Puglia is one of the most incredible places to visit in Italy, for nearly any type of traveller. Depending on what interests you most, there’s an array of choices when it comes to where to go and what to see. Among the first things that come to mind about Puglia are the amazing beaches and stunning coastline. But whether you’re a committed seaside warrior or not, an entire Puglia trip doesn’t have to be centered around just visiting the beach.
Puglia towns (both big and small) are unquestionably one of the region’s best features and are an interesting itinerary item to spice up your Puglia trip. From countryside gems to tourist sites worth the hype, we’ve compiled a list of the loveliest Puglia towns that are a must-see.
In this guide, we’ve included practical information for visiting the towns of Puglia, as well as the top things to do in each of them.
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Essentials for Visiting the Towns of Puglia
📝 In a rush? Skip ahead to the full list of Puglia towns worth visiting.
🚉 Travelling among major towns and cities in Puglia is doable by train and bus. If you plan on visiting the lesser known gems of Puglia, highly consider renting a car instead.
📸 Polignano a Mare and Alberobello are touristy towns in Puglia and very crowded in the summer. However, they are iconic for a reason and still worth visiting.
☀️ The two best coastal towns for visiting beaches in Puglia are Monopoli and Otranto.
🌾 Itria Valley (Valle d’Itria) is the best area in Puglia to visit towns where you can sleep in a trulli!
Where Is Puglia in Italy?
Puglia is a region in southern Italy. While looking at a map of the entire country, it is often said that Italy looks like a tall boot. If this is the case, Puglia makes up the “heel” of Italy’s boot-like shape. Puglia is bordered by the small region of Molise to the north and Campania and Basilicata to its west. The Salento peninsula, also known as the bottom half of Puglia, is completely surrounded by water and, in fact, two different seas (the Adriatic and Ionian).
The southern region is primarily renowned for being home to the longest coastline on mainland Italy. Aside from the extraordinary seafront real estate and beautiful beaches, Puglia is also known for producing around 40% of Italy’s olive oil.
How to Get To Puglia
By Train
Some of the most beautiful towns in Puglia are actually found beneath the region’s big city of Bari. For the sake of the places you’ll see in this post, we’ve included information on how to reach Bari specifically as the gateway to Puglia’s notable towns. Getting to Bari by train from the west side of Italy and along the eastern coastline (from north to south) is accessible and efficient.
By train, it’s possible to reach Bari from major departure points such as Naples and Rome. Although it’s a 7+ hour journey, there’s even a train that will take you from Milan to Bari. For those who are keen on experiencing train travel in Europe, the railway is a scenic and relaxing option for reaching Puglia.
→ 🚉 Find routes and train tickets in Puglia ←
By Ferry
The Adriatic Sea separates Italy’s region of Puglia from the Balkans on the other side. For those who are looking to take a shortcut with a car to Puglia from the Balkans, the ferry is an excellent choice. Bari is very well-connected by ferry routes to the countries of Croatia, Albania, Montenegro, and even Greece. Further down south in Puglia, Brindisi is also a ferry port but limited in terms of ferry paths. If you’re a foot passenger, opting for a ferry ride to Puglia doesn’t make much economical sense as flights will usually be much cheaper. Taking a ferry to Puglia across the Adriatic will undoubtedly save you money if you are traveling by car.
→ 🚢 Search for schedules and ferry tickets to Puglia ←
Airports in Puglia
Flying to Puglia means you have a couple of options. There is an international airport in the city of Bari, which is the most efficient choice in terms of both price and various flight paths. Depending on where you’re spending your time in Puglia, flying into Bari International Airport is particularly convenient if you’re staying in northern Puglia.
For reaching the Salento peninsula in southern Puglia, it’s possible to fly into Brindisi Airport instead. However, flights within Europe to Brindisi are much more restricted, and schedules are not as flexible compared to Bari Airport. Still, if the stars align in terms of date and departure location, it’s worth researching flights to Brindisi if you’re headed to Salento.
Lastly, it’s also feasible to fly into Naples and take the train or drive to Puglia. It’s a bit of a longer journey, but again, it depends on where you’re staying in Puglia as a base. From Naples International Airport, it’s a 2-3 hour drive to reach Bari.
→ ✈️ Find cheap flights to Bari Airport ←
How Many Days to Spend in Puglia
The southern Italian region of Puglia is among the top ten largest regions in the entire country. With just over 250 municipalities under its belt, Puglia can be overwhelming in its size, especially for tourists planning a trip. It’s easy to forget that Puglia is not a single location like the cities of Venice or Florence – it’s an entire region filled with various valleys, coastal sides, and major cities. Given this, it’s nearly impossible to fit all of Puglia into the average traveler’s itinerary for one visit. Too much travel and logistics of moving around will only put a damper on your Puglia trip.
To enjoy Puglia without stress, it is highly recommended to pay attention to the actual locations of the multiple places you want to see and the transfer time among them. For example, if your primary interest is in seeing the towns of the Itria Valley (Valle d’Itria), this can be accomplished in just a few days if you stick to a schedule. The reason being is that most of the towns in the Itria Valley are located within one hour or less of each other.
Another easy way to figure out how many days are needed in Puglia is to decide whether you’re visiting the northern Bari province or the Salento peninsula. Once this is clear, a 1-2 week-long trip will suffice based on how much time you have. Of course, this is assuming you do not want to stay in one place. If you are interested in remaining in the same area the entire time, a relaxing 5-7 day trip to Puglia is ideal. A beautiful place to sit put in Puglia is Monopoli. It includes a gorgeous historic centre in addition to countless beaches within walking distance.
How to Travel Around Puglia
Without a Car
Although the initial voyage to reach Puglia is straightforward, getting around can be challenging. If you don’t want to spend too much time traveling once you’re there, it’s recommended to choose a solid base in Puglia and stick to its vicinity. A great example of this is Martina Franca in the northern part of Puglia and the city of Otranto in Salento (southern Puglia). This way, it’s practical to get around by walking, guided tours or short taxi rides.
From larger cities like Bari, Brindisi, or Lecce, it’s easy to get around by public transportation. In the summer, Puglia even offers special bus routes that even tourists can easily understand and utilize. Relying on the train or bus in Puglia during peak travel season is manageable for visitors who don’t want to drive themselves.
→ 🚐 Browse bus routes throughout Puglia ←
By Driving
Exploring Puglia beyond the brochures is best accomplished by driving. In Salento particularly, there are many stunning beaches and swim spots that are only accessible by car. For visiting rural villages and sleepy Puglia towns, driving is simply the most flexible way to do so. Even for people driving abroad for the first time, getting around Puglia in a rental car is not challenging for a confident driver.
Unless you are truly headed off the beaten path, motorways and all other primary roads are paved, well marked, and safe. As a reference, roads and traffic behaviour in Puglia is nowhere near as hectic as what you may encounter in Naples or Sicily.
→ 🚗 Find an affordable rental car from Bari Airport ←
Overview of the Best Towns in Puglia
- Martina Franca: Best Base for Exploring Inland
- Alberobello: Best for First Time Tourists
- Locorotondo: Best Lovely Streets
- Putignano: Best Local & Authentic Vibe
- Polignano a Mare: Best for Instagram Shots
- Gravina in Puglia: Best Unique Landscape
- Monopoli: Best Beaches in One Town
- Grottaglie: Best for Ceramic Lovers
- Gallipoli: Best Dining & Aperitivo Hour
- Santa Maria di Leuca: Best for Boat Excursions
- Otranto: Best All-Around Beach Town
- Savelletri: Best Sleepy Seaside Village
- Lecce: Best Major City in Puglia
- Ostuni: Best Architecture & Scenery
- Castro Marina, Tricase Porto & Santa Cesarea Terme: Best Low-Key Coastal Gems
Map of Puglia Towns
Top Puglia Towns & Cities to Visit
Martina Franca
As the largest municipality among the other Itria Valley towns, Martina Franca has a big-city feel within a village setting. Slightly elevated and over 400 meters above sea level, the town has a sturdy presence and a scenic view of white topped trulli cones below. It was historically known as an industrial and commercial hub but is now frequented by tourists in search of beautiful streets, astonishing churches and the occasional secret passageway.
Martina Franca is filled with splendid structures exhibiting Rococo architecture, a grand palace with preserved wall paintings, and a great historic center to get lost in. The city is also an area of interest within the entire Puglia region when it comes to culture and art. For decades, it has served as the host for one of the most famous events in Italy – the Valle d’Itria Festival, a summer opera festival.
During the summer, there’s no better place to enjoy lunch or a glass of Primitivo di Manduria while sitting under the stunning stone arches of Piazza Maria Immacolata. The grander Piazza Plebiscito sits at the heart of Martina Franca and is one of the most memorable town centers in Puglia.
