Our Puglia Itinerary: A 7-Day Adventure Through Italy’s Heel

Ready to plan your ultimate Puglia itinerary?

I was scrolling online through some information on Italy and suddenly saw a picture of the most unusual yet enchanting village: Alberobello. Looking further, I learned that this UNESCO World Heritage site was located in Puglia. Puglia? Why haven’t I heard about this area of Italy before? After an unforgettable road trip to Puglia, I am still amazed that this region isn’t as popular (yet!) as other parts of Italy.

If you are at the planning stage of your trip to Puglia, then knowing what to see and how to spend your time is pretty overwhelming, especially when every village seems enchanting. Don’t worry, I get it. I had the same. In the end, there were some things we could have skipped and also missed.

So based on our trip to Puglia and lessons learned, we have created the ultimate 7-day Puglia Itinerary. Whether you want to relax in charming small towns or take on a coastal adventure, I’ve got everything covered. Are you ready to explore?

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Puglia Itinerary Overview

This 7-day itinerary will have you starting in Polignano a Mare and ending in Bari, covering everything in between—including Matera, Lecce, gorgeous beaches, and the historic Valle d’Itria. Get ready for medieval streets, stunning coastal gems, and lots of olive oil and pasta! Here’s the day-by-day breakdown:

Day 1 Arrive at Bari or Brindisi Airport 🛬

If you are flying into Puglia you can either choose to go to the airport in Bari or Brindisi. We flew to Brindisi because we had found incredibly cheap tickets, plus it was conveniently close to the charming towns Ostuni and Alberobello – which are the towns that had put Puglia on top of my travel wish list.

We spent the first night of our Puglia Itinerary in a small coastal town Torre Santa Sabina near Brindisi. We kind of regretted staying here. It was raining plus we soon learned that a lot is closed in coastal towns in the low season. For our first Italian dinner, we had snacks at a cafeteria. I’m sure we would have had a more positive feeling about this place if the circumstances were different.

But still, for the next Puglia visit, we will do things differently. Instead of starting near Brindisi, we would first head to Polignano a Mare. And that is where we suggest your journey in Puglia to start.

Head to Polignano a Mare (🚗 40mins)

After picking up the rental car at Bari or Brindisi Airport head to the picture-perfect Polignano a Mare. This coastal gem is perched above limestone cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea, and its historic centro storico offers beautiful views around every corner.

The highlight of this charming town is Lama Monachile, a pebble beach nestled between cliffs.

We never plan too much on the day of arrival. Flight delays or car rental pick-ups always make the journey longer than planned. So a small laid-back seaside town like Polignano a Mare is an ideal place to start a road trip.

Poliginano a Mare is the perfect introduction to Pugali’s charming old towns – quaint narrow streets with white-washed houses that keep the heat at bay during the hot sunny months.

The turquoise water is an amazing sight, so I don’t need to say more… A visit and a swim at Lama Monochile is a must! Even if the beach is packed like sardines in a can, do as the Italians do: find a spot and jump in the water.

Polginano a Mare attracts a lot of tourists, so there are enough restaurants with stunning views and where you can try the classic Puglia Focaccia Barese.

Towards the evening make sure to stroll down the main streets to the heart of town for some gelato.

Grotto Palazzese is a unique and extremely popular restaurant in Polignano a Mare. You will understand why as soon as you see it. The tables are set within the cliff while waves lap against the rocks below. A unique experience for a first day in Puglia. Make sure you make a reservation as soon as you have arranged your flight…The sooner the better.

Where to Stay in Polignano A Mare

📍Budget Dimora Mediterranea: Located in the historic center this charming escape with its coastal-inspired design and stunning views is the perfect spot for those seeking modern comfort. Just a short stroll from the beaches

📍Mid-Range Santo Stefano Home & Breakfast offers spacious, beautifully decorated rooms and a charming terrace with stunning views to enjoy during breakfast. Tucked away in a small alley in the heart of town, it’s the perfect blend of comfort, style, and local charm!

