Travel Guide To Puglia, Italy: Top Things To Do And More!

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Ready to be transported into the charming and unspoiled beauty of Puglia? In this magical land in Southern Italy, sun-soaked beaches meet green rolling hills, and the rich history blends seamlessly with the mouth-watering local delicacies. Discover the hidden gems of this Italian paradise in this in-depth travel guide to Puglia!

Appealing to sun worshippers and culture lovers alike, Puglia, in Italy, is one of those places that deserves a place on anyone’s Travel Bucket List.

Although it’s seriously beautiful, this Italian region sometimes gets overlooked in favor of hotspots like Rome, Florence, and Venice. But as an Italian, I know this spot has so much to offer visitors.

Not only are Puglia’s olive groves and quaint piazzas incredibly romantic (hello, honeymooners!), but each town is an amazing historical tapestry woven with whitewashed buildings, intricately-carved basilicas, and iconic limestone Trulli.

I completely understand that traveling to new places can be overwhelming. So, I’m here to give you the ultimate local’s guide to Puglia that’ll have you hitting the most important sights and eating the most incredible Italian food.

That’s right – my priorities are always on point!

Whether you’re in the area for a week or a month, this handy guide (and my accompanying list of Italy travel tips!) should help you pad out your Puglia itinerary for the dreamiest trip imaginable.

Where is Puglia in Italy?

Puglia is a beautiful region located on the southeastern tip of Italy. In other words, it’s right on the famous heel of Italy by the Adriatic sea and the Ionian sea.

A typical masseria in Puglia
A typical Masseria in Puglia
Trulli in Puglia, Italy
Trulli in Puglia, Italy

Why Visit Puglia?

It’s tricky for me to answer this question without gushing, but I’d say the main reason to visit Puglia is for the excellent food, historical buildings, and pristine coastline. 

From the culturally fascinating Trulli in Alberobello to the sprawling beaches of Salento, you can easily spend two weeks traveling through this charming region.

Travel Guide To Puglia

13 Best Places To Visit In Puglia (Cannot Miss These!)

1. Alberobello

The town of Alberobello is tucked away in central Puglia and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 for its iconic Trulli huts. Believe it or not, there are over 1,500 of these unique limestone structures in this small part of Puglia, Italy. So, you’ll barely be able to walk a few steps without encountering a few conical roofs!

Trulli were generally constructed as temporary field shelters and storehouses that could easily be dismounted.

During the years, small agricultural proprietors or laborers started to use them as permanent dwellings. 

Top view of the Trulli's roofs in Alberobello
Top view of the Trulli’s roofs in Alberobello
Beautiful street in Alberobello
Admiring the beautiful Trulli in Alberobello

Although these structures make Alberobello uber-popular with tourists, you can usually stroll through the cobbled streets and quaint souvenir shops without ramming into too many people. Just try and avoid the high season if you can, as it can get ridiculously busy.

Most restaurants and places of interest are inside the Trulli, including Trullo Sovrano, which houses the town’s tiny (but wonderful!) Heritage Museum. It costs ~€2 to enter, and you can spend half an hour or so checking it out.

Once you’ve explored the museum, I suggest exploring the historically significant Casa D’Amore and the Sant’Antonio Church (the only church in the world built in the Trulli style, BTW!).

Alberobello from the top
Alberobello from the top

If you’re short on time, this History Walking Tour with Olive Oil Tasting is a must-do. It takes you through the main districts of Rione Monti and Aia Piccola and includes a tasting of local olive oil, which most tourists love. 

Better yet, it takes just 1.5 – 2 hours, leaving you tons of time to explore the rest of Puglia, Italy!

Here you’ll find my in-depth guide to visiting Alberobello!

A quick tip!

This small town has received tons of traction on social media lately and is almost unpleasantly busy during the peak season. May and October are the best months to visit. But if you want to avoid crowds during the busy season, get here as early as possible and try and move on to your next destination by noon.

2. Stay in A Real Trullo or Masseria in Val D’Itria

I’ve talked quite a bit about the iconic Trulli in my section about Alberobello, but there’s another wonderful structure that’s native to Puglia – Masseria!

