Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot is a hidden gem in and of itself. With its stunning coastline, charming towns, and rich history, it’s no wonder why it is gaining popularity.
With so many destinations to choose from, it can get a little overwhelming for those who have never visited this expansive region. And if you plan on visiting Puglia just once and want to do it right, you could no doubt use some inspiration for your itinerary.
So here are our favorite must see destinations of Puglia: a mixture of popular spots and hidden gems handpicked for your convenience.
Favorite Destinations in Puglia:
Alberobello
Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most unique towns in Puglia. Its iconic trulli houses, made of limestone, give the town a fairytale-like feel. Walking through the narrow streets and admiring the conical roofs is a must-do.
Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is a picturesque town overlooking the Adriatic Sea. It’s known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear water, and charming historic center. Take a stroll along the promenade, have a gelato at one of the many gelaterias, and visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.
Monopoli
Monopoli is a seaside town with a rich history. It has a beautiful old town with narrow streets, colorful houses, and a castle. Make sure to visit the Cathedral of Madonna della Madia and the Basilica of San Nicola.
Ostuni
Ostuni, also known as the White City, is perched on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Its white-washed buildings and narrow streets make it one of the most picturesque towns in Puglia. Don’t miss the stunning Cathedral of Ostuni walking tour and the Bishop’s Palace.
Otranto
Otranto is a small town with a rich history. Its old town is a maze of narrow streets and colorful houses. Visit the Cathedral of Otranto with its impressive mosaic floor and the Aragonese Castle with its stunning views over the sea.
Lecce
Lecce, also known as the Florence of the South, is a baroque masterpiece. Its historic center is full of ornate buildings, churches, and palaces. Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce, the Piazza del Duomo, and the Roman Amphitheater. It also has a major train station to where you can take the ‘Freccia Bianca’ or a regional train to other Italian cities including Rome and Florence.
Vieste
Vieste is a charming town located on the Gargano Peninsula. It has a beautiful old town with narrow streets and whitewashed houses. Don’t miss the Pizzomunno Beach, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Castle of Vieste.
Gargano Peninsula
The Gargano Peninsula is a natural paradise with stunning beaches, crystal-clear water, and dense forests. Take a hike in the Umbra Forest, visit the stunning beaches of Peschici and Mattinata, and explore the Caves of Castellana.
How To Get Around In Puglia
Puglia is a large region with many beautiful destinations to explore. If you enjoy driving and are game to navigate your way around new places, then we recommend renting a car, as public transportation can be limited. There are many car rental companies at the major airports and train stations, making it easy to rent a car. Make sure to book in advance, especially during the peak season.
Another great way to explore Puglia is by bike. There are many bike rental companies, and some towns offer guided bike tours. Puglia bike tour is a great way to see the countryside and visit small towns.
Alternatively, if you want to relax on your holiday and not be bothered with navigators, parking or local traffic laws, then we can arrange a private driver who will transfer you from place to place in style. When you include excursions in your itinerary, your personal tour guide will also collect you from your hotel and take you back at the conclusion of your tour.
Puglia has so much to offer. Speak to us about including these must-see destinations in your personal itinerary with the added comfort of a driver to take you around.
