Puglia, also known as Apulia, is a charming region located in the southern part of Italy. It boasts a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture that will leave you mesmerized. The region is dotted with beautiful towns, picturesque beaches, and remarkable architecture that reflects its diverse influences over the centuries.
If you are planning a trip to Puglia, you are in for a treat. There is so much to see and experience in this region that it can be overwhelming to decide where to go first. To help you plan your trip, we have compiled a list of the top 10 places to see in Puglia, Italy. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the best of Puglia!
1. Lecce
Lecce, also known as the “Florence of the South,” is a must-visit destination in Puglia. This town is renowned for its exquisite Baroque architecture, which can be seen in the grandiose churches, palaces, and buildings that adorn its streets. One of the highlights of Lecce is the Basilica di Santa Croce, a magnificent church with an intricately carved façade showcasing mythical creatures, biblical scenes, and floral patterns.
Aside from its stunning architecture, Lecce also has a lively atmosphere with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to enjoy. Don’t forget to try some of the local delicacies like “pasticciotto,” a delicious pastry filled with custard, and “rustico,” a savory pastry stuffed with mozzarella and tomato sauce.
How to get there:
Lecce is well connected to other major cities in Italy via train and bus. If you are flying into Puglia, the nearest airport to Lecce is Brindisi, which is about a 40-minute drive away.
Where to stay:
Lecce has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Some popular choices include Hotel Patria Palace, Risorgimento Resort, and Arthotel & Park Lecce.
What to do:
- Explore the historic center: Take a stroll through the winding streets of Lecce’s old town, and marvel at the beautiful architecture.
- Visit the Roman Amphitheater: Built in the 2nd century BC, this well-preserved amphitheater was once used for gladiator fights and can accommodate up to 25,000 spectators.
- Admire the Duomo Square: This charming square is home to the Lecce Cathedral, a magnificent church with an impressive bell tower and stunning interior.
- Indulge in local cuisine: Lecce is known for its delicious food, so make sure to try some of their specialties like “orecchiette” pasta, “frisella” bread, and “sagne ‘ncannulate,” a type of handmade pasta.
- Shop at the Sant’Oronzo Market: This outdoor market offers a variety of local products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, olive oil, and traditional crafts.
2. Alberobello
Alberobello is a small town famous for its unique trulli houses, which are traditional dry stone huts with conical roofs. These houses are made entirely of limestone and have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through the streets of Alberobello feels like stepping into a fairytale, with rows of trulli houses adorned with colorful flowers and charming doorways.
How to get there:
The nearest airport to Alberobello is Bari, which is about 1 hour and 15 minutes away by car. You can also take a train from Bari or other major cities in Italy to Alberobello.
Where to stay:
For a unique experience, you can rent a traditional trullo house on Airbnb. Other options include Hotel Cuore di Puglia and Grand Hotel la Chiusa di Chietri.
What to do:
- Wander through the Trulli district: Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of the Rione Monti district, where you’ll find the highest concentration of trulli houses.
- Visit the Trullo Sovrano: This is the only two-story trullo house in Alberobello and has been turned into a museum showcasing how people used to live in these houses.
- Shop for souvenirs: The streets of Alberobello are lined with small shops selling local products, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
- Enjoy a traditional meal: Many restaurants in Alberobello serve authentic Apulian dishes, so make sure to try some of the local cuisine.
- Attend the Trulli Festival: Every year in August, Alberobello celebrates its iconic trulli houses with a festival that includes food, music, and cultural events.
3. Polignano a Mare
Located on the Adriatic coast, Polignano a Mare is a charming seaside town known for its picturesque beaches, stunning cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. The town’s old town, perched atop a rocky cliff, offers breathtaking views of the sea and is a popular spot for romantic walks.
How to get there:
The nearest airport to Polignano a Mare is Bari, which is about 40 minutes away by car. You can also take a train from Bari or other major cities in Italy to Polignano a Mare.
Where to stay:
Some recommended places to stay in Polignano a Mare include Borgobianco Resort & Spa, Cala Ponte Hotel, and San Michele Suites.
What to do:
- Visit the old town: Take a walk through the narrow streets of the old town and admire the white-washed houses adorned with colorful flowers.
- Admire the view from Balconata sul Mare: This scenic overlook offers stunning views of the sea and the cliffs below.