If you’re wondering what masserie are, they’re fortified farmhouses that were built in Puglia during the 16th century.

They were once used to protect country landowners and their workers from marauders, but most of them have been converted into luxurious large-scale hotels.

Some beautiful Trulli
Some beautiful Trulli
Admiring a Trullo in Val D'Itria
Admiring a Trullo in Val D’Itria

Trulli are slightly different. These cone-shaped houses weren’t designed to protect residents from invaders. But they were designed to be easily dismantled to avoid anyone having to pay property taxes. Hey, it’s certainly a creative way to go about things!

In my opinion, you can’t take a trip to Puglia, Italy, without staying in a Trullo or Masseria. They’re a huge part of the area’s character and offer an intimate look into Puglia’s vineyards, farmlands, and rich cultural history.

An ancient masseria, beautifully renovated
An ancient Masseria, beautifully renovated

A quick tip!

What I love about staying in these historical buildings is that you can find something for all budgets. I’ve outlined some of my favorite options in my Where to Stay section!

3. Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is one of Puglia’s most glorious seaside towns. It’s famous for its crystal-clear waters, pebbled beaches, and charming piazzas. Located just 25 miles from Bari, this place has plenty of coastal beauty and charm.

It’s home to a small Old Town with gorgeous winding alleys and whitewashed buildings.

A view of Cala Porto Beach from Terrazzo Santo Stefano
A gorgeous spot in Polignano a Mare

As you’re walking through town, you may even spot the works of Guido Lupori, or Pablo Naruda scribbled onto the walls or steep steps that line the streets. Your best chance of finding poetry is on Vicolo Della Poesia (which is conveniently keyed into Google Maps – phew!).

When you’ve had your fill of artistry, head to the Lama Monachile Bridge, which backs onto the Instagrammable Cala Porto Beach with its distinctive white and turquoise pebbles. Then, spend a couple of hours sipping an aperitif Caffè Dei Serafini which boasts insane views over the waterfront.

Oh, and you simply can’t leave this spot without checking out the famous sea caves! Carved dramatically into the area’s seascape, the grottoes can be explored on a dedicated boat tour that’ll take you deep inside these natural wonders.

View of Polignano a Mare
Polignano A Mare in all its glory

If you want to dine inside one of the caves, make a reservation at Grotta Plazzese. This epic restaurant was once used for hosting bougie banquets during the 1700s, but it’s now a spectacular cliffside restaurant that offers panoramas over the seafront. 

Just be aware that dining here costs an eye-watering €200 per person. So, bear that in mind before booking!

A quick tip!

If you have time before leaving Polignano a Mare, head to Pietra Piatta, one of Puglia’s most famous rocks. 

This rock offers spectacular views over the historic center that you simply won’t find anywhere else.

4. Ostuni

Ostuni is a wonderful spot that’s often referred to as “The White City.” And you can see why in the picture below. 

The white city of Ostuni
A fascinating view of Ostuni, the White City

The whole city is a labyrinth of alleyways, arches, and whitewashed houses. But don’t worry – you’ll find a kaleidoscope of color waiting for you in the glorious vases scattered around the streets and artisanal boutiques in the city center!

Arco Scoppa in Ostuni
Arco Scoppa in Ostuni, a must-see in the Centro Storico
Tourists in the white streets in Ostuni
Tourists in the white streets in Ostuni

While you’re here, visit the spectacular fifteenth-century Ostuni Cathedral and the Piazza Della Liberta, which is full of charming shops and cafes. If you have time, the Museum of Preclassic Civilization of Southern Murgia is a fascinating spot packed with Paleolithic artifacts.

Before you call it a day, head to Corso Vittorio Emanuele II to watch the sunset. This is by far the best viewpoint in Ostuni, as you get an impressive view of the city’s olive trees and the Adriatic sea. 

If that wasn’t enough to convince you that this is one of the best things to do in Puglia, it’s just a 15-minute walk from the main square. So, it’s easy to slot into any Puglia Travel Guide!

