Seven picturesque places to visit in Puglia

Why Puglia?

The southern Italian region of Puglia forms the heel of Italy’s boot. Less trodden by tourists, its popularity has grown in recent years. If you’re planning the trip to this region, prepare for a busy holiday. Puglia has beaches, Baroque architecture and everything in between.

In this post, I’ve cherry picked seven places to visit on your first trip to this southern region.

Alberobello

This small Puglian town packs a punch. Alberobello was made a UNESCO world heritage site because of its unusual and unique districts of Trulli (the small grey-stoned buildings). These white-washed conical-roofed houses are picturesque and a key tourist attraction.

To make the most of Alberobello, wander around the Rione Monti area. The town’s narrow sloping lanes make it ideal for travellers trying to capture the ultimate holiday photo.

Gargano

In the province of Foggia, there are beautiful limestone cliffs, deep-green waters and the ancient forests of Gargano. This dreamy spot in the heel of the Italian boot is popular with Italian holiday makers.

Aside from Gargano National Park, a highlight of the area is the picturesque mountain town of Monte Sant’Angelo. After driving along those steep and winding roads, relax with a Pugliese wine and soak in the hillside views. If you’re up for an explore, head to the cobbled alleyways of Junno (the town’s oldest district). Make a beeline for Santuario di San Michele. This is a sacred church and another UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lecce

It is believed that Lecce played host to the Trojans. While this hasn’t been confirmed, there’s more to Lecce than Ancient Greek speculation. Its Baroque architecture is its main pull for many travellers to the region. Revamped and rejuvenated in the 17th Century, the city’s facades are well-crafted and gloriously detailed.

Martina Franca

Martina Franca is in the heart of Puglia. While modern in many areas, the towns gem is the historical centre. From Bari, this is another easy day trip. You’d only need an hour or two to explore Martina Franca. Make sure Piazza Roma, Palazzo Ducale and Basilica di San Martino are high up on your must-see list!

Monopoli

The small town of Monopli is the ultimate slice of southern Italian life. It is an Italian town with a lived-in feel. Fisherman often line the harbour and locals congregate with their friends. Like with any Italian town, I can always recommend getting lost in the old town for an afternoon well spent.

Ostuni

Ostuni is located in the province of Brindisi and has been inhabited since the Stone Age. Now, it’s known as the White City (or that’s how everyone referred to Ostuni when I lived in Puglia). It is the whitewashed architecture that makes it an ideal day trip from Bari or Brindisi. Walk through the cobbled alleys, under archways and across piazzas to get a real feel for Ostuni.

Polignano A Mare

Believed to be the ancient Greek town of Neapolis, Polignano A Mare is home to Greek and Roman ruins. Perched atop 20 metre-high limestone cliffs Polignano A Mare is another doable day trip from Bari. After a short and affordable train journey, make a beeline for Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. After you’ve soaked in the main square, head to the town’s famous beach.

Even though Lama Monachile is covered in pebbles, it’s still the perfect spot for a quick dip. I love relaxing in the shade of the cliffs and grabbing a cocktail at Fly – a restaurant with a view.

More from Puglia

• Five reasons Bari is the best Puglia hub