is puglia worth visiting

But they can very well be the wildest too. Amid these olive groves, youll see the distinct trulli houses, their conical roofs standing out against the verdant landscape. Its totally beautiful to see and one of the best things to do in Puglia if you love pretty spots. The statue randomly washed up on a beach after a Venetian ship sank and it is unclear where it originated from. I'm just writing to say that I have to stop reading posts that don't relate to my itinerary. The food in Puglia is known for its simplicity, freshness, and use of locally-sourced ingredients. Then drive to Lecce and stay two nights (maybe three) and then to Matera and stay two nights and then back to Bari and stay two nights, flying home from there. And would this be doable on a small budget? Their food and hospitality are out of this world. It makes it so much easier to explore the region, especially to find some of the smaller spots. Surely, not for a comfortable living nor for a military purpose. In Italian, the region is commonly referred to as Puglia, which is the official name used within Italy. The city suffered greatly from the construction of a factory, which let the place practically impossible to live in. Its another baroque town thats picture-perfect to explore. Learn everything there is to know about this fascinating port city by taking a private tour with a professional local guide. The north of Puglia is associated with the wine-producing culture, while the south has a strong connection with Our greatest surprise, however, was to experience Ostuni at dusk. Two weeks in Puglia is what we recommend if you want to enjoy the most of Puglia. If you type Puglia in the search window you will see that lots of people really love it. The Grotta della Poesia is of extraordinary beauty and it cannot stay out of your Puglia itinerary. The waters around the town have even been awarded the Blue Flag for their purity levels. Puglias cities may not be quite as famous as its beaches and small towns, but for those seeking history and culture, theyre still absolutely some vegetarian antipasti grilled, deep-fried, you name it, taralli pugliesi some local kind of pretzels, puccia a sandwich made of pizza dough, with lots of delicious flavors, All you need to know about the Amalfi Coast: plan the perfect. But, every town in Puglia you visit has a rich history and some beautiful historic buildings and museums to visit. YES travel insurance is one of the most important things to sort out prior to your trip. Visiting Grotta della Poesia in Salento is easily one of the best things to do in Puglia. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no additional cost to you. I do recommend downloading an offline map: click here-> maps.me, which will help you greatly. Hi! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We are travel bloggers who enjoy writing about the Nordics and the Eastern Bloc. And lets not talk about the. Explore the defensive walls of the old town and visit the Castello di Gallipoli, which was used for many years as the towns main form of defense. Porto Selvaggio 9. Fancy staying in a Trulli House? It is recommended to spend at least one week in the region. Log in, Day 2 of your Puglia itinerary Monopoli, San Vito, Polignano al Mare & Ostuni, Puglia is a region in Italy that is definitely worth visiting, The 10 Best Hotels In Cinque Terre With A View, Tips For Renting A Car & Driving In Puglia Italy, The 11 Very Best Places To Visit In Puglia, Italy, Tips For Renting A Car & Driving In Puglia Italy . Where would be the best place to do this during our stay. Alberobello is one of the biggest draws to the Puglia region with its Trulli-style houses. Spend time exploring the harbor where you will be greeted with classic little fishing boats bobbing around in the sea. 9 Compelling Reasons Why, Lecce (known as the Florence of the South due to its baroque architecture), Alberobello (famous for its trulli houses), Ostuni (the White City with its whitewashed buildings), Polignano a Mare (known for its dramatic cliffs and picturesque old town). Thank you so much for stopping by. Check here to see other accommodations in Lecce. Today, the region is a vibrant and bustling area that oozes southern European charm. Alternatively, you can fly to Rome and from there take the train to Bari (4h) or rent a car to drive around Puglia. We do offer a service of bespoken itinerary and travel consultancy. That being said, dont fret if you dont drive, there are some train lines, buses and transfer options available too. Witness the captivating Procession of the Mysteries in Trani, a solemn display of religious devotion that leaves spectators in awe. 2023 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | CST# 2086743 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy. Holidays