- Relax on Lama Monachile Beach: This small beach is nestled between two rocky cliffs and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Try some gelato: Polignano a Mare is known for its delicious gelato, so make sure to try some from one of the many gelaterias in town.
- Attend the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series: Every year, Polignano a Mare hosts this thrilling event where athletes jump from a 27-meter high platform into the sea.
4. Ostuni
Ostuni, also known as the “White City,” is a hilltop town famous for its pristine white buildings and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The town’s historic center is a maze of narrow streets, white-washed houses, and charming little squares that exude a laid-back vibe.
How to get there:
The nearest airport to Ostuni is Brindisi, which is about 40 minutes away by car. You can also take a train from Brindisi or other major cities in Italy to Ostuni.
Where to stay:
Some recommended places to stay in Ostuni include Masseria Cervarolo, Città Bianca Country Resort, and Relais La Sommità.
What to do:
- Explore the historic center: Take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Ostuni’s old town, and admire the beautiful white-washed buildings.
- Visit the Cathedral: The Ostuni Cathedral, located in Piazza Beato Giovanni Paolo II, is a must-see attraction with its stunning façade and intricate interior.
- Enjoy the view from the city walls: Climb up to the city walls and enjoy panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
- Try some local wine: Ostuni is surrounded by vineyards, so make sure to try some of the local white wines, including Verdeca and Fiano Minutolo.
- Attend La Cavalcata di Sant’Oronzo: This festival, held every year in August, celebrates the town’s patron saint with parades, food, music, and fireworks.
5. Matera
Located in the neighboring region of Basilicata, Matera is often considered a part of Puglia due to its close proximity. This ancient city, known for its “Sassi” (cave dwellings), has been inhabited since prehistoric times and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world.
How to get there:
The nearest airport to Matera is Bari, which is about 1 hour and 15 minutes away by car. You can also take a train from Bari or other major cities in Italy to Matera.
Where to stay:
For a unique experience, you can stay in one of the “Sassi” caves that have been converted into hotels. Other options include Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel and San Giovanni Vecchio Relais.
What to do:
- Explore the “Sassi”: Take a walk through the old town, which is made up of cave dwellings carved into the rock and connected by narrow alleys and stairways.
- Visit the Rupestrian Churches: These ancient churches, built inside natural caves, feature beautiful frescoes and are a testament to the city’s rich history.
- Hike in the Murgia National Park: This park, located just outside of Matera, offers breathtaking views of the “Sassi” and has several hiking trails to explore.
- Try some local specialties: Matera is known for its delicious food, so make sure to try some of their specialties like “cavatelli” pasta, roasted lamb, and “bruschetta” with “peperoni cruschi,” a type of dried pepper.
- Attend La Festa della Bruna: This festival, held every year in July, celebrates the city’s patron saint with parades, music, and fireworks.
6. Gargano National Park
Gargano National Park, located in the northern part of Puglia, is a paradise for nature lovers. This protected area covers a wide range of habitats, including forests, cliffs, wetlands, and beaches, making it a haven for a diverse range of flora and fauna.
How to get there:
The main gateway to Gargano National Park is the town of Foggia, which can be reached by train from other major cities in Italy. From there, you can take a bus or rent a car to explore the park.
Where to stay:
Some recommended places to stay near Gargano National Park include Hotel degli Aranci, Hotel dei Pini, and Baia del Monaco Resort.
What to do:
- Visit the Umbra Forest: This ancient forest, covering over 11,000 hectares, is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and eagles.
- Hike along the coast: The Gargano coastline is dotted with stunning beaches, coves, and rocky cliffs, offering plenty of opportunities for scenic hikes.
- Explore the Tremiti Islands: Located just off the coast of Gargano, this chain of islands is a popular day trip destination, with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages.
- Visit the Monte Sant’Angelo Sanctuary: This ancient sanctuary, built in the 5th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important pilgrimage destination.
- Attend the Gargano Summer Festival: Every summer, this festival takes place in various towns in Gargano, showcasing local music, food, and culture.
Conclusion
Puglia, Italy’s southern gem, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From charming towns to stunning beaches, there is something for everyone in this region. We hope this guide has given you some insight into the top 10 places to see in Puglia, and we encourage you to explore even more of this beautiful region on your own. So start planning your trip to Puglia, and get ready to fall in love with its charm and beauty!
