A country with a thousand faces, Italy is a patchwork of changing landscapes, from north to south. And it's precisely in the south-east of the peninsula, in the heel of the boot, that you'll find Puglia. Bordered by the Ionian and Adriatic Seas, the region boasts some of the country's most beautiful beaches, with olive groves and vineyards in a natural setting caressed by year-round sunshine. But to sum Puglia up in terms of its beaches would be reductive: the region is a veritable jewel of history, with three Unesco World Heritage sites, architectural treasures and some of Italy's most beautiful some of Italy's most beautiful villages. From Gargano to Salento, here are our favorites - among many others - in Puglia, a region that's one of Italy's must-do must-sees in Italy.
1. Castel del Monte, home of Frederick II
Built in the 13th century at the request of Frederick II, the imposing Castel del Monte lies between Andria and Corato. A Unesco World Heritage site, it is a unique example of medieval military architecture, marked by the mathematical rigor of its plans. Set on an arid plateau covered with olive groves, Castel del Monte offers magnificent panoramic views over the Adriatic coast.
2. What to do in Puglia Visit Lecce, a Baroque gem
The capital of Salento, the southern part of the region, Lecce enchants visitors at every turn. Lecce is one of the must-visit cities of Italy . Nicknamed the Florence of the South, it is, like the Tuscan capital, a veritable museum city. The architecture of its medieval monuments is unique, since in the 17th century they were imbued with the baroque leccese style that marked the city's golden age. With over 40 palaces and churches to visit, elegant Lecce is an unmissable stopover during a stay in Puglia. You can also choose to discover it over a 3-day weekend, for example, as it's one of the ideal destinations for an extended weekend!
3. What to do in Puglia Visit the Castellana caves
The origin of the Castellana caves is linked to the region's history: around 90 million years ago, when Puglia was still entirely under water, these rocks were the only part of the territory to have emerged. Today, shaped over the years, they form Italy's most famous caving complex . Here you can discover a subterranean world of stalactites, stalagmites and impressive chasms with mythological names.
4. Gravine, incredible Mediterranean gorges
In Puglia, the variety of landscapes is such that there are even canyons! Between the Murge mountains and the Ionian Sea, the land breaks up and gives rise to the gravine, impressive gorges carved out of the rock, over 100 m deep. At Gravina in Puglia, on the edge of Basilicata, this phenomenon can be observed in a gravina riddled with rock dwellings. In the center of the canyon, the church of San Michele is a real gem.
5. What to do in Puglia Romanesque cathedrals
Puglia's architecture is marked by its characteristic Romanesque cathedrals, which seem to watch over the port cities . Apulian Romanesque art flourished between the 11th and 12th centuries, following the landing of Norman knights in southern Italy. Completed in 1143, Trani Cathedral, dedicated to San Nicola Pellegrino, is one of the most representative examples of this style. The sobriety of its pinkish-white marble façade contrasts with the blue of the sea it overlooks.
6. Salento, diving in turquoise waters
With its splendid beaches, intimate coves and olive-tree-lined natural pools, Salento is the quintessence of Mediterranean beauty. In Rocca Vecchia, over the centuries, the sea has carved out what is now known as the"grotta della poesia", a natural cavity inviting you to bathe in the turquoise waters. It owes its name to the various poets who came here to compose rhymes for a young princess who loved to swim.
7. What to do in Puglia Visit the villages of the Dauno sub-Apennine massif
As you move away from the coast, you discover a different landscape: mountains and valleys stretch as far as the eye can see in the villages of the Dauno sub-Apennine massif. This area in northern Puglia, in the province of Foggia, is little known to visitors, yet it is home to some of the region's most picturesque villages. One of our favorites is Pietramontecorvino, one of the borghi più belli d'Italia, or most beautiful villages in Italy.
8. Gargano National Park, Puglia's green lung
In northern Puglia, in the province of Foggia, the Gargano National Park is a 118,000-hectare concentration of beauty. Its crystal-clear sea, thick foresta umbra and remarkable biodiversity bear witness to an unspoilt natural environment. The three Tremiti islands are part of the site, and are best explored out of season to discover their wild side and deserted beaches. Monte Sant'Angelo and its sanctuary dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are also well worth a visit.
9. What to do in Puglia Taste Puglia's delicious cuisine
Italy makes the whole world salivate with its cuisine, so a visit to Puglia wouldn't be complete without a taste of its culinary specialties! For breakfast, succumb to pasticiotto, a jewel of custard typical of Salento. In Bari, we devour the famous focaccia sprinkled with tasty tomatoes. Panzerotto, taralli, orecchiette alle cime di rapa... the list goes on! Discover our dedicated article "What to eat in Italy? 20 culinary specialities to discover" and... salivate!