📍Luxury Trame – La Naca sul Porto offers an unbeatable location right by the water and right in town, with stunning rooftop views and exceptional service. From the buggy ride to your apartment to the lovely breakfast, this charming spot combines convenience and breathtaking beauty for a perfect stay!

Optional: Head to Monopli (🚗 45mins)

Not surprisingly Polignano a Mare is one of the most popular places in Puglia, so it can get busy in the high season. If you are seeking a more local vibe with less tourists, then you might want to consider Monopoli instead.

This fishing village is known for its picturesque harbor and whitewashed streets that wind through the old town. The old town waterfront is a wonderful place to relax, enjoy the view over the water, and take in the peaceful harbor setting.

If you decide to stay in Monopoli, you can visit Polignano a Mare the next morning. It’s just a 15-minute drive away. Or instead of driving, you can also book a boat tour from Monopoli to the Polignano a Mare Caves and see the town from the water.

Where to stay in Monopoli

📍Budget Casa Coleó offers a spacious, well-furnished apartment with a lovely balcony overlooking the quiet courtyard, perfect for a relaxing retreat. Just a short walk from the train and bus stations, it provides a local, authentic experience with a kind and helpful host—ideal for those seeking comfort away from the tourist crowds.

📍Mid-Range Dimora Antica Via MiLord Lots of local shops and cafes close by great location, lovely garden, breakfast on a nice terrace, friendly owners make the stay unforgettable, stocked fridge with water, fruit and Italian sweets,

📍Luxury Dimora Antica Via MiLord boasts a fantastic location with local shops and cafes just around the corner, making it a perfect spot to explore. Enjoy a lovely breakfast on the terrace, unwind in the garden, and feel truly pampered by the friendly owners who provide a stocked fridge with water, fruit, and Italian sweets!

Day 2 Polignano a Mare – Matera (🚗 1h15)

Polignano a Marve Boat Tour

We were in Puglia in mid-April and no boats were heading out. But if possible, do make sure you book a boat tour to the Polignano Mare Caves. This tour includes stops at the most stunning cliffs, caves, and swimming spots in the area such as Lama Monochile Beach, Palazzese Cave and Hermit’s Rock.

The boat tour lasts 1,5 hours and depending on the season, they go quite frequently in the mornings.

Along the Way

Once you are ready to leave Polignano a Mare – you will not get enough of the views, it’s time to make your way to Matera, an essential addition to any Puglia itinerary.

Matera, while technically in Basilicata, is just a stone’s throw from Puglia and famous for its Sassi cave dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We loved the drive through the Italian hills to Matera. If this part of the journey is smooth and it is still in the afternoon, you might want to head to the Matera lookout point first (Belvedere Murgia Timone) before driving to the city itself. We visited it when we left Matera, which is also an option.

Not only was the view stunning but the hike through the hills was just as beautiful. We were even able to see ancient caves up close.

Matera

We arrived in the late afternoon and luckily it was still light enough to admire the ancient city known as Sassi di Matera. Some might say it is just an old town with stone houses. Yes, it isn’t the most colorful and certainly not bright white like the villages you will see in Puglia but once you dive into it, trust me…you will love it.

What makes Matera so special?

Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that stretches back over 9,000 years. The city’s unique charm lies in its Sassi—ancient cave dwellings carved directly into the rock.

These caves were home to local people for centuries, and they show how people were able to adapt to their environment. The Sassi di Matera is split into two main districts, Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, both provide a glimpse into a way of life from centuries ago.

The cave dwellings were originally used as homes, churches, and even communal gathering spaces, with intricate systems for water collection and storage. Despite the poverty that characterized life in Matera until the mid-20th century, there’s a beauty to these stone-carved neighborhoods.

In the 1950s, many of the cave dwellings were abandoned when the Italian government relocated residents due to poor living conditions. However, Matera has since undergone a transformation, and many of these once-neglected spaces have been converted into boutique hotels, restaurants, and museums.

Today, Matera is popular for its rich cultural heritage and was the European Capital of Culture in 2019.Once considered the ‘Shame of Italy’ was now put on the tourist map.