LOCATION: Martina Franca is uniquely positioned at a halfway point, being an equal distance to the Adriatic on its right and the Ionian Sea on its left. Reaching the coast from either direction takes about 30 minutes by car. Bari is roughly 1.5 hours north of Martina Franca.
Things to Do In Martina Franca
- Walk through the historic palace of Palazzo Ducale from the 1600s that was built for a duke
- Marvel at the Basilica di San Martino‘s impressive Baroque design
- Take a hike through the nature reserve of Bosco delle Pianelle just outside of town
- Take a tour of sacred artefacts at Museo MuBa
- Properly enter the historic centre through Porta di Santo Stefano
- Enjoy a cocktail or two in the picturesque town square of Piazza Maria Immacolata
- Check the time at the ancient clock tower near Palazzo dell’Università
- Find the hidden courtyard behind the Church of Saint Dominic
→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in Martina Franca ←
Alberobello
Unquestionably, Alberobello is the most popular small town in Puglia. It is world-renowned as one of the most picture-perfect and fairytale-like villages in the entire country. What defines Alberobello is its astounding number of trullis (1,000+), the traditional and typical stone-constructed structure that’s native to Puglia. Given that there are entire neighborhoods comprised of trulli homes, Alberobello is nicknamed the Capital of Trulli. The astonishing architectural accomplishment of the trulli-filled streets has even earned Alberobello the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If an absolute must see Puglia town exists, this is it.
Alberobello is one of the best places to visit for a traditional tourist experience. It is unique and magical to witness, and easy to navigate. Even better, it’s a fantastic destination for first-timers booking a stay in Puglia. There is one notable section of Alberobello that is catered towards visitors and consists of small shops, bakeries, restaurants, and hotels. On the other side of the main street that runs through Alberobello is where you’ll find a much quieter version of the trulli village.
Location: Situated at the top of the Itria Valley, Alberobello is located inland and 20 km (12.5 miles) from the sea. Getting to Alberobello from Bari only takes one hour, making it an accessible tourist attraction.
Things to Do In Alberobello
- Find a great spot for lunch along the bustling pedestrian path. We personally enjoyed Coppino’s simple yet delicious menu, twice!
- Discover a tourist free location like this one to take many photos
- Stop for ice cream or a pastry at Puglia’s best pasticceria
- Head here for a beautiful viewpoint of the trulli rooftops
- Learn about the fascinating regional history of Alberobello at the Territory Museum
- Wander through the much more charming trulli neighbourhood without crowds and souvenir shops
🕊 Top Rated Activity in Alberobello: Private Walking Tour with Olive Oil Tasting
Locorotondo
A short 10 km away from the busy site of Alberobello is Locorotondo, a much quieter yet equally as endearing Puglia town. It is notably one of the most ancient towns in Puglia, with research suggesting it was inhabited during the Early to Middle Bronze Age. Locorotondo stands on a hill, measuring around 400 meters above sea level, which gives it a vista of the Itria Valley and its farmland below. The town’s most distinguished feature is its circular shape, comprised of whitewashed buildings with “cummerse” style sloped roofs. Its splendid surrounding landscape includes rolling hills, lush green vineyards, and tops of countryside trullis in the distance.
Historic centers of any Italian town are always the most charming to explore, but Locorotondo, in particular, takes curb appeal to a higher level. Wrought-iron balconies, floral-filled stone steps, and lit-up alleyways all add to the overall spirit that enchants its visitors. Locorotondo is not a town with any flashy tourist attractions which is, advantageously, perhaps one of its highlights. It feels wholesome, looks very aesthetic, and as a bonus, one of the best places to go wine tasting.
Location: Locorotondo is located less than 20 minutes to neighbouring towns of the Itria Valley, including Alberobello, Cisternino, and Martina Franca. The eastern coastline is less than 20 km away, while the city of Taranto on the west is 40 km away.
Things to Do In Locorotondo
- Admire the dome on top of Locorotondo’s biggest church – Church of Saint George Martyr
- Soak in the panoramic view from the lovely city park
- Enter the maze-like historic center through the Porta Nuova
- Indulge in a wine tasting and pairing right above the vineyards
- Appreciate the intricate design details of the historic Palazzo Morelli
- Have a quintessential outdoor dining experience at Ai Tre Santi
- Snap a photo of Locorotondo from below at this spot
→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in Locorotondo ←
Putignano
Putignano is primarily known for its annual Carnival (or Carnevale) celebration. Their Carnival is not only the oldest in all of Europe, but also the longest in Italy. The tradition, which begins in December and doesn’t end until the following February, is a core part of Putignano’s heritage. History has it that it originated in the late 1300s! Nowadays, it’s a massive production that includes papier-mâché parade floats, concerts, food, and entire days filled with dancing in the streets. Naturally, it’s a huge part of Putignano’s identity, but it’s also not the only reason to visit.
On a normal day, one can enjoy Putignano’s quaint yet exceptionally preserved Centro Storico. Filled with dozens of churches, ancient arches, and cobblestone paths, it’s one of the most underrated towns in Puglia. The nearby cave system of Grotte di Castellana is also worth stopping by. For travellers seeking to visit a Puglia town not typically included on tourist itineraries, Putignano won’t disappoint. A full guide on visiting Putignano can be found here.
Location: The frequented town of Alberobello is just 15 minutes south of Putignano. From Bari, you can reach Putignano by car in 45 minutes. Furthermore, the tourist hotspot of Polignano a Mare is 30 minutes to the east.
Things to Do In Putignano
- Walk into a cave located under a traditional trulli house (Grotta del Trullo)
- Relax in the town square beneath the peaceful church of Chiesa Madre Parrocchia San Pietro
- Find enormous papier-mâché characters from past Carnival parades placed throughout the town
- Check out the imposing historic water storage tower
- Visit the 2-mile long underground attraction of Grotte di Castellana
🕵🏻♀️ Read More: Visiting Putignano – Puglia’s Best Kept Secret
Polignano a Mare
Easily dubbed as one of the most picture-perfect Puglia towns, Polignano a Mare is a seaside town balancing along a cliffside. It has become a focal point when visiting Puglia, thanks to Instagram influencers and exciting events like the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. There’s no denying it, Polignano a Mare is divine and an immensely special place to witness. A Puglia trip is not complete without a stop at Polignano a Mare’s most frequented attraction, Lama Monachile beach. The pebble inlet which leads to turquoise waters is tucked away between two sides of the town and is one of the town’s most distinct physical characteristics. The historic center is as appealing as any other you’d find throughout Puglia, but the constant cliff-top views that make up Polignano a Mare’s entire perimeter are the real showstoppers.
Location: Polignano a Mare is situated along the Adriatic coast of the southern Italian region. With less than 35 km between Polignano a Mare and Bari, it is one of the most convenient itinerary items when visiting Puglia.
Things to Do In Polignano a Mare
- Visit the iconic Lama Monachile beach along with the Grotta Piana which you can pass through on foot
- Catch the sunset with breathtaking views of the town at Belvedere Terrazza Santo Stefano
- Splurge on a remarkably located dinner at Grotta Palazzese or simply get a view of it here!
- Take a break and people watch during aperitivo hour at Piazza Aldo Moro
- Snap a photo at the Monumento a Domenico Modugno with the legendary Italian musician himself
- Take a dip in the natural pool carved into the cliffside rocks
→ 🚤 Top Rated Activity: Boat Excursion in Polignano a Mare ←
Gravina in Puglia
Right near the border of the Puglia region is the unassumingly magnificent town of Gravina in Puglia. The city is elegantly perched on the edge of a gravina, otherwise described as a cliff along a ravine. Its unique positioning, geographical features, and ancient civilization make is one of the most interesting towns in Puglia that many haven’t even heard of. From cave dwellings to an archaeological open-air museum, history and heritage run deep throughout the canyon just below the city. Another important symbol of Gravina in Puglia includes the monumental aqueduct bridge that connects the cliffside for pedestrians. James Bond enthusiasts may also notice that the area looks quite familiar!
Location: Gravina in Puglia is located just 12 km east of the border with the Basilicata region, making it barely within the Puglia region. It takes less than one hour to reach Bari from Gravina in Puglia by car.
Things to Do In Gravina in Puglia
- Visit the Crypt of San Vito Vecchio, covered in fresco paintings dating back to the late medieval ages
- Marvel the remains of the wondrous Chiesa Rupestre Madonna della Stella
- Catch a view of the Seven Room Complex, a system of habitable caves carved out of tuff rock
- Go underground to discover the fascinating rock church or Chiesa Rupestre San Michele delle Grotte
- Step back into time at Fondazione Ettore Pomarici Santomasi, a heritage museum and restored living exhibition
→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in Gravina in Puglia ←
Monopoli
Beneath the Puglia capital of Bari sits the smaller coastal metropolis of Monopoli. Similar to other Puglia towns, its character and core lies within the historic center and the labyrinth of alleyways filled with churches, hidden bars and shops. However, on the surface, Monopoli lacks that particular magic that many other Puglia towns possess.