10. What to do in Puglia Visit the Itria Valley and its trulli
In the Itria Valley, between the provinces of Bari, Taranto and Brindisi, the landscape is marked by conical-roofed dwellings built mostly in the 16th century: trulli . These houses bear witness to a prehistoric construction technique, using dry stone and no mortar. They are particularly concentrated in the village ofAlberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which boasts over 1,500 of them.
11. What to do in Puglia Visit Bari
The site of Bari 's old town, situated on a limestone promontory, has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Today, Bari has many facets. Firstly, there's the historical aspect, with sites such as the Basilica of San Nicola, the Cathedral and the Norman-Swabian Castle, located in the old town, where the narrow streets and alleys form a complex labyrinth. Here you'll find almost all the sites of interest, as well as a typically Italian and friendly atmosphere, with restaurants, cafés and local shops. Then there's the Napoleonic quarter, the Borgo Murattiano, a shopping district with avenues laid out in a checkerboard pattern between the old town and the railway station. Finally, there are the port districts, on either side of the old town, where beautiful seaside promenades alternate with the docks of the ferries that pour in daily streams of tourists. It's one of the destinations less than 2 hours' flight from Paris that we particularly recommend for an interlude of dolce vita!
12. Gallipoli
Situated at the end of a long promontory, Gallipoli suddenly emerges from the Ionian Sea. In the foreground of the old Kallipolis ("beautiful city"), the walls rise up, protecting this island for centuries. In the distance, you can see the imposing, squat towers that guard the old town. Now a commercial center with a busy port, the town is surrounded on the land side by vineyards and olive groves, while the coast boasts some of the finest beaches in the region. Gallipoli owes its fame not only to its many architectural remains, but also to the slightly Neapolitan atmosphere that reigns in the narrow streets of its historic center, where the sound of the sea mingles with the voices of the locals.
13. What to do in Puglia Visit Taranto
Founded in the 8th century BC, Taranto is the most important city in the province of Salento. It was once the capital of Magna Graecia. Its historic center, Città Vecchia, separates the Mar Grande (Ionian Sea) from the Mar Piccolo. Its history is rich and fascinating. A visit to the Archaeological Museum will reveal all its secrets. According to legend, Taras, son of Poseidon and a nymph, landed in the city's port on the back of a dolphin sent by his father to rescue him. This is why Taranto bears the name of the offspring of the god of the seas. Thanks to its strategic position, the city played an important role as a military and trading power. All that remains of this glorious past are a few monuments scattered throughout the city.
14. Ostuni, the white city
Known as the whitest city in the world, Ostuni is considered la città bianca, a "miraggio di luce e di calce", a mirage of light and lime according to its inhabitants. It's rare to find a town that combines such perfect geometry with such dazzling whiteness. Built on three hills on the outskirts of the Murge, at an altitude of 218 meters, Ostuni is surrounded by a vast countryside covered with olive, fig and vine trees, in the immediate vicinity of the Adriatic Sea. The town also boasts a wealth of historical treasures. Ostuni can be visited in half a day, but you'll certainly want to stay longer, simply to stroll through its white streets. Allow at least one evening to admire the sunset over the town, which lights up with golden reflections, and the sea of olive trees that surrounds it.
15. What to do in Puglia Visit Otranto
Nicknamed the "Gateway to the Orient" because of its location at the tip of the Adriatic, Otranto still retains the typical atmosphere of the ancient trading towns that lined the Mediterranean . This renowned tourist destination overlooks the sea from its rocky promontory, and boasts an eventful past and a special charm. To discover its historic center, you need to lose yourself in the labyrinth of alleyways that lead to the ramparts overlooking the Adriatic. Its monuments are a reminder of the city's past splendor, and its cathedral boasts a floor adorned with an exceptional mosaic. As a fishing and yachting port with summer links to Albania, Otranto retains a family atmosphere, enhanced by a charming coastline.
16. Polignano a Mare
Built on the ancient Greek city of Neapolis, Polignano is a charming seaside resort whose medieval center is perched on a rocky peak 25 m high. You'll enjoya magnificent panorama with the white stone of the steep alleyways, the bluish transparency of the sea and the ochre cliffs from which a succession of caves can be seen. In the 1960s, Domenico Modugno's song Volare, dedicated to the town, was a fitting tribute. As soon as the sun starts to shine, the whole of Bari comes out to stroll around this relaxing and enchanting town, which is a must-see on your Puglia tour.