Exploring Matera

You might think to head straight down and wander through the maze of alleys and stairs but don’t forget to walk around the Sassi as well. From certain points, you could see the city from different angles and even the caves which were the settlements of the first inhabitants. Matt and I both thought the city felt unreal when looking at it….it is something we had never seen before.     

It was still cloudy when we explored along the edge of the Sassi district, so the views were not as stunning. But luckily the weather changed the next day, and like many things in life, when the sun is up things just look more pleasant.

Once it became dark we headed down through the little streets. There are wonderful restaurants everywhere, and I would have loved to have found an outdoor terrace along one of the many little streets. But it was April, cold and drizzling. Luckily we had a terrific pizza in a beautiful cave restaurant.

Where to stay in Matera

When booking a place in Matera, try to stay at one of the cave hotels. There’s something incredible about going to sleep in a cave—it’s not only cozy, but it makes you feel connected to this ancient city’s roots.

Many of these cave hotels are located in the ZTL area where cars are not permitted. So keep in mind that you might not be able to park right at the accommodation. You will also need to reserve a parking area in advance. Ask the accommodation for recommendations for the most suitable parking.

📍Budget Slow Living B&B in the heart of Matera offers great value for money, with a wonderful breakfast and scenic views from the balcony. Just a 10-minute walk to parking, it’s the perfect base to explore the city while enjoying comfort and convenience!

📍Mid-Range La Dimora delle 3 Zie offers beautifully converted cave rooms, each spotlessly clean with a comfy bed and excellent bathroom facilities. Just 2 minutes from the main street, enjoy a lovely room with a view of the old town and an incredible breakfast, all while experiencing the unique atmosphere of Matera!

📍Luxury Ai Terrazzini has spacious, traditional cave rooms that are impeccably clean and well-equipped, perfect for exploring the city. With an extraordinary breakfast featuring local products and a stunning terrace to enjoy the views, it’s a cozy and memorable stay!

Day 3 Matera

We spent one night in Matera and left in the afternoon. We both would have loved to stay much longer. So that is what you definitely should do. Matera should be explored at a relaxing pace.

We woke up as early as possible and started off walking through the very quiet streets. The atmosphere was totally different compared to yesterday: no crowds and the sun was up. It was one of the best moments of our visit.

You can either spend the day going on a walking tour where you can learn much more about the old cave houses and churches.

If you’re interested in art, check out the MUSMA Museum (Museum of Contemporary Sculpture), housed in a series of cave rooms. Another sight you might want to check out is the Palmobaro Lungo, a vast underground water reservoir beneath the main square.

But above all, Matera is a place for wandering, getting lost a little bit, and discovering small secrets in the historic center. And of course, trying out the delicious local food is a treat. Go for the cavatelli pasta with tomato sauce.

Day 4 Matera to Coastal Town Salento(🚗 2h30)

If you haven’t stopped at the stunning Matera viewpoint, wake up early, pack everything up, and drive to the Belvedere Murgia Timone. You might think skipping it and continuing driving, but believe me it is worth the stop…

After Matera, we hit the road towards the southern tip of Puglia, known as Selento. Along the west coast we discovered the most beautiful beaches on the Ionian sea, some with soft white sand the crystal clear water.

We were blown away, and again questioned:Why haven’t we heard about Puglia and its beaches before?

Salento Coastal Towns

On our road trip, we stayed in Campomarino, a small coastal town just a 2-hour drive from Matera. Again, in the low season, everything was closed and deserted the entire day. It felt like a ghost town. During this time of the year, you really need to head to the bigger towns to find a restaurant to have dinner. We always went to the bakery in the morning to make sure we at least had lunch for the day. 

Anyway, it doesn’t really matter what your final destination is for the day. It can be Campomarino, San Pietro in Bevagna, Punta Prosciutto or Torre Lapillo. The most important is once you pass the big town Toranto, leave the high way behind and stick to to coastal road as much as possible.

Yes, the trip will take longer. But this road along the stunning coastline will give you the opportunity to stop at the most amazing beaches you have ever seen.

That is how we discovered these wonderful beaches. We drove along the coast, checked on Google Maps which beaches we would be passing, and stopped randomly. When it comes to the Puglia beaches, you just can’t go wrong.

