Ciao wanderlust explorers! Are you ready to travel to one of Italy's best-kept secrets? Welcome to Puglia, Italy!! A region filled with ancient traditions, picturesque landscapes, and captivating history.
Puglia is not as well known as Tuscany or Lake Garda, but it hides a unique and authentic charm similar to its neighboring Sardinia, another hidden gem!
Puglia offers a blend of Mediterranean beauty and the warmest of welcomes. Let' s embark on a journey to the heel of Italy and discover the rustic charm of Puglia, a gem in southern Italy.
· Trani
· Fasano
· Lecce
· Otranto
· Matera
. Everything you need before your trip in a click
The Endless Coastal Splendor:
Prepare to be breathless by Puglia's coastline! You will see dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
As the Adriatic and Ionian Seas surround the region, it will be easy to find stunning beaches. From the sandy shores of Porto Cesareo to the coastline of Otranto, there is a beach for every type of traveler.
Bari is a great starting point for your journey to discover the rustic charm of Puglia. The region's capital has narrow streets within the old town. The primary attraction is the impressive Basilica of Saint Nicholas, with a Romanesque style. It is an important pilgrimage destination.
Bari Vecchia, the old city, is an intriguing place where you feel the spirit of past times. Admire the fascinating blend of styles from the Byzantine, Norman, and Gothic periods.
Each coastal town has its own character. Discover the white-washed villages of Polignano a Mare. You will have the perfect point to take a sunset photo that will remain in your memory.
Visit the fishing town of Gallipoli. There you will find the most beautiful beaches.
Bask in the warm Mediterranean sun while indulging in fresh seafood delicacies.
Explore hidden coves and secret caves.
If you like undergrounds, do not miss the Grotte di Castellana. You will admire stalactites and stalagmites with incredible colors over the 3km path. Buy your guided tour of 50 0r 100 minutes. Check it out here: https://www.grottedicastellana.it/itinerari/
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the stunning Gargano Peninsula. The landscape is a paradise of limestone cliffs and secluded beaches. Embark on a boat tour to explore the sea caves and dip in the Blue Flag beaches.
The Picturesque Valle D'Itria
The Valle d'Itria, located in the heart of Puglia, southern Italy, is home to several charming towns and cities worth a visit. Here are a few of them:
Alberobello: Known for its unique trulli houses, Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit city in the Valle d'Itria.
Locorotondo: This picturesque town is famous for its circular structure, which gives it its name, meaning 'round place'. It's also known for its white wine.
Martina Franca: This city is renowned for its baroque architecture, particularly the stunning Basilica di San Martino.
Cisternino: Known for its historic old town and beautiful panoramic views of the valley, Cisternino offers a charming and tranquil experience.
Ostuni: Often referred to as The White City, Ostuni is famous for its whitewashed houses and narrow streets. It offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea from its hilltop location.
While you are there, explore the region's national parks, where the beauty of nature is on full display. Do not miss Gargano National Park. You'll find a stunning blend of lush forests, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife
Trulli: A Fairytale in Stone:
No visit to Puglia is complete without stepping into a real-life fairytale. Enter the magical world of the Trulli. The traditional stone huts with conical roofs pepper the hills of the Itria Valley.
In the 14th century, taxes were very high. Legend says that to avoid paying taxes, the inhabitants built the houses with no mortar or cement. When tax auditors were to show up, they would dismantle the structures.
Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And the crown jewel of Trulli architecture. It boasts a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with these houses. On your way to Alberobello, you will find a lot of Trullis in their original state.
If you feel like it, spend a night in one Trulli. It is a romantic experience!
Wandering through Alberobello feels like stepping into a storybook. Lose yourself in the streets and admire the intricate stonework. Discover boutiques and cozy restaurants. The allure of the Trulli is hard to resist, making it a must-see destination for every traveler.
Our favorite villages
Trani: A Coastal Gem
Nestled on the Adriatic Sea, Trani is a coastal gem that will steal your heart with its timeless beauty.
Walk along the historic harbor, where fishing boats float in the water. Witness the stunning 13th-century Trani Cathedral, a magnificent example of Apulian Romanesque architecture.
Do not miss the medieval Scolanova Synagogue. By 1380, the Church confiscated it and converted it for use as a church until 2006.
Enjoy a stroll along the promenade while savoring a gelato. Watch the sun paint the sky with hues of pink and orange as it sets behind the shimmering sea. With its charming cafes, Trani is the perfect place to slow down, relax, and soak in the coastal splendor.
Fasano: history, nature and Wildlife
Fasano is famous for its gorgeous countryside landscapes with olive groves and vineyards. A road trip will convince you!
Stop by the impressive archaeological site of Egnazia. There are remains of both the Roman and Messapian periods. Explore well-preserved ruins such as defensive walls and Roman baths.
