Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is a captivating region that seamlessly blends stunning coastlines, charming hilltop towns, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With its sun-drenched olive groves, turquoise waters, and iconic trulli houses, Puglia offers a magical escape for travelers seeking authenticity and beauty. Planning a week-long itinerary in Puglia? Here’s a curated guide to make your best holiday to Puglia.
Day 1: Arrival in Bari and Explore the Old Town
Start in Bari, Puglia’s bustling capital.
- Morning: Arrive in Bari, settle into your accommodation, and kick off your trip by exploring Bari Vecchia, the old town. Stroll through its narrow streets, where women make orecchiette pasta by hand, and visit the Basilica di San Nicola, an architectural masterpiece.
- Lunch: Indulge in fresh seafood at a local trattoria.
- Afternoon: Walk along the elegant seafront promenade, Lungomare Nazario Sauro, and enjoy gelato at one of Bari’s famous gelaterias.
- Evening: Savor traditional Barese dishes like riso, patate e cozze (rice, potatoes, and mussels) at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Polignano a Mare and Monopoli
Dive into coastal charm.
- Morning: Drive 30 minutes to Polignano a Mare, a picturesque seaside town perched on cliffs above the Adriatic Sea. Swim at Lama Monachile, a postcard-perfect beach, and explore the town’s whitewashed streets.
- Lunch: Dine at a cliffside restaurant with breathtaking sea views.
- Afternoon: Head to nearby Monopoli, a charming fishing village. Stroll along the port, visit the Castello Carlo V, and explore the baroque cathedral.
- Evening: Enjoy fresh pasta and Puglian wine in Monopoli before returning to your accommodation.
Day 3: Alberobello and Locorotondo
Discover Puglia’s iconic trulli houses.
- Morning: Visit Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its conical trulli houses. Wander through the Rione Monti district and step inside a trullo to learn about their history.
- Lunch: Savor rustic Puglian cuisine at a traditional trattoria.
- Afternoon: Head to Locorotondo, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Known for its circular layout, whitewashed buildings, and renowned Locorotondo DOC wine, this town is perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
- Evening: Spend the night in a trullo, a unique and unforgettable experience.
Day 5: Matera Day Trip
Step into a timeless city.
- Morning: Take a day trip to Matera, about 1.5 hours away from Ostuni. Though technically in Basilicata, Matera is often included in Puglian itineraries due to its proximity. Explore the Sassi di Matera, ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Lunch: Try Basilicata’s unique dishes like crapiata (a hearty legume soup) at a local restaurant in Matera.
- Afternoon: Visit Casa Grotta, a restored cave house, and walk along the scenic viewpoints overlooking the Sassi. Stop by the Matera Cathedral for stunning views of the town.
- Evening: Return to Ostuni or your accommodation in the Valle d’Itria.
Day 6: Lecce and Gallipoli
Art, history, and coastal beauty.
- Morning: Drive south to Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South” for its stunning baroque architecture. Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo, and the Roman Amphitheater. Don’t miss the artisanal papier-mâché shops scattered throughout the city.
- Lunch: Enjoy ciceri e tria (chickpeas and pasta) at a cozy trattoria.
- Afternoon: Head to Gallipoli, a seaside town on the Ionian coast. Explore the old town, located on a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge. Walk along the harbor, visit the Castello di Gallipoli, and relax on one of the nearby beaches.
- Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood in Gallipoli before heading back to Lecce or staying overnight.
Day 7: Relax in Porto Selvaggio or Torre Guaceto
End your trip with coastal tranquility.
- Morning: Spend your final day unwinding at a nature reserve. Choose Porto Selvaggio, a peaceful bay surrounded by pine forests, perfect for hiking and swimming in crystal-clear waters, or Torre Guaceto, a protected marine reserve with pristine beaches and walking trails.
- Lunch: Pack a picnic or enjoy simple seafood at a beachside café.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll, soak in the sun, or snorkel to explore the underwater world.
- Evening: Return to Bari or Brindisi, depending on your departure, and reflect on your magical week in Puglia.
Tips for Your Puglian Adventure
- Rent a Car: Puglia’s beauty lies in its countryside and smaller towns, so having a car is essential for flexibility.
- Try Local Wines: Don’t miss out on Puglian wines like Primitivo di Manduria and Negroamaro.
- Stay in Unique Accommodations: Experience staying in a trullo or a masseria (traditional farmhouse) for a truly Puglian vibe.
- Plan for Off-Peak Seasons: Spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
With its idyllic mix of history, cuisine, and natural beauty, Puglia offers an unforgettable holiday that will leave you longing to return. Whether you’re wandering through ancient towns, indulging in rustic flavors, or soaking up the sun on its golden beaches, Puglia truly has a customized and perfect holiday for everyone.
