How to Spend the Perfect One Week in Puglia Itinerary

Last Updated on 16th September 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

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Puglia is the sun soaked heel of Italy’s boot, known as the “land of two seas”, you’re never too far from crystal clear waters and breathtaking coastlines. It is a region of Italy filled with charming historic centres and uniquely littered with traditional Trulli. Puglia is where fine wine, olive oil and good living thrive! Here’s your guide on how to spend one perfect week in Puglia, as well as top tips to know before you go!

Side note: Deep into the south of Italy, this part of the country is where Italians have been known to holiday for generations. A region steeped in tradition and until fairly recently, Puglia remained relatively undiscovered by travellers.

However, with a recent surge in popularity thanks to social media, and the Italian government’s interest in drawing people to visit and live in the area, the heel of Italy is rapidly modernising and opening up to the world (and for good reason!)

Retaining the balance between tradition and modernity is important for the people of Puglia and its heritage, while an increase in visitors is good for economic reasons, those who travel to destinations like this must do so responsibly and respectfully.

What is Puglia known for?

The region of ‘Apulia’ as it is known in English or ‘Puglia’ in Italian and ‘Les Pouilles’ in French, is a little more rural than other parts of Italy. Puglia is most famous for its unique cuisine (which is very vegetarian focused), as well as its olive oil production.

Indeed, olive oil is more than just a Puglian pride, the region produces an impressive 40% of Italy’s annual olive production output, which is vital for jobs and its economy. Home to some 60 million olive trees (including ancient ones), this means that Puglia alone currently has one olive tree per person to Italy’s entire population.

Puglia has also earned the nickname the “breadbasket of Italy”, beyond its many agricultural riches, thanks to its fertile soil and hot, dry Mediterranean climate; it is one of the best places to produce wheat. For this reason, bread and pasta are staples in the Apulian diet.

Getting around

Due to limited public transport and many remote or secluded locations in Puglia, the best way to explore the Italian region is by car. For this itinerary, you’ll need your own means of transport to see every destination mentioned.

One week in Puglia suggested itinerary

Day 1 in Puglia

Acaya 

Start your adventures in Puglia by exploring the small commune of Acaya, one of the few fortified villages left in Apulia. This small settlement dates back to the 16th century and is among one of the oldest villages in all of Italy.

Acaya is an enchanting, crumbling hamlet home to a mere 400-something residents and evokes a time warp as you wander through what feels like the Middle Ages.

One of the best things to visit while exploring Acaya is the Castello di Acaya, a masterpiece of military architecture. The Renaissance fortress was built between 1535–1536, and today, it houses a fascinating collection of archaeological artefacts.

Torre Sant Andrea 

Around a 20 to 30-minute drive from Acaya is an unmissable stretch of coastline where you can soak up some of the weird and wonderful rock formations that carve out Salento’s East coast.

Torre San’Andrea is a picturesque beach which is most popularly visited for its remarkable white rocky towers, or as they are geologically referred to as, sea stacks.

These fascinating cliffs have been shaped by the erosive powers of the Adriatic sea and wind for millions of years, beating against the malleable stone and forming natural archways and hidden coves.

Grotta Zinzulusa

Heading further down Italy’s heel you’ll find the Zinzulusa Caves which extend around 150 meters inward and stretch up to 15 metres high. These impressive caves were first officially discovered in 1793, though it’s likely that fishermen would have entered before this time.

Zinzulusa Caves are best known for their beauty and fascinating stalactites and stalagmites, which create visually interesting objects. Exploring the deep depths of the caves will bring you across the “Corridor of Wonders”, which is as enchanting as it sounds or the “Duomo”, where you may even spy some of the bats hanging out.

The caves are huge, and only part of the excavated portion of them can be explored by the public. You can only visit Grotta Zinzulusa by guided tour, which usually lasts around 30 minutes. Book a boat tour of the caves like this one.

Otranto 

End your day in Italy’s easternmost town, Otranto, a delightful maze of cobbled streets, stunning vistas, and ancient fortifications. This Puglian city is best known for its proximity to the strait of Otranto, the stretch of water which connects the Adriatic Sea with the Ionian Sea and separates Italy from Albania.

Otranto is home to two UNESCO-listed sites, the old town ‘centro storico’ and the remains of its medieval castle. Some of the town’s unassuming ecclesial buildings include the Cathedral of Otranto, which is considered to be one of the largest it Italy and a fine piece of Romanesque architecture. It houses a 12th-century floor mosaic which depicts the ‘tree of life’. 

