Puglia, also known as Apulia, is your spot if you’re looking for a slice of Italy that’s still a bit off the beaten path but loaded with charm. This southern region of Italy has amazing beaches, ridiculously good food, charming villages, and that authentic Italian vibe that’s hard to come by in more touristy areas. Whether you’re sipping wine in a vineyard or wandering through towns that look like they belong in a fairy tale, Puglia brings something unique to the table—and the best part is it’s all at a fraction of the cost you’d expect in other parts of Italy.
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If you’re wondering, is Puglia worth visiting? The answer is yes! Puglia is one of Italy’s hidden treasures (but it is gaining speed as more and more travelers want to explore this area even more), offering everything you could want from a trip to Italy but without the massive crowds. Think beautiful beaches, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, charming villages like Alberobello, and stunning coastal towns like Polignano a Mare. Puglia is also far more affordable than regions like Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast. So, if you’re looking for an Italian escape with all the charm and none of the tourist chaos, Puglia is the place to be.
Where Is Puglia
Puglia is the heel of the boot of Italy, located in the very south, surrounded by the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea. The temperatures in this region tend to be quite hot in the summer months and mild in the winter months. Thanks to its location in Italy, its average low temperatures in the winter months tend to range between 44 and 57°F.
What is Puglia Known For?
Puglia is known for many things; we’ll get into that more. But first, let’s mention a few important things out of the gate.
- Olive Oil: Puglia produces about 40% of Italy’s olive oil. The town of Andria is the top producer.
- Wine: Puglia wins the most wine produced in Italy, more than any other region.
- Coastline: Puglia has the longest coastline of any other region within Italy.
- Food: We’ll get into that!
- History: Castel Del Monte, built in 1240, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top 10 Reasons Why Puglia Is Worth The Visit
- Breathtaking Beaches—Puglia has some of the best beaches in Italy, from the white sands of Torre dell’Orso to the crystal-clear waters of Punta Prosciutto. The region’s coastline offers many options for a sun-drenched escape. Other well-known beaches include Torre Guaceto, Grotta della Poesia, Cala Porto, and Baia dei Turchi.
- Unique Trulli Houses – The town of Alberobello is home to the iconic trulli—cone-shaped, unique, whitewashed dwellings that look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale. They have been amazingly preserved and are on the UNESCO list. You will not find anything like these elsewhere in Italy. You can even book a stay in one of these unique dwellings!
- Culinary Heaven – Puglia’s food is farm-fresh and authentic. The coastline delivers incredibly fresh seafood, while orecchiette is the region’s pasta, shaped like little ears. It is often served with tomato-based ragu or cime di rapa (broccoli rabe). And let’s not forget the olive oil! There’s also burrata cheese and pane di Altamura, a crispy bread with a chewy center. Plus, the region’s olive oil is some of the finest in the world.
- Incredible Architecture – Puglia’s architecture reflects the cultures that have passed through the region. The Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and Spaniards each left their mark. The Cathedral of San Nicola in Bari and the Cathedral of Otranto are Roman architecture. Lecce is referred to as the “Florence of the South” with its Baroque style.
- Charming Villages – Puglia’s hilltop towns, like Ostuni (the “White City”) and Locorotondo, are beautiful spots to wander and explore. Each village has its own charm, with narrow streets, vibrant colors, and incredible views. Wandering through Ostuni feels like stepping back in time, with its ancient architecture, cute shops, and lively piazzas. Locorotondo is a perfectly round village with cobbled streets and whitewashed houses decorated with colorful flowers. It is a place where time seems to stand still.
Other charming villages that make Puglia worth the visit are Polignano a Mare, with its crystal clear waters, Cristerninno, which offers excellent food and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. And Alberobello, with its iconic trulli houses. - Authentic Cuisine – Puglia’s farm-to-table culinary scene is truly special. Many regions in Italy boast incredible food, but Puglia’s cuisine is simple, fresh, and sourced from local farms and the surrounding seas. Plus, you can feast on delicious meals at much lower prices than in places like Rome or Milan.
- Spectacular Seaside Towns – Towns like Polignano a Mare, perched on cliffs overlooking the Adriatic, offer some of Italy’s most stunning views. You can also swim or dive in the hidden sea caves here!
8. Wine Country – Puglia is Italy’s largest wine-producing region. Puglia produces some of Italy’s finest wines, and thanks to its hot, sunny climate and fertile soil, the vineyards here thrive. Regional favorites include Primitivo di Manduria, a rich, full-bodied red with deep fruity notes, and Negroamaro, known for its bold flavor and slightly bitter finish.
Vineyard tours and tastings are popular activities and one of the best ways to experience the exceptional wines of this region.
9. Less Crowded – Unlike Italy’s more famous regions, Puglia offers a slower pace and fewer tourists. You can enjoy an authentic Italian experience without the crowds, making it ideal for a peaceful escape.
10. Rich History – Puglia’s history stretches back to the ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and even the Spanish. Sites like the Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the ancient city of Egnazia reveal the region’s fascinating past. Not only can you see the different influences in the architecture, but they can also be seen in the age-old festivals and traditional cuisine passed down through generations.
When To Visit Puglia
The best time to visit Puglia depends on what you’re after, but for most travelers, late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) are the best times. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach days and exploring the region’s charming towns, and you won’t suffer the intense summer heat or tourist crowds. July and August can be scorching, with busier beaches and higher prices as Italians flock to Puglia for their summer holidays. If you love festivals and don’t mind the heat, summer is good for you. It is quiet and ideal for a peaceful, off-season escape in winter, though some coastal spots may feel a bit deserted.
How To Get Around In Puglia
Getting around Puglia may be tricky due to its rural, spread-out setting. However, there are plenty of ways to get around during your stay, from driving yourself to using the public transport system. Here’s how to get around Puglia like a pro.
Car
A car rental is the most convenient way to get around this region. It’s also the perfect option for visiting remote towns on your must-see list and discovering hidden gems you may not otherwise see if you rely on public transportation.
Renting a car does have its downsides, such as navigating narrow roads, parking, and staying aware of those pesky ZTL zones (restricted traffic areas) in city centers.
Trains
Train travel is a convenient and budget-friendly way to get around the region. Two train lines operate in Puglia: Trenitalia and Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE). Trains are, for the most part, reliable and an excellent way to see the larger cities in the region. The only pitfalls to train travel are that they don’t usually reach the smaller towns, which makes Puglia worth the visit. Some smaller town stations may be outside the main attractions, meaning you’ll likely need a taxi or bus to reach your final destination.
Buses
Bus transportation is an excellent option as it can connect you to some of the smaller towns the train lines do not reach. It’s budget-friendly, just like the train lines. However, there are a few downsides. Bus schedules aren’t always reliable. They can be inconsistent and infrequent. This is more likely to happen during the off-season, nights, and weekends. It’s best to check timetables in advance and prepare for possible delays.
Best Places To Stay In Puglia
When finding great accommodations in the Puglia region, your choices range from luxurious masserias (traditional farmhouses turned boutique hotels) nestled among olive groves to stylish B&Bs in the heart of vibrant towns. Puglia offers something for every type of traveler. This interactive map will help you find some of the best accommodations in the Puglia region and offer another reason for making Puglia worth the visit, especially if you are considering booking a stay at a farmhouse or B&B.
FAQs
Below are some commonly asked questions about Puglia.
How Long Should You Spend In Puglia?
If you want to explore the entire region of Puglia, it is best to plan between 11 and 14 days. This amount of time will give you a great sense of the region and the opportunity to explore its many beautiful towns and the sea.
Is Puglia Too Touristy?
Puglia can get pretty hectic during the summer months, as Italians like to visit for holiday and to enjoy the amazing beaches and sea.
Which Is The Best Town In Puglia To Stay In?
Gallipoli is the best destination in Puglia for a romantic getaway. It’s a great town to enjoy the historic center, discover centuries-old churches, and soak in its peaceful ambiance. The famous “Spiaggia della Purità,” or Beach of Purity, fascinates visitors with its clear, turquoise waters and immaculate sands.
Conclusion
So, is Puglia worth the visit? Without a doubt! With its incredible mix of history, food, stunning landscapes, and authentic charm, it’s a region that promises unforgettable memories. Whether you’re exploring its hilltop villages, indulging in local wines, or lounging on pristine beaches, Puglia is a destination that truly delivers.
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