Getting lost in the old streets of Ostuni
Getting lost in the old streets of Ostuni
Colorful door in Ostuni
A cute Instagrammable spot in Ostuni
Woman admiring the quaint streets in the White City of Ostuni
Admiring the quaint streets in the White City

A quick tip!

You’ll want to wear sturdy walking shoes if you’re visiting Ostuni. This place is packed with stairs and slopes (especially if you’re planning to visit the Centro Storico). This means it’s not the most accessible city in the world if you’re wearing heels or slip-on pumps.

5. Vieste and Gargano Peninsula

Vieste is probably the best base for exploring the Gargano Peninsula, as it’s less crowded than most other destinations in Puglia.

It’s a charming seaside town known for its picture-perfect sunsets (thanks to the clear skies and warm temperatures!).

But you’ll also have access to beautiful beaches, waterfront restaurants, and the amazing Norman castle perched on the edge of town.

Faraglioni di Puglia, Baia delle Zagare
Incredible view of San Felice Bay

Once you’ve exhausted the beauty of Vieste, you can spend time frolicking around Gargano National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a panacea for outdoor enthusiasts and offers 15 marked trails that showcase the best of the area’s flora and fauna.

As you walk through the Foresta Umbra (Forest of Shadows), you’ll spot everything from rugged cliffsides and gliding yachts to the sprawling pebble beaches beneath you. 

The ancient Aleppo pines you’ll encounter also offer plenty of shade from the sometimes-blistering Italian heat. This makes trekking surprisingly comfortable during the height of summer.

An amazing view of Architeelo (also known as San Felice arch)

A quick tip!

If you’re visiting Gargano National Park, keep an eye out for the natural arches. The most famous of these is the San Felice Arch, which you can view from the Torre San Felice. The arch is approximately 9km from Vieste, and you can find it by keying this into Google Maps!

6. Locorotondo

If you’re planning to visit Puglia for the luscious olive groves (and the oil that comes with them!), you need to check out Locorotondo.

Woman admiring streets in Locorotondo
Admiring the cute streets filled with flowers in Locorotondo

This fertile area is one of the most beautiful places in Italy, and its temperate climate means that it grows some seriously delicious grapes. As a result, it’s the place to be in Puglia for local wines and romantic strolls through vineyards.

A charming building in Locorotondo
Another incredible view of the streets in Locorotondo
Another incredible view of the streets in Locorotondo

Aside from sipping wines, you can spend your time in Locorotondo getting lost in the narrow streets, exploring the many churches (the Chiesa Madre di San Giorgio and the Chiesa Della Madonna Della Greca are the most impressive!), and eating fresh Italian dishes. 

If you get tired at any point during the afternoon, grab a smooth cup of coffee from any of the coffee shops in Piazza Vittorio Emmanuele. If you’d like to get away from the central buzz, Insòlito Café is a charming espresso bar just 10 minutes from the square!

Ah, bliss.

A view of Locorotondo from the countryside
A view of Locorotondo from the countryside

A quick tip!

If you want to explore this part of Puglia in 1.5 hours, I recommend this Locorotondo Walking Tour. It covers the historical center, the famous whitewashed houses, the church of San Giorgio, and the town’s stunning clock tower.

7. Cisternino

Okay – if you’re looking for incredible food in Puglia, you can’t leave without visiting Cisternino. Not only is it considered one of the most beautiful villages in the country (seriously, it’s won awards!), but this slow-paced area is committed to upholding its historic reputation for serving next-level meats.

Cisternino is famous for its street butchers, and you’ll want to grab a portion of bombette while you’re here. This delicacy is a tiny meat parcel typically packed with cheese, ham, and savory mince. Pair it with a generous serving of regional wine, and you’ll be living like a true local.

As you stroll through Cisternino, you’ll spot incredible points of interest like the Basilica di San Nicola and the Norman-Swabian Tower (built sometime around the 11th century!). If you keep moving, you’ll see the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, home to the famous Clock Tower, several decorated balconies, and a handful of adorable coffee bars.