Spend a few hours shopping for Puglian delights or exploring the port area, before you head out for dinner in Otranto. Then you can choose from sushi joints to rooftop bars, with breathtaking views over the Adriatic sea and beyond. There’s no shortage of incredible nightlife experiences to have in Otranto. Read our guide on the best things to do in Otranto.

Grotta della Poesia (if you have more time)

If you have more time on your first day, then you could also consider checking out Grotta della Poesia, or as it’s translated into English ‘the Cave of Poetry’. This grotto is a natural pool, surrounded by limestone cliffs and fed by sea water that tunnels in from the open sea.

It has been listed as one of the 10 most beautiful natural pools in the world by National Geographic. Though, it’s worth noting that this kind of destination is what comes to mind when thinking of the definition of over-tourism. However, if crowds don’t bother you then it’s definitely worth a trip! Read our guide on how to visit Grotta della Poesia here.

Day 2 in Puglia

Gallipoli 

Spend the morning exploring and embracing the fishing port city, Gallipoli. Located in the province of Lecce in Apulia, the city was formerly known as Kallipolli, which translates to mean ‘beautiful city’. It’s stunning old town sits on a tiny island in the centre and is connected to the rest of the settlement and its sprawling suburbs via a series of bridges.

Perhaps the most defining architectural feature of Gallipoli is that of its 13th-century fortified castle. Though the fortification dates back to the Middle Ages, it has seen several uses over the years.

The other striking landmark in old town Gallipoli is the city’s main ecclesiastical building. The cathedral of Saint Agatha was constructed between 1629 and 1696 to replace a previous church on site. It is built up from local stone in the beautiful and ornate Baroque style.

Just outside of the old centre is The Greek Fountain, an interesting architectural water feature that dates back to the 16th century and is intricately carved with mythical creatures and symbols of Gallipoli.

As one might expect from a town which was historically constructed on the fishing industry, one of the best places to get a true sense of Gallipoli is to head to the fish market. Selling fresh catch of the day, in southern Italy it’s not uncommon to eat raw seafood straight from the vendor. The “sushi of Italy” has been consumed since the 1500s, just be sure not to eat right in front of the market itself.

Santa Maria di Leuca 

The very tip of the heel of Italy’s boot, and indeed the most southern point of the country, is found in the form of Santa Maria di Leuca, which is often abbreviated as just ‘Leuca’.

This area comprises the very end of Salento’s peninsula and is most famous for its striking white-washed lighthouse, which was constructed in the first half of the 18th century and stands 47 metres tall.

Another highlight to visit while exploring Leuca is the ecclesial building, the Basilica of Santa Maria De finibus terrae (at the ends of the earth). This beautiful 18th-century stone cathedral stands at a place where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea. 

Specchia 

The speck of a town that is Specchia boasts as being one of the most attractive towns in the region thanks to its honey-hued buildings, narrow streets, historic palace, and beautiful Baroque church.

Much of the interest in Specchia can be found centred around its main piazza, Piazza del Popolo. Like many towns in Puglia, the settlement of Specchia centres itself around a ‘centro storico’ (historic old town) and it’s here where visitors will soon discover the most architecturally interesting and ancient buildings.

It’s worth noting that although much of the town has been renovated and restored over recent years, there’s an enchanting draw to Specchia that feels as though it could crumble away at any moment, and a chance to visit the town feels that bit more magical. Read our guide on the best things to do in Specchia.

Presicce 

Less than a half-hour drive away from Specchia, the wonderful town of Presicce which spreads out from one of the most beautiful Baroque churches you’ll ever see and is interspersed with piazzas, historic homes and most importantly, la panetterie (bakeries) and gelaterias (ice cream shops).

The true heart of the town lies underground. One of the biggest draws to Presicce is the 23 olive oil mills that are embedded below its historical centre, where the ancient presses and millstones are still preserved.

It’s worth taking a peek to truly understand the workings behind the process for which most of the region’s economy has long been based on.

In recent years, authorities in Presicce have been offering a sum of money to encourage people to live here, in hopes of breathing new life into a part of Italy which is slowly depopulating. So, if you fall in love with Presicce, you could be in with a chance of having your own Under the Tuscan Sun moment!

Lecce 

End your day in the honey-hued historical city, Lecce, which is renowned worldwide for its Baroque architecture; as such the city is often referred to as ‘Signora del Barocco’ or ‘Lady of Baroque’. Thanks to the distinctive golden-yellow and malleable Lecce stone, which the city is built from, Lecce shines warm tones from morning till evening.