17. Getting to Martina Franca
In a region where trulli are the main attraction , Martina Franca is also home to Baroque and Rococo palaces. Martina Franca has a well-preserved historic center, with sumptuous Baroque facades, ancient churches and charming squares. Stroll through the narrow streets, admire the architecture and, above all, visit the Basilica of San Martino! This Baroque church is one of Martina Franca's main monuments and houses remarkable works of art, including frescoes and sculptures. You can visit an authentic trullo in Martina Franca, one of the traditional houses of the Puglia region, characterized by their conical stone roofs.
18. What to do in Puglia Visit Locorotondo
Built "in the round" (hence its name) and perched on a plateau 410 m above sea level, Locorotondo, like Alberobello, is famous for its trulli. Pointed dry-stone roofs, the cummerse, small streets paved with chianche (local stone) and low whitewashed houses, picturesque and emblematic of the valley's towns. Locorotondo is also much more protected from mass tourism than its neighbor Alberobello. Although Alberobello is home to the largest number of trulli, they are scattered throughout the contrade (rural settlements on the outskirts of towns).
19. Getting to Monopoli
What surprising charm, with its old town, ramparts and winding cobblestone streets! The historic center is characterized by churches popping up unexpectedly in the heart of alleyways, their yellow tufa stone contrasting with the whiteness of the houses. We recommend a visit tothe Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, home to a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. A stone archway leads to the small port with its red and blue boats, bordered by a palace with an elegant neo-Gothic loggia and Charles V's castle, a 16th-century fort on the waterfront.
20. What to do in Puglia Visit Brindisi
Does Brindisi ring a bell? Remember, the "Gateway to the Orient"? It's where Jules Verne embarks his hero Phileas Fogg in Around the World in 80 Days. Brindisi is both quiet and bustling, with a discreet charm that sets it apart from other Apulian cities. You can feel the port atmosphere, the vitality of which still lingers on the Lungomare in the evening. The city's churches, arches, palaces and archaeological museum are a reminder of its former prestige.
21. What to do in Puglia Visit Matera
Matera is in Basilicata, but is a very convenient place to visit during a stay in Puglia. Situated on a high karst plateau, in the middle of a vast area of clay hills and ravines, Matera's rugged and sometimes austere environment is one of the most singular and fascinating in Italy. The town bears witness to the different eras that have shaped its history. Vestiges of antiquity, medieval and Renaissance monuments blend harmoniously here with peasant houses, Baroque churches and modern buildings... For the traveler who once arrived in the center of Matera, at nightfall, when a lantern was lit in front of every house, the town was like a "mirror of the starry sky" .
When is the best time to visit Puglia in Italy?
Although summer is undoubtedly the most pleasant season to visit Italy, it also corresponds to the high tourist season, which means that beaches and roads are crowded, especially in July and August! It's a good idea to avoid the crowds of tourists that invade the region during this period, as Italians themselves take their vacations in August, especially around August 15 (Ferragosto). The best times to visit Puglia are spring and autumn, when temperatures are very pleasant and tourist numbers are more moderate. In winter, average temperatures in Bari are just right for visiting the region. So, when should you visit Puglia? Preferably between April and June, as well as in September-October.
What to do in Puglia in 3 days?
Puglia, also known as Apulia, is a region in southern Italy. It's famous for its historic towns, magnificent beaches and delicious cuisine. Here's an itinerary for a 3-day stay in Puglia:
Day 1: Bari
Start your stay in Puglia by exploring the city of Bari. Visit the old town, Bari Vecchia, where you can see the Basilica of St. Nicholas, the Cathedral of San Sabino and the Norman-Swabian Castle. Stroll through the narrow streets and admire the medieval architecture. Don't miss the chance to sample local specialties such as orecchiette, panzerotti and taralli.
Day 2: Alberobello and Polignano a Mare
On your second day, explore two of Puglia's most picturesque towns: Alberobello and Polignano a Mare. Alberobello is famous for its trulli, white houses with conical stone roofs. Stroll through the narrow streets and admire these unique constructions. Then on to Polignano a Mare, a town perched on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Visit the old town, with its narrow streets and white houses, and enjoy the sea view from the cliffs.