Is Puglia Worth Visiting? Would you reccomend a stay in Santa Maria di Lueca? Immerse yourself in the timeless ambiance of Locorotondo or meander along the picturesque waterfront of Gallipoli. Time in Grotta della Poesia: half-day activity. Just when the sun goes down, the Citt Bianca turns into a bohemian scenario, with many restaurants illuminated by candles, bars with cushions on the stairs of the old city, live concerts and many more attractions. The cost of eating out, accommodation, and attractions are quite reasonable compared to other Italian tourist destinations. For vegan options, Ive found it best to just ask the waiter. However, renting a bike is something I wouldnt know really how to tell you. We were in Puglia for about 3 weeks last October, and agree that it is well worth while. But, as it only has three rooms available, you might want to book in advance. But there are all sorts of festivals and events happening throughout Puglia, especially in the summer months. Some of the must-visit sites include the Castel del Monte and the Trulli houses of Alberobello, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Find accommodation here. I like your 7 day itinerary. The coastal waters off of Taranto are rich with minerals and are home to some of the best mussels available in Italy so good that they are on a list of regionally protected foods. Thus, our recommendation is for a road trip. One of the biggest draws to Monopoli is its stunning beaches that stretch south of the town and are some of the best spots to relax and enjoy the Adriatic sea in Puglia. In the evening, eat dinner at the Grotta Palazzese restaurant, a restaurant that is built into one of the sea caves and hovers above the tranquil waters below. There are also many Alberobello tours that make getting to the town easier than ever! I can't recommend Puglia highly enough (but selfishly, I kind of hope RS never includes it in his books :)). This is the provider we use and we have had nothing but great experiences with them. If you are wondering how to get to Puglia Italy, it is super easy! Would you recommened visiting Trani? Olive oil is another important ingredient in Puglias cuisine, and the region is one of the largest producers of olive oil in Italy. There are trains from the biggest cities, but not the small charming villages and beaches. Yes, but with many restrictions. , where an expert local guide will teach you everything you need to know about the wonderful Gallipoli. This allows you to explore the charming towns, visit the iconic trulli houses, indulge in the local cuisine, and relax on the beautiful beaches. One of the biggest draws to the region is the town of Polignano a Mare, referred to as the Jewel of Puglia. Pin it! If you have any other great places to visit in Puglia that you recommend, please let us know so we can add them to our next Puglia itinerary! City Guides | Travel the World | Living Abroad | Travel Guides | Adventure Travel | Digital Nomad Life | Valencia, Spain | California, USA | The Netherlands | How to Plan a Trip, I consent to the storage of my data according to the Privacy Policy, - From Short Trips to Traveling the World & Living Abroad -, A Perfect Catalina Island Day Trip the, Living in Cuba: Things You Want to Know Before Moving Here, Incredible Bucket List Destinations for Once in a, olive oil tastings and tours you can book. Lecce7. Throughout Brindisi, you will also see many spectacular churches, some of which date back to before the 11th century, however, some have had a difficult past with the cathedral having to be entirely rebuilt in the 18th century after an earthquake destroyed the original. We lived in Italy for over a year and travelled quite extensively around the country and can say for sure Puglia is one of the most beautiful and interesting regions in Italy. 9 Compelling Reasons Why Is Puglia Worth Visiting? >> Click here to get an Italy travel insurance quote. Power strip: The mighty power strip is one of the best traveling companions in the world. If you would like some help on making an itinerary for your trip, including accommodation and places to visit, please do let us know as we offer this service. Absolutely! Gorgeous Cities in Puglia to Visit. Discover here 13 best places to visit in Puglia and get all the info to explore them! Thanks for this great article. Youll head out on a guided tour of Bari and even get to make your own traditional pasta (Orecchiette) and get to taste a tipple of local wines from Puglia and gelato too! Tip: If you are the kind of traveller who prefers to avoid daily check-ins and check-outs, our suggestion is to choose two cities as a base for this 7-day itinerary in Puglia. Santa Maria Al Bagno, Porto Selvaggio, Porto Cesario, Torre Colimena, Torre Chianca, and Punta Prosciutto are to name a few of the best beaches