One week in Puglia

Italy’s heel had been on my list for so long that I wanted to see it all by the time I started planning my one week in Puglia.

The funny thing is, for my Erasmus scholarship, I had to choose between Trieste (in the very north) and Lecce (in Puglia). As you’ve guessed, I chose Trieste and became familiar with northern Italy.

A decade and many trips later, I finally spent 7 days in Puglia, enjoying perhaps the most charming regions of southern Italy.

If you, too, are planning to follow in my footsteps, I am here to help you create the perfect itinerary.

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Table of Contents
  1. One Week in Puglia
    1. Is one week enough to discover Puglia?
    2. Where to land?
    3. How to get around?
    4. Do you need to rent a car?
    5. When is the best time to visit?
    6. Which is the best town to stay in?
    7. Where to stay in Puglia
      1. Accommodation Recommendations
    8. What to see and do in one week
      1. Day 1: Alberobello & Locorotondo
        1. Alberobello
        2. Locorotondo
      2. Day 2: Polignano a Mare & Monopoli
        1. Polignano a Mare
        2. Monopoli
      3. Day 3: Bari
        1. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola
        2. Explore the Old Town
        3. Visit the Cathedral di Bari
        4. Sample local cuisine
        5. Other Bari popular tours
      4. Day 4: Ostuni and Martina Franca
        1. Ostuni
        2. Martina Franca
      5. Day 5: Lecce
      6. Days 6 and 7: Matera
        1. What to do in Matera
        2. Where to stay in Matera
        3. Best tours and activities for Matera
        4. Best Viewpoints of Matera
      7. Other places you can include on your itinerary
        1. Gallipoli
        2. Otranto
        3. Trani
        4. Santa Cesarea Terme
        5. Gargano National Park
        6. Beautiful beaches
        7. Grotte di Castellana
    9. Is Puglia worth visiting?
    10. Is Puglia expensive?

One Week in Puglia

Is one week enough to discover Puglia?

weekend in Puglia
Monopoli / Ingrid

Yes, a one-week trip will allow you to see most of the important villages, attractions, and beaches. However, if you can spend more time there and want to mix relaxation with exploration, there is always more to do in this lovely region.

Where to land?

Puglia is served by the Bari International Airport, which is where you will start your trip in the region.

Another good option when traveling from the UK, for example, is the Brindisi Airport, which is close to Lecce and more to the south of  Italy’s heel. 

It is worth checking both options, no matter where you are traveling from.

How to get around?

While it is not impossible to get around by public transportation, renting a car and driving around Puglia would make your life much easier, allowing you to make the best out of your time there.

The roads are reasonably good, and driving in southern Italy should not intimidate you. If I could do it, you could do it! Also, we had no problems finding parking spaces, even if we traveled in August. The parking fees were reasonable.

If you would rather check public transportation options, you can always use Omio for buses and trains.

When it comes to trains, it is worth knowing that on Trenitalia you won’t find many options, but you should rather go on Ferrovie Appulo Lucane. They operate trains and buses in the region and can help with itineraries.

4 days in Puglia
Ostuni / Ingrid

Do you need to rent a car?

It depends on what you are planning to do. If you want to stay in one place or stick to the major cities, then public transportation should be sufficient for getting around.

However, renting a car would be highly recommended if you want to explore farther afield and visit rural areas or beaches, as there is limited public transportation outside of the larger towns.

This itinerary has been created for someone who would rent a car.

My go-to car rental company is always Discover Cars. It is a great aggregator that can help you save up to 70% on your car rental. They have a pretty good cancellation policy that gives you options in case your flight or travel plans change. Get your best offers here!

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Puglia is during the months of April, May, and June due to pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and blooming wildflowers in the countryside.

The shoulder seasons of March and September are also good for enjoying many of Puglia’s attractions without too many tourists around.

For beach resort areas, however, it’s wise to consider July or August when temperatures are at their highest. We’ve been in August, and while it was hot and humid, apart from the more popular destinations like Polignano a Mare or Alberobello, most villages were relatively free of tourists.

Puglia is also a great destination for Italy in winter because of its mild temperatures. All in all, Puglia is a great destination year-round; it depends on what you want to do.

Which is the best town to stay in?