What Monopoli lacks in that department, it effortlessly makes up in beaches. Visitors often get distracted by the glam of Lama Monachile in Polignano a Mare but realistically, this isn’t a great beach. Tourist may go to Polignano a Mare for a beach holiday and be completely let down. For people interested in visiting a Puglia town solely for enjoying the sea and beaches, Monopoli hits every mark.
The Monopoli municipality is geographically blessed when it comes to its coastline and is comprised of many small coves and inlets all along the shore. Within walking distance or very short drives, it’s incredible to believe how many different beaches you can visit during just one trip to Monopoli. For this reason, it’s undoubtedly one of the top seaside towns in Puglia.
Location: Located 44 km south of Bari, Monopoli is accessible by car or public transportation. Furthermore, it’s only 15 minutes from the neighboring Polignano a Mare, which makes these two destinations great for fitting into one Puglia trip.
Things to Do In Monopoli
- People watch at the massive pedestrian area of Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II
- Feel small standing next to the 16th-century fortress of Castello Carlo V
- Walk to the end of the port to see the red lighthouse (Faro Rosso Monopoli)
- Have an atmospheric swim at Cala Porta Vecchia, a beach at the base of the old town
- Go shopping for ceramics at GiùInLab
- Visit two dreamy beaches with clear water located right next to each other – Porto Rosso and Porto Bianco
👣 Recommended Activity: Guided Walking Tour of Old Town Monopoli
Grottaglie
For lovers of all things ceramics, a visit to the town of Grottaglie is a must. Grottaglie is home to an entire district (Quartiere delle ceramiche) dedicated to the craft which has been handed down through generations. An endless number of family-owned ceramic workshops fill the small streets of Grottaglie, with each artist creating something a little different of their own. As a region, Puglia is no stranger to ceramic making as its land is rich in red clay soil and the craft has been around since the medieval ages. However, the ceramics of Grottaglie are the only ones in Puglia that are officially certified as DOC, meaning their origin is regulated by Italy. In other words, these are high-quality pieces of ceramics and are on a different level than what you’d find at a souvenir shop in Alberobello.
If you’re easily thrilled by ceramics, you can spend hours wandering the streets of Grottaglie. There is so much to see, pick out, and take home! Some ceramic shops in Grottaglie are large operations where you’ll even see “behind the scenes” of how everything is made. Certain shops will be fancier than others, and then there are those like Giorgio di Palma that will change your perception of ceramics altogether.
Location: Taranto is located 25 km west of Grottaglie, while Bari is over 100 km to the north.
Things to Do In Grottaglie
- Shop for ceramics! Some of the ones we enjoyed include:
- Take a hike along the ravine to see cave apartments in Gravina e Cave del Fullonese
- Visit Castello Episcopio which includes a ceramics museum
→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in Grottaglie ←
Gallipoli
One of the most frequented and well-known destinations in Salento is the town of Gallipoli. Old Gallipoli, or the historic centre, is merely connected to the remainder of the city by one bridge. Due to this, there is an illusion of the ancient quarter looking like an island instead. Impressively enough, Gallipoli’s old town uncovers evidence of a civilization from the Neolithic period. Since then, given its strategic yet vulnerable location out in the sea, it has changed many hands and gone through several reiterations. The prominent Castle of Gallipoli was erected sometime in the 1300s, while defense towers were added in the 16th century, along with the beautiful Basilica Concattedrale di Sant’Agata. The town has seen a lot but is more recently focused on being a top destination for dining, bars and a youthful crowd.
It’s easy to dismiss Gallipoli as a tourist trap but after a couple of visits, we were surprised by how much it pulled us in. Perhaps it’s the incredible location, gorgeous sea views, pristine beach or countless places to enjoy a drink above the Ionian. There’s an undeniable magic that Gallipoli emits and is easily one of the best coastal Puglia towns.
Location: It’s a 40-minute drive from the big city of Lecce to Gallipoli. To cross the width of “Italy’s heel”, it’s roughly 55 km from Gallipoli to Otranto on the opposite coastline.