in Puglia you should make an effort to visit or spend the weekend in Puglia. Just be sure to book a table on weekends this small spot can fill up fast. First things first, if you are here it means you are considering adding Puglia to your, If you would rather not plan your whole itinerary, here is a great option for a, Another good option when traveling from the UK for example, is the, If you want to find flights that will get you there, make sure to check out, All in all, if you want to have a carefree weekend and go wherever you feel like going, it, the name on the credit card needs to match the person with the drivers license, Another option I always see coming up in different groups about travel to Italy is. Join the exuberant festivities of the Cavalcata di SantOronzo in Lecce, where the city celebrates its patron saint with grandeur. Puglia is known for its beautiful beaches and coastline. Around a 1-hour drive from Alberobello (and about 10 minutes from the Puglia region), its a totally historic city that dates back thousands of years. Along the coast, hunt out amazing viewpoints that are dotted along the cliff tops and in the old town. I would definitely have a place as a central location for my 6-day visit to Puglia, so I save time and money on moving a few times. But lets not forget the charming alleyways, the turquoise sea and the gastronomy, as usual delicious. Due to its strategic position, pilgrims, travellers and even invaders considered Puglia the gateway to and from Europe for many centuries. Thank you. So, where to go when travelling to Puglia? So, avoid their expensive touristy restaurants and swing by the neighbour town Ceglie Messapica, just 12km or 7 miles away. Learning a few basic phrases in Italian is definitely something Id recommend though. Yes, its beautiful to see the Trulli houses are totally stunning to see. The new part of the town is located on the mainland of Italy while the old town teeters on a small island completely surrounded by the sea and only accessible by a 16th-century bridge or by boat. Located in the southeastern part of Italy, Puglia makes up the heel of Italys boot-like shape. Some of the must-visit towns include Alberobello, known for its trulli houses, Ostuni, nicknamed the White City because of its whitewashed houses, and Lecce, known for its Baroque architecture. 01 day Bari02 day Polignano a Mare03 day Alberobelo (sleep in Ostuni)04 day Ostuni05 day Lecce06 day Otranto07 day Return to Bari by car 2h10min. However, we were so rushed we didn't get to see and explore other areas. These cultural festivals offer a glimpse into the soul of Puglia and its vibrant traditions. Take your time to explore and enjoy all that this wonderful region has to offer. Visitors to Puglia flock to the beautiful seaside towns to take in the stunning views over the Adriatic and marvel at the outstanding beauty of the area. Ostuni is a remarkably beautiful city that sits perched on a hill, teeming with charming, whitewashed buildings. Puglia is a treasury of historical wonders waiting to be explored. In the evening, take the time to try Ostunis local wines that have been protected under European law. You can easily spend a few, pretty relaxed days here as its quite small. Its a street-food-style eatery that has some of the tastiest catches from the coastline around Salento. Trani is a very cute little town. In addition to fresh seafood, Bari is famous for its Focaccia Barese and Orrechiette, an ear-shaped pasta that you can find local ladies making and selling on the streets. The small town has existed since the first century AD. However, if you are driving (or cycling, like us) down the coast from Gargano, then it is worth stopping by to check it out. The trains are fast, quite comfortable and reliable. Drop us an email and we can sent you a document explaining how that would work. Puglia is well-connected by train, with several daily high-speed trains from Rome, Milan, Naples, and other major cities. Brace yourself for your Puglia tour! Rumor has it they were built as a smart way to avoid property tax in the region as they were quick to dismantle when tax inspectors from Naples would enter the area. The city remains an influential port and the hub for exports and imports to Greece and the Middle East. Where is Puglia located? It is the most intact remains of its kind, with even nose bones remaining. The old cave dwellings were inhabited until the 1950s when they were finally deemed uninhabitable. After arriving, be sure to check out the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the area around Arco Scoppa and dont forget to spot the Colonna di SantOronzo thats stood in Ostuni since the 1700s. The centre has an eight-sided courtyard and used to have an octagonal fountain too. But, if you have any other questions, feel free to leave