Once you’ve had your fill of the town, head to Villa Comunale Giuseppe Garibaldi to admire the panoramas over the olive trees and trulli that characterize the landscape.

A quick tip!

If you’re wondering where to get the best bombette in town, I recommend heading to Zio Pietro or Antico Borgo. They both offer a range of regional wood-fired meats and wines. The service is always excellent too, which is a bonus!

8. Torre Guaceto

Just an hour’s drive from Alberobello lies the Reserve of Torre Guaceto, considered one of the most stunning parts of Puglia. It’s just a short drive from Brindisi and is worth the detour.

The reserve boasts an impressive 20km of coastline and is home to insects, migratory birds, turtles, and a bunch of local plant life that adds a lovely touch of greenery to the landscape. 

As Torre Guaceto is a protected marine area, it’s spotless and immediately draws you in with its sandy dunes, glimmering azure waters, and super-relaxing atmosphere.

Woman taking a stroll in Torre Guaceto
Taking a stroll in Torre Guaceto

If you’re willing to work your quads with a steep climb, you should check out the 13th-century Monastery of Monte Sant’Angelo. Located on Mount Gargano, this Roman Catholic shrine is well worth visiting for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs.

9. Martina Franca

Home to winding cobbled streets and large piazzas, Martina Franca is a real mecca for Europhiles. In the summer, you’ll find locals sipping aperitifs on the many outdoor terraces while tourists bustle around the city walls, Baroque churches, and four major gates.

The town was founded in 1310 and remains one of Italy’s finest examples of Baroque architecture. If you ask me, I’d argue that this place’s crowning glory was the immaculate Basilica di San Martino. The interior is worth exploring, but you can spend plenty of time admiring the elaborate carvings on the unique cream exterior glistening during daylight hours.

Piazza Maria Immacolata with the beautiful Basilica di San Martino
Piazza Maria Immacolata with the beautiful Basilica di San Martino
Cute white street in Martina Franca
Cute white street in Martina Franca

Then, walk through Piazza Maria Immacolata and check out the whitewashed buildings, porticoes, and restaurants that eagerly await you around every corner. If you’re visiting during the summer, it’s worth seeking shelter in the Palazzo Ducale to check out its impressive interior and enormous courtyard.

Oh, and don’t forget to stop by the famous Caffe Tripoli before heading home! It’s located on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi and serves some of the tastiest focaccia and gelato in Italy.

Before I forget!

Although Martina Franca is popular for its architectural wonders, don’t leave without trying capocollo. It’s a melt-in-your-mouth cured meat that you can pick up at most local butchers or grocery stores.

10. Lecce

No trip to Puglia would be complete without visiting Lecce. It’s often referred to as “Florence of the South” thanks to its proximity to nearby seaside towns and a large number of Baroque monuments. 

Although it’s impossible to pin down an exact date of founding, the area dates to the 3rd century BC, when Emperor Hadrian fortified it. However, most of its architectural influence comes from the early 17th century.

I always recommend visiting Lecce if you’re an avid photographer, as everything from the Roman Amphitheatre to the stunning Basilica di Santa Croce is worth a place on your Instagram feed.

I mean, who doesn’t adore ornate pillars and intricate façades?

The ornate Basilica di Santa Croce
The ornate Basilica di Santa Croce

Lecce’s cathedral is particularly gorgeous at night, and you can admire the view with an Aperol from one of the many local bars in Piazza del Duomo. To make things even sweeter, the cathedral is free to enter!

Piazza Duomo in Lecce and its Cathedral
Piazza Duomo in Lecce and its Cathedral

A quick tip!

Although most people stick to the historic center, you should try and fit in a visit to the Poetry Cave in Roca Vecchia. It’s a collection of open-air cave pools that offer a direct tunnel to the Adriatic sea. 

The pools are just 30 minutes from Lecce, and there’s decent parking nearby for ~€1.80/hour. It’s all clearly signposted, so don’t worry too much about finding it! 