Which is the best town to stay in Puglia
Source: Unsplash.com

There is no single “best” town in Puglia to stay in; it really depends on a traveler’s individual needs and preferences. However, some of the most popular towns to stay in include Ostuni, Monopoli, Lecce, Otranto, Alberobello, and Gallipoli. Each of these towns offers something unique, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions to explore.

If you want to explore the region but also spend time at the beach, you should choose to stay along the coast. Places like Monopoli or Polignano a Mare are perfect for the beach.

Many people choose to stay in Bari, mainly because it’s the largest city in the region, but also because it’s where the airport is. I wouldn’t do that because staying in Bari would place me in the northernmost part of Puglia. Thus, the distances for driving would be higher.

We chose to stay in Alberobello, but Locorotondo, Ostuni, Martina Franca, or even Brindisi would make great base camps for those aiming to drive around the region.

Where to stay in Puglia

The most common accommodation types in Puglia (apart from hotels, of course) are the following:

Trullo – A trullo is a conical-shaped house found mainly in the region of Puglia. Traditional trulli are made from local limestone that is either uncut or cut into large blocks and built without the use of mortar.

These drystone structures have a conical roof held up by an internal circle of tall stones called “speaking walls.” Their distinctive white-washed exteriors stand out in the rolling Puglian countryside.

They are also usually adorned with decorative symbols painted in bright colors such as blue, red, yellow, and green for luck and protection.

You can find these unique houses throughout the region’s towns and villages.

alberobello trulli
Trulli / Ingrid

Masseria – an agricultural estate in the Italian regions of Puglia, Molise, and Basilicata that has traditionally been used to produce wine, olives, grains, fruit, and vegetables.

Masserie are often fortified structures with a central court for animals or outdoor activities such as olive pressing. They typically have a series of enclosed rooms surrounding the court, used for storage or living quarters.

Masserie are an important part of the cultural heritage of southern Italy and many have been converted into modern accommodations for tourists looking for an authentic experience.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some great accommodation options in Puglia:

Masseria Le Cerase is a traditional white house with a stunning pool, perfectly located for daily trips to the sea, Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, and Ostuni.

Trullieu Guesthouse Alberobello – even though the trullo guesthouse is located near Alberobello’s center, it is still hidden from all the noise and fuss. It also has a free parking space.

Furnirussi Tenuta – not only the rooms are spacious at this hotel, but they also have a big lake-like swimming pool.

Masseria Le Fabriche is a stone house in the middle of vineyards. You can easily imagine why this is a wine lover’s paradise destination. Explore also the nearby beach, Conte d’Ayala.

What to see and do in one week

Day 1: Alberobello & Locorotondo

Alberobello
2 days in Alberobello
Alberobello / Ingrid

The famous Puglian town is known for its unique trulli houses, which are traditional stone dwellings with conical roofs. They are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The town’s name comes from two words: albero, meaning tree, and bello, meaning beautiful.

Alberobello boasts a rich history as well as numerous attractions for visitors to explore, such as the Trullo Sovrano (the largest trullo in existence), Piazza del Popolo (a picturesque public square), and Sant’Antonio Abate Church (which dates back to the 16th century).

You can also find excellent restaurants serving traditional Puglian cuisine or take part in various activities like olive oil tasting or wine tours.

With its stunning architecture and old-world charm, Alberobello has become one of Italy’s most beloved tourist destinations.

Top activities to try in Alberobello:

Go on a 2-hour guided trulli tour

Food lovers should try a gastronomic walking tour, a pasta and tiramisu cooking class, or a local market tour with home cooking and dinner.

Locorotondo

Its cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and stunning views are a sight to behold. The town’s whitewashed houses with their distinctive grey slate roofs are the reasons why Locorotondo is known as “The White Town.”

Locorotondo also boasts impressive churches and monuments like the Church of Santa Maria della Greca and Palazzo del Vescovado. These historic sites make it a popular destination for visitors who want to explore Italy’s culture and history.

Day 2: Polignano a Mare & Monopoli

Polignano a Mare
4 days in Puglia
Polignano a Mare / Ingrid

The city is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Adriatic Sea and has been inhabited since ancient times.

Polignano a Mare is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and historic architecture.

You can explore winding alleyways lined with whitewashed houses or take a boat tour to visit some of the caves that have been carved into the limestone cliffs over the centuries.