Day 3: Ostuni and Lecce
On the third day, visit Ostuni, a town perched on a hill with breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. Stroll through the old town, with its white streets and whitewashed houses. Then on to Lecce, the "Florence of the South", famous for its Baroque architecture. Visit the Piazza del Duomo, with its cathedral and campanile, and stroll through the narrow streets of the old town.
What to visit in Puglia in 7 days?
With a further 4 days, you can explore even more of Puglia and discover other magnificent sites. Here's an itinerary for a 7-day stay in Puglia:
Day 4: Matera
On the fourth day, set off to discover Matera, a town located in Basilicata, just on the border of Puglia. Matera is famous for its sassi, troglodyte houses carved into the rock. Visit the old town, with its narrow streets and stone houses, and discover the fascinating history of this unique city.
Day 5: Gallipoli and Otranto
On the fifth day, visit Gallipoli, a town on Puglia's Ionian coast. Stroll through the old town, with its narrow streets and white houses, and enjoy the view of the sea from the ramparts. Then on to Otranto, a town on Puglia's Adriatic coast. Visit the old town, with its cathedral and castle, and stroll along the ramparts to enjoy the sea view.
Day 6: Gargano
On the sixth day, set off to discover Gargano, a mountainous region in northern Puglia. Visit the Umbra Forest, a forest of beech and oak trees, and enjoy the surrounding nature. Then on to Vieste, a town on the Gargano coast. Stroll through the old town, with its narrow streets and white houses, and enjoy the view of the sea from the cliffs.
Day 7: Trani and Castel del Monte
On the seventh day, visit Trani, a town on Puglia's Adriatic coast. Visit Trani Cathedral, a magnificent example of Apulian Romanesque architecture, and stroll along the harbor to enjoy the sea views. Then on to Castel del Monte, a castle set in the hills of Puglia. Visit the castle, with its unique octagonal shape, and enjoy the view of the surrounding countryside.
This itinerary will enable you to discover Puglia's main attractions in seven days, but don't hesitate to extend your stay to explore more of the region.
What to do in Puglia in 10 days?
With 3 extra days, you can explore even more sites and towns in Puglia. Here's an itinerary for a 10-day stay in Puglia:
Day 8: Martina Franca and Locorotondo
On day eight, visit Martina Franca, a town in the Itria Valley known for its Baroque architecture. Stroll through the old town, with its narrow streets and white houses, and visit the Basilica of San Martino. Then on to Locorotondo, a town perched on a hill with breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. Stroll through the old town, with its narrow streets and white houses, and enjoy the view over the Itria Valley.
Day 9: Monopoli
On the ninth day, visit Monopoli, a town on Puglia's Adriatic coast. Stroll through the old town, with its narrow streets and white houses, and visit Monopoli Cathedral, a magnificent example of Apulian Baroque architecture. Monopoli Castle, also known as Charles V Castle, is a seaside fortress housing an archaeological museum. You can also enjoy the sun and sea on the beaches of Cala Porta Vecchia, Cala Cozze, or Cala Monaci. Monopoli is renowned for its seafood cuisine. Be sure to sample fresh seafood dishes in one of the town's many restaurants.
Day 10: Brindisi
On the tenth day, visit Brindisi, a port city in the Puglia region of southern Italy. It's famous for its port, ancient history and historic monuments. The port of Brindisi is a pleasant place to stroll and enjoy the view of the Adriatic Sea. See Brindisi's landmark Roman Column, erected in the 2nd century A.D. to mark the end of the Via Appia, an ancient Roman road linking Rome and Brindisi, and Brindisi Cathedral, a magnificent example of Apulian Romanesque architecture. You can admire the facade, adorned with sculptures and decorative elements, as well as the richly decorated interior.
This itinerary will enable you to discover even more of Puglia's sites and towns in ten days, but don't hesitate to extend your stay to explore the region further.
How to get to Puglia
To travel to Puglia on your own, you have several options, depending on your time availability and departure point. Flying is the quickest way (and not necessarily the most expensive if you plan ahead), landing in Bari or Brindisi and then renting a car on the spot. You can also opt to travel by car (the roads to southern Italy are magnificent). This is a very practical option, as it allows you to move around the region easily and freely, especially if you want to visit the Salento region.
Getting around Puglia
Renting a car makes it easier to get from one village to another, but it's important to be careful when booking: ask clearly about the amount of the deposit that will be taken/blocked and the terms of the contract. If you prefer to use public transport, it's affordable and varied, with clear websites enabling you to plan your route in advance. However, it's a good idea to be patient when it comes to punctuality - after all, it's the vacations!