The beaches we visited along this route were:

Spiaggia del Chidro, at the nature reserve with the River Chidro. We swam in the stunning sweet water river flowed bas the beach straight into the sea. e sea and beach. The water was extremely clear.

Punta Prosciutto: it felt like we arrived at a tropical beach (it even reminded us of a beach in Lombok, Indonesia). We loved that the beach still had natural dunes, no boulevard or holiday apartments which you see a lot in Spain.

Make sure you stop to check out the flamingos at the Salina Monaci.

Like I said, there are many more stunning beaches. Give yourself the chance to discover them along the way.

Where to stay around Punta Prosciutto

Our aim was to drive a maximum of 2 hours a day (excluding stops at the beaches). So we randomly chose Campomarino. It was the off-season so most accommodations and restaurants in the coastal towns were closed.

So in this case, you might want to stay in the bigger towns. In our case, we did find a cute place called Casa Marugii in Campomarino but headed to Maruggio for dinner.

📍Budget DolceSosta B&B Pulsano DolceSosta B&B in Pulsano offers renovated, clean rooms and a strategic location just a short walk from the sea. With friendly, helpful owners and a delicious breakfast served on your private veranda, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing coastal getaway.

📍Mid-Range Il Casale di Punta Prosciutto offers homemade breakfasts and a stunning garden with sea views, just 200 meters from the beach. Set in a beautifully refurbished historic property, this charming B&B boasts various room sizes, parking, and exceptional hosts, Franco and Marcela, who truly make your stay special.

📍Luxury San Pietro Home in Bevagna offers bright, spacious, and beautifully furnished newly built apartments, just a 10-minute walk from the beach. With daily cleaning, a comfortable bed, a lovely garden, and a friendly owner, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing stay.

Day 5 Salento Coastal Town to Lecce (🚗1h)

This day is all about beach hopping. If this isn’t your thing, choose one beach for the day and then continue driving to Lecce.

But believe me….you will be missing out on some spectacular beaches.

We again drove along the road passing the coastal towns and ended up stopping at beaches with the most crystal clear water.

The beaches in this area of Puglia were:

Spiaggia Sant’isidoro (oasis) a small beach in town right at the road. So when we drove past it, we hit the breaks, changed and jumped in.

Spiaggia Padula Bianca: This long stretched beach was located a bit off the main road. We drove through town, past many holiday homes and found a parking place right at the edge of a pine forest.

From there is was a five minute walk through the forest, past the dunes to the wonderful beach.

Punta della Suina: This beach is located within the Parco Naturale Regionale di Punta della Suina & Isola di Sant’Andrea. We saw that there were many stunning beaches and eventually selected one. There was a huge parking area, which is convenient in the summer months.

A path took us along the forest towards the beach. Punta Della Suina isn’t like the beaches we had seen so far. It was rough with lots of rocks from where we could jump straight into the most beautiful water we had seen. If we forgot we were in the ocean, we would have drunk it without a second thought. It was so clear!

We had one more beach on the list known as the Maldives of Selento: Spiaggia di Pescoluse. Unfortunately, we can’t confirm if it looked like the pictures of the Maldives, as there was a road construction going on so it got too late to visit the beach.

But check it out and see if it is something for you. Be aware that it is located pretty south and it is still another 1,5 hour drive to Lecce.

Lecce

Once in Lecce and if you are not shattered, check out the city center by night. Lecce is known for its vibrant nightlife, so it’s a good time to get a positive first impression of the city.

Where to stay in Lecce

📍 Budget Salentino in Lequile (just outside Lecce city) offers a great starting point for exploring nearby beaches and Lecce, which lacks good budget options. With easy access to both the coast and the city, it’s the perfect spot for an affordable and convenient stay!

📍Mid-Range Apartment Don Giuliano Centro offers a modern interior with a spacious bathroom, perfectly located in the historic center. Just steps away from restaurants and shops, it’s the ideal base to explore the charm of Lecce!

📍Luxury Le Chicche Suite offers a beautifully decorated and clean space with a personal touch from the owners. Tucked away on a charming small street, it’s the perfect blend of style and comfort for your stay in town!

Day 6 Lecce

Otranto and nearby beaches (🚗 45min)

Lecce is a wonderful city which you should take your time to explore to the fullest. We wished we had spent more time in the city known as the Florence of the South, but the stunning beaches were calling us – and our son wasn’t keen on wandering aimlessly…“What’s the point in doing that?” So for the morning, we headed for Otranto (45 minutes from Lecce)

If you want more time in Lecce, enjoy a full day exploring this wonderful city. Or visit just one of the beaches we mention here.

But if you are like us and are swooned by the beaches of Puglia, then pack your beach gear and drive towards Otranto. Otranto is a nice coastal town, with a boulevard along its beach. We enjoyed a wonderful cappuccino at Borderline Cafe located at the beach before heading towards:

Beaches near Otranto

Baia Mulino d’Acqua The road from Otranto to the beach is tiny, and we were unsure if we could reach it by car. But we continued and stopped at the first parking spot. The beach isn’t a soft sanded beach and we couldn’t find a way down to jump in the incredible water.

We did see pictures of people swimming, so perhaps this is possible in the summer and at low tide. This part is popular for its cliffs and caves. I bet it would be wonderful to explore them the summer months.

There is also a hiking trail along this part of the cliffs. If you would love to do this, make sure you pack your hiking shoes. Pack your hiking shoes if you would love to do this.

One last beach we visited before heading back to Lecce was Baia dei Turchi. We were happy we did this last beach as it was one of our favorites.

From the large parking area, we had to hike along a dirt road about 15 minutes through the forest to get to the beach. We love that the beaches here are not developed yet. No roads, no buildings….just forest and dunes. The beach felt secluded and special.

Grotta della Poesia (Cave of Poetry)

Before heading to Lecce, try to make a stop at Grotta della Poesia (Cave of Poetry), located near Roca Vecchia. This natural swimming pool with crystal clear turquoise waters, surrounded by limestone cliffs makes it an incredible place for swimming.

Locals say that it was once a place where poets came to find inspiration. If swimming is not an option, then the view alone is worth the visit.

The drive back to Lecce is around around 45 minutes. 

Exploring Lecce

The rest of the day is to explore the beautiful city of Lecce. We suggest taking a walking tour to learn more about the historic center and the secrets behind its gorgeous baroque architecture.

Lecce is known as the “Florence of the South” because of its wealth of historical buildings, churches, and palaces that have stunning baroque designs such as the Basilica di Santa Croce. The town flourished in the 17th century and in this period the baroque architecture was built with the soft gold Lecce stone.

Lecce’s history also includes Roman influences, with remnants such as the Roman Amphitheatre, found in the center of town.

The city is also famous for its lively cultural scene, artisan workshops, and traditional paper mâché crafts. You will find a lot of little charming shops set within the narrow streets.

Day 7: Lecce to Bari (🚗 2h excl. stops )

Ostuni

On the last day of the Puglia Itinerary, we suggest heading to the lovely towns in the Valle d’Itria: Ostuni, Locorotondo, and Alberobello.

We visited Ostuni on our first day straight after we arrived at Brindisi airport. I was drawn to it as it is known as the white city built right on top of the hill. So it was top on our list of places to visit in Puglia.

Unfortunately, the weather was dark and gloomy, so the white sparkle was hard to find. Additionally, everything was closed because it was the end of the Easter Weekend. It didn’t have the charm I was attracted to when planning our trip.

But that’s all part of traveling. Conditions and encounters make the destination a favorite for one but not for another.

We are sure that if the sun is out, this is a must-see city to visit. So make sure you add this to the list.

Locorotondo

Along the route, you will also find the city of Locorotondo, just 40 minutes from Ostuni. It is considered the most beautiful city of Puglia. But aren’t they all? We think so…

Like Otranto, the city was pretty deserted in April. But be aware, in the summer we can imagine the little streets are full of life. It’s a perfect place for a quick bite – or not if you have seen enough narrow streets and white-washed buildings – before continuing to the final village of our Puglia itinerary.