From sunbathing on one of Polignano’s many golden sand beaches to sampling regional cuisine at one of its traditional restaurants, there are plenty of activities available to enjoy in this charming seaside destination.

Polignano is also the home of one of the most famous cave restaurants – Restaurant Grotta Palazzese. If you want to have dinner here, you must book a table ahead of time and come prepared to spend some hard cash, with the menu starting at 195 EUR per person.

Do you want that perfect picture in the place you’ve seen everywhere on the internet? Head over behind Domenico Modugno’s monument.

4 days in Puglia
Polignano a Mare / Ingrid

Go on a walking tour of Polignano, or better yet, take a boat tour and admire the city from the sea, while exploring the sea caves carved into the rocks beneath the city. See more here!

Try a food and wine tasting tour, a tuk-tuk tour along the coast, or a horseback ride with dinner.

Monopoli
weekend in Puglia
Monopoli / Ingrid

Located on the Adriatic Sea coast, Monopoli has long been a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy its crystal clear waters and stunning views.

The town’s historic old center is full of narrow streets lined with cafes and restaurants serving up traditional Italian fare.

Monopoli boasts some impressive architecture as well as many attractions such as churches, museums, and parks that offer something for everyone.

With its inviting atmosphere and Mediterranean charm, this beautiful coastal city is an ideal vacation spot.

Visit the Carlo V Castle and explore the Old Town Center. Reward yourself with a drink in Porto Antico before stepping inside the Basilica of the Madonna della Madia and the Chiesa di San Salvatore.

Monopoli, Italy
Monopoli marina / Ingrid

Best tours in Monopoli:

Private half-day sightseeing cruise with aperitif

Snorkeling tour in Cala Incina or Porto Alga

Go scuba diving in Grotta della Madonnina

Day 3: Bari

Where to go for Europe winter sun
Source: Unsplash

Spend one day exploring Bari, an ideal destination for those interested in the cultural heritage of this unique corner of Italy.

Located on the Adriatic Sea, Bari is one of Italy’s most important port cities. It has been an important trading hub since ancient times.

The city’s historic old town boasts beautiful architecture from its Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Norman periods that can still be seen today.

Its two main attractions are its stunning coastline with pristine beaches and its vast selection of restaurants serving up delicious traditional dishes such as Pasta alla Barese or focaccia bread with seafood stew.

winter sun destinations Europe
Source: Unsplash
Visit the Basilica di San Nicola

This beautiful 11th-century church is one of Bari’s most iconic landmarks and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Inside, you can admire its intricate Byzantine mosaics and spectacular religious artworks from renowned Italian artists. The basilica also houses some important historical artifacts, including the bones of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children.

Explore the Old Town

Bari’s historic old town is a must-see for any visitor looking to explore the city’s past. Wander around its cobblestone streets to discover hidden gems such as traditional restaurants and shops or visit some of its impressive historical monuments, including the 13th-century Castello Svevo (Swabian Castle).

Visit the Cathedral di Bari

This imposing 12th-century cathedral is the most important religious building in Bari, and it’s well worth a visit. Inside, you can admire its Romanesque architecture, frescoes by Italian painter Domenico Bruschi, and baroque stuccos. This stunning cathedral is also home to some incredible artworks, including Caravaggio’s “Deposition from the Cross”.

Sample local cuisine

Bari is well known for its delicious local cuisine and there are plenty of restaurants serving up traditional dishes such as orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe, polpette (meatballs), or focaccia bread with seafood stew. Be sure to also sample some of the city’s amazing seafood dishes, such as pesce alla griglia (grilled fish) or frittura di paranza (fried seafood). Book a pasta experience walking tour in Bari!

Half-Day Sailing Cruise along the Pugliese Coast

Customized Private Walking Tour with a Local

Typical Fishing Boat Tour with Swimming and Snorkeling

Dining Experience at a Local’s Home

Day 4: Ostuni and Martina Franca

Ostuni
4 days in Puglia
Ostuni / Ingrid

This picturesque town is known for its white-washed buildings, cobblestoned streets, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

The city’s name comes from the Latin word ‘ustus,’ meaning burning, due to its sun-drenched location on top of three hills.

Ostuni has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was an important trading port during Roman rule.

Today it remains popular with tourists who are looking to explore its winding streets, take in views from its hilltop churches, and sample some delicious local cuisine.