a comment below! Time in Grotte di Castellana: half-day activity. In the evening, enjoy Italian aperitivo with fantastic local wines grown in the surrounding areas. But if you do need any assistance, please do get in touch. But overall Id say Puglia is a safe and great place to visit. Make the most of your time in Ostuni, by taking a walking tour of Ostuni, complete with a delightful gelato tasting. Your email address will not be published. Even if you are not fond of well-worn destinations just like us it is yet impossible to not fall in love with this town. Yet, visiting Alberobello is more than fascinating and also one of the best towns in Puglia. Sicily in winter - is that a good idea? Cycling also demands time. Alternatively, many of the big cities along the coast have large ports where cruise ships and ferries regularly arrive and depart from. Also, you can see a sanctuary with the mortal remains of more than 800 men killed during the Turkish invasion in the XV century. 11 Best Christmas Holiday Destinations for Families, When much of the North America experiences cold temperatures and winter weather, there are several hot places to visit in December in Read More, The holiday season is a time for creating lasting memories with your loved ones, and what better way to celebrate than by Read More. The most notable sight in the town is the impressive lighthouse that stands 47 meters tall and is the second most important lighthouse in the whole of Italy it is definitely one of the best places to visit in Puglia. Make the most of your time in Ostuni, by taking. , a wonderful Norwegian company that offers amazing coverage at even more impressive rates. You will receive a link to create a new password via email. We stayed in an awesome B&B there,the Le Giravolte, one of the best b&b in Puglia. Panzerotti, a deep-fried pastry filled with tomato and mozzarella cheese. Each year, the city commemorates a darker part of its history, when its citizens were enslaved by the Turks and the elderly or weak were murdered. If youre looking for awesome Puglia towns and cities, we hope that this guide gives you a great starting point to plan your trip. We will shortly be flying to Bari and spending 10 days in Puglia. Anyway, the castle lies gloriously on top of the mount near Andria, overlooking the sea of Puglia. You wont pay any more and it will help us creating content such as this one. Otranto 6. Fancy a bite to eat? Oh, and make sure to stop off at. If you want to learn more about Ostuni and its history, while exploring its narrow streets, Maybe one of the most popular destinations in the area, Polignano a Mare is such a vibrant town, with a restaurant that must be on anyones bucket list: the, Along the sea, visit the Castello di Carlo V., step inside the Basilica of the Madonna della Madia, go on a. burrata the softer version of mozzarella is a typical Pugliese product, and you must try it here! Time in Castel del Monte: half-day activity. eight towers and eight rooms on each of its two floors. Its more modern history has been somewhat turbulent, with rulers and invaders coming and going until finally, Italy united as one kingdom in the 19th century. Not only does it have some of the prettiest Italian cities, but its also one of the most iconic spots in There are a few options: As opposed to North Italy, which counts on a good network of public transportation, the south of the country is more lacking. Great article. The allure of Puglia extends far beyond its coastal beauty and historic towns. Where should I set base for this itinerary? The rugged coastline of Gargano National Park is stunning to see. The town has a gracious city centre, is full of churches, mansions, a Roman amphitheatre and many more interesting sights. Hankering for a bite? Including why you should alway stay in the historic centre, hire a car and follow the rhythms of southern Italian life, these are 17 essential things to know before you visit Puglia, It is also possible to travel in Puglia by train, but you wont be able to get off the main cities. Is Puglia italy worth visiting: Why should you visit Puglia? Read about itineraries, activities, places to stay and travel essentials and get inspiration from Being able to speak a few words in the language really helps create a connection between yourself and local people even if it is just being able to order your coffee in Italian. In the town itself, you will find a well-preserved old town where a maze of alleyways and stairways that creep up the hillside. Therefore, if you are not much of a party-lover, this wont be your cup of tea. 2014-2022 Monday Feelings - All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Hello Nanette. Visit the Gargano National Park, with its forests, mountains, and panoramic sea views. Hello Gabby, I dont know anyone in particular. But