Where to Go in Puglia: 18 Incredible Places to Visit in Puglia, Italy

Wondering where to go in the magical, sun-drenched region of Puglia, Italy? Trying to decide which Puglia destinations are worth adding to your itinerary? Look no further!

After spending three months in Puglia, exploring the region from top to bottom (with my Pugliese boyfriend!), I’ve filled this guide with all the best places to visit in Puglia, Italy.

From historic towns like Ostuni and Alberobello, to whitewashed coastal towns such as Polignano a Mare, to the ancient beechwood forests of Gargano, this guide is full of Puglia’s must-sees and hidden gems!

Here are 18 of the best places to visit in Puglia. Plus, you’ll discover what to do in each place, expert tips, and helpful recommendations to help you plan your trip.

Where is Puglia, Italy?

Puglia (A.K.A. the “breadbasket” of Italy) is the longest region in the country, stretching from the far-reaching north in Gargano to the Valle d’Itria to the bottom of the “heel.”

Home to vast countryside, rugged coast, and dense forest, Puglia is a dynamic region, ripe for exploration.

Puglia encompasses over 500 miles of coastline, from the southeastern Ionian Sea coastline to the Adriatic Sea coastline (just across from Croatia and Albania). That’s 10% of mainland Italy’s coast!

How to Get Around Puglia

Before we dive into the best places in Puglia, let’s talk logistics. How should you plan to get from one Puglia destination to the next?

Rental Car

The best way to travel through the Puglia region is by car!

With the freedom of your own wheels, you can pull over for endless photo ops – and cute restaurants, wineries, and restrooms – as you explore all of the best places to visit in Puglia.

From visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites to sandy beaches, trust me, you’ll be glad you rented a car.

You can rent a car in the city of your arrival, likely Bari or Brindisi. This is my favorite website for finding the best rental car deals in Puglia!

Otherwise, private drivers and shuttles are an option. If you don’t feel comfortable driving in Southern Italy, that’s understandable! Check out shuttle options here.

Public Transport

It’s possible to use public transport while visiting Puglia, but it’s inconvenient.

This option requires a lot of maneuvering between bus stations and train stations, which are not always close to town.

I traveled via train and bus for about half of my two-month Puglia trip, and I found out (the hard way!) that extensive bus routes connecting all of Puglia’s charming towns do not exist.

So inevitably, I found myself in few a rather pricey taxis.

When it comes to Puglia’s amazing Tremiti Islands (see #6 below!), you can easily access them during peak season via ferry, from Vieste, Peschici, and other ports. Click here to check out the ferry timetables.

How Many Days Do You Need in Puglia?

You’ll need at least 10 days to move around the region and see most of the best places to visit in Puglia, Italy.

If you have only a week to visit Puglia, use this 7 to 10-day Puglia itinerary to help you squeeze the most out of your time!

In other words, the Puglia region is large and overflowing with incredible experiences. You’ll have more than enough reasons to visit Puglia over and over again – even if you can cover all of the Puglia destinations on this list in one trip.

In all honesty, I’ve spent months traveling around Puglia and I still have more places to visit… like the Tremiti Islands (it was far too cold in November!).

READ MORE: Why Visit Puglia, Italy? 10 Undeniable Reasons to Travel to Puglia

Best Puglia Destionations:
18 Magical Places to Visit in Puglia, Italy

Logistics aside, let’s answer your question: “Where to go in Puglia?”

Let’s dive into the best 18 places in Puglia to add to your Puglia itinerary. Charming hilltop towns, stunning Mediterranean beaches, incredible architecture, local wines, and mouthwatering cuisine await you!

Note: I’ve broken this list down into broad regions (Gargano, around Bari, Salento) and then specific destinations within each one.

Puglia’s Gargano Region

1. Umbra Forest

The Umbra Forest is the last remaining part of Italy’s ancient beech wood forest, which used to cover much of western Europe. It resides in the magnificent Gargano National Park!

As one of Puglia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Umbra Forest is one of the most magical places to visit in Puglia!