Ostuni green door
Ingrid in Ostuni / Ingrid

Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, admiring the architecture and taking in the atmosphere of this ancient town. Visit the Ostuni Cathedral or climb the hills to one of the many other churches in town. Enjoy some local cuisine at one of the restaurants with a sea view, go on an olive oil tour, walk the city walls, do a wine tasting at a winery, and don’t forget to take a picture with the famous green and blue door.

Martina Franca
Martina Franca
Martina Franca / Ingrid

The town is well known for its stunning Baroque architecture and vibrant culture.

The city was founded in the 13th century by Filippo I Anjou and has grown to be an important cultural center in southern Italy.

The town’s main attractions are its historic churches, palaces, and picturesque streets lined with colorful buildings. You can also enjoy traditional cuisine, visit local wineries, or explore nearby beaches along the Mediterranean Sea.

Even though we visited in August, we found Martina Franca’s streets empty and could walk around and take pictures.

Martina Franca Italy buildings
Martina Franca / Ingrid

Visit the Palazzo Ducale, which was built in 1688 with a high baroque façade and is beautifully decorated.

Pass by the church of San Martino, with a bell tower dating from the 15th century. Or the church of Carmine, with its remarkable dome.

Finally, have a coffee or an ice cream in Piazza Maria Immacolata.

If you want to learn more about the city and its Baroque architecture, go on a walking tour.

Day 5: Lecce

Lecce Italy
Image by Siggy Nowak from Pixabay

The city is known for its stunning Baroque architecture, which has earned it the nickname “The Florence of the South.”

Lecce is also home to some of Italy’s most impressive Roman ruins, including an amphitheater and an aqueduct.

You can easily spend one day exploring this paradise for history lovers: visit the Carlo V castle, go to Piazza Sant’Oronzo, and visit the remains of the Roman Amphitheater dating back to the 1st century AD, don’t miss the History Museum and the Roman Theater.

The best way to visit and to also learn about the city’s history is to go on a tour. Choose one of the following options, depending on your travel style:

Baroque Architecture and Underground Walking Tour

Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour

Rickshaw Guided City Highlights Tour

Street Food Tasting and Walking Tour

Days 6 and 7: Matera

Matera, Italy
Matera / Ingrid

Sure, you are right to say that Matera is not in Puglia but in Basilicata. However, no Puglia itinerary would be complete without a stop here, thanks to its proximity to the region.

Matera is known for its ancient cave dwellings, or Sassi, that were inhabited until the 1950s by local farmers.

The city has since become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southern Italy due to its unique architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Its winding streets are filled with restaurants, cafes, galleries, and shops offering everything from handmade crafts to souvenirs.

Moreover, the city hosts many annual festivals, such as music concerts and film screenings, that draw visitors from all over Europe.

What to do in Matera
things to do and see in Matera
Matera / Ingrid

Visit the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient cave dwellings that have been carved out of the limestone in the city. From the old town square, you can walk through winding alleys to explore these fascinating dwellings, some of which are over 2,000 years old.

Take a stroll through an outdoor market to discover some unique souvenirs or pick up fresh produce from one of the many vendors. Visit Parco della Murgia Materana, a park that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Sample some of Matera’s delicious cuisine, such as orecchiette pasta with sausage and broad beans, a variety of local cheeses, and dishes like involtini di melanzane.

Visit the Museo Nazionale d’Arte Medievale e Moderna, where you can see works from some of Italy’s most famous artists. Or explore the Cathedral of Matera, a 13th-century church with stunning Romanesque architecture.

Sassi di Matera
Matera / Ingrid

Spending only a few hours in Matera is not enough, so I strongly suggest you should spend the night.

Where to stay in Matera

Of course, staying in the heart of the Sassi is a must, and here are a few fantastic options:

San Biagio Materapartment – simple Italian-style apartments with a stunning view of Matera. Just imagine having your breakfast with some pastry and a strong coffee on that terrace. See more here!

Palazzotto Residence & Winery – this is a unique hotel, set in a traditional cave “palazzo” with a winery where you can enjoy some local wines. See more here!

Locanda Di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae – another stunning cave hotel in the Sassi di Matera, with beautiful terraces and a Roman wellness center unlike anything you’ve ever seen. See more here!

