Puglia is a dreamy region of whitewashed towns, dramatic coastlines, and mouthwatering food. We spent five days exploring this beautiful part of Italy, basing ourselves in Monopoli, Matera, and Lecce, among other wonderful towns.
If you’re planning a trip and looking for the best things to do in Puglia, here’s a detailed breakdown of our itinerary, including must-see attractions, great places to eat, and travel tips.
Day 1: Arrive in Bari – Explore Monopoli & Polignano a Mare
After arriving at Bari Airport (BRI), we picked up our rental car and drove straight to Monopoli, a picturesque fishing town where pastel-colored boats bob in the harbor and locals sip espresso in sun-drenched piazzas. Monopoli feels refreshingly untouristy, despite the fact that it’s quickly gaining a reputation among tourists who visit the region. Monopoli has a laid-back charm that makes it a perfect base for exploring Puglia’s Adriatic coast.
Why Visit Monopoli?
Monopoli offers an authentic slice of Puglian life, blending the historical charm found at every turn in its old town and beyond with a relaxed coastal atmosphere. It’s not as crowded as other towns in the region, allowing you to explore it peacefully, sans overwhelming crowds.
Things to do in Monopoli:
- Wander through the old town, a maze of whitewashed buildings and hidden squares.
- Visit Castello di Carlo V, an imposing fortress with breathtaking sea views.
- Relax at Cala Porta Vecchia, a charming beach perfect for a quick dip.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at Trattoria La Locanda dei Mercanti, where the grilled octopus is a must-try. This place was recommended to us by our B&B host, and it’s definitely worth a try!
- Experience the evening passeggiata, when locals take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
In the afternoon, we drove just 15 minutes to Polignano a Mare, a town dramatically perched on limestone cliffs above the Adriatic Sea. We planned to visit it at this time of day, as we heard that the town is particularly beautiful during sunset.
Why Visit Polignano a Mare?
Known as the birthplace of the famous Italian singer Domenico Modugno (who sang “Volare”), Polignano a Mare is an iconic cliffside town with breathtaking views and charming cobbled streets. The town is small and walkable, so you can easily explore it in a couple of hours.
Things to do in Polignano a Mare:
- Take in the stunning view of Lama Monachile, a small but iconic beach wedged between cliffs. We visited off-season, so the beach was empty, but keep in mind that this spot gets extremely crowded during the summer months!
- Stroll through the picture-perfect historic center
- Enjoy dinner at Ristorante Antiche Mura. The homemade past is finger-licking good.
- Walk along the Domenico Modugno statue and enjoy the sweeping coastal views.
Day 2: Trulli Houses & Whitewashed Towns – Alberobello, Locorotondo, & Ostuni
Our second day was all about discovering the charming villages of Puglia’s Itria Valley.
Morning: Alberobello – A Fairytale Town
A 30-minute drive from Monopoli brought us to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its trulli — cone-roofed limestone houses that make the town look like something out of a fairytale. Walking through Rione Monti, Alberobello’s most photogenic district, we admired the trulli up close, many of which house souvenir shops and cozy cafés. Visiting Alberobello is easily one of the top things to do in Puglia, and for us, it was hands-down one of the highlights of the trip.
Must-see spots in Alberobello:
- Trullo Sovrano – The only two-story trullo, now a museum showcasing traditional life.
- Chiesa di Sant’Antonio – A unique trullo-shaped church.
- Martinucci Laboratory – A fantastic spot for coffee and a traditional pasticciotto pastry. The ice-cream is pretty great too.
- Visit a family-run trullo and learn about its fascinating history. This tour is offering just that!
- Visit the Vista Panoramica dei Trulli, for unique views of the entire town
Midday: Locorotondo – A Hidden Gem
A short 15-minute drive led us to Locorotondo, one of Puglia’s prettiest villages. Known for its circular old town and beautifully maintained whitewashed buildings, Locorotondo is an unmissable, tranquil escape.
Top things to do in Locorotondo:
- Stroll the historic center, admiring the flower-adorned balconies.
- Have a relaxed lunch at Ombre e Fioi, for a mouthwatering carbonara.
- Visit Villa Comunale, a park with stunning countryside views.
Afternoon: Ostuni – The White City
Our last stop of the day was Ostuni, a dazzling white city perched on a hilltop overlooking olive groves and the Adriatic. This place is so picturesque that it feels straight out of a storybook—quiet, beautiful, and full of charm.
Things to do in Ostuni:
- Get lost in the old town’s winding alleyways and secret courtyards.
- Visit the Ostuni Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece with a stunning rose window.
- Dine at Osteria del Tempo Perso, set in an ancient rock chamber, serving rich and hearty Apulian cuisine.
- Shop for local olive oil and ceramics, two of Ostuni’s specialties.
Day 3: Matera – A Journey Through Ancient Cave Dwellings
Leaving Puglia for Matera (just across the border in Basilicata) — one of the most unforgettable things to do in Puglia — we stepped into an entirely different world of ancient Sassi cave dwellings, where people lived for thousands of years. Matera quite literally took our breath away! Make sure to stay at least one night to truly immerse yourself in the town’s unique charm.
Things to do in Matera:
- Explore the Sassi di Matera, a breathtaking network of cave dwellings. With every corner picture-perfect, your camera’s going to be working overtime!
- Visit Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a preserved cave house showing traditional life.
- Admire the frescoes in Santa Maria de Idris, a rock-hewn church.
- Stay in a cave hotel for an unforgettable experience.
- Dine at Annina 1973 restaurant, a cozy cave restaurant serving delicious local dishes in a warm, authentic atmosphere.
TIP: Matera is best enjoyed at sunset when the golden light makes the city glow like a scene from a movie. You can elevate your experience by opting for a private tour with a traditional Ape Calessino, a charming three-wheeled vehicle!
Day 4: Lecce – The Florence of the South
After a two-hour drive, we arrived in Lecce, a city famous for its elaborate Baroque architecture. Lecce has a lot to offer, and while you can see the highlights in a day, we recommend staying at least one night to experience its charm after dark, when the city comes alive with atmospheric wine bars and cozy restaurants.
Things to do in Lecce:
- Visit the breathtaking Basilica di Santa Croce.
- Explore Piazza del Duomo, one of Italy’s most beautiful squares.
- See the well-preserved Roman Amphitheater, right in the heart of the city.
- Try Rustico Leccese—a delicious pastry filled with béchamel and tomato.
- Enjoy a local wine at one of the many romantic wine bars tucked into historic buildings
Day 5: Coastal Drives & Hidden Beaches
On our final day, we dedicated ourselves to exploring the stunning Adriatic coast, discovering hidden beaches, and enjoying the scenic drive that connects some of Puglia’s most pristine spots.
Things to Do on the Adriatic Coast:
- Take a drive along the coastal road, passing by picturesque seaside villages like Monopoli, Polignano a Mare, and Mola di Bari.
- Stop at Punta Prosciutto Beach, one of the region’s most beautiful beaches, with turquoise waters and golden sands. It’s a perfect place for a relaxing swim or a beachside picnic.
- Explore the secluded Grotticelle Beach, tucked away behind high cliffs and accessible by a rugged path. It’s a hidden gem perfect for those who want a more private beach experience.
- End your day with a sunset at Porto Selvaggio, a nature reserve known for its crystal-clear waters and rugged beauty.
Best Time to Visit Puglia
Puglia is known for its pleasant climate, but there are a few things to keep in mind when deciding when to visit this part of Italy.
When is the Best Time to Visit Puglia?
We found that late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October) are ideal months for exploring Puglia. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, yet not overly hot, making it perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the stunning beaches. The crowds are also thinner than in July and August, so you can experience the region’s charm without feeling overwhelmed by tourists.
- Summer (July and August): While the beaches are at their best, it’s also the peak tourist season, meaning higher prices and crowded attractions. The weather can also get quite hot, especially inland, so if you visit in summer, plan to stay near the coast where the sea breeze keeps temperatures more comfortable.
- Winter (November through February): Although the weather is milder than in northern Italy, it can still get chilly. However, if you’re looking for fewer tourists and more authentic experiences, winter can be a peaceful time to explore the region, especially the towns and cities that are less crowded.
Overall, spring and fall strike the perfect balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and open attractions, making them our top recommendations for the best time to visit Puglia.
Do You Need a Car in Puglia?
One of the top questions we had about Puglia is whether a car is necessary. The short answer is yes, especially if you want to make the most out of your trip and explore the smaller towns, rural areas, and hidden gems.
Why You Need a Car in Puglia:
- Public transport: While larger cities like Bari, Lecce, and Brindisi have good train and bus connections, public transport between the smaller towns is limited. Buses can be infrequent, and the train routes might not take you to some of the more remote or picturesque villages, like Alberobello or Matera.
- Flexibility: With a car, you have the freedom to stop at scenic spots, visit smaller villages, and take spontaneous detours along the coast or countryside. This flexibility allows you to experience Puglia beyond the typical tourist routes.
- Parking: Though driving gives you freedom, keep in mind that parking in the historic centers of cities like Matera or Ostuni can be tricky. Look for public parking lots outside the old town and walk in to avoid congestion.
We highly recommend renting a car from Discover Cars for your time in Puglia, as it opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to take scenic drives along the coast and explore charming villages at your own pace.
How Many Days Do You Need for Puglia?
How many days you spend in Puglia depends on the depth of your exploration, but we’d suggest at least 5 days to get a taste of the region’s highlights.
5-Day Itinerary:
With 5 days, you can:
- Spend a day exploring the Adriatic coast and the charming towns of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare.
- Visit the Itria Valley with its famous trulli houses in Alberobello, quaint villages like Locorotondo, and the stunning Ostuni.
- Head to Matera to explore the ancient cave dwellings and stay in a cave hotel for a truly unique experience.
- Discover the architectural beauty of Lecce, the Baroque gem of the south, and its historic city center.
- Enjoy a relaxing day on the Adriatic coast or take a final coastal drive to uncover hidden beaches and seaside gems.
If you have more time, 7 to 10 days would allow you to go beyond the typical popular spots and explore even more of Puglia’s towns, including places like Castel del Monte and Gargano.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Puglia
Puglia has a charm that’s hard to put into words. It’s a region where the beauty of the landscapes is matched by the warmth of the people, the taste of the food, and the richness of the history.
Puglia will captivate you with its beauty, culture, and authenticity. We hope this guide to the best things to do in Puglia helps you plan an unforgettable trip — and inspires you to experience all the incredible things to do in Puglia for yourself. We promise, you won’t regret it!
Ready to kick off your trip planning? Check out these handy travel resources:
