Best Places to Visit in Puglia Italy

May 01, 2024By Emma Rigo
Emma Rigo

One week in Puglia

Crafting the perfect Puglia holiday can be an exhilarating journey in itself. If you're considering Puglia for your next adventure, look no further. This comprehensive guide presents a one-week itinerary that encompasses the best places to visit in Puglia — and even nearby Matera, the stunning cave city just across the border in Basilicata. Let’s dive in!

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Practical Information

Location

Situated at the very tip of Italy’s heel, Puglia is a sun-soaked region of southern Italy known for its whitewashed towns, baroque architecture, crystal-clear waters, and a coastline that stretches between the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Unlike Italy’s classic tourist hotspots of Rome, Florence, or Venice, Puglia offers a slower pace, authentic charm, and a strong local identity rooted in traditions, music, and food.

Transportation & Exploration

🚶‍♂️ On Foot: Charming towns like Lecce, Otranto, and Gallipoli are best explored on foot. Narrow cobblestone streets, lively piazzas, and ornate churches are all within walking distance. 

🚆 By Train & Bus: Puglia is connected by the regional Ferrovie del Sud Est trains and buses, which link Lecce to coastal towns and smaller villages. Tickets are inexpensive but schedules can be limited—ideal for slow travelers without a car.

🚗 By Car: The best way to explore Puglia is by car. Having your own vehicle allows you to hop between beaches, olive groves, and hidden villages at your own pace.

👉 Rental cars🔗 are available in Lecce, Brindisi, and Bari. 

✈️ By Plane: The nearest airports are Brindisi Airport (Salento Airport, BDS)🔗, just 45 minutes from Lecce, and Bari Airport (BRI)🔗, about 2 hours away. Both offer car rentals, buses, and train connections to Salento.

🛥️ Guided Excursions: If you prefer not to drive, plenty of guided day trips are available:

👉 Brindisi: Alberobello, Locorotondo & Ostuni Tour with Brunch🔗

👉 Tour di Alberobello e Matera in bus privato da Bari🔗 (available in English)

Weather

Salento enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters.

  • ☀️ Summer (June–August): Hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F). Perfect for beach lovers.
  • 🍂 Autumn (September–November): Warm seas and fewer crowds, with 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Great for hiking and food festivals.
  • ❄️ Winter (December–February): Mild and quiet, usually 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). Some coastal towns feel sleepy, but Lecce stays lively.
  • 🌸 Spring (March–May): Temperatures between 15°C and 24°C (59°F to 75°F). A wonderful time to enjoy wildflowers, festivals, and outdoor activities without the summer heat.

Accommodation

Puglia offers a wide variety of stays, from seaside resorts to rustic masserie (traditional farmhouses) and charming B&Bs in historic towns.

👉 For my stay, when possible, I chose a family-run "agriturismo" just outside the main towns. I was looking for laid-back vibes and delicious homemade breakfasts, and it turned out to be the perfect balance between relaxation and easy access to the coast. The only trade-off is that you’ll need to drive a bit more—but the peaceful setting makes it well worth it:

Puglia travel itinerary

Lecce – What to See and How to Visit the Historic Center

Lecce is often called the “Florence of the South” thanks to its elegant Baroque architecture and compact historic center, perfect to explore on foot.

Below is a walking route to help you visit the city in a logical and efficient way.

🗺️ Walking Route Through Lecce’s Historic Center

Piazza Sant’Oronzo

Start your visit in the heart of the city, Piazza Sant’Oronzo. It’s the most lively square in Lecce and a natural starting point for exploring the old town.

Here, modern cafés and everyday life sit right next to ancient history, including the partially visible Roman Amphitheatre embedded in the square.

Piazza del Duomo

From there, the atmosphere shifts as you enter Piazza del Duomo, one of the most beautiful enclosed squares in Italy.

Unlike typical open squares, this one feels almost theatrical — surrounded on all sides by cathedral, bell tower, and historic buildings that create a sense of quiet harmony.

✨ It’s especially magical in the late afternoon when the light softens the stone colors.

person holding compass selective focus photography

Basilica di Santa Croce

Walking deeper into the historic center, you eventually arrive at one of Lecce’s most iconic landmarks.

