Nestled between the Ionian and Adriatic Seas in southern Italy, you’ll find rolling hills with olive trees, centuries-old Trulli houses, and miles of stunning coastline. Puglia isn’t as well known as other parts of Italy, yet it’s a fantastic destination to explore with children. From the stunning Gargano Peninsula to the charming architecture of Lecce, this list of the best places in Puglia for families includes some of the region’s top attractions.
Best Places In Puglia For Family
1. Gargano Peninsula
Gargano Peninsula is one of the best places in Puglia for families to explore and enjoy nature. The peninsula stretches from the north of Puglia into the Adriatic Sea and is home to the Gargano National Park. Visitors are welcomed by its gorgeous white rocks and breathtaking marine landscapes, which are a sight to behold.
In addition to these outdoor activities, there are plenty of beaches to relax on and boat excursions that are perfect for family trips. For those looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails, and older kids can take beautiful excursions. No matter what your family enjoys, the Gargano Peninsula is ideal for visiting and spending quality time together.
Things to see and do in Gargano with kids:
- Visit the National Park
- Explore The Paleontology Museum of San Marco in Lamis for the opportunity to see actual dinosaur footprints
- Marvel at the site of Santuario di San Michele Arcangelo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Snorkeling at Tremiti Islands, best for older kids
- Enjoy kid-friendly activities at Gattarella Resort in Vieste
2. Bari province
Bari Province is the perfect destination for family travel in Puglia. Families can explore Bari Vecchia, the old town of Bari, which is filled with enchanting sights and attractions. Here, you can find a vibrant harbor, stunning beaches, and an array of delicious restaurants. Kids of all ages will love the beaches, and the harbor is a great place to take a boat ride.
Places to visit in Bari Province for families
- Castel del Monte
- Indiana Adventure Park
- Castellana Caves
- Fasano Zoo
- Aquapark Egnazia
- A variety of charming towns, such as Trani, Polignano, Monopoli, Alberobello, and Martina Franca
3. Monopoli
Monopoli is a charming small town situated in the Bari province, which is particularly appealing to children.
With its car-free historical center, coastal landscape, and safe roads, Monopoli is a great family destination. There are multiple kid-friendly eateries, playgrounds and sports fields, which make it an ideal spot for a summer holiday.
The town also boasts small beaches and is in close proximity to larger, sandy stretches of coastline. Furthermore, Monopoli is an excellent base for day trips and exploring the rest of the region.
4. Trani and Castel del Monte
Trani is a small and picturesque seaside town located on the Adriatic coast. It is renowned for its medieval church in Romanesque style that stands right on the sea and is known to evoke awe and wonder in all who visit. This is the reason why it is one of the best places in Puglia for families.
The Duomo of Trani is a striking sight, with its cream color standing out against the blue of the sea and the sky. The church is the town’s main landmark, but the town itself is full of attractions, with a public park that has a nice playground and a marina full of restaurants. For much older kids, a bike tour of the town is a great way to explore.
Travelers with kids should also take the time to visit nearby Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the times of Federick II. The castle has a peculiar octagonal structure that makes it truly unique and a fascinating sight.
5. Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is one of the best places in Puglia for families to visit. Located on the Paulian coast, it is renowned for its picturesque setting, With its beautiful white rock jutting out over the clear blue sea. Despite the influx of visitors, it is still a great place to explore, with its tiny beach, quaint streets, and gelato shops.
Apart from its picturesque views, Polignano a Mare has plenty of activities to keep the family entertained. There are boat trips, caves, and even a water park nearby.
The locals are also incredibly friendly, so don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. With its unbeatable views and wide array of activities, it’s easy to see why Polignano a Mare is a perfect place for a family getaway.
6. Grotte di Castellana
Grotte di Castellana is one of the best places to visit with family in Puglia. With over 122 meters of depth, the caves are an incredible natural wonderland and a great place for kids to explore and learn.
Not only can visitors explore the caves and discover their stunning features, such as fossils, stalagmites, and stalactites, but they can also take a night excursion to explore the caves in complete darkness, which is sure to be a thrilling experience for teenagers!
And with the caves easy to access, it’s a perfect day trip or weekend adventure for the whole family. Don’t miss out on this unique experience and explore the beauty of Grotte di Castellana.
