Heading to the south of Italy and looking for the best places to visit in Puglia?
The region captivates visitors with its unspoiled Italian charm, historic towns, acclaimed cuisine, dramatic landscapes, and pristine beaches. Its well-connected towns make it perfect for family road trips through Puglia.
This guide lists the most unmissable places to visit in the Puglia region, Italy and covers everything you need to know to prepare for your trip.
The Best Places to Visit in Puglia, Italy
Wondering where to go during your Puglia itinerary? Here is our list of the best destinations to see whilst in Puglia.
1. Alberobello
Alberobello is one of the most charming and unique little towns in Italy – which is why I concluded that it is one of the best towns to visit in Puglia.
This small town is most famous for its cute conical houses called Trullo. The Trulli houses of Alberobello have been designated UNESCO World Heritage status due to their rich historical and cultural value.
The main reason to visit Alberobello is to simply wander between the beautiful Trulli and soak up the charming small-town atmosphere.
You could take a guided walking tour for a deeper insight into the town. There is also an informative museum (Museum Trullo Sovrano).
Click here to watch our video of Alberobello
2. Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is one of the most beautiful Italian coastal towns. Sure, the beach here is stony (walking on it barefoot isn’t much fun).
But the dramatic cliffside location and sparkling blue waters make this one of the most beautiful places in Puglia.
The town of Polignano a Mare consists of whitewashed houses perched on top of dramatic limestone cliffs.
Located only 30 minutes from the busy Bari, Polignano a Mare is an easy-to-reach coastal escape.
Cala Porto (the pretty beach) is the main drawcard here, but plenty of other fun activities are also available.
The top things to do here include cliff jumping, a spritz or a coffee on the main square, and a historical tour of the town.
Click here to book a boat tour of Polignano a Mare’s dazzling caves.
3. Monopoli
Monopoli is a quiet fishing town with loads of personality. If you’re looking for one of the best places in Puglia to enjoy an authentic port town experience (without too many tourists), then Monopoli would be the place.
This town is a bit bigger and less crowded than the more popular Polignano a Mare. Monopoli also consists of old white stone buildings built along the coast.
There are many magnificent churches around here, built with incredible detail and artistic touches.
Visitors can still enjoy the warm coastline, with some inviting rocky areas to swim from. Some great cafes and trattorias around here offer a laid-back, non-touristy experience.
4. Ostuni
Ostuni in Apulia, Italy, has a truly spectacular location. Thanks to its iconic white stone buildings, Ostuni is also known as ‘The White City’. Ostuni might just be one of the best cities to visit in Puglia.
The Ostuni Cathedral is one of the city’s most striking landmarks, with its enormous Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine designs.
There are also some beautiful arched medieval gates worth checking out if you love architecture. The Civic Museum is a really interesting stop for those interested in the history of Ostuni.
Ostuni, is a hidden gem in Italy, and is one of the best places in Puglia to absorb the region’s unique environment, culture, and history.
5. Otranto
Otranto, Puglia, is one of the top coastal destinations in the region. This town, built right along the clear blue water, is one of the great gems of southern Italy.
Some major points of interest include the 15th century Aragonese Castle and the Otranto Cathedral – dating back to the 11th century.
The old harbor is also a beautiful part of the town, with the Torre Matta tower offering panoramic views over the coastline.
This little slice of heaven offers some great beaches (Alimini Beach is the most popular), lakes for swimming, and the typically beautiful stone architecture of the region.
Click here to book a walking tour of the beautiful Otranto.
6. Martina Franca
Martina Franca is one of the busier towns in the Apulia region of Italy. The main reason to visit this pretty town is to explore its old quarter.
Here, you can wander through historical alleys, pass white stone buildings, and enjoy the baroque and rococo architecture.
Being one of the busier commercial hubs in the Taranto province, Martina Franca offers a slightly different perspective than the small villages around Puglia.
7. Lecce
Lecce is becoming an increasingly popular destination in Puglia, thanks to its historic charm and wonderful architecture.
The city is often called the ‘Florence of the south.’ If you are exploring the best of Puglia, a stop at Lecce is an absolute must.
Some highlights to see here include:
- Basilica di Santa Croce (a simply amazing church)
- Cattedrale dell’Assunzione Della Vergine (an important religious building)
- Lecce Castello (an interesting castle fortification)
- Faggiano Museum.
While walking around Lecce, you will pass several stunning piazzas (Piazza del Duomo is possibly the most impressive), delicious trattorias, and cute espresso bars.
Sites like the Roman Amphitheatre show how much history can be found in beautiful Lecce.
Click here to book a Lecce walking tour for a great guided experience of the town.
8. Monte Sant’Angelo
Located along the southern slopes of Monte Gargano, this historic town features the UNESCO-listed Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo and an ancient castle.
Monte Sant’Angelo showcases classic Puglian architecture, with its timeworn buildings and dramatic hillside views offering spectacular photo opportunities.
9. Vieste
Nestled in Gargano National Park, Vieste is a stunning coastal town with white stone houses perched on cliffside edges.
Its old quarter captures the essence of a traditional Italian fishing village, with narrow alleys decorated with fishing boats and authentic charm.
While the newer area gets busy in summer, Vieste’s natural beauty, ocean views, and historic streets make it one of Puglia’s most captivating destinations.
10. Gargano Peninsula
Gargano, one of Puglia’s most striking regions, features dramatic coastal cliffs and spectacular ocean views.
Take a boat tour to admire its iconic arched sea cliffs and explore the peaceful old town.
With its unique architecture influenced by nearby Croatia and growing tourism amenities, Gargano offers excellent accommodation and dining options.
It’s the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing Adriatic coastal experience and stunning natural beauty.
11. Cisternino
A jewel of Valle d’Itria, Cisternino’s whitewashed buildings, narrow lanes, and flower-adorned balconies make it one of Italy’s most beautiful towns.
View traditional trulli from Villa Communale near the 13th-century Chiesa Matrice, or explore baroque churches and Piazza Vittorio Emanuele.
Don’t miss the local tradition of butchers barbecuing meat to order, especially the Puglian bombette (ham, mince, and cheese parcels).
12. Tremiti Islands
You’ll find the Tremiti Islands around 22 km north of the Gargano Peninsula.
The Tremiti archipelago includes five islands within Gargano National Park, featuring rocky cliffs, lush vegetation, and crystal waters.
San Domino, the largest, offers the only sandy beaches, while historic San Nicola boasts a fortified abbey.
Though uninhabited, the three smaller islands—Capraia, Creataccio, and Pianosa—are worth exploring by boat.
13. Brindisi
More than just a gateway through its airport, Brindisi boasts rich history as the endpoint of the ancient Appian Way, marked by a surviving Roman column.
This port town features a natural harbor, palm-lined boulevards, the 12th-century Tempio di San Giovanni al Sepolcro, and an archaeological museum housing remarkable Greek bronze sculptures. It’s also notable as the place where the poet Virgil spent his final days.
14. Gallipoli
Situated on the Salento Peninsula, Gallipoli combines ancient fortifications with beautiful beaches.
The old town, protected by defensive walls and the Aragonese Castle, sits on its own island connected by a 17th-century bridge.
Wander its winding streets to discover the baroque Cathedral of Saint Agatha, aristocratic palazzi, and an ornate Greek fountain.
While the modern side offers a stark contrast, the golden beaches, especially the popular Spiaggia della Purità, make Gallipoli one of Puglia’s most captivating coastal destinations.
15. Locorotondo
This hilltop town in the Valle d’Itria is a picture-perfect spot, often overlooked for its more popular neighbor, Alberobello.
But, since the town is perched on a hill, you’ll still have a chance to view the valley and the distinctive trulli that make Alberobello so popular.
The old town of Locorotondo — which means “round place” — is built around the Chiesa Madre di San Giorgio.
This area features stone walkways, unique “a cummersa” pointed roofs, and floral balconies.
Click here to book a walking tour of charming Locorotondo.
FAQs About Where to Visit in Puglia
Here are a few answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Puglia, Italy.
1. Is Puglia Worth Visiting?
Puglia is absolutely worth visiting! Puglia has ancient towns, pristine beaches, and dramatic cliffs—offering a more authentic Italian experience away from the tourist crowds up north.
2. What Is the Best Time To Visit Puglia?
Visit Puglia from May to September, with peak summer crowds in July-August. For ideal weather and fewer tourists, opt for the shoulder seasons of May-June or September.
3. How Many Days Should I Stay In Puglia?
Plan 5-10 days in Puglia—five to see the highlights, or ten to fully immerse in the region’s culture without rushing.
4. Where Is A Good Base In Puglia?
Base yourself in whitewashed Ostuni, coastal Polignano a Mare, or historic Lecce—all well-connected towns offering easy access to Puglia’s main attractions.
5. How Do You Get Around Puglia?
Rent a car to explore Puglia freely, access remote villages, and enjoy scenic routes without relying on public transport.
Final Thoughts On Visiting Puglia
Exploring some of the southern regions is highly recommended if you’re planning a trip to Italy. Puglia is an absolute gem, with loads of amazing places to visit.
This area displays historic towns, serious natural beauty, and rich regional culture.
Puglia is not as popular as other destinations in Italy. So towns here seem to offer a bit more authenticity – allowing you to get a real sense of local tradition. Puglia is undeniably one of the most fantastic regions to visit in Italy.
Check out our guide to the best places to visit in northern Italy if you’re planning a full tour of the country.
Feel free to pin this pin to Pinterest so you can find this post easily in the future!