The Basilica di Santa Croce is overwhelming in its detail. The façade feels almost like stone lacework, carved with incredible precision in the warm local limestone that gives the city its golden tone.

It’s one of those places where you naturally stop for a few minutes just to take it all in.

a man sitting on a rock in the desert

Roman Amphitheatre

Just a few steps away, the city suddenly reveals its Roman past. The amphitheatre emerges almost unexpectedly from the urban fabric, giving you a glimpse of how deeply layered Lecce’s history is.

It’s not a large site, but it’s impressive for how naturally it blends into the modern square.

Anfiteatro de Lecce

Castello Carlo V

A short walk brings you to Castello Carlo V, a Renaissance fortress that now hosts exhibitions and cultural events.

It feels slightly more spacious and calm compared to the narrow streets of the old town, making it a nice place to slow down for a moment while exploring.

Church of Santa Chiara

A little further on, the Church of Santa Chiara offers a more intimate experience of Lecce’s Baroque style.

Inside, the atmosphere is quieter and more reflective, with richly decorated interiors and a small cloister that feels almost hidden from the rest of the city.

Santorini, Greece

⏱️ How Much Time to Spend in Lecce

  • 2–3 hours → quick highlights
  • 1 full day → ideal for a complete visit
  • 2 days → slow travel with cafés and atmosphere

Coffee in Lecce

✨Particularly in Lecce, there is also a strong coffee culture. I highly suggest stopping by any "bar" and ordering a plain Espresso or a coffee with ice (caffè con ghiaccio), which is a local specialty. You can order it either with or without almond milk. Add a Pasticciotto to go with the coffee. 

👉 You can find this specialty: Quart'a Caffè Pacamara🔗 or Caffé Avio🔗

Manarola, Italy

🍽️ Quick Local Food Option: Puccia

In Lecce, for a quick lunch bite, you can eat a Puccia: it consists of a round, hollowed-out bread filled with various ingredients such as cheese, cured meats, and vegetables.

👉 You can find it at L'angolino di Via Matteotti🔗.

Puccia Salentina 2

📌 Practical Tips

  • The historic center is fully walkable and mostly pedestrian
  • Parking is easier outside the old town
  • Early morning and late afternoon are best for photos
  • Lecce is best enjoyed slowly, without rushing

👉 For a deeper guide to Lecce and its historic center, check out my dedicated article🔗 on what to see and how to visit the city in detail.

Otranto – What to See

Otranto is one of those places that instantly feels like summer in Puglia: white stone, blue sea, and a slow rhythm that makes you want to stay longer than planned. It’s a perfect stop on a Puglia road trip when you want a mix of history, sea views, and easy coastal vibes.

Cathedral of Otranto

The heart of the town is its cathedral, home to one of the most fascinating mosaic floors in Italy. It feels almost like a giant storybook laid out on stone, with symbols, scenes, and details that reward slow looking rather than quick visits.

Catholic Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata. Italy, Puglia, Province of Lecce, Otranto

Castello Aragonese

Just a few steps from the sea, the castle feels tightly connected to the town itself. Walking around it gives you a sense of Otranto’s past as a coastal stronghold, but also some of the best views over the rooftops and the water.

The Castello Aragonese(castle) in Otranto, Apulia Italy

Otranto Historic Center

The old town is the kind of place you don’t really “visit” — you get lost in it. Narrow lanes, whitewashed walls, small balconies, and quiet corners make it ideal for slow wandering with no real plan.

woman walking on street surrounded by buildings

Waterfront Walk

Down by the harbor, life slows down even more. Fishing boats, soft sea light, and cafés facing the water make it a great spot to just sit for a while and watch the town move.

a man sitting on a rock in the desert

Torre Sant'Emiliano

Visit this historic watchtower, located just outside of Otranto's city center. Built in the 16th century, it offers panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding countryside.

Landscape near Torre Sant Emiliano, Otranto, Salento coast, Apulia region, Italy

Beaches

Spend some time relaxing on one of Otranto's beautiful beaches, such as Baia dei Turchi🔗 or Porto Badisco🔗. With crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings, these beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

✨ I can’t recommend Baia dei Turchi enough. The beach is wide and spacious, with stunning crystal-clear water. There are a few lidos, but not too many — keeping the atmosphere quite natural and wild.

