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About Puglia
Welcome to my Puglia itinerary, the beautiful region often referred to as the heel of the Italian boot. A region that has something to offer for everyone: from expansive olive groves and vineyard-covered hills to stunning coastlines with azure-blue waters.
However, what truly sets Puglia apart are the enchanting trulli (singular: trullo). These traditional Apulian stone huts with cone-shaped roofs have centuries of history behind them. Built without cement, people could quickly dismantle them to save on taxes. Not only are they architectural masterpieces, but they also provide a unique place to stay, making a night in a trullo feel like a journey back in time!
Our adventure in Puglia began at Dimora Iconica in Locorotondo. We stayed in one of the two trulli, surrounded by a serene environment with a tempting pool and the luxury of al fresco dining thanks to the outdoor kitchen, set amidst the beautiful countryside.
The thick stone walls of the trullo not only provide natural insulation, keeping you cool in the summer heat and warm in the winter, but also contribute to the magical atmosphere of this historic accommodation.
Our 10-Day Puglia Itinerary
Here is an overview of our route and key activities:
- Day 1: Arrival at Bari and departure to Locorotondo
- Day 2: Locorotondo
- Day 3: Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, and Monopoli
- Day 4: Ostuni, Cisternino, and Martina Franca
- Day 5: Lecce
- Day 6: Visit Conversano and a sunset wine tasting in Locorotondo
- Day 7: Grotta Del Trullo
- Day 8: From Locorotondo to Matera
- Day 9: Matera
- Day 10: From Matera to Bari
Navigate Through This Itinerary
Puglia Itinerary: The Most Beautiful Cities and Villages
Puglia is known for its beautiful towns and breathtaking beaches. Here are some favourites to add to any Puglia itinerary!
Northern Puglia
Locorotondo
This picturesque town is known for its circular street plan, “Locus Rotundus” in Latin. Locorotondo is an excellent central location to stay due to its diverse dining options, accommodations, and easy access to the region. Highlights include the old town, Trullo Marziolla (the oldest documented trullo in Italy), and the stunning panoramic views.
Restaurant tips:
- Bufano Wine: enjoy a wine tasting in the middle of the vineyards (second photo).
- U Curdunn: order the “Antipasto U Curdunn” and discover a range of traditional Puglian dishes (first photo).
- Pizzeria Casa Pinto: locals from the surrounding area come here for delicious pizzas.
- QuantoBasta Pizza & Dessert: located in a charming alleyway and offers delicious pizza.
Alberobello
Explore the fairytale-like streets full of trulli (over 1000 in total), listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is one of the few places where you can find so many trulli clustered closely together! They are divided into two districts: Monti and Aia Piccola. One of my favourite trulli is located on Via Duca degli Abruzzi, 81 (second photo). Alberobello is a classic pitstop in Puglia. It’s one of Puglia’s most visited destinations, so come early to beat the crowds!
Polignano a Mare
Enjoy delicious dishes while overlooking the azure-blue sea and the breathtaking cliff coast. Picturesque white buildings adorn the cliffs, giving the town an idyllic feel. This town is known for one of Italy’s most photographed beaches, the pebble bay beneath the Ponte Borbonico di Lama Monachile bridge. Discover the scenic beauty of this ancient coastal town!
Tip: for the best view of the beach, head to Belvedere su Lama Monachile (first photo).
Monopoli
Enjoy a stroll through the charming old town with its medieval streets and the Porto Vecchio harbour with traditional blue fishing boats. Amongst my favourite activities was wandering through the narrow streets and along the charming squares. So do not miss Monopoli; it definitely deserves more attention!
Central Puglia
Ostuni
Let yourself be enchanted by the whitewashed houses and the charming old town, known as the “White City,” and discover the rich history and culture. The white houses are whitewashed every year to keep them cool. Bonus: this makes the colorful flowers and painted doors stand out even more! Located on a high hill for protection against invaders, you’ll find the beautiful Duomo (cathedral) at the highest point.
Tip: visit the beautiful blue door “Porta Azzurra” (second photo).
Cisternino
Enjoy local specialties in cosy trattorias and taste the authentic flavours of Puglia amid the charming streets of this town. This small village is definitely worth a visit when seeking an authentic Italian experience.
Martina Franca
Explore the baroque architecture and admire the charming squares, such as Piazza Roma, and discover the artistic treasures of this city. The old town is separated from the new part by baroque gates that once served as entry points when Martina Franca was a fully walled fortress. With its grandiose duomos and palaces, including the Basilica di San Martino, Martina Franca is a must-visit.
Southern Puglia
Lecce
Discover the lush baroque architecture and admire the refined style of the city as you wander through the historic streets and squares. This lively university town, located near the southern tip of Puglia, attracts students from near and far, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Highlights in Lecce include architectural beauties such as the Duomo and the Basilica di Santa Croce, and dining in the historic old town.
Conversano
The charming atmosphere of this town certainly surprised me! Conversano is a sleepy town worth visiting, if only to taste life in Puglia outside the main tourist attractions. Stroll through the streets or visit the castle. One of my favourites!
Matera
The enchanting city of Matera, famous for its Sassi, ancient cave dwellings, is one of the world’s oldest cities. Although strictly speaking not located in Puglia but just outside the region, I highly recommend visiting Matera in the Basilicata region. Get lost in the many historic streets; this city is perfect for it.
Good to know:
- Stairs: Prepare for an abundance of stairs in Matera, and consider the heat while climbing them. If you visit in the summer, I recommend planning your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to stay cooler.
- Shoes: Sturdy shoes are an absolute necessity. Flip-flops and Birkenstocks are not suitable for these smooth cobblestones!
For the best views of the city, head to:
- Via Madonna dell’Idris – in front of Chiesa Rupestre di Santa Maria di Idris (first photo)
- Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli
Restaurant tips:
- Cremes Bureau – Vero Gelato Artigianale: for delicious gelato!
- Annina 1937: enjoy traditional pastas in an old alley of the Sassi.
- Tierra: a bit outside the oldest part of the city but with a delightful atmosphere.
Back to Bari
Bari
Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the old town, historical sights, and local cuisine. In Bari, local nonnas make regional orecchiette pasta on the thresholds of family-run restaurants. The small, ear-shaped shells are dried on wooden trays and left in the sun, perfectly shaped to hold sauces.
Puglia Map
Make sure to save this map to explore Puglia more easily!
How to Visit Puglia
The main airport in Puglia is Bari (BRI) Airport.
Find flights to Puglia
To fully enjoy Puglia’s beautiful spots, it is recommended to rent a car at Bari Airport, where plenty car rental options are available. Although public transport is possible, a road trip is highly recommended. Note that many Pugliese towns have car-free ‘centro storico’ areas, where driving through with a car may result in fines.
Where to Stay in Puglia
For maximum relaxation, consider two different locations during your journey. We spent six nights in charming Locorotondo, strategically located, and two nights in Matera, allowing exploration at a leisurely pace.
Plan Your Visit to Puglia!
Puglia is an enchanting region that has something to offer everyone, from beautiful landscapes to rich history and unique architecture. This road trip is an unforgettable adventure that provides an authentic Italian experience. So I hope this Puglia itinerary helps you make the most of your journey!
I edited all images with the Puglia Preset – or check it out on it on Etsy.
