Best Places to Visit in Puglia Italy: If you’re planning a visit to Italy but want to skip the crowds of Rome, Venice, or Florence, Puglia is the place to be! I recently had the chance to visit this hidden gem in the southern heel of Italy’s boot, and it was very enjoyable. Puglia is a mystical combination of sun-kissed beaches, medieval villages with narrow streets, and mouthwatering cuisine that will entice you to stay forever. It has a cozier, more genuine vibe than other parts of Italy, which made the entire trip seem surreal. Puglia is the ideal vacation spot if you enjoy delicious food, charming towns, history, and the sea.

Let me walk you through some of the best places I visited—trust me, you won’t want to miss these!

1. Bari: The Capital of Puglia

Bari was my starting point in Puglia, and it instantly set the tone for the rest of the trip. As the capital of the region, it offers a bit of everything: historical landmarks, vibrant streets, and a lovely seaside promenade.

The Basilica di San Nicola, a stunning church rich in religious significance and historical value, was the first stop. It was like going back in time to step inside and see the remains of Saint Nicholas (yes, the genuine Santa Claus!). After that, I strolled around the ancient village of Bari Vecchia, where people were sitting outside their houses conversing and grandmas were making orecchiette pasta by hand. It was the ideal location to get lost in the winding alleyways and experience true Italian atmosphere.

I took a stroll along the Lungomare, or coastal promenade, in the evening. The Adriatic Sea was magically reflected by the sunset. It’s the perfect place to unwind with the refreshing sea breeze and a gelato.

2. Alberobello: The Land of Trulli

Alberobello comes second on my list and feels like I’ve stepped into a fantasy story. Unique, cone-shaped limestone dwellings known as trolley houses. Alberobello looks unlike any other place I’ve ever seen with these strange buildings recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rione Monti, where the streets are lined with these modest, picturesque houses, is the best place to take a trolley tour. It is interesting to see that some of them have been converted into cafes, stores and guesthouses I also visited the largest trollo in town, the Trollo Sovarano, which is now a museum. Walking around it let me see how people once used these quaint houses.

3. Lecce: The Florence of the South

Lecce completely took me by surprise. It’s called the “Florence of the South” for a reason—every corner of the city is filled with stunning Baroque architecture. I felt like I was in an open-air museum.

The Lecce Cathedral was one of the first places I visited, and its intricate facade left me speechless. The city’s heart lies in Piazza del Duomo, a beautiful square surrounded by impressive buildings. I also checked out the Roman Amphitheater, which was an unexpected find right in the middle of the city. It’s crazy to think how much history is layered here!

4. Polignano a Mare: The Cliffside Gem

In Puglia, Polignano a Mare was among my preferred locations. Situated steeply on the hillside, it features homes apparently clinging to the rocks above the blue sea. I went straight to Lama Monachil, a little beach sandwiched between two mountains. From the top, the vista was amazing; the glistening clean water was ideal for swimming.

I couldn’t resist visiting Grotta Palazzes, a restaurant housed within a cliff! Eating there with the waves pounding against the rocks below was unforgettable. Polignano also provides excellent ways to see the coastline for more daring people: boat trips and cliff diving.

5. Ostuni: The White City

Perched on a hilltop, Ostuni, sometimes known as the “White City,” had gleaming houses whitened in the sunlight as I arrived. Walking through the small streets of the old town felt like reliving history.

With a magnificent rose window, Ostuni Cathedral is a striking example of Gothic-Romanesque design. I was thrilled to discover expansive views of the Adriatic Sea while haphazardly meandering around the city’s winding lanes. You might simply get lost in such a setting and take in the beauty of the surroundings.

6. Matera: Ancient Cave City (Nearby in Basilicata)

Although not technically in Puglia, Matera is just a short drive away and is absolutely worth a visit. Known for its Sassi di Matera, ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock, this city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world.

Walking through Matera felt surreal—it’s like being in a movie set. Not surprisingly, various movies, notably The Passion of the Christ, made advantage of this filming site. If you’re in the vicinity, Matera is a must-see because of the mix of history, culture, and unspoiled beauty.

7. Vieste National Park and Gargano (Best Places to Visit in Puglia Italy)

For nature lovers, the Gargano Peninsula is paradise. I spent a few days exploring Vieste, a picturesque town with sandy beaches and a charming old town. Vieste also has a coastal fortress that adds to its charm.

If you love hiking, don’t miss Foresta Umbra, a dense forest within Gargano National Park. Being in the middle of nature as you strolled around the trails felt rejuvenating. I took a boat to the Tremiti Islands for an added adventure, where I discovered secret coves and went snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.

8. Locorotondo: A Hidden Gem

One of those locations that falls under the radar yet merits more attention is Locorotondo Whitewashed homes and a circular layout are hallmarks of the city. I meandered along little lanes, taking in the serene surroundings and breathtaking countryside.

Found in the Valle d’Itria, known for its olive trees and vineyards, Locorotondo is also If you enjoy wine, this is the area to taste some of the finest Puglia variations.

9. Otranto: The Easternmost Town in Italy

Still another highlight of my vacation was Otranto. With stunning coastline vistas and a rich past, this town is easternmost in Italy. With its complex mosaic floor, which uses art to depict life and faith, the Otranto Cathedral astounded me. From its walls, the Aragonese Castle presents absolutely amazing views of the sea.

Relaxing on Baia dei Turchi, an immaculate beach with smooth sand and glistening clean water, was one of my favourite Otranto scenes. Though somewhat deviant from the norm, it is absolutely worthwhile!

10. Monopoli: An Authentic Coastal Town

My last stop was Monopoli, and it was the perfect way to end the trip. This charming fishing town felt untouched by mass tourism. I loved wandering around the Old Harbor, watching colorful fishing boats bobbing in the water.

The Monopoli Castle is fascinating to visit because of its historical importance and right on shore location. Last evening I ate beside the water, savoring fresh seafood as the sun sank across the Adriatic.

Puglia has a lot to offer, including gorgeous beaches, a fascinating past, quaint towns, and delicious cuisine. I left each town I visited with a heart full of memories and a belly full of pasta because each had its own special charm. Puglia is the ideal location if you’re searching for a spot to travel that feels genuine and less touristy than other regions of Italy. Explore the undiscovered treasures in addition to the well-known locations. You won’t be sorry!

There you go! I hope this gives you a sense of how magical Puglia is. Now, it’s your turn to experience it—start planning, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure!