Puglia, the heel of Italy’s iconic boot-shaped peninsula, captivated us with its charm, history, and stunning landscapes. During our visit, we strolled through the fairytale-like trulli town of Alberobello, soaked in the coastal beauty of Monopoli, and marveled at the ancient wonders of Matera. From serene beaches to quaint villages like Locorotondo, Puglia offered us an unforgettable mix of relaxation and adventure. Here, we’ll share some of our favorite highlights and tips for exploring this region.
How to get to Puglia and get around
Reaching Puglia is easy and convenient. Many international travelers fly into Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, the main gateway to the region. Once you arrive, renting a car is highly recommended to explore Puglia’s hidden gems at your own pace.We rented a car from the airport, which gave us the freedom to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and charming towns at our own pace. With well-maintained roads and scenic routes, driving in Puglia was an enjoyable part of our journey.
Where we stayed
We booked ourselves a beautifully transformed trullo, and it was one of the highlights of our trip. Surrounded by a big garden full of olive trees and complete with a swimming pool, the setting was serene and picturesque. If you have the chance, sleeping in a trullo is a truly unique experience.
Our favorite things to do in Puglia
During our trip, we focused on the enchanting area around Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are the highlights of our adventure:
1. Discovering the trulli town of Alberobello
Alberobello is a town unlike any other, famed for its unique trulli houses. These small, whitewashed buildings with conical stone roofs look straight out of a fairytale. Walking through the narrow streets, we were mesmerized by the charming rows of trulli. The main part of town can be bustling with tourists, but crossing over to the other side of the hill offers a quieter, more authentic experience.
A highlight of our visit was exploring a small trullo museum. This quaint house-turned-exhibit gave us a glimpse into what life inside a trullo would have been like. The lovely owners, rustic interior and historical artifacts made it a memorable stop.
Tips for Visiting Alberobello
- Visit Early or Late in the Day: To avoid the crowds, plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the streets are less busy.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The cobblestone streets can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is a must.
2. Visit the coastal town of Monopoli
Monopoli is a picturesque coastal town that offers a delightful mix of history and seaside charm. We followed the ‘Itinerario Turistico Pedonale’ to discover the old town, winding through its narrow alleys and historic squares. One of our favorite spots was the small harbor, aptly named ‘Apulia – Window on the Sea,’ where colorful fishing boats bob gently on the water.
3. Enjoy the beach near Monopoli
When we visited Puglia in October, we were blessed with warm autumn weather, perfect for some beach time. Porto Ghiacciolo, near Monopoli, was a serene retreat. The clear waters and soft sand were idyllic, and the views of Castello di Santo Stefano perched on the cliffs were breathtaking. We even went for a swim!
4. Visit Locorotondo
Locorotondo, a small, round-shaped, car-free village, was an absolute delight to explore. Its charming streets and whitewashed buildings exuded a tranquil beauty. We enjoyed a coffee at Caffè della Villa on the lovely town square and took in the panoramic views from the Giuseppe Comunale Park. This peaceful village is a must-visit for its authenticity and charm.
Beyond the postcards tip: We rented an e-bike to discover the rural area around Locorotondo. Cycling through the scenic countryside, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, added an extra layer of adventure to our visit.
5. Visit the beachtown of Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is a dramatic beachtown built on top of towering cliffs. The town’s stunning setting, with its ancient streets and breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, left us in awe. This is a place where natural beauty and architectural splendor come together seamlessly.
6. Make a day trip to Matera
Matera, the oldest city in Italy, is an unmissable destination. We booked a tuk-tuk tour with a knowledgeable guide who introduced us to the ‘Sassi,’ ancient cave dwellings that have been transformed into modern homes and boutique accommodations. Walking through the thousand years old narrow streets and exploring the cave houses was a fascinating journey back in time.
Stay tuned for more adventures in Italy as we share our experiences discovering this beautiful region’s of Tuscany, Lake Como and the Dolomites.
