Puglia has become increasingly popular among tourists in recent years, and for good reason. With its stunning coastlines, picturesque trulli, and stunning beachscapes, the region is home to a wealth of natural beauty worth exploring. Here are 10 of the most incredible things to do in Puglia.
10 Best Things to Do in Puglia
Puglia’s breathtaking landscape is made up of stunning beaches, rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, small towns and villages. The region is renowned for its delicious cuisine, vibrant culture, and friendly locals.
Visitors can enjoy an array of activities, from relaxing on the beach to exploring the beautiful countryside. From Bari and Lecce’s vibrant cities to the Adriatic Sea’s crystal-clear waters, Puglia is the perfect destination for a relaxing Italian getaway.
1. Take a swim in the Caribbean-like waters
One of the best things to do in Puglia is to explore its gorgeous coastline. With almost 1,000 km of coastline, it is easy to find a beach that is perfect for you.
For those looking for a more dramatic setting, Punta della Suina in Gallipoli will fit the bill. Its rugged coastline and crystal clear, shallow turquoise waters are framed by a dense pine forest.
If you’re looking for something a little more secluded, Cala dell’Acquaviva is an excellent choice. This small rocky cove is surrounded by towering rocks and offers a unique combination of salt and spring water. There is even a kiosk on site for snacking and stocking up on refreshments.
Whether you are looking for a beach to relax on or one to explore, Puglia’s coastline has something for everyone.
2. Explore island hopping
A visit to Puglia is not complete without an island-hopping experience. One of the best things to do in Puglia is to explore the hidden gems of the Tremiti Islands.
Set off from San Dominio, the largest and greenest of the isles, and take a motorboat to discover the intriguing historical sites of San Nicola and the secret sandy patches of Cala Matano. Admire the 13th-century Badiali Castle and swim in the beautiful inlets amidst the rocks.
End the journey with a visit to the tiny island of Cretaccio and the protected Marine Reserve of Pianosa. Not only will you get to experience these wonderful places, but you can also soak up the beautiful Mediterranean sun and admire the stunning views. Puglia is a paradise for those who want to explore the wild and wonderful coastline.
3. Get to know Puglia’s most cultural city
In Lecce, one of Puglia’s most culturally vibrant cities, visitors can take a journey through the ages. Known as the ‘Florence of the South,‘ the city is draped in stunning Leccese limestone, and its historic architecture reflects a mix of styles, the most predominant being Baroque.
Tourists can explore the ornate exteriors of churches like the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Cathedral dedicated to Maria Santissima Assunta.
To truly embrace the Southern Italian lifestyle, there’s nothing better than spending an afternoon in a cafe. Sip on a refreshing Caffè Leccese, an iced coffee with fresh almond milk, and indulge in crema pasticcera-filled pasticciotto, a regional specialty.
As you sit back and enjoy your drink, you can take in Lecce’s beautiful sights and sounds and feel the city come alive around you.
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4. Stay in an Alberobello trulli
One of the best things to do in Puglia is to spend an evening in Alberobello. This charming town is located in the Valle d’Itria and is famous for its trulli, or limestone houses with domed roofs. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination.
Staying overnight in Alberobello is a great way to experience the town in a different light. In the evening, the streets are lit up with fairy lights, giving it a magical atmosphere.
In the early morning, the town is peaceful and tranquil before the tourists arrive. Spending a night in Alberobello is an unforgettable experience and the perfect way to explore the beauty of Puglia.
5. Get a taste of Puglia’s best ice cream and coffee
For the perfect Italian experience, a visit to the town of Polignano a Mare is a must. With its stunning crescent-shaped beach, whitewashed streets and spectacular views, it’s no wonder why this town is a favorite destination for tourists.
One of the best things to do in Polignano a Mare is to visit Il Super Mago del Gelo, an ice cream parlor run by the Campanella family for almost a century.
Here, you’ll find some of the best ice cream in Puglia, as well as Caffè Speciale, Mario Campanella’s unique espresso recipe with panna, lemon peel, and homemade Amaretto. This is the perfect spot to get a taste of the authentic Italian coffee experience and savor the flavors of Puglia.