The most beautiful coasts of Italy. Protected oasis of the lakes Alimini: Turkish Bay  (or Baia dei Turchi). Just a few kilometers north of Otranto, this coast is one of the most important ecosystems in Salento and Apulia (Italy).

Lighthouse of Punta Palascìa

Visit the easternmost point of Italy and see the iconic white lighthouse standing atop the cliffs. It's a great spot to watch the sunrise or simply enjoy the breathtaking coastal views at sunset.

Rising sun at Lighthouse Punta Palascìa, Otranto, Italy, at dawn

👉 A boat tour is always a great way to discover hidden coves and swim in crystal-clear waters. I recommend taking one🔗 from Otranto — many tours include refreshing swim stops and even an aperitivo on board.

📌 Practical Tips

  • Otranto is best enjoyed slowly, combining the old town with some beach time
  • Late afternoon is perfect for both the historic center and the waterfront
  • In summer, beaches are quieter early in the morning or later in the day
  • If you have time, combine Otranto with nearby coastal stops for a full day

Gallipoli – What to See

Gallipoli has a slightly different energy compared to other towns in Salento. It feels more local, more lived-in, and deeply connected to the sea — less about monuments and more about atmosphere.

It’s a great stop if you want to slow down, walk by the water, and spend time at some of the best beaches in the area.

Gallipoli Old Town (Centro Storico)

Gallipoli’s old town sits on a small island connected to the mainland, surrounded by ancient walls and completely embraced by the sea.

Walking through it is simple and enjoyable — narrow streets, small squares, and sudden views over the water make it a place to explore without a plan.

man facing green mountains during daytime

Cathedral of Sant’Agata

In the heart of the old town, the cathedral stands out with its elegant Baroque façade. Inside, the atmosphere feels rich and decorative, offering a contrast with the simplicity of the surrounding streets.

Castello di Gallipoli

At the entrance of the historic center, the castle marks the transition between the newer part of town and the old island. It reflects Gallipoli’s long history as a coastal defense point and adds a strong character to the overall setting.

Beaches near Gallipoli

Gallipoli is especially known for its coastline.

Close to town, you’ll find long sandy beaches, while a short drive takes you to more scenic spots like Punta della Suina or Porto Selvaggio, where the landscape becomes wilder and more natural.

black concrete road surrounded by brown rocks


a man sitting on a rock in the desert

👉 A boat tour from Gallipoli is a fantastic way to uncover secluded beaches and admire the coastline from the sea. Many excursions include swim stops in turquoise waters and end with a chilled aperitivo on board. I suggest this one🔗.

📌 Practical Tips

  • Gallipoli is more about atmosphere and beaches than major landmarks
  • The old town is small and easy to explore in a short time
  • It works best combined with nearby beaches rather than as a full-day cultural stop
  • Plan time for the coast — it’s the real highlight of the area

👉 For a deeper guide to Gallipoli and its beaches, check out my dedicated article🔗 on what to see and how to visit the city in detail.

Matera

Although Matera is technically in the Basilicata region, it’s most easily reached from Puglia. Famous for its ancient cave dwellings and breathtaking architecture, Matera offers a wealth of fascinating sights and experiences to explore.

Things to do in Matera:

  • Sassi di Matera🔗: The Sassi of Matera, the ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone rock, are indeed divided into two main areas: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano.
  • Sasso Caveoso is the older of the two Sassi districts, characterized by its winding alleys, cave dwellings, and steep cliffs overlooking the Gravina River. It is home to some of the earliest cave settlements in Matera, dating back thousands of years.
  • Sasso Barisano is situated adjacent to Sasso Caveoso, is slightly more developed and organized. Here, you'll find a mix of residential cave dwellings and more modern structures built into the rock. Sasso Barisano also features narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and panoramic viewpoints offering stunning vistas of the city and surrounding landscape.

✨ Both Sassi districts are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offer visitors a unique glimpse into Matera's ancient past and remarkable architecture. Exploring these historic neighborhoods is like stepping back in time and experiencing a living museum of human habitation carved into the rock.

woman walking on street surrounded by buildings
  • Matera Cathedral🔗 (Cattedrale di Matera): Visit this stunning Romanesque cathedral, located in the heart of the old town. Admire its intricate facade, elegant interior, and impressive collection of religious art and artifacts.