Things to Do In Gallipoli
- Cool off during the summer time at Spiaggia della Purità
- Marvel at the fine exterior and interior details of Church of Saint Agatha Virgin and Martyr
- Catch an exhibit at Marea, a museum that features ocean and sea culture
- Soak in the culture and art at Museo Civico Emanuele Barba, featuring archaeological findings and even skeletons
- Take a guided tour of the Gallipoli Castle and unearth some of its secrets
🚶🏻♀️Top Rated Activity: 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of Gallipoli
Santa Maria di Leuca
Also known as Leuca, this southern Puglia town is most ideal for resort-chasers whose primary goal is to relax. The natural landscape of the city, nestled between two capes with beautiful 19th-century villas flowing through the hills, Leuca, has more of a classic beachside destination feel. Leuca lacks the historic centers that most charming Puglia towns share, but despite this, it’s still one of the top places not to miss. Santa Maria di Leuca is the southernmost part of Puglia, and there is even a narrow point on the rocks you can visit that overlooks the open sea. The town primarily consists of vacation homes, a waterfront promenade with seafood restaurants, and a marina. Whether you’re visiting Leuca or staying there, you must take advantage of the numerous boat rental companies that depart from Leuca.
Regardless of the operator, boat tours departing from Leuca will have similar itineraries. Primarily, they will highlight both sides of Salento, which means you’ll visit the Ionian Sea in addition to the Adriatic Sea. Travelers who opt for a boat tour will experience several caves, dramatic cliffs, and deep turquoise waters to snorkel in. In all of Puglia, there is no better place for chartering a boat.
Location: Leuca is situated along the coast and is the southernmost point of Puglia. Lecce is located one hour to the north, while Brindisi is 1.5 hours to the northeast.
Things to Do In Santa Maria di Leuca
- Visit the point of Italy’s “heel” at Punta Ristola Leuca
- Walk along the waterfront pedestrian path that follows the rocky coastline
- Climb down to the Devil’s Cave at your own risk
- Trek up 250 stairs to reach the lighthouse of Faro di Santa Maria di Leuca
- Get a panoramic view of the town and harbor below from the towering stone church (Santuario di Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae)
🚤 Book a Boat Excursion to the Caves of Santa Maria di Leuca
Otranto
Otranto is a gem of the Salento peninsula and one of the most beautiful places in Puglia overall. It is defined by ideal characteristics that any tourist visiting Italy would desire – a picturesque historic center and phenomenal beaches just steps away from the town. The city of Otranto is the original melting pot of cultures, history, and flavors. Initially a Greek city, the ownership of this magnificent coastal settlement was tossed around throughout time. Fast forward to today, and we are left with imprints of various cultures, cuisines, and architecture.
Being so rich in culture, there are just as many excuses to visit Otranto in fall and winter as there are to experience it in the summer. For a seaside town in Puglia, there is an unusual amount of emphasis on visiting because of excellent restaurants, landmarks, and year-round events that go beyond just beaches. Still, the beaches in Otranto are unmatched and worth traveling to Otranto for during warm weather. Typically, beaches near a town or city aren’t always the cleanest, but it’s quite the opposite in Otranto. This is one of the reasons it’s such a phenomenal well-rounded destination because as a tourist, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy immaculate beaches.
Location: Otranto is located on the east coast of the Salento peninsula, with Greece and the Balkans far off in the distance. It takes 40 minutes by car to reach Otranto from Lecce.
Things to Do In Otranto
- Tour the inside of Aragonese Castle of Otranto, Otranto’s most dominant symbol that dates back to the 15th-century
- Pay a visit to one of the oldest landmarks in Otranto, the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Annunziata
- Take in the views of the perfect water below on top of Torre Matta
- Visit the Caribbean-like beaches just outside of town such as Spiaggia Libera La Castellana
- Enter the old town through the historic Alphonse Tower
→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in Otranto ←
Savelletri
Not all seaside towns in Puglia need to be filled with historic landmarks and beautiful beaches in order to be worthy of seeing. In fact, Savelletri embodies just the opposite and is delightfully one of the most relaxing Puglia towns by the sea. If you’re purposefully seeking to stay in a quiet destination or looking to visit a place less heard of, Savelletri is simply beautiful without any glitter. The coastline features a little bit of everything, including a grassy lawn, rocky coves, and a couple of sandy inlets. For sunbathing or snorkeling in peace without a flock of other tourists, Savelletri is enjoyably laid back.
Traditionally a fishing village, Savelletri is also a well-known place to find fresh sea urchins. A must-do while in Puglia is to dine locally. If that means savoring a plate of urchin pasta each night, then so be it! The waterfront boardwalk is packed with amazing restaurants and is sure to impress any travelling foodie. Just outside of Savelletri, there are a handful of activities for the entire family, ranging from archaeological parks and a reputable golf course to waterparks for the kids.