There are over 60 miles of trails to hike or bike in the Forest Umbra! The lush, hilly landscape is covered with a vast carpet of greenery and filled with ancient trees, a lake, ponds, and even a deer reserve. 

I’d say you need just a half-day in the Forest Umbra, but if you want to stay the night immersed in nature, check out the Cantoniera D’Umbra Agriturismo.

2. Vieste

Remarkable coastline views and beautiful beaches make Vieste my favorite coastal town in the Gargano region. It’s a must-see place when you visit Puglia!

In Vieste, wander the lovely narrow streets of the medieval old town (Borgo Antico) without a big “to see” list.

Oh, except for the Baroque bell tower of the Basilica of Vieste; it’s a must!

Plus, if you love cute things, the Staircase of Love, Scalinata dell’amore, is for you.

For expansive views of Punta San Francesco and the Adriatic Sea, walk the Vieste Promenade. And for a legendary sight, head to Spaggia di Castello to admire the Pizzomunno, Vieste’s monolithic rock jutting straight out of the sea.

Some of the most outstanding beaches on the Gargano Peninsula await you outside Vieste! I left a piece of my soul at Spiaggia di Vignanotica, so if you find it, please bring it back. Alternatively, you can leave it at Spiaggia di Baia dei Mergoli.

While on the road, stop to see the Arc of San Felice and the Grotta Sfondata. Better yet, go on this Vieste Marine Caves Boat Tour to cruise past these sights and the sea caves of Vieste! Click here to book it!

Forte 2 Hotel, Al Castello Relais Vieste, and B & B Dimora del Dragone are my top picks for where to stay overnight in Vieste! It’s so beautiful here, you’ll never want to leave!

3. Peschici

Okay, so I know I said Vieste was my favorite seaside town on the Gargano Peninsula. But the tiny fishing village of Peschici emits a particularly tranquil and laid-back vibe.

You’ll meander around whitewashed houses, visit the Basilica, and stop for photos of the love-lock fence above the Castello di Peschici in the old town.

However, the single most important thing you’ll do in Peschici is eat fresh seafood. More specifically, you’ll spend hours wining and dining at Al Trabucco Da Mimì. (And then, you’ll thank me after.)

P.S. Some of the coolest places to visit around Peschici are the ancient fortified watch towers – or torre. My favorite was the Torre di Monte Pucci! Set against Adriatic Sea blues, these historic relics are hauntingly beautiful.

You’re going to want a room with a stunning sea view here! Marina Bay Luxury Rooms, Bed and Breakfast Baia Scirocco Peschici Gargano, and B&B the Peschiciano are the three best places to stay!

4. Rodi

After spending a few days exploring Rodi (another ancient coastal town near Peschici), I realized just how authentic this part of the Gargano Peninsula is!

You’d be hard-pressed to hear a language other than Italian in Rodi, Gargano’s laidback, hilltop coastal town. 

My Puglian tour guide (who happens to double as my boyfriend!) brought me to some of Rodi’s sandy beaches, like the nearby Blue Flag beach, Lido del Sole. You’ll love this beach as much as I did!

He also took me to one of the best pizzerias of my life at L’angolo della Pizza. It’ll become your new favorite, too.

Then, shop til you drop at the Marina di Rodi boutiques and walk along Corso Giannone at sunset.

And finally, head up to Piazza Rovelli for town square happenings and people-watching.

5. Vico del Gargano

Vico del Gargano is a mountain community within Gargano National Park known as the “City of Love.”

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, it’s surrounded by olive trees and orange groves, and filled with historic buildings and romantic corridors.

I sincerely didn’t realize there were places to visit in Puglia that receive snow! I mean, this is Southern Italy we’re talking about… But in the village of Vico del Gargano, there is!

Visiting Vico del Gargano’s medieval castle, and wandering its quaint cobblestone alleys in the winter, was a fantasy come to life at 1,500 feet above sea level!

There’s not a huge to-do list in Vico, so grab a box of sweets at Pizzicato and sit in the Villa Comunale. Then, explore the historic old town on foot.

If the history of olive oil interests you (it should!), check out the Trappeto Maratea Museum.

6. Tremiti Islands

I’ve visited Puglia in the fall and winter – when the weather is not ripe for island life. But if you’re traveling from May through October, the Tremiti Islands are some of the best places to visit in Puglia!

This five-island archipelago sits off the coast of northern Puglia and is part of Gargano National Park.

You can expect stellar snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and fishing all around the Tremiti Islands.

Think of the Tremiti Islands as the “Capri of Puglia.” Only, less crowded!

To get there, you’ll need to hop on a ferry! Click here to easily check the timetables and book your ferry trip.

I haven’t been to Tremiti (yet!), but I know that you’re going to want to base yourself on the island of San Domino! According to my research, Villa Lucio Dalla, Hotel Kyrie Isole Tremiti, and Hotel Eden are the best accommodations.

7. Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are some of the most important places to visit in Puglia… And the Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel (Santuario di San Michele Arcangelo) – located in the historic town of Monte Sant’Angelo, in Gargano National Park – is one of them!

Dedicated to the Longobards’ “Places of Power,” this stunning Romanesque-style sanctuary is the oldest shrine in Western Europe.

The significance of this underground cave-sanctuary to Puglia, and Italy as a whole, cannot be overstated. People have made pilgrimages to this site since the Middle Ages!

It’s believed that Saint Michael visited the sanctuary in the 5th century B.C. – and that those who make their way to the sanctuary will have eternal good luck!

Destinations Near the Metropolitan City of Bari

8. Bari

Likely, you’ll be flying out of Bari’s airport, so why not get to know the region’s capital city before heading home?

Bari Vecchia, the old city, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Puglia’s culture and way of life. So, naturally, one of the best things to do in Bari is sit in a square (like Piazza del Ferrarese or Piazza Mercantile), or walk around the Lungomare e Murat, and people-watch!

Better yet, catch a show at the Teatro Petruzzelli! What better way to integrate with Puglian culture than by witnessing the art of the times?

You also shouldn’t miss this Street Food Tour in Bari’s Old Town. You’ll taste local delicacies like fresh-caught seafood, focaccia, and gelato. Click here to book it!

Then, hop on a traditional rickshaw for a relaxing tour of the old town. On this rickshaw tour, you’ll admire the architecture of the Norman-Swabian Castle, visit the Bari Cathedral, and walk down the aisle of the grand Basilica San Nicola. Click here to book your rickshaw tour!

9. Castel del Monte: Alta Murgia National Park

A convenient stop on your way to Bari is another Puglian UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Castel del Monte.

Built by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, the Castel del Monte is considered to be one of the most mysterious castles in the world!

You’ll need just a couple of hours to soak up the fascinating architectural design of the castle, as well as appreciate its interior.

What makes the castle so perplexing is that the geometric design is astonishingly precise, especially considering it was built almost 1,000 years ago!

Book this guided tour of Castel del Monte so you can soak up all of the facts and history. Click here to book it.

10. Polignano a Mare

Just 40 minutes from Puglia’s capital city of Bari, you’ll find the famous seaside town of Polignano a Mare. This is one of the most popular destinations in Puglia.

Like many before me, Polignano’s rocky cliffs, adorable old town, fresh seafood, and awe-inspiring views left a grand impression.

Like other towns in Puglia, you have to stroll around Polignano’s charming historic center and pop into the cathedrals… And of course, you must go on this Small Group Boat Excursion to explore the caves and grottos.

But also, I wouldn’t blame you for spending all your time sunbathing! Polignano a Mare has some of the best beaches on the Adriatic Coast! 

Up for an adventure? Go on this Sea Kayak Tour of Polignano or this Stand-Up-Paddleboard Ride to the Caves!

When the iconic Lama Monachile beach is wall-to-wall busy, check out nearby beaches like San Vito!

Also, you must make sure to stop at at least one of these epic lookout spots:

• Belvedere su Lama Monachile
• Punto Panoramico Largo Ardito
• Pietra Piatta

If you’re into extreme sports (or watching people do crazy things!) visit during the annual Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series! 

By the way… You’re going to want to spend at least one night here! Sei Stelle Mama, BAYIT Charming Place, and CHIALE Holiday Apartments are the three best hotel options!

11. Trani

A small port town north of Polignano a Mare, Trani was once the capital of Puglia!

The blue and white fishing boats that float in the port of Trani are incredibly picturesque. With its proximity to Bari and stunning architecture, this place in Puglia is worth visiting for a half-day!

The pale buildings and monuments around Trani are made of light-pink Trani Stone, sourced from nearby caves.

Do yourself a favor and admire the best example at the Puglian Romanesque Cathedral of Trani (Basílica Catedral de San Nicolás Peregrino), whose bell tower stands tall over the town.

After exploring the historic center, spend your half-day in Trani grazing a picnic at Villa Comunale, and admiring the statues and views of the Adriatic Sea.

Cap off your day sunbathing at nearby Lido Bella Venezia!

12. Alberobello

The most fairy-tale-like place to visit in Puglia is the unique town of Alberobello.

It’s impossible not to fall in love with Alberobello’s famous trulli houses, which are protected by UNESCO!

One of my most precious memories from Alberobello is sleeping in an ancient trullo (singular of trulli) at Trulli Holiday. You simply must stay the night in a trullo!

Trulli Holiday, Le Alcove Luxury Trulli, and La Mandorla Luxury Trulli are my top three picks! Click here to book your stay in Alberobello.

While in Alberobello, be sure to explore the picturesque streets of Rione Aia Piccola and Rione Monti Quarters, visit the Trullo Sovrano museum, and stop by the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua (the only trullo church in the world).

Hot tip: Eat Puglian street food at Principotto!

Just note that Alberobello is a top tourist destination in Puglia. Be prepared for crowds in the summer months!

READ MORE: 10 Best Things to Do in Alberobello, Puglia, Italy

13. Castellana Caves

The town of Castellana Grotte, between Polignano a Mare and Alberobello, draws visitors to one of Puglia’s rarest gems: the Castellana Caves.

Revered as one of Italy’s most impressive underground cave systems, the Castellana Caves are a mind-blowing place to visit in Puglia.

This Grotte di Castellana Cave Excursion will make you feel as if you’re exploring the inner workings of a chandelier!

You’ll descend some 230 feet below the earth’s surface with your guide to admire dripping stalactites, rising stalagmites, all kinds of ancient fossils, cavities, and caves.

Click here to book your Grotte di Castellana Cave Excursion (From Bari).

Puglia’s Salento Region

14. Lecce

Known for its decadent Baroque architecture and luxurious lifestyle, Lecce is one of the best places to visit in Puglia – and maybe even all of Italy!

This beautiful city features two Roman ruins in the historic center (the Roman Amphitheater and the Roman Theater), a bustling city center with lots of restaurants and wine bars (try La Strada Del Vino Wine Bistrot), and stunning churches.

The Piazza del Duomo and the Basilica di Santa Croce are your must-sees, but this vibrant city is full of historic buildings.

Foodies, don’t miss this Orecchiette Cooking Class and Wine Tasting in Lecce old town; you’ll learn to make the traditional orecchiette pasta from scratch! Click here to book your cooking class.

This Primitivo and Negroamaro Wine Tour of two local wineries is also a must! Click here to book it.

There are also plenty of beaches nearby, perfect for day-tripping! 

Wondering where to stay in Lecce? Dimora San Giuseppe, Mantatelure, and Patria Palace Hotel are your best bets! Click here to find great deals on Lecce accommodation.

READ MORE: 14 Unforgettable Things to Do in Lecce, Italy (+ Must-Know Travel Tips!)

15. Ostuni

Picture a whitewashed medieval hilltop town surrounded by olive trees in Puglia’s countryside. This vision is Ostuni, the “White City” – one of the quaintest places to visit in all of Puglia!

You’ll feel Ostuni’s fascinating history within the fortified walls of this small town. Plus, you can learn about it in the Museum of Preclassic Civilizations of the Southern Murgia (big name, big history).

You also have to go on this Private Ape Tour of the Millenary Olive Groves in Ostuni. It’s one of the best I’ve ever been on! Click here to book it. 

Taking this Ape tour of Ostuni is my top recommendation since you’ll see iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Ostuni, Arco Scoppa, and plenty more.

I also suggest a quiet, late-night stroll through the historic center, set aglow under the moonlight. 

Be sure to stop by the Porta Azzurra for a photo-op too!

Oh, and I’ve got you covered with the best Ostuni hotels! Choose from the Paragon 700, Hotel la Terra, and Dimora Martina. Find the best deals on Ostuni accommodation here.

READ MORE: 16 Enchanting Things to Do in Ostuni, Puglia: Italy’s “White City”

16. Locorotondo

The most famous town in Puglia’s Itria Valley (Valle d’Itria) is Locorotondo.

This lovely town is one of the top places to visit in Puglia for wine lovers, and was voted a “borghi più belli d’italia” (A.K.A.: one of the most beautiful villages in Italy)!

Explore Locorotondo’s charming historic center and you’ll notice the pitched roof houses, cummersa, an architectural design unique to this old town.

Stop by the three must-see churches in Locorotondo: Church Saint George Martyr’s, the Chiesa di San Nicola, and the Chiesa della Madonna della Greca. Plus, there are two magnificent viewpoints to check out: Terrazzamenti Via Nardelli and Punto Panoramico. 

And of course, Locorotondo produces some of the region’s best vino bianco!

So head to one of the many wine bars in the historic center to sip fabulous wine, eat delicious food, and let the slow-paced lifestyle of Southern Italy overcome you.

Next time I visit, I plan to do this Valle d’Itria E-Bike Tour with an Olive Oil Tasting!

Planning to stay overnight in Locorotondo? 1783 Dimora d’Epoca, Leonardo Trulli Resort, and Villa Aurelia are the best places to stay!

17. Gallipoli

Jutting out into the Ionian Sea, on the west coast of the Salento Peninsula, is Gallipoli: a beautiful town (that’s what Gallipoli means in Italian!) in southern Puglia.

Transport yourself back to medieval times as you cross the bridge from the new town to the historic town – this part of Gallipoli is an island!

It’s true – every old town in Puglia has narrow streets and churches on seemingly every corner. But Gallipoli’s Basilica Concattedrale di Sant’Agata is particularly impressive.

You’ve also got to check out the medieval castle and walk the waterfront promenade (with gelato in hand, obviously).

Gallipoli is one of the best places to visit in Puglia for its sandy beaches and crystal-clear sea! Spiaggia della Purità, Purity Beach, is a destination all its own.

Just remember, Gallipoli is a larger town and can be quite touristy during the summer months.

18. Otranto

More crystalline waters ahead! Sitting opposite Gallipoli, on the eastern side of the Salento Peninsula, is Italy’s easternmost town: Otranto.

Warm shallow waters, an adorable old town, and lively nightlife make Otranto a popular beach day trip for visitors in nearby Lecce.

But there’s another body of water in Otranto that is one of the most unique places to visit in Puglia…

Somewhat resembling a crater, the Cave di Bauxite is a tiny emerald-green lake in the center of an old red-rock quarry. In my opinion, this is the most special thing to behold around Otranto!

18 Incredible Places to Visit in Puglia, Italy

Dreaming of the best places to visit in Puglia?

With this list of where to go in Puglia, you’ll be swept away by sea views and magical towns across the magical, sun-drenched region of Puglia.

Visit Puglia to relax on sandy beaches in Gallipoli or the Tremiti Islands, sample mouth-watering Puglian street food in Bari, swim in azure waters in Polignano a Mare, and tour Ostuni’s ancient olive groves in a vintage Ape. 

Day trip to Gargano National Park to hike the ancient Forest Umbra, then stay the night in one of the famous trulli houses around Alberobello.

With all the astoundingly beautiful places to visit in Puglia, Italy, I’m confident you’ll love this region as much as I do!

Now it’s time to start putting together your Puglia itinerary!

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