Sassi di Matera
Sassi di Matera / Ingrid
Best tours and activities for Matera

Sassi di Matera Tour with Entry to Cave Houses

James Bond 007 Guided Tour

Hop-on hop-off bus with Casa Grotta Entrance

Half-Day Cooking Class in a Cave Restaurant of Matera

Best Viewpoints of Matera
Matera
Matera / Ingrid

Some of the places you need to stop by, admire the city, and just take it all in are:

  • Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio – as the name says, this is a belvedere point, offering a great view towards the Sasso Barisano.
  • Santa Maria de Idris Church – unfortunately, we didn’t have the time to climb the stairs all the way to this stone-made church, but it sure is one of a kind, and it offers a great view over the Sasso Caveoso.
  • Sant’Agostino Church – as we walked within the Sassi, we made our way on the left side and arrived at this church, which offered a great view of the place we had left behind.
  • Piazza Duomo – the impressive building you see from the first stop in Piazza Pascoli dominating the skyline.

Other places you can include on your itinerary

Gallipoli

The town sits on a peninsula overlooking the Ionian Sea and is known for its stunning views of the Adriatic coastline.

It’s also home to some stunning ancient ruins that date back to Roman times.

You can explore these incredible sites while taking in the beautiful scenery and enjoying local cuisine, such as fresh seafood dishes and traditional Italian pastas.

Gallipoli offers an array of activities, including swimming in crystal-clear waters, kayaking, fishing, walking through picturesque olive groves, and exploring nearby cities like Lecce or Taranto.

Otranto

It is another stunning city situated on the Adriatic Sea and surrounded by gorgeous beaches. It is an ideal destination for those looking to relax and enjoy some sun.

The town itself has plenty to offer visitors, with its narrow cobblestone streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants serving up delicious local cuisine.

Otranto also boasts a rich history, having been occupied by various civilizations over time, including the Greeks, Romans, and Normans. Its imposing castle reminds us of its past as one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean Sea.

Trani

It is a small and quaint city that still has all the charm and beauty of larger cities.

The old part of town sits on a rocky promontory overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Modern Trani sprawls along its coastline.

Home to some stunning architecture, including one of Italy’s most beautiful Romanesque cathedrals, Trani is also known for its delicious seafood cuisine and vibrant street life.

Santa Cesarea Terme

Santa Cesarea Terme is known for its thermal springs. They have been used since ancient times to treat various ailments and diseases.

The area also boasts some beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, and caves along the coastline. You can explore this unique region by participating in activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, or simply relaxing on one of the many terraces overlooking the sea.

Santa Cesarea Terme is an ideal destination for those looking to escape from everyday life and enjoy some natural beauty and tranquility.

Gargano National Park

Located on the Gargano Peninsula, this stunning national park offers visitors an array of activities and attractions to explore.

From its lush green forests with winding trails for hiking and biking to its serene beaches and crystal clear waters for swimming or simply relaxing in the sun – Gargano National Park has something for everyone.

You can also take part in bird-watching or horseback riding along some of the most beautiful coastal views in all of Europe.

Beautiful beaches

Puglia has some of the most beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, with plenty of hidden gems.

Here are a few places worth exploring:

Torre Lapillo

Baia Delle Zagare

Punta Prosciutto

Fiume Chidro San Pietro In Bevagna

Porto Cesareo

Marina Serra – Tricase 

Grotte di Castellana

It is one of the most stunning and impressive cave systems in all of Italy.

The cave system consists of two levels, including several large chambers filled with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

Visitors to Grotte di Castellana can explore this natural wonder by taking a guided tour through its winding passageways and caverns.

There is also a museum site where visitors can learn more about the history and geology behind this amazing site.

Is Puglia worth visiting?

No matter if you are looking for stunning villages, delicious food, crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, or history-packed destinations, Puglia has something for you. If this is your first or tenth time visiting Italy, Puglia is definitely worth visiting.

Is Puglia expensive?

No, Puglia is not an expensive destination compared to the rest of Italy. It offers good value for money, and you can enjoy a great holiday in the region at an affordable price.

Prices for food, drinks, and accommodation are generally lower compared to other parts of Italy.

Additionally, there are plenty of free or inexpensive activities available, such as exploring historical sites and traditional villages.

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