic countryside dotted with trulli.
Top tip: head to the theatre and its cafe bar in the centre, where you can get a drink, some antipasti, and watch the world go by.
Nearest airport: Brindisi
Where to stay in Martina Franca: here's some recommended accommodation
9. Otranto
Why visit Otranto: as Italy’s easternmost town, Otranto offers a blend of history, stunning sea views, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to combine beach time with cultural exploration.
Top things to see in Otranto:
Otranto Cathedral: Known for its beautiful mosaic floor.
Aragonese Castle: Overlooking the sea, offering fantastic views and exhibitions.
Porto Badisco: A nearby bay said to be where Aeneas first landed in Italy.
Nearest airport: Brindisi
10. Trani
Why visit Trani: Trani is a charming port town known for its beautiful marina, Romanesque cathedral, and vibrant nightlife. It’s perfect for those looking to experience Puglia’s coastal charm without the crowds, as it's definitely one of the lesser known tourist destinations in Puglia.
Top things to see in Trani:
Trani Cathedral: A stunning Romanesque cathedral right by the sea.
Castello Svevo: A medieval fortress offering panoramic views.
Trani Harbour: Lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for an evening out.
Nearest airport: Bari
Puglia Top Tips
Puglia’s diverse towns offer a rich tapestry of experiences, from the fairytale trulli of Alberobello to the baroque splendor of Lecce, and the dramatic coastal beauty of Polignano a Mare. Each town has its unique charm and attractions, making the region a must-visit for any traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking stunning landscapes, Puglia will captivate your heart and leave you yearning for more.
So pack your bags, and get ready to explore this enchanting corner of Italy!
Where to stay in Puglia: here's some recommended accommodation
What next?
Read some of the other Puglia-related blogs on this site, below, or check out the 7-day Puglia holiday itinerary for visitors flying in and out of Bari.
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