6. Enjoy fresh seafood on converted fishing platforms
Puglia has so much to offer visitors, but there is one experience that you won’t want to miss. Along the Gargano coastline, between Peschici and Vieste, you’ll find trabucchi, centuries-old fishing platforms that have been restored and converted into restaurants.
At Al Trabucco da Mimì, you can enjoy a delicious meal of fresh seafood on a wooden veranda while admiring the stunning views of the Adriatic.
Here, you can sample the local catches of the day. What’s more, as you dine, you may even be lucky enough to witness trabucchi in action. This is a unique experience that is sure to stay with you for many years to come.
So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, make sure to include Al Trabucco da Mimì on your Puglia itinerary.
7. Discover one of Puglia’s natural wonders
One of the best things to do in Puglia is to explore the stunning Cava di Bauxite. Located just below Otranto, this old quarry lake is set in a picturesque landscape of red rocks and Mediterranean scrub.
The lake itself is a mesmerizing emerald color, and the best way to experience it is at golden hour when the sun casts a deep, red hue over the rocks.
To get to the lake, follow a rocky path from the parking lot. Once there, take your time to admire the beauty of the surrounding nature and take plenty of photos.
Don’t forget to bring a picnic to enjoy at the lake – it’s the perfect way to make the most of your visit. For those who love nature, the Cava di Bauxite is a must-see destination in Puglia.
8. Take a trip to the antique markets
Exploring the Baroque towns is one of the best things to do in Puglia. Ancient cities such as Lecce, Bari, and Ostuni all have their own charm and character, with winding alleys and cobbled streets.
Take in the sights of the beautiful churches, cathedrals, and other notable monuments, or enjoy a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants.
For a unique shopping experience, be sure to visit one of the many antique markets in Puglia. Ceglie Messapica hosts a market on the last Sunday of every month, while Fiera dell’Antiquariato in Martina Franca only runs for seven days in August.
You can find all sorts of items, from home decor to clothing and collector’s items. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, it’s an enjoyable activity to observe the bustling atmosphere of these markets.
9. Try and visit a local sagra
One of the best experiences to be had in Puglia is attending one of the local sagras. These traditional festivals are celebrated in squares or fields and feature live music, fun fairs, and markets.
Most importantly, guests are served a delicious selection of starters, primi courses, and main dishes, all prepared in the traditional Italian cucina casereccia style.
The Sagra delle Orecchiette nelle’ Nchiosce in Grottaglie and the Sagra del Fico Mandorlato in Piazza Marconi, San Michele Salentino are two of the most popular sagras in the area. Here, visitors will be welcomed with open arms and served generous portions of traditional local dishes.
Plus, they can explore the markets and take in the sights and sounds of the lively entertainment. A visit to a sagra is a great way to experience the culture and cuisine of Puglia.
10. Shop for ceramics
A trip to Grottaglie is a must-do for any traveler to Puglia. It is the ceramics district, where many ateliers have been in operation for generations, each with their own unique history and stories.
One of the most renowned is Franco Fasano, which has been in the Fasano family for 18 generations. Here, you will find a wide selection of tableware, vases, and amphorae.
The pieces are produced in the traditional manner but with a modern twist – showcasing bold colors and creative patterns that have caught the eye of celebrities like Giorgio Armani.
When you visit the shop, be sure to ask to have a peek at the nearby workshop to see the craftsmen at work. It is an incredible experience to witness their skill and artistry and to learn about their techniques. Shopping at Franco Fasano is a unique way to remember the beauty of Puglia long after your trip has ended.
Known for its natural beauty, history, and culture, Puglia captivates every traveler. With Alberobello’s intricate trulli, Gargano’s crystal-clear waters, and Lecce’s baroque architecture and savory local cuisine, Puglia offers a diverse tapestry of experiences that await exploration.
Puglia’s offerings are sure to charm and inspire any art enthusiast, history buff, nature lover, or foodie. Get ready to explore the best things to do in Puglia and let the region’s wonders leave an indelible mark on your soul.