💸 It costs 1 € to enter.

parked white bicycle
  • Church of San Pietro Caveoso🔗: Marvel at the unique architecture of this cave church, which is carved directly into the rock of Sasso Caveoso. Admire the ancient frescoes and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this historic site.

💸 It costs 3,50€ to enter. If you are interested in visiting multiple sites, some tickets allow at a reduced rate to enter three or two sites for 6€ and 5€.

  • Belvedere: enjoy panoramic views of the Sassi and the surrounding countryside. I suggest three different viewpoints: 

✨ particularly during the sunset.  

  1. First Belvedere: Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio detto dei "Tre Archi"🔗
white painted wall near green-leafed plant during daytime

2. Second Belvedere:  Belvedere Piazzetta Pascoli🔗

man with red hiking backpack facing body of water and mountains at daytime

3. Third Belvedere: It's not a belvedere per se, but from here🔗 you can enjoy a beautiful sunset.

person holding black and green compass pointing to west
  • Palombaro Lungo🔗: descend into this ancient cistern, one of Matera's largest underground water reservoirs. Learn about its fascinating history and marvel at the engineering ingenuity of the past.

💸 It costs 3€ to access.

  • Piazza Vittorio Veneto🔗: Relax in this lively square, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a great place to people-watch, enjoy a gelato, or simply soak in the atmosphere of Matera's bustling city center.

👉 Where I stayed in Matera (with parking spot): Le Casette🔗

Bari

Bari, the capital of Italy's Puglia region, is a vibrant city with a rich history, a charming old town, and a beautiful seaside promenade. Things to do in Bari:

  • Bari Vecchia🔗 (Old Town): explore the narrow alleys and historic buildings of Bari's old town, which is divided into three main areas:
  • Medieval Quarter
  • Romanesque Quarter
  • Renaissance Quarter
woman walking on street surrounded by buildings
  • Basilica di San Nicola🔗: Visit this important pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus. Admire the stunning architecture, beautiful mosaics, and the crypt where the relics of Saint Nicholas are kept.

💸 Free to enter

Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari, Italy
  • Castello Svevo🔗 (Swabian Castle): Explore this imposing fortress, built by the Normans in the 12th century and later expanded by the Swabians. Climb the ramparts for panoramic views of the city and sea.

💸 It costs 6€

Bari, Swabian Castle (Castello Svevo) - Apulia, southern Italy.
  • Cattedrale di San Sabino🔗 (Cathedral of San Sabino): Marvel at the Romanesque architecture of this ancient cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century. Admire its intricate stone carvings, elegant columns, and beautiful frescoes.

💸 Free to enter

Cathedral of Saint Sabinus, Duomo di Bari or Cattedrale di San Sabino
  • Piazza del Ferrarese🔗: Relax in this bustling square, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a great place to soak up the lively atmosphere of Bari and watch the world go by.
Bari, Piazza del Ferrarese, Apulia, Italy
  • Promenade Lungomare Nazario Sauro🔗: Take a leisurely stroll along Bari's picturesque seafront promenade, lined with palm trees, cafes, and gelaterias. Enjoy views of the Adriatic Sea and watch the sunset over the horizon.man with red hiking backpack facing body of water and mountains at daytime
  • La Strada delle Orecchiette🔗: the "Strada delle Orecchiette" (Orecchiette Road) in Bari, Italy, is a charming and picturesque street known for its traditional handmade pasta. Orecchiette, which translates to "little ears" in Italian, is a type of pasta that's particularly popular in the Puglia region, where Bari is located.

✨ This street is famous for its many small shops and stalls where local women make and sell orecchiette pasta by hand. Walking along the Strada delle Orecchiette, you can sometimes witness the fascinating process of pasta-making and even have the opportunity to taste some freshly prepared pasta dishes.

👉 Aside from orecchiette, you'll find other local specialties and souvenirs along the street, making it a delightful destination for food enthusiasts and travelers interested in experiencing authentic Italian cuisine and culture.

person holding compass selective focus photography

✨ If you are looking for an authentic seafood experience that won't break the bank, Nicolaus - Il Bistrot dal Mare🔗 is the place to be. It strikes the perfect balance between high-quality ingredients and affordable prices

🍴 The Off-Menu Special: You must try the Ricci di mare (sea urchin roe). While you won’t find them listed on the standard menu, they are a local treasure—simply ask your server for them.