The village is charming. Walk in the narrow streets of the historic center. Discover the 14 churches.
Nearby you will also find the Safari Park. You will see lions, tigers, and elephants. The park also offers shows for the whole family.
Lecce: The Florence of the South
Lecce is the "Florence of the South". The city exudes elegance, history, and architectural masterpieces.
The city is famous for its Baroque buildings and narrow streets. Marvel at the carved facades of the Basilica di Santa Croce. Lose yourself in the grandeur of Piazza del Duomo. Soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Sant'Oronzo.
The city comes alive at night. Cafes and bars spilled out onto the streets, eager to share Lecce's joie de vivre. The heavenly blend of ancient heritage and modern charm will enchant you.
Otranto: Where History Meets Paradise
In the easternmost tip of the Italian peninsula lies the town of Otranto. A blend of history, natural beauty, and seaside perfection.
Wander through Otranto's winding streets enclosed within ancient walls. Run into the breathtaking Otranto Cathedral! Admire the awe-inspiring mosaic floor depicting biblical scenes.
Walk to the harbor, where colorful boats float. An invitation to explore the hidden coves that dot the coastline.
Discover the Punta Palascìa lighthouse. Let the beauty of the Adriatic Sea meet the rugged cliffs fascinate you.
As you visit Puglia's villages, immerse yourself in sights, flavors, and experiences. Each place reveals a unique aspect of Puglia's rich cultural heritage. Get ready to discover the treasures within these extraordinary places. Create memories that will last a lifetime.
Loving Puglia's charm? Continue your Italian escape in Sicily, another southern Italian gem, beckons with volcanic landscapes, ancient Greek ruins, and a flavor all its own. It is worth the trip!
Food and Wine: A Gastronomic Delight:
Prepare your taste buds for a gastronomic adventure like no other. Puglia's cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors.
It showcases the region's rich agriculture, seafood bounty, and culinary traditions. Indulge in orecchiette. Smothered in fragrant tomato sauce and topped with creamy burrata cheese.
Seafood lovers can relish from plump mussels to succulent octopus.
The region provides around 40% of the country's olive oil. Venture into the olive trees and vineyards passed down through generations. Savor the finest oil and excellent local wines. Try the full-bodied Primitivo or crisp Fiano.
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of traditional festivals. Locals come together to celebrate their traditions.
Time Travel through Ancient Heritage:
The city of Matera, in Basilicata, is an architectural wonder - the Sassi di Matera. Ancient caves carved into the cliffs inhabited for thousands of years. They are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lose yourself in the narrow streets. Soak in the surroundings. Witness the community resilience that has transcended time.
If you are a fan of James Bond movies, you will remember No Time to Die. It took place in Matera and catapulted the city into the limelight.
If you are into guided tours, you should try From Matera: Sassi di Matera Tour with Entry to Cave Houses. It would help to better understand the history of the place.
Prepare yourself for countless steps and steep climbs!
Conclusion: the Charm of Puglia
You will find yourself enchanted by Puglia's beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Discover a treasure, from the mesmerizing coastline to the ancient heritage.
Let Puglia cast its spell on you, embrace the dolce vita, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Start planning your perfect trip and allow this gem to captivate your heart. Buon viaggio, my fellow explorers!
Travel tips:
The two airports in Bari and Brindisi are the main gateways. You can also get there by fast train from Rome or Naples.
Rent a car to cover the whole region. Compare rentals prices at DiscoverCars.com.
Cycling is a great and healthy way to visit. Check a road trip here.
Choose 2 villages as a base to explore the region. We recommend Fasano and Lecce. From there you will be able to visit all the surroundings.
We recommend at least 5 days to visit Puglia. The best will be to stay 4 days at each base point.
The best months to visit are May, June and September. The weather is lovely, and it is not crowded.
Not as popular as Amalfi Coast, Puglia is way cheaper.
There are amazing Masserias (farmhouses), mostly around Fasano, to stay in for a genuine travel
Everything you need for your trip in a click:
Find you luggage
When it comes to luggage, the only brand I buy is Samsonite. I've had a carry-on bag for over 5 years. It is still in excellent condition. For my hold bags, I have one made of soft material that has been with me for almost a decade, with a slight sign of aging but still firm. The advantage is that there's always room for a little something extra. The rigid one is much lighter. I take it on trips where I'm not taking a lot of stuff or shopping. All are excellent investments! Check out the Black Friday Preview until Nov 8th
Find you flight:
Expedia is a great platform to search and compare flight options and fares.
Find your guided tours:
When I visit a big city for the first time, I like to first take the Hop on Hop Off, a bus that stops at the city's main attractions, or a guided tour to get a better idea of what I'm going to find and which places I'd really like to visit. Two companies offer hundreds of tours, always with excellent value for money: Viator and Get your guide. Check some below.
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