7. Alberobello
Alberobello is a wonderful family destination situated in the Puglia region of Italy. With its unique trulli houses, whitewashed walls, and pointy roofs, it’s a sight that kids of all ages will adore.
The largest trullo, Trullo Sovrano, has now been turned into a museum of rural local culture, educating visitors on the local culture and making it enjoyable for children, too.
To avoid the large crowds of buses filled with day-trippers, it is advised to stay the night in Alberobello so that you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the town before and after the day-trippers.
A great alternative to the busy Alberobello is the nearby Locorotondo, where you can also enjoy a leisurely lunch. Overall, the beauty of Alberobello is unmissable for families visiting Puglia, and its unique and educational attractions will create memories that will last a lifetime.
8. Locorotondo
Locorotondo is an ideal destination for families, offering a wide range of activities and attractions to keep the whole family entertained. Located just 10 minutes from Alberobello, it’s a great base for exploring Val D’Itria, an area known for its stunning olive groves and traditional Trulli.
Locorotondo is renowned for its charming whitewashed alleys, magnificent churches, and picturesque courtyards. It’s a peaceful and tranquil place, perfect for relaxing during the hot summer days.
Nearby attractions include Aquapark Egnazia and Fasano Safari Zoo, which are two of the most popular family-friendly activities in the region. Aquapark Egnazia is the largest water park in Southern Italy, offering a range of thrilling rides and slides for children of all ages.
Fasano Safari Zoo is the second largest animal park in Europe, with an abundance of exotic animals and interactive activities. With so much to explore and experience, Locorotondo is the perfect destination for families looking for an unforgettable adventure in Puglia.
9. Martina Franca
Martina Franca is one of the best destinations in Puglia for family trips. It is a beautiful historic town with tall walls that surround the city center. The winding streets are lined with whitewashed buildings, pretty squares, and stunning Baroque churches. It is an excellent place to explore for a day or to use as a base to explore the rest of Puglia.
With its car-free and safe streets, Martina Franca is a great place for kids to explore. There are plenty of gelato places, and visitors can even go to a local olive oil mill and learn how the delicious olive oil is made.
The city also has plenty of family-friendly activities, such as parks, playgrounds, and museums. For a memorable family vacation in Puglia, Martina Franca should be at the top of your list.
10. Check out Lecce when you are in Puglia
Situated on the Salento peninsula, Lecce is renowned for its baroque architecture and unique paper mâché figures, traditionally used in creating light statues for religious festivals.
The region of Salento also offers stunning beaches with gorgeous blue waters, making it a great destination for families looking to explore and learn about the local culture. There are a variety of places to visit and attractions to enjoy in Lecce, such as its renowned churches and family-friendly activities.
Places to visit in Lecce with kids:
- Roman Amphitheater in Piazza Sant’Oronzo
- The historic Piazza del Duomo in Lecce
- Basilica di Santa Croce
- Chiesa di Santa Chiara
- Lecce Cathedral (Cattedrale dell’Assunzione della Virgine)
- Museo Faggiano
Best Time to Visit Puglia with Kids
When planning a trip to Puglia with your kids, you may be wondering when the best time to go is. The Mediterranean climate provides hot and dry summers, with June being the driest month, perfect for those looking for beach days.
August is the busiest month for tourists as many Italians have their vacation then. November is the rainiest month, and January tends to be the coldest, usually in the 50°F. No matter when you decide to visit, Puglia will provide your family with an unforgettable experience full of amazing destinations.
How to Get Around The Best Places In Puglia For Family
If you plan to explore multiple locations in Puglia with your kids, it’s a good idea to rent a car for a few days. This makes the process of traveling from one place to another much smoother.
You may need to book in advance to guarantee an automatic car, as manual vehicles are more common. Car and booster seats are available to rent, but it’s best to bring your own if you’re concerned about their quality. Alternatively, you can also use public buses and regional trains to travel between the best places in Puglia for families.
You will find many family-friendly destinations in Puglia that are sure to provide unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. The picturesque streets of Alberobello, sandcastle building on the Salento beaches, or savoring the delectable cuisine of Puglia have something to offer everyone.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Puglia has it all, including its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Take a trip to Puglia and leave your family with smiles that will last a lifetime.