Lecce is also nicknamed “The Florence of the South”, however, unlike some of Italy’s bigger cities, where the architecture is much more refined and clean, Lecce’s architecture is angled, wonky and full of charm- every building wants to be seen!

Lecce is a city of art and churches, however, it was also once an entertainment hub, this can be seen through the two Roman sites which were uncovered in the 1930s. The Roman Amphitheatre and Roman Theatre of Lecce are well-preserved sites which offer a glimpse into the city’s past.

Another absolute must-see while in Lecce is Museo Faggiano. This museum houses a collection of bones, relics, pieces of ceramics and several artefacts that are believed to span over 2,000 years of archaeological history; all of which was accidentally discovered thanks to a leaky pipe when Luciano Faggiano was renovating for his restaurant.

Other fascinating places to visit in Lecce include the three ancient city gates, or as they are known in Italian ‘portas’ , the magnificent Lecce Duomo and the underground Jewish Museum which illustrates the history and lives of the Jewish community in the city. Read our guide on the best things to do in Lecce.

Day 3 in Puglia

Vincent City 

Start your morning by exploring one of the lesser-visited attractions of Puglia, a chaotic, yet fabulous and eccentric house museum created by artist, Vincenzo Maria Brunetti. Also known as Vincent’s Eremo or Vincent’s Hermitage, this brainchild, Alice in Wonderland-like palace is nestled in swathes of olive trees and found in Guagnano, where the artist was born.

Vincent is one of Salento’s colourful characters and a local celebrity. His hermitage is an explosion of creativity, where dreamlike visions, religious depictions and a strong influence from the hippie culture can be found in the form of mosaics, statues, and paintings.

For 20 years, Vincent has created an inspiring playground that can only be summed up as, an extraordinary piece of art. No matter where the eye is drawn, you’ll likely find it wandering away to the next part, as there’s so much to see here. Even upon arrival, you’ll find yourself staring at the facade for at least 10 minutes or more!

Vincent’s world opens up a new and playful perspective, and the philosophy of life he holds has been conveyed through his art. In a recent interview, he emphasises his joy for disco music (so it might be worth bringing headphones, if it’s not already playing in the house itself that is!)

In a world where art, religion and nature have been fused, Vincent’s Hermitage feels somewhat akin to Antony Guadì’s Parc Güell in Barcelona. Read our guide on how to visit Vincent’s house.

Visit a vineyard (Cantine San Pancrazio)

Let’s be honest, no trip to Puglia would be complete without visiting at least one vineyard. After all, Puglia is one of Italy’s oldest and most important wine regions and has a history of winemaking that dates back centuries.

Vast stretches of sun-kissed vineyards cover Apulia, to be precise the Puglia wine region covers 83,000 hectares of land, 80% of which is planted with red wine varieties of grape.

Some of the popular wines from Puglia include Primitivo, Nero di Troia and Negroamaro, which are known for their velvet texture and richly intense flavours, typically of darker fruits like plums and blackberries, as well as spicy notes like black pepper.

To start your wine adventures, head to Cantine San Pancrazio, where you are taken through a journey of history, scents, production from vineyard to bottle and, of course, plenty of tasting! Cantine San Pancrazio Winery produce all colours of wine, including some sparkling.

San Vito dei Normani

San Vito dei Normani is a small Medieval town which you’ll only want to set aside a couple of hours to explore. Home to a handful of beautiful churches, including the Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria and the Church of San Giovanni Evangelista, there are also a few historic castles to visit.

For even more insight into Puglia’s renowned olive production, you can also visit The Museo dell’Olio, where you can learn about the process as well as sample some of the delicious golden liquid for yourself!

Ostuni 

Next, head to Ostuni, which is known as the ‘White City’ (La Città Bianca in Italian) thanks to the white-painted old town which crowns the very top of the city. Rising above a sea of olive groves and the twinkling Adriatic coastline, Ostuni was strategically built here to protect the town from invaders in centuries gone by.

The magnificent Duomo di Ostuni (Cathédrale Santa Maria Assunta) can be found at the highest point of the town. Its Romanesque architecture has blended with the Gothic style thanks to renovation works done after a significant earthquake in the 15th century.

One of the best things to do while exploring Ostuni is to simply get lost in its maze of little lanes and forgotten streets, allowing the town and its crumbling facades to slowly reveal themselves to you, layer by layer. Read our guide on the best things to do in Ostuni, for more inspiration!

Spiaggia di Torre Pozzelle

Spend your afternoon taking a (probably well-needed) respite from the heat and enjoy soaking in the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Torre Beach Pozzelle is the closest beach to Ostuni and aside from its obvious stunning beauty, one of the unique aspects to this beach is that you’re surrounded by the luscious green hillsides that roll down the landscape from the white-washed town.

Mesagne

End your day in Mesange, a town best known for its growing of grapes and olives! This unassuming town is a little quieter than some of the more popular ones, it’s for this reason that wandering around as a tourist here can feel as though you’ve accidentally happened upon a hidden gem.

Highlights of Mesagne include a Norman castle, several medieval churches, and a maze of streets that form its historic centre, or as it’s more beautifully pronounced in Italian, ‘centro storico’.

For dinner, I highly recommend reserving a table at Osteria Braceria Tigelleria Antico Forno. This cosy ristorante serves delicious traditional cuisine, which you can indulge in under the twinkling lights of the stars on their charming terrace.

Day 4 in Puglia

Monopoli 

Start your day by exploring one of Puglia’s most underrated towns! Monopoli is a picturesque fishing town which lies on the southeast of Bari. The sleepy seaside town is known for its beautiful coastlines, hidden rocky caves and charming ambience.

Founded by the Greeks in 500 BC, “Monos polis” derives from the Greek to mean unique and singular. Some of the best things to do in Monopoli include: exploring the old town and spying out the influences of the various cultures that have left their mark, going swimming out by the rocks like a local and people watching in Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi.

Upon visiting the ancient harbour area, you’ll likely notice the 16th-century fortress, Castello Carlo V. This impressive fort was built during the Spanish domination of the town and was constructed to accommodate the Spanish military and their families. Read our guide on the best things to do in Monopoli here, for more inspiration!

Polignano a Mare 

One of the most iconic and popular towns in all of the Puglia region can be found clinging to the cliff face, contrasted by the azure of the sea. Polignano a Mare is most famous for its incredible viewpoints and breathtaking beauty!

The best time to experience this small resort town is in the late afternoon when you can soak up the final hours of sun at the beach, indulge in a late lunch of traditional Apulian cuisine or sip on a refreshing Aperol spritz as you slowly let yourself absorb the definition of “good living”.

Some other highlights of Polignano a Mare include heading to the contemporary art museum of Fondazione Museo Pino Pascali and watching the world go by on the main square, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. Read our guide on the best things to do in Polignano a Mare.

San Vito 

Located just 3 miles from Polignano a Mare is the delightful town San Vito, which is centred around a little fishing harbour (known in Italian as the porto antico) The town itself remains somewhat of a hidden gem of the Puglian coastline.

One of the most popular things to visit is the Abbey of San Vito, a former monastery which sits on the waterfront and was built in the 10th century. Shrouded in legends, the story goes that in 801, the Princess of Salerno, Florenza, was drowning in the Sele River in Campania. But, she managed to escape from death thanks to St. Vito. In gratitude, the princess had the remains of St. Vito and his tutors taken to the abbey.

The town is sprinkled with little coves and beaches to explore, all of which make for the perfect evening passeggiata as you watch the sun melt into the horizon.

Day 5 in Puglia

Strada Arco Basso (if time allows)

If there’s one street you should visit when exploring the gateway to Puglia, it’s Strada Arco Basso or, as it’s now more commonly referred to, Strada delle Orecchiette or The Pasta Street.

Found in the heart of Bari, a tradition which has been going on since the 1950s has become a ritual and way of life for the local women, who sit out daily, making and selling fresh pasta, mainly orecchiette, to passers-by.

Historically, while their husbands were out at sea, the women had to fend for themselves and make a living to get by. So, what better way than to rely on the humblest of ingredients that the region has been gifting them for centuries?

Over the years this pasta making community has become an act of solidarity, where passion and love is shared between the women who work here.

A wander down this street offers a glimpse into the coming together of tradition, as well as the joy and excitement that can be brought by the simplicity of semolina and water. Arrive no earlier than 10 am, but also no later, as the pasta here sells out fast!

Technically, these pasta-makers aren’t legally allowed to sell the pasta as there are no regulations, but as with much of southern Italy, you’ll find that tradition struggles against bureaucracy so much so that they will end up outlasting it. Although they cannot sell to restaurants, selling for personal use is loosely permitted.