as soon as you have the bike, it is totally doable and worthy. Puglia offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, agriturismi (farm stays), and rental villas. This illustrious city is one of the best places in Puglia. The west coast beaches of Puglia can very well be the most beautiful beaches in Puglia. Would you recommend Airbnb properties? Have the best time exploring Puglia and dont forget to try all the delicious foods, olive oil and burrata! But lets not undermine its charm too. Hello Caroline. Id recommend renting a small car and taking your time to get used to the Italian way of driving, especially if this will be your first time driving abroad. Throughout Puglia, there are hundreds of beautiful towns that are perfect for visiting, each with its own charm and characteristics. So, with regards to set base, try either Bari, Polignano a Mare or Ostuni. Just be sure to book in advance, places fill up fast. Best Places to Visit in Puglia 1. Generally, the peak summer season (July and August) is more expensive, while the shoulder seasons of April-June and September-October can offer better value. Enjoy the sights and tasty treats of Bari on. In terms of accommodation, there are options to fit a range of budgets, including hostels, bed and breakfasts, and boutique hotels. These unique structures have become iconic symbols of the region and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more! Find out more about the history and legends of Alberobello in this article. Puppy Defender. To avoid having to hunt down one during your trip I suggest bringing one or two with you to alleviate any unneeded stress. The winter months of December, January, and February are cool and wet, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 7-12C). Not only is the seafood delicious but the setting, is just gorgeous. This article is great! There are so many amazing places to visit in Puglia, Italy. Delight in the Baroque splendor of Lecce, often referred to as the Florence of the South, where ornate architecture adorns every corner. If youre a beach enthusiast, then Puglia sure is worth visiting. The relaxing atmosphere is greatly appreciated over here. Complete: It has a 3km of distance, takes 2 hours and passes through the famous Grotta Bianca (White Grotto). Lastly, Puglia can be reached by car via the A14 and A16 motorways. A stunning coastal town, visiting Otranto is one of the best things to do in Puglia when exploring the Salento region. There is also a large amount of Roman history in the area with the Via Triana having run through Monopoli and under the cathedral there are excavated Roman ruins. Spend some time walking along the seafront, where you can take a ride on the observational Ferris wheel or head to the fish market to try the fantastic fresh seafood that locals eat raw with a squeeze of lemon. In the area around the city, you will find probably some of the most interesting ancient sites, starting with the remnants of megalithic city walls. Puglia is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities ranging from hiking, cycling, to bird watching. Another cool stop to add to your Puglia itinerary is the Castel del Monte, located in the city of Andria, near Bari. But, in winter youll also find some restaurants and activities closed, and many small towns are very quiet. One of the most amazing things to do in Ostuni is to watch the sunset over the old town as it turns the white city, gold, and pink. Safe travels. Its a colossal and totally beautiful rugged bay, cave and tunnel thats just so stunning to see. The Grotte di Castellana is a complex of incredible caves and grottos with formations dating back more than 90 million years. Thank you so much regardless! Hello Sidney. Take a guided tour of Altamura and learn all about its famous bread that is popular throughout Italy. Keep hunger at bay by trying Altamuras famous bread, the Pane di Altamura. Often asking your hotel/B&B will give the best information. Today, many of these caves have been restored and converted into hotels, restaurants, and shops. Feeling peckish? Prepare to be captivated by the enchantment of Puglia, an exquisite gem in the crown of southern Italy. And this guide details the most beautiful Puglia destinations! It is worth going even if it is to understand the question about emptying historical city centres of Puglia during the economic boom of post-II World War. So do visit some of the olive groves and taste the local olive oil. As you have 10 days in Puglia, I would most definitely stay somewhere like Gallipoli, Otranto, Lecce or a nice masseria, such as Tenuta La Baronessa, to use as base and depart to other places in Salento. Required fields are marked *. They are stunning beaches in Puglia that are too good to miss. But there are many more beaches to explore when