Nestled in the heart of southern Italy, Puglia is a captivating region that boasts a stunning coastline, charming historic towns, and a rich culinary heritage. As you embark on your journey to explore the beauty and culture of Puglia, one of the key decisions you’ll make is where to stay. The right accommodation can elevate your experience, immersing yourself fully in the region’s allure.
This article will guide you in choosing the perfect place to stay in Puglia, ensuring a memorable and delightful trip.
Ostuni
Ostuni is an awe-inspiring hilltop town dubbed as “White City” due to its striking white-washed old town. Lying in the heart of Puglia, it is an ideal base for sightseeing and experiencing this beautiful region.
While here, you can marvel at the winding alleyways, delightful squares, and grand medieval architecture. In addition, the city is renowned for its local cuisine, with specialties such as orecchiette, fresh seafood, and panzerotti.
Ostuni also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as music festivals and traditional celebrations.
With its charming atmosphere, Ostuni is the perfect destination for those who are looking for a slower pace of life and a quaint small-town vibe.
Highlights:
- Ostuni Cathedral – Ostuni’s amazing 15th-century cathedral, honoring the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, boasts a remarkable Gothic-Romanesque-Byzantine facade, making it truly a sight to behold
- Piazza della Libertà – this stunning Baroque structure boasts a textured basement and an entrance that is framed by three round arches
- Archbishop’s Palace
Alberobello
Alberobello is a stunning Italian village renowned for its trulli, the signature white-washed cone-shaped dwellings made of limestone.
With its picturesque streets, the town is a wonderful place to explore, with a variety of shops and restaurants offering traditional Puglian cuisine.
Furthermore, Alberobello is a paradise for souvenir hunters, with its boutiques selling artisan-created scarves, home decor, and delicate lace goods
Highlights:
- Rione Monti – UNESCO world heritage site filled with over 1,500 trulli
- Trullo Sovrano – the only trullo with two storeys, which now houses a museum
- Church of Saint Anthony of Padua – a 20th-century trullo-style church, it stands out among the other churches in Italy
Monopoli
Are you looking for a beautiful spot to experience the charm of Old Italy and soak up the sun? Then look no further than Monopoli! From Bari, this seaside paradise is easily accessible by car or train.
Stroll through the historic old town, savor the delicious seafood, or bask in the sun on the stunning little beaches. With its gorgeous sandy beaches, gentle waves, and crystal waters, Monopoli is perfect for beach lovers.
Highlights:
- Monopoli Cathedral – also known as Basilica of the Madonna della Madia, a Baroque-style 18th-century cathedral with an altar adorned with intricate multi-colored designs and decorations
- Castle of Charles V – once used as a prison, the castle is currently being utilized as a platform for showcasing various forms of art and hosting different kinds of cultural activities
- Coastal Castle of St. Stephen – also known as Castello di Santo Stefano, this castle was an essential coastal fortress throughout the Middle Agess
Lecce
Nicknamed “Florence of the South,” Lecce is an enchanting baroque city with visually stunning architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. You can explore the city on foot and be mesmerized by its gargoyles, impressive columns, and 17th-century baroque architecture.
As a university town, the city has a unique energy, with an abundance of boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife. You can also experience the delicious street food of Lecce, including the famous rustico and pasticciotto pastries. With so much to do and explore, Lecce is indeed one of the best places to stay in Puglia.
Highlights:
- Basilica di Santa Croce – a Baroque-style church known for its elaborate façade decorated with intricate sculptures, swirling columns, and intricate reliefs
- Piazza del Duomo – a charming square encircled by some of the most decorated Baroque buildings in Lecce
- Roman Amphitheater – Roman ruins situated in the main piazza of the old town said to hold more than 25,000 spectators
- Lecce Cathedral – also known as Catedral de la Asunción de Santa María in Italian, one of the most iconic religious landmarks in the city, serving as the seat of the Archdiocese of Lecce
Polignano a Mare
If you’re looking for a place to stay in the Puglia region with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of attractions nearby, then Polignano a Mare is the place for you. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town, where you’ll find beautiful white-washed buildings and vibrant flower displays.
Get a stunning view of the ocean and the cliffs from incredible viewpoints throughout the village. Though it is a smaller town, there is an abundance of shops, bars, and eateries to explore, including some wonderful restaurants perched on the cliffs.