👉 Bari is an excellent base for exploring the nearby cities. If you don’t have enough time to visit them on your own, you can easily join a day tour from Bari, such as the ones listed below:

Polignano a Mare & Monopoli

Polignano a Mare, a picturesque coastal town in the Puglia region of Italy, is known for its stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming old town.

Polignano a Mare

  • Old Town (Centro Storico): Explore the narrow streets and whitewashed buildings of Polignano's historic center. Admire the architecture, browse boutique shops, and soak up the atmosphere of this charming seaside town.
  • Ponte Lama Monachile🔗: Walk across the iconic arched bridge that spans the Lama Monachile Cove, offering stunning views of the turquoise waters below. This spot is perfect for photos and enjoying the coastal scenery.
  • Beaches: relax on one of Polignano's beautiful beaches, Lama Monachile🔗. Swim in the clear waters, sunbathe on the sandy shores, or explore the rocky coves along the coastline.
Scenic view of Lama Monachile Cala Porto beach in Polignano a Mare, Italy
  • Bastione di Santo Stefano🔗: Visit this historic fortress, which dates back to the 16th century and offers panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. It's a great spot to watch the sunset or simply enjoy the scenery. Free to enter.white concrete building beside body of water during daytime

Monopoli

Monopoli, another charming coastal town in the Puglia region of Italy, offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Here are some must-see attractions in Monopoli:

  • Monopoli Old Town (Centro Storico): Explore the picturesque streets and alleyways of Monopoli's historic center, lined with whitewashed buildings, colorful balconies, and charming piazzas. 
  • Monopoli Cathedral (Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia)🔗: Visit this impressive cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which features a stunning facade and intricate interior decoration. Admire the historic artifacts and religious artworks housed within.

💸 Free to enter

  • Port of Monopoli🔗: Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade of Monopoli's bustling port. Watch the fishing boats come and go, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal town.
a red wall with a yellow arrow pointing in opposite directions

💸 Free to enter

  • Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi🔗: Relax in this charming square, surrounded by historic buildings and cafes. Admire the statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, a key figure in Italian unification, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the local market.
  • Cala Porta Vecchia Beach🔗: Spend some time soaking up the sun on this beautiful sandy beach, located near the old town. Swim in the clear waters, relax on the soft sand, or enjoy water sports like snorkeling and kayaking.
a man sitting on a rock in the desert

Itria Valley & Murgia of the Trulli

This area is dotted with charming, small villages full of character, each offering a glimpse into the authentic spirit of Puglia. These picturesque towns, with their narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and lively piazzas, are truly a must-see when visiting the region:

Alberobello 

Alberobello, a picturesque town in southern Italy, is renowned for its unique trulli houses. Things to do in Alberobello:

  • Trulli Houses: wander through the narrow streets and admire the traditional cone-shaped buildings, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Trullo Sovrano🔗: visit the only trullo with two floors, offering insights into the history and architecture of the region.
  • Trullo Church of Sant'Antonio🔗: explore this charming church built entirely in the Trullo style.

⚠️ To be completely honest, Alberobello was a bit of a letdown to me. It's a nice village, but overcrowded and a bit fake. I don't suggest buying souvenirs or eating out here, as the prices are very high. However, I still believe is worth a visit.

A view down a quaint, picturesque backstreet with traditional Trulli buildings in Alberobello, Italy.

✨ I highly recommend paying a visit to the nearby oil shop (Oleificio Salamida Alberobello🔗) when you're in Alberobello. Their olive oil is exceptional and offered at a very reasonable price point. Additionally, they offer shipping services, which is fantastic. In fact, I stock up on their oil for myself and my family!

Grotte di Castellana

The Grotte di Castellana, or the Castellana Caves, are a remarkable natural wonder located near the town of Castellana Grotte. These caves are renowned for their stunning limestone formations, underground rivers, and caverns. The caves were discovered in the 1930s and have since become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.