Location: Savelletri is located on the east side of Puglia, along the Adriatic Sea. It is 17 km south of Monopoli and less than an hour by car from Bari.
Things to Do In Savelletri
- Spend the day golfing at San Domenico Golf
- Visit an ancient Roman city at Museo Archeologico Di Egnazia
- Relish in sea urchin (ricci di mare) pasta at Osteria del Porto
- Take a break from the sea and head to Aquapark Egnazia instead
- Enjoy a cocktail at sunset with stunning views at Mareducato
- Pickup pizza to bring to the beach from Coppola’s Pizza Slice
→ ⛵️ Read More: The Sleepy Seaside Town of Savelletri ←
Lecce
Lecce is the cultural hub of the Salento peninsula and easily one of the most appealing cities in the entire region. Much of this is attributed to being a university city, which helps fuel the youthful energy and atmosphere. The historic center of Lecce is still apparent, but compared to other smaller Puglia towns, the charm isn’t limited to the Centro Storico. Character, beautiful Baroque design, trendy bars, and local eateries flow into the entirety of the city. You’ll find no shortage of things to marvel at in Lecce including a 2,000-year-old amphitheater and villas from the 16th century. Thanks to the mild weather, visiting Lecce is pleasant during any time of the year and, in fact, possibly better to avoid during peak temperatures in the summer.
Enter the old town of Lecce through the 500-year-old Porta Napoli, and within moments, you’ll quickly realize how much there is to see, do, and eat. Lecce is acclaimed for its wholesome cuisine centered around the basics of home-style cooking, also known as ‘cucina povera’ which translates to cuisine for the poor. From our experience, this simply meant Lecce specializes in unfussy yet quality dishes that don’t cost a fortune. Just how good food should be!
Overall, Lecce is the perfect Puglia town for anyone looking to dive into a bustling city filled with museums, art, and tourist sites. Somehow, every corner of Lecce seems to shimmer with personality. Everything, from the open-air Roman ruins to the city park or the narrow streets lined with extravagant palaces, makes you stop and wonder, “Huh, I could live here.”
Location: Lecce is situated on the Salento peninsula of Puglia and is the southernmost city in the region. It takes 2 hours by car to reach Bari from Lecce.
Things to Do In Lecce
- Stroll through the beautiful communal park of Giardini Pubblici Giuseppe Garibaldi
- Admire each and every complex detail of Basilica di Santa Croce’s facade
- Visit Castello Carlo V, a castle originally built in the 12th century
- Get lost among fossils at the Archaeological Museum (Museo Sigismondo Castromediano)
- Get technical at the regional Railway Museum of Puglia
- Check in on the lesser visited Roman Theatre located at a dead end
- Snap your family pics and selfies at Piazza del Duomo
😋 Top Rated Activity: Lecce Street Food and Walking Tour
Ostuni
Officially known as the White City of Puglia, Ostuni is a countryside oasis perched above age-old olive groves. The houses in Ostuni are distinctly painted with white lime wash, giving the town a clean look and blurred lines among where buildings start and end. It would not be a charming Puglia town if Ostuni didn’t come with a history dating back to prehistoric times. With an extensive past comprised of numerous cultures, monumental wars, destruction, and reconstruction, comes the indisputable charm of this quintessential Italian village.
Just over 200 meters above sea level, the historic center of Ostuni forms a cone-like shape with the basilica’s bell tower poking through the top. A fortress wall originally from the 1400s wraps the perimeter of the town’s center like a big old hug. Although the municipality’s population is slightly over 30,000, Ostuni is incredibly popular as a Puglia destination, especially in the summer. It’s nearly impossible to not be swept away by the town’s spectacular identity and ambiance – it’s no wonder it has maintained such a beloved reputation among visitors. To avoid the crowds (triple the amount of people) during peak season, head to Ostuni in the fall instead.
Location: Ostuni is located on the southern edge of the Itria Valley. It is situated just up the hill from the Adriatic coast and is less than 10 km away. Ostuni is roughly 30 minutes away by car, north from Brindisi.