Highlights:
- Lama Monachile Beach – also known as Cala Porto, a stunning public pebbled beach nestled between two majestic rocky walls famous for cliff diving
- Grotta Palazzese – enjoy an unforgettable dining experience at this 5-star hotel and restaurant, which has been partially constructed inside a stunning cave complex
- Old Town – follow the poetry throughout the city as lines from poems are adorned on the white-washed walls, doors, and staircases
- Museo d’Arte Contemporanea Pino Pascali – dedicated to the artist Pino Pascali who created many famous statues and other works of art in his minimalistic style of contemporary art
Bari
Bari, the capital of Puglia and a bustling port city, offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the true essence of Italian culture. Due to its convenient location and excellent transport links, it is the perfect base from which to explore the stunning region of Puglia.
Not only can you explore its rich history and enjoy delicious local cuisine, but you can also take advantage of the city’s bustling nightlife, vibrant shopping, and exciting entertainment options.
Highlights:
- Basilica di San Nicola – one of the four Palatine churches of Puglia and the most popular tourist attraction in Bari that houses the relics of St. Nicholas
- Bari Vecchia – Bari Old Town, explore the winding streets filled with ancient churches, traditional eateries, and unique boutiques.
- Castello Svevo – a stunning medieval fortress that now hosts temporary exhibitions
- Lungomare Nazario Sauro – enjoy a leisurely walk along the seafront promenade, taking in the spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea
- Teatro Petruzzelli – an impressive opera house that is the fourth largest in Italy
Gallipoli
For a unique experience that combines stunning beaches, delicious seafood dishes, and an array of historical sites, Gallipoli should be at the top of your list for places to visit in Puglia. With a 17th-century bridge connecting the small island to the mainland, this coastal town offers a variety of experiences.
Explore the narrow streets and alleys to discover churches, palaces, and piazzas, and don’t forget to visit the local markets to find traditional crafts and products.
For a dose of beach fun and nightlife, Gallipoli is the perfect destination.
Highlights:
- Centro Storico – also known as Gallipoli Vecchia, you may opt to do a walking tour, whether on your own or with a guide, to explore the Old Town
- Greek Fountain – an iconic landmark filled with spectacular sculptures and intricate carvings, an ideal spot to take a break and relax from the hustle and bustle of sightseeing
- Gallipoli Cathedral – also known as Basilica Concattedrale di Sant’Agata, its Baroque exterior is adorned with exquisite statues and decorations while its interior is a stunning blend of Renaissance and Byzantine architectural styles
- Spiaggia della Purità – the most popular beach in Gallipoli with its clean, sandy beach and calm, shallow waters
- Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi – Church of St. Francis of Assisi, a Baroque building considered one of Gallipoli’s oldest churches dating back to the 13th century
Pescoluse
Pescoluse is a great destination for families in Puglia looking for a unique beach holiday experience. With its crystal-clear aqua waters and white sand dunes, it’s no wonder why Pescoluse is often referred to as the ‘Maldives of Puglia.’
In addition to the stunning scenery, visitors can also explore the marina and take advantage of the nearby water sports, restaurants, and ice cream parlors. Further afield, nature lovers can explore the caves and archaeological sites in the nearby area.
Highlights:
- Explore the beaches of Pescoluse – venture to nearby attractions like the Posto Vecchio and Torre Vado for a beach-hopping adventure
- Boat excursions – explore the stunning caves and take in the views of the beautiful landscapes; you can rent a boat or book a tour on the spot
- Observation Tower of Masseria Borgino
- Dolmen Argentina
Nardò
A trip to Nardò promises an unforgettable experience, with exquisite cuisine, majestic churches, and picturesque balconies. Adventure seekers will enjoy plenty of recreational activities like cycling, hiking, and picnicking in the serene surroundings of olive groves and pine forests.
For history enthusiasts, Nardò’s Piazza Salandra and historic palaces are a must-see. Get away from the tourist crowds and come explore the beauty of Nardò!
Highlights:
- Piazza Salandra – the center of the town, with many iconic and historic structures that make up its picturesque landscape
- Nardò Cathedral – Roman Catholic cathedral dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
- Temple of the Osanna
No matter your travel goals, Puglia is the perfect region for you to explore. With its rich culture, beautiful scenery, and countless activities, you’ll surely have an unforgettable trip. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the fantastic region of Puglia!
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