Most tourists don’t know about this spot, so you’d be unlucky to find it rammed.

11. Salento and its beautiful beaches

If you’re traveling to Puglia via Brindisi Airport, you should make Salento your first port of call. This part of Puglia is home to the region’s most breathtaking sandy beaches, and it boasts a dramatic rocky backdrop that’s just *chef’s kiss*.

Although there are several beaches you could visit while you’re here, I’d start with Punta Prosciutto. This place is home to dazzling azure waters and balmy sands that stretch for an incredible 32km along the coast. Oh, and did I mention that it’s free to enter? Talk about a win-win.

If you’re looking for the perfect place for some TLC, check out Pescoluse (often called the “Maldives of Salento”). This area is tucked away between Torre Pali and Torre Vado and is a family-friendly area with shallow waters, chaise lounges, and cabanas. It can get busy during the peak season, so you’ll want to get here early to guarantee a spot.

Torre Colimena Beach
Torre Colimena Beach
Another view of Torre Colimena Beach
Another view of Torre Colimena Beach

But my all-time favorite beach in Salento is Torre Colimena. It has sandy dunes, bright white sand, and a low seabed (making it ideal for tiny tykes!).

While exploring this picturesque beach, keep an eye out for pink flamingos. You won’t always see them, but you have a decent chance as the beach is home to Salento’s saltpans (Saline Dei Monaci) which attracts these birds like moths to a flame.

12. Castel Del Monte

If you feel like stepping back in time, add Castel del Monte to your list of things to do in Puglia, Italy. This 13th-century castle has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, and it’s easy to see why!

This place is one of Italy’s finest examples of Medieval architecture and truly looks as though it’s come straight out of Game of Thrones.

Castel Del Monte in all its glory
Castel Del Monte in all its glory

The castle is perched on a hilltop miles away from civilization and built in a striking octagonal style meant to fortify it against invaders.

If you’ve rented a car, you’ll be able to park at a nearby site for around €5. You can then hop on a shuttle from the bottom of the hilltop, which costs €1. If you don’t feel like shelling out for the shuttle, pull on your walking boots and prepare for a steep 500m hike to the top! 

Traveling by train? Just hop on the No. 6 bus from Andria railway station to the castle and walk (or shuttle) up.

A quick tip!

The entrance fee to the castle is ~€7 for adults and €2 for concessions, but I recommend paying an additional €3 for the audio tour. I rarely find a truly awesome audio tour, but this one gives you everything you could hope to learn about this incredible historic site. 

It’s not one of the cheapest things to do in Puglia for families, but it’s worth the investment for that premium knowledge.

13. Grotte di Castellana

Although this attraction doesn’t always get much love, I couldn’t create a list of things to do in Puglia without mentioning the Caves of Castellana.  

If you were wondering what this attraction is, It’s essentially an underground system of Karst caves that runs for 3,348 meters beneath the town of Castellana Grotte.

Believe it or not, these ancient caves are more than 90 million years old (yep – you read that right!), and they boast rugged walls of stalactites, stalagmites, and fossils that give the entire area a spooky appearance. When you head in with your torch, you may even find a few bats or beetles flitting around!

Although two separate English tours run, I suggest doing the two-hour tour that includes the Grotta Bianca. This cave is defined by its incredible alabaster formations that look like carved marble. 

The longer tour costs €16, slightly more than the cheaper 50-minute tour for €12. But I honestly feel it’s worth the investment as you cover way more ground.

Oh, and don’t forget to pack a lightweight jacket or cardigan as it can get chilly in the caves (around 16.5 °C on average)!

How to get here

It may seem like it’s in the middle of nowhere, but this place isn’t too hard to reach from Bari. You just need to hop on the FSE Bari-Taranto train that runs directly to Castellana Grotte. 

It takes around an hour and fifteen minutes, and the trains run hourly during the week and on weekends. At just €3.20 per person, it’s a total steal.

Also, check the opening and closing times for your visit here before heading out. The opening hours vary depending on the month, so don’t get caught off guard.