Mola di Bari 

Found on the outskirts of the bustling city of Bari is the quaint coastal village, Mola di Bari (referred to as Mola). An important historical sight to see is the impressive Castello Angioino, which protected the settlement for centuries, and was built in 1279. It stands as a stark reminder of the vulnerable position Puglian towns once had, lying along the coastline.

Another landmark and meeting point of the village is the Piazza XX Settembre, where a monumental fountain lies at the centre and is dedicated to the local sailors. The mother church of Mola is a beautiful 13th-century Romanesque building that can be found in the old quarter.

The greatest way to experience Mola is to simply wander around, soak up the history and enjoy the peaceful pocket of life that exists just outside of the region’s main transport city.

Conversano 

Another sleepy town on the outskirts of Bari which is worth visiting is Conversano, an ancient commune best known for its cherries. Ciliegia Ferrovia, which translates to “Railway Cherry,” is the variety of cherry that grows here between mid-May to early June. The fruit is celebrated annually on the final weekend of May at the Cherry Festival.

One of the most striking architectural features in the town itself is the beautiful Monastero di San Benedetto, which dates back to the 6th century. You’ll likely only need an hour or two to wander around this settlement.

Grotte di Castellana 

End your day by visiting the nearby and fascinating Castellana Caves. A complex karst cave system where shards of limestone pierce out the ceiling, and piles of stalactite and stalagmite formations form the kind of surreal landscape you only see in cinema.

Castellana Caves are Italy’s longest natural subterranean network and they comprise several “rooms”. The main cave is known as La Grave (as abyss), the others being Black Cavern (Caverna Nera), White Cave (Grotta Bianca) and Precipice Cavern (Caverna del Precipizio).

As with most of the cave systems in Italy, you’ll have to book a guided tour to go around. The tour typically takes 50 minutes, and you’ll explore around 1 km into the depths of the caves.

Day 6 in Puglia

Alberobello 

Start your day in one of the most popular (and busiest) towns of the region, Alberobello. This quintessentially Apulian town is a charming settlement where the traditional trulli dwellings reside by one another in harmony, standing as the perfect picturesque scene of life in southern Italy.

This is a particularly special place to visit if you have specific interests in Apulian architecture. Alberobello is home to Trullo Sovrano, which translates as ‘king’ or ‘ruler’ and stands as the only two-story trulli in the town.

Trulli (or singular, trullo) are traditional Italian dwellings that are typically built from a dry construction method, made up of stones. During the 14th century, when property taxes were high, Trulli came in handy, as residents could simply remove their roof when the taxman did his rounds, and rebuild it once he went again.

These beloved structures have become synonymous with the region; thanks to their use of prehistoric building techniques, they are considered to be so important that UNESCO has designated the buildings in Puglia as part of its World Heritage List.

Another important historical building with an interesting past is the Casa D’Amore, which was built in 1797 and was the first house in the area to include terracotta & mortar in its façade.

It’s worth emphasising that Alberobello can be extremely busy, so if you plan to visit (especially during peak season), I suggest aiming to get here as early as possible. The crowds can swell making the experience of the town is somewhat non existent as you have to battle through people to see the main sights.

Cisternino

Home to a population of around 11,600 residents, Cisternino is a tiny Puglia settlement that offers unparalleled views over the Itria Valley. For some of the best vistas in town, visitors need simply to head to Cremeria History Vignola which serves light snacks, drinks, and other refreshments.

Cisternino is indeed one of a trifecta of delightful towns in central Puglia; Martina Franca, Locorotondo, and Cisternino are all a stone’s throw away from one another (all within 10 km of one another).

Martina Franca

Martina Franca is the largest of the three towns and, as a result, has the largest selection of eateries, as well as the biggest old town. Pick up a tourist map for free from the tourist office (Piazza XX Settembre n. 3, 74015 Martina Franca Italy) , and you’ll soon discover that there are several self-guided routes to follow.

One of the greatest joys while exploring Martina Franca has to be simply marvelling at the stunning Baroque architecture.

When it comes to eating in the Puglia town, there is no shortage of options. We personally loved our meal at the well-reviewed La Tavernatta. The dishes were well-cooked simple and local Italian cuisine such as pasta dishes served with local wine.

Locortondo

End your day in the white-washed gem Locortondo, where a glass of the sparkling wine, Bianco Locorotondo tastes best! Sitting perched on a hilltop among swathes of olive groves, the picturesque little town of Locorotondo has often been nicknamed the “round place” due to its circular structure.