visiting Puglia! You also have lots of other important historical stuff like all the castles that are all over the region. Some of the buildings host souvenir shops, wine tasting bars, restaurants with hidden terraces, and even, The town is bigger than Alberobello, and the main attraction youll head towards will be, We stopped for a coffee at a bar right next to, We wandered through the maze of medieval streets, beneath the arches, along with the neverending buildings, we stopped to admire the. Owner of marketing company A to Z Marketing. The buses are run by a range of companies though, so it can get a bit annoying to figure out which bus will take you where. Discover more of Barlettas hidden treasures by taking a guided walking tourwith an expert local who will teach you everything you need to know about Barletta. Probably one of Puglias most iconic towns, Alberobello is more famous for its unique trulli houses that are situated within the town and are lovely to see. I hope this article has answered the main questions you may have had about visiting this part of Italy. Stroll through the historic city of Bari, with its ancient cathedrals and labyrinthine streets, and immerse yourself in its captivating history. Grotta della Poesia8. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no additional cost to you. Is that something you are interested in, by the way? Surrounded by Gargano National Park, the coastal city of Vieste is really easy to visit after exploring the rugged coastline around this northern part of Puglia. We were in Puglia for about 3 weeks last October, and agree that it is well worth while. If youre still asking Is Puglia worth visiting? lets explore why the rural landscape of this region is a compelling answer to your question. Is it difficult to find parking? Its the kind of city thats perfect for a stroll. Also, can I travel by train to the different towns? Along the coast, the dramatic cliffs give way to gorgeous beaches where you can relax and take in the summer sunshine. Do you do any travel arrangements for people? The region boasts a mesmerizing coastline that will take your breath away. You can read more about this Masseria over here. To make things easier, book this Baroque and underground Lecce walking tour. Also known in Italian as the castello otagonale (octagon castle of Puglia). Then you have natural wonders like Castellana Grotte, the adriatic coast, the amazing wines and olive oils and fruits, etc. Though, were never able to take ourselves out of bed that early in the morning! Your email address will not be published. Reaching Puglia is fairly easy with two large airports servicing the area in Bari and Brindisi. It is during the late spring (May to June) or early fall (September to October). Then, in Trani it is worth checking Il Duomo (Basilica Cattedrale Beata Maria Vergine), both Molos (the piers), the very beautiful park on the right of the port (Villa Comunale) and the Castello Svevo di Trani. Experience the crystal-clear waters of Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Ionian and Adriatic Seas meet, or unwind on the pristine shores of Torre dellOrso. This guide will take you through the best Puglia towns and cities and a quick overview of why you should add it to the Puglia itinerary! #mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; }/* Add your own Mailchimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block.We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. Plus, the restaurant is just so cosy and cute. One of the things that makes Lecce so special is its ornate Baroque buildings and carvings. For this reason, if you are travelling with children, perhaps, is wiser to check if the place you are planning to visit has the infrastructure to welcome the little ones. We spent a month cycling around the whole Puglia region and we cannot recommend a better way for a different Puglia road trip. Indulge in robust reds such as Primitivo and Negroamaro or savor the crisp whites like Fiano and Verdeca. ). To have as a base, we recommend: Getting to Puglia is very easy. Most trips to Italy are problem-free, but you never know what might happen and its best to protect yourself against the unknown. If youre planning a trip to Italy, and you are wonder is Puglia worth visiting? Afterwards, as you continue your journey through Salento, be sure to stop off at Gallipoli. We offer a tailored itinerary service, which we give you information about Italy, curiosities, two recommendation of hotel, activities to do, beaches to visit, all tailored to your preferences and pocket. You might find other beaches with beach clubs, such as Porto Cesario, but definitely Gallipoli for having fun! My husband and I will be touring Puglia on the two seats of our tandem bike May 13!

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