When To Visit Puglia

The best time to visit Puglia is between April and June or during autumn. In my experience, visiting during high summer is a total non-starter. 

Although the water and beaches will be gorgeous, the crowd levels are ridiculous. As a result, you’ll spend half your vacation waiting in line for restaurants and attractions. The small towns can also get unbearably hot in July and August, which can drain even the hardiest Italians.

If you’re only able to travel during the height of summer because of the kiddos, you will get to catch the Alberobello Light Festival and La Ghironda (which is essentially an art festival that takes place in Valle d’Itria each July). 

But if I’m being honest, I wouldn’t say these events were worth braving the massive crowds for!

Where To Stay in Puglia

Borgo Egnazia, Savelletri 

Local, authentic experiences in a wonderful setting with panoramic views of the sea and beautiful countryside.

Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa, Ostuni

This 18th-century boutique hotel boasts a luxurious spa area right in the center of Ostuni.

Palazzo De Noha

One of the best hotels in Lecce, located in the historic center, five minutes walk to cafes, restaurants, and main attractions.

Any of the towns and cities in Puglia are lovely.

I suggest staying around Ostuni or Alberobello if you love a relaxing countryside holiday, not too far from the coastline. 

Ostuni has way more to do during the day (and will be less busy), but I just had to include Alberobello for its incredible trulli. 

If you want to be near the beaches, look into Gallipoli (for a bit more nightlife), Porto Cesareo, or the area around Otranto.

Luxury

La Mandorla Luxury Trullo: With a spa bath, impressive Wi-Fi, an incredible hot tub, and an enviable city-center location, this luxury trullo is one of the best places to stay in Alberobello for an authentic experience.

Borgo Egnazia: Featuring a blend of traditional architecture and modern comfort, this hotel offers local, authentic experiences in a wonderful setting with panoramic views of the beautiful countryside. It also offers 4 incredible swimming pools and a spiritual wellness center, where you can relax. 

Patria Palace Lecce: This incredible 5-star hotel dates to the 18th century and boasts gorgeous frescoes, beamed ceilings, and onsite fountains that make the entire site feel oh-so-luxurious. What’s more – you’re just moments from the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Roman Amphitheatre.

A beautiful Trullo
A beautiful Trullo
Some colorful vases in Polignano a Mare
Some colorful vases in Polignano a Mare

Boutique

Palazzo De Noha: Palazzo De Noha is one of the best hotels in Lecce and is just 550 yards from Piazza San’Oronzo, Lecce Cathedral, and Duomo Square.

Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa: This 18th-century boutique hotel boasts a luxurious spa area, vintage décor, and sprawling rooms in the center of the beautiful White City (otherwise known as Ostuni!).

Masseria Moroseta: This is such an incredible place, but you’ll need to book months in advance. Surrounded by spectacular centuries-old olive trees, Masseria Moroseta is built with local materials and traditional techniques from the past. Plus, you’ll be able to experience their classy cuisine made with seasonal products from their olive trees, vegetable gardens, orchard, and small chicken coop. 

Mid-Range

B&B Villa Maria Pia: B&B Villa Maria Pia is one of my favorite accommodation options in Monopoli as it’s just 12 minutes from the beach, minutes from the city center, and offers private parking onsite. The Tuscan color scheme and rustic décor don’t hurt either!

Hotel La Terra: This newly renovated hotel is just moments from popular attractions in Ostuni’s historical center. It offers elegant rooms (dating back to the 13th century!), an excellent restaurant serving local wines, and easy access to the city’s finest architectural sites.

Budget

Abate Masseria & Resort: Staying in a trullo doesn’t have to break the bank. This option in Noci boasts the traditional stone walls and domed ceilings that rival any luxury trullo in Alberobello. But you’ll also have access to the amazing onsite restaurant and all the amenities you’ll need for a comfortable stay!

Central Suites Lecce: This 3-star gem in Lecce is just 100 yards from Piazza Sant’Oronzo and offers comfortable twin and family rooms for travelers on a shoestring budget.

