With the capital city of Bari and vast olive groves covering much of the landscape, Puglia offers a view of Italy from a slightly different angle. In the past it was a crossroads of cultures, which is reflected in the architecture, cuisine and customs.
Must-see places in Puglia
Bari
The region's capital has two faces - the modern commercial centre and historic Bari Vecchia. The old town is a labyrinth of narrow streets where women still make orecchiette, the typical ear-shaped pasta, by hand. Bari's landmark is the Basilica of St Nicholas, where the relics of this saint are kept.
Alberobello
Alberobello is world famous for its trulli - small stone houses with conical roofs. These buildings are unique for their simplicity and aesthetic beauty. A walk through the streets of Rione Monti, a part of town full of trulli, is like a journey into a fairy tale.
Polignano a Mare
This little town literally grows out of the cliffs above the Adriatic Sea. It offers breathtaking views, romantic alleyways and the famous Lama Monachile beach, located in the grip of the cliffs. polignano is also famous for its cuisine - fresh seafood and homemade pasta are particularly good here.
Lecce
The "Florence of the South" is famous for its Baroque style, reflected in the richly decorated facades of its churches and palaces. The city is full of artistic atmosphere and history. Don't miss the Basilica of Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy.
Gargano and Vieste
The Gargano Peninsula is a natural paradise with unspoilt beaches, forests and rocky coastline. The town of Vieste, built on a rocky promontory, offers breathtaking views of the sea. Nature lovers should visit the Foresta Umbra National Park, home to centuries-old beech forests.
Ostuni
A white hilltop town, Ostuni attracts visitors with its winding streets and typical white houses. It's the perfect place for an evening stroll and a taste of the local wine.
Hidden corners of Puglia
For those who want to escape the crowds, Puglia offers many lesser-known but no less impressive places.
Matera, although officially in the neighbouring region of Basilicata, is easily accessible from Puglia. It is famous for its 'sassi' rock dwellings, which are UNESCO-listed.
Cisternino and Locorotondo are picturesque towns ideal for quiet walks and exploring the local gastronomy.
Santa Maria di Leuca, located at the southernmost tip of Puglia, is a magical place whereionian and Adriatic seas meet, a town with a basilica at the end of the world and beautiful sea caves.
Apulian cuisine
Gastronomy is one of the reasons why visitors love to return to Puglia. The region is famous for its orecchiette pasta, often served with tomato sauce and ricotta or with broccoli and anchovies. the olive oil here is among the best in Italy, as is the wine Primitivo di Manduria or Negroamaro. The coast is dominated by fresh fish and seafood, which can be enjoyed in simple but perfectly prepared dishes.
Puglia can appeal to everyone, from history and art lovers to those who want to relax on the beach. Whether you're exploring the beauty of baroque Lecce, exploring the trulli in Alberobello or tasting wine in the countryside, this region will win you over with its warmth and authenticity.