Simply wandering around the labyrinth of narrow streets and allowing the town to slowly reveal itself to you is one of the best ways to experience Locorotondo. For the best viewpoint in town, head to the spot known as Lungomare, which boasts breathtaking views overlooking the Itria Valleyand, where huge stretches of vineyards and olive groves sprawl across the landscape.

A particular highlight while visiting Locrotondo is seeing Trullo Marziolla, which dates back to 1559 and is believed to be the oldest traditional dwelling of its kind.

End your evening in town by indulging in the local cuisine (and wine!) Apulian cuisine is renowned for its vegetable-focused dishes and simplicity, one of the best dishes to sample while in Locrotondo is Eggplant Parmigiana, which originated in the town.

Day 7 in Puglia

Your final day in Puglia will be spent exploring just the two cities, giving you a chance to soak up the region’s beauty at a more leisurely pace for the last time… that is, until you inevitably return.

Taranto 

Taranto is known as the ‘city of two seas’ thanks to its location between the Ionian Sea and an inland basin named the Mar Piccolo. Historically, this destination has quite a tumultuous past, having been used at one time as a huge naval port, full of warships and submarines, which ended up being striked in November 1940.

Today, Taranto remains a bustling hive of activity and is the second-largest city in Puglia. Offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history, traces of Greek, French and the Normans can be found to have left their mark here.

Right in the heart of the city lies The Cattedrale di San Cataldo, a beautiful 11th-century Baroque-style cathedral with  Byzantine influence. Another important landmark to visit is the 15th century Aragonese Castle, which was built by King Ferdinand of Aragon. During the 18th century the fortress was used as a prison.

If you’re looking for somewhere traditional, no-fuss and plain delicious to eat, consider having lunch at Trattoria L’Orologio. This beautiful stone-vaulted restaurant serves delicious Apulian cuisine, including the freshest of seafood. Taranto is particularly famed for its “cozze” (mussels).

If you fancy seeing a little more history before leaving the city, head to the National Archaeological Museum. This museum houses a collection of Greek, Roman and Apulian artefacts that illustrate the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Grottaglie 

Nearby Taranto is a small town built atop a rock of limestone that is synonymous with ceramics. Grottaglie is one of the thirty Italian towns which is allowed to use the official designation, as such the city has been nicknamed ‘Citta di Ceramiche’ (City of Ceramics).

Not only this, but Grottaglie takes its name from the fact that the countryside surrounding it is littered with deep ravines, opening into the limestone surface and creating beautiful caverns. The origin of these caves dates back to the Palaeolithic age, though most of what is seen today is when they were inhabited in the Middle Ages.

One of the best things to do while exploring Grottaglie is to discover ceramics in the ceramics quarter. As a destination where this tradition has been ongoing for over 1,000 years, there are several family run ceramic shops selling all kinds of treasures, and even making pottery before your very eyes!

There’s also the Museo della Ceramica, which is a museum showcasing the history and importance of this craft. And, if you want to get your hands deep into clay and learn for yourself, you could even consider taking a ceramics workshop. Book a workshop like this one.

Other sights in the town include Casa Vestita, a beautiful artistic residence and gardens and the Monastero di Santa Chiara, which dates back to the 16th century and is adjoined to a church.

If you have more time…

Matera

If time allows, or you wish to visit instead, opt to head to Matera (though technically not in the Apulia region) the city is found in Southern Italy, located on the border of Basilicata and Puglia.

Historically Puglia is Italy’s poorest region. Matera is one of those destinations where poverty and hardship are a recent memory, and it’s important to know this before visiting. The ravine city was once dubbed ‘the shame of Italy’, and was a place where less than 70 years ago people were crammed into cave houses, dying of hunger and disease.

Today, Matera is Italy’s ancient archaeological gem, known as the ‘City of Caves’. It is the third oldest city in the world (after Aleppo and Jericho) and is known for its ancient habitations and as such has been hailed with the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where to stay in Puglia

For this itinerary, we suggest spending your first four nights based in Lecce and then the remaining three nights in the Itria Valley. Here are suggestions of where to stay based on places we have been to ourselves (twice now!):

Lecce – Torre Del Parco – Situated just a 10-minute walk from Lecce’s Old Town. There are only a few rooms in the hotel, and it was super relaxing. There are several courtyard areas to relax in, and they offer a delicious breakfast. Check prices and availability here.

Itria Valley (Locorotondo) – Trulli Pentassuglia – This is a great base for which to explore the Itria Valley, plus you get to stay in a traditional trullo! We booked the accommodation via the Airbnb website, it’s a family run guesthouse where the owners are living on site, renting out their extra trullo.

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