Things to Do In Ostuni
- Tour a museum and former monastery to see archaeological findings including skeletons at the Museum of Preclassic Civilizations of the Southern Murgia
- Don’t forget to look up in order to see the marvellous Arco Scoppa
- Catch a panoramic view at sunset from the city’s walls near Chiesa Rettoria di Santa Maria della Stella
- Ponder some art at the the Contemporary Art Gallery
- People watch while eating gelato near the Colonna di Sant’Oronzo, a prominent landmark from the 17th-century
- Enjoy a drink under the lights along Via Vito Tamborrino with a view of the grand staircase
→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in Ostuni ←
Castro Marina, Tricase Porto & Santa Cesarea Terme
Scattered along the southern coastline of the Salento peninsula, these Puglia towns are similar in landscape and scenery. Still, each of them is slightly different in personality and what kind of tourist would most appreciate them. Castro and its marina is the most well-rounded Puglia town within this area. The town is tucked among a picturesque setting and along the rugged coastline. Atop the hill is the historic centre made up of narrow curvy streets, a castle with panoramic views and an endearing town square. At the base of Castro town is the Porto Vecchio (old port) and marina for local fishing boats.
Tricase is actually a larger town located inland, but Tricase Porto is a seaside extension of it. It is not a traditional town as it lacks any sort of center, old quarter, and even church. Instead, it’s a relaxed beachfront neighborhood with a few vacation homes, a small grocery store, and a couple of bars. This is a place where you come to do as the locals do and enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the marina. Tricase Porto is one of the most authentic non town towns in Puglia you can experience as a visitor.
Santa Cesarea Terme garners attention thanks to its thermal baths, as implied in the name. The healing properties of the sulfur waters are said to have been apparent to civilizations as early as the 2nd century BC. The thermal waters originate from four natural caves along the coast and in the vicinity of the town. Naturally, Santa Cesarea Terme has built its reputation as a tourist attraction with the development of wellness spas and resorts. It is the ultimate town in Puglia for a self-care trip.
Location: All three of these Puglia towns are located on the Adriatic coastline of the Salento peninsula. They cover the distance between the towns of Leuca and Otranto.
Things to Do In Tricase Porto
- Take a swim at Spiaggia di Tricase Porto with views of Villa Maria
- Eat at Taverna del Porto, one of the best seafood restaurants in Puglia
Things to Do In Castro Marina
- Visit Castello Aragonese e Museo Archeologico di Castro, an archeological museum in Castro
- Visit a reconstructed palace and museum in traditional Baroque style
Things to Do In Santa Cesarea Terme
- Walk down the steep staircase to Spiaggia di Porto Miggiano, a breathtaking wild beach
- Soak in the thermal baths at the Sulfur Cave
- Jump into the sea from the ruins of Porto Miggiano
🏖 Read More: Visiting the Beautiful Porto Miggiano Beach
What Is the Most Beautiful Part of Puglia?
It may sound like a cliché, but it still has to be said – there’s something and a place for everyone in Puglia. The region is diverse, and although it may seem similar on the surface, each area has its own highlights. With that being said, finding the most beautiful part of Puglia to explore is dependent on what you like.
Stretching from the Porto Cesareo area down to Santa Maria di Leuca is the best area for beachgoers.
The coastal town of Otranto is arguably the most beautiful seaside town in Puglia without the crowds of Polignano a Mare.
Beginning in Turi and extending down to Ostuni is Valle d’Itria, the most beautiful part of Puglia to experience its towns.
Best Places to Stay In Puglia
One of the most celebrated types of structures in Puglia is known as the trulli, also called a pajare down in Salento. They are both very similar in design (cone shaped) and traditionally constructed out of limestone using an ancient technique. You’ll see many of these huts sprinkled throughout the entire region of Puglia, some still used for practical reasons such as storage or farming purposes.
A significant percentage of trulli homes in Puglia have been extraordinarily restored, renovated, and designed to be vacation rentals. They come in all sizes, from studio apartments to multi-cone complexes with pools and gardens. For travellers seeking a truly (pun intended!) authentic and one-of-a-kind experience, staying in one of these is a must. Trulli accommodations can be found in abundance near the Puglia towns in Valle d’Itria.
A masseria is another type of accommodation you will come across when searching for places to stay in Puglia. The definition of a masseria is a large farm which is comprised of numerous buildings, including an estate.
You will find many masserias with working farms that also host guests, which is ideal for those looking to try homegrown products. Then there are masserias that have only transformed the estate portion of their land. Finding a masseria is most common inland where farming would have traditionally taken place.
→ 📍 Read More: Where to Base Yourself in Puglia ←
Puglia Travel Resources
TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage
FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Agoda
CAR RENTALS: Rentalcars.com or Discover Cars
TRAINS, BUSES, FERRIES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio
ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Hostelworld or Trivago
ESIM / CELL PHONE DATA: Airalo
TOURS & ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide or Viator
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