What To Eat In Puglia And Where

Alberobello

Quanto Basta: is away from the main tourist rush and has an incredibly relaxing atmosphere. You’ll be able to enjoy top-quality (and authentic!) pizzas and pasta while watching the world go by.

Trattoria Terra Madre: is all about farm-to-table cuisine and serves simple dishes that honor traditional Italian cooking methods. Oh, and you’ll be surrounded by olive groves and the city’s dry stone walls as you dine – talk about scenic. Try the orecchiette (literally little ears in Italian), the most traditional Apulian handmade pasta.

Martinucci Pasticceria: is home to the best pasticciotti (sweet cream pastries, typical of Puglia – a must try) in town.  If you’re looking for more, the cheesecakes are truly divine.

La Lira: If you’re on the hunt for ridiculously good focaccia, stop by La Lira bakery. I adore their traditional focaccia, but you must try the typical Puccia. It’s a traditional sandwich made with pizza dough baked in a wood-fired oven, then filled with local produce.

Some local produce from the market in Ostuni
Some local produce from the market in Ostuni
Orecchiette
Learning how to make orecchiette in Bari. Not too bad!

Polignano a Mare

La Locanda Porta Picc is a rustic-chic restaurant that never fails to impress with its seafood and pasta dishes. The menu is largely seasonal and inspired by Apulian gastronomic traditions. So, everything is always fresh and authentic.

Ostuni

L’osteria del tempo perso: One of my favorite in Puglia. A quirky romantic restaurant that seems carved into rocks and located in the old town, only a few meters away from the cathedral. You’ll feel like you are eating in a candle-lit cave. The food is made with traditional, locally sourced, and seasonal Apulian ingredients, with a modern twist. So good!

Asso di Spade: Some say here they serve the best panzerotti in the world. And that’s why you’ll need to be ready to queue for a while. But trust me, it’ll be worth it. Panzerotto is a crunchy fried calzone, filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce. But here, you’ll find so many different varieties, including a sweet one filled with pistachio cream that you have to try.

Cremeria La Scala: You can’t visit any Italian region without grabbing a large scoop of gelato or two, right? This gelateria serves a fantastic range of artisanal gelato made with top-quality ingredients.

Man making mozzarella in a masseria in Puglia
Learning how to make mozzarella in a real Masseria
Fresh handmade mozzarella
Fresh handmade mozzarella: so good!

Torre Canne

La Baia: This waterfront little place next to the beach was recommended to us by our Airbnb host. They have a short menu based on fresh local seafood delicacies. You must try their grilled octopus sandwich (panino con polpo alla brace)!

How to Get There

By Plane

Unless you plan to travel down from Naples or Rome, you’ll want to fly into Bari or Brindisi Airport. 

I’ve found that the cheapest flights tend to fly into Bari, so I’d hop on SkyScanner to compare prices before booking.

Once you land, you’ll need to rent a car or get on public transport to reach your destination.

By Car

The quickest way to get to Puglia by car is by flying into Bari Airport or Brindisi Airport and then driving down. It usually takes around an hour if you head down Strada Statale 100 from Bari and just over an hour from Brindisi via Strada Statale 379.

Rentalcars are an excellent resource for renting a car from these airports, as it allows you to compare prices across all the car hire companies for maximum savings.

The routes to Puglia are relatively simple (with some classic Italian winding roads thrown in for good measure!), and usually, there isn’t much traffic, except when you get close to some of the major cities like Bari or Lecce. 

Renting a car is also the easiest and more reliable way to get around and make the most of what this beautiful region has to offer.

By Train

The easiest way to get to Puglia by train is by flying into Bari and riding the Adriatic railway system. You can check the Trenitalia website for tickets and timetables.

And there you have it! My ultimate travel guide to Puglia, Italy.

I always love visiting Puglia, and I’m sure you’ll have an incredible time exploring everything this area offers! 

If you have any questions or want to talk about anything else regarding this Italian gem, just leave me a comment below.

And also, check out these great travel hacks for a stress-free vacation!

More Incredible Tips To Visit Italy & Destinations

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