Guided tours take visitors on a journey through various chambers, each adorned with intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations created over millions of years by the slow dripping of water. One of the highlights of the Grotte di Castellana is the "White Cave" (Grotta Bianca), known for its dazzling white formations, including massive stalactites and stalagmites. Another notable feature is the "Black Cave" (Grotta Nera), characterized by its dark walls and eerie atmosphere.

👉 You can purchase the tickets online here🔗

Castellana Grotte, Apulia, Italy

Locorotondo 

Locorotondo, another charming town in the Puglia region of Italy, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty:

  • Historic Center: explore the beautiful historic center characterized by its whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and flower-decked balconies. Locorotondo is known as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy (I Borghi più Belli d'Italia).
  • Churches: visit the Church of San Giorgio Martire🔗, known for its elegant baroque facade, and the Church of San Rocco🔗, which features a stunning rose window.
  • Trulli: while not as abundant as in Alberobello, Locorotondo also has some trulli houses scattered throughout the town. Take a stroll to discover these unique structures.
  • Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II🔗: relax in the main square of Locorotondo, surrounded by historic buildings and cafes. It's a great spot for people-watching and soaking in the local atmosphere.
  • Wine Tasting: Locorotondo is located in the heart of the Valle d'Itria wine region. Take a wine tour and sample the region's delicious white wines, such as Locorotondo DOC and Martina Franca DOC.
black concrete road surrounded by brown rocks

Martina Franca

Martina Franca is a charming town located in the Puglia region of southern Italy. It's renowned for its well-preserved Baroque architecture, historic center, and vibrant cultural scene. The town is characterized by its narrow streets, whitewashed buildings adorned with ornate balconies, and picturesque squares. Things to do in Martina Franca:

  • Basilica di San Martino🔗: This stunning Baroque church is a must-see, known for its elaborate facade and interior decorations.
  • Piazza XX Settembre🔗: Martina Franca's main square is a hub of activity, surrounded by beautiful buildings, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to soak in the local atmosphere.
  • Palazzo Ducale🔗: This historic palace boasts impressive architecture and often hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
  • Church of San Domenico🔗: Admire the striking facade and serene interior of this church, which is a testament to Martina Franca's rich history and culture.
  • Old Town: wander through the charming streets of the old town, characterized by whitewashed buildings and winding alleyways. You'll find plenty of picturesque spots and hidden gems to discover.

🍽️ Martina Franca is famous for the capocollo, I suggest ordering a puccia that contains this ham type. I went to La Bottega del Capocollo🔗, a nice shop where you can also grab a quick lunch. I ordered a puccia with capocollo and caciocavallo (typical local cheese).

man standing on cliff near falls

Ostuni

In Ostuni, often referred to as the "White City" due to its whitewashed buildings, there are several attractions to see:

  • Ostuni Old Town: explore the charming streets of the historic center, characterized by narrow alleys, white buildings, and picturesque squares. 
Santorini, Greece
  • Ostuni Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta)🔗: visit this beautiful cathedral, located at the highest point of the old town. Admire its stunning facade and interior, which features intricate architectural details and religious artwork.
  • Arco Scoppa🔗: walk through this iconic arched entrance to the old town, which offers fantastic views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic Sea.
  • Piazza della Libertà🔗: relax in this lively square, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a great place to people-watch and enjoy the local ambiance.
  • Church of San Francesco d'Assisi🔗: explore this 15th-century church, known for its elegant architecture and beautiful interior decorations, including frescoes and sculptures.
  • Ostuni Coastline: take a short drive from the city center to the coastline, where you'll find beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the sandy shores or take a stroll along the coastal paths to enjoy the scenic views.

✨ Ostuni offers great sunsets, I was lucky to witness one of the most beautiful that I saw in this trip, so make sure to visit during this hour. 

flat lay photography of camera, book, and bag

🍽️ The best bombette I had during my holiday was at this restaurant in Ostuni: La Braceria - I piaceri della carne🔗

👉 Where I stayed: Vico Trieste🔗


In summary, exploring Puglia offers a diverse range of experiences, from the unique trulli houses to the charming towns and beautiful coastline. This itinerary provides a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage and natural beauty, promising an unforgettable journey through one of Italy's most enchanting regions. Get ready to immerse yourself in history, cuisine, and breathtaking scenery. Buon viaggio!

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