Alberobello

The drive from Locorotondo to Alberobello (just 10 minutes) took us along a winding countryside road. We saw many of these cone-roofed structures along the way when approaching the UNESCO World Heritage town known for its trulli houses.

More are found in Alberobello, where they are beautifully lined up along the narrow streets. The town looks almost fairytale-like or a gnome village. Either way, it is extremely charming.

Trulli houses date back to the 14th century and were originally built as temporary shelters and storage spaces for farmers. The stone huts with conical roofs, built without mortar are a unique example of ancient construction techniques.

Their architecture was also a clever way to avoid taxes, as they could be quickly dismantled if tax collectors were on their way.

We wandered around, finding one charming alley after another. Make sure you pass the large square and climb higher up for a nice view of the trulli town.

Unfortunately, we didn’t stay as long as we wanted. It started to rain pretty bad so we decided to continue our trip.

Bari

Bari is the final stop of our ultimate Puglia Itinerary. We skipped Bari since we had a flight to catch from Brindisi.

But depending on when and what time your flight leaves, the lively old town Bari is perfect for walking through the narrow streets, just as its waterfront.

Where to stay in Bari

📍 Budget B&B L’annunziata offers great value for money, with clean, basic rooms right in the city center. Perfect for those seeking an affordable stay with breakfast included, in a location with few budget options nearby.

📍Mid-Range A Casa Di Rita offers a charming, character-filled stay just a short distance from the city’s main highlights. Tucked in a peaceful spot, it provides a unique experience that combines convenience with tranquility.

📍Luxury Pausa Mare Suite in Bari features a stunning, tastefully decorated suite with a private sun terrace and jacuzzi, right in the heart of the old town and just steps from the sea. With a great host, a fully stocked fridge for breakfast, and a beautiful terrace with a view, it offers a truly memorable stay.

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Alternatives of the 7-Day Puglia Itinerary

We hope that our travel experience in Puglia has helped you plan your amazing trip to the heel of Italy. We can imagine that there are some things you might want to change. Here are some alternative suggestions that might suit you better:

1. Stay one night in Matera, and an extra night in Lecce: If you are in the off-season and the weather is chilly, I can imagine that a couple of hours in Polignano a Mare would be sufficient. Plus there might be no boat tours going.

If that is the case, leave early for Matera and spend only one night there so you can stay an extra night in the beautiful Lecce.

2. Stick to one beach day, instead of two and spend the extra night in Ostuni: Again, if it is just too cold for swimming – or you are not into beaches – then skip spending a night in one of the coastal towns. Instead, from Matera head straight to Lecce. Once there you can always decide to spend a morning exploring some gorgeous beaches.

This alternative gives you an extra night to plan. For the small-town experience, stay in Ostuni or Alberobello.

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Puglia Itinerary 4 days

To get the perfect amount of time and fully enjoy Puglia, we of course recommend at least 7 days. However, if you’re in a rush, a 4-day itinerary can also give you a good glimpse of this beautiful region.

For 4 days Puglia we suggest focusing on a couple of places only.

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Puglia Itinerary 10 days

Is 10 Days in Puglia Too Long? It wouldn’t be for us! The extra days will give you time to explore everything at a relaxed pace. Especially in the summer season, when places tend to get really busy.

You can add a stay in one of the villages such as Ostuni or Alberobello to soak up its unique atmosphere.

If you are into beaches, drive towards the south to Santa Maria di Leuca all the way to Otranto and explore the beaches in the southern tip of Salento.

Other options are to add a hiking day along the cliffs at Ostuni, or explore the nature parks just north of Bari. The options are endless!

One of our suggestions for 10 days in Puglia would be:

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How to Get Around Puglia

If you really want to uncover the hidden gems of Puglia, then there’s no way around it: the best way to explore Puglia is by rental car. With a car, you’ll have the freedom to reach smaller towns and discover the best places off the beaten path—places that trains simply don’t go.

Driving through the Puglia region is quite straightforward; the roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate. We did avoid searching for parking areas within the bigger cities like Matera and Lecce, opting instead to settle for a large parking area and to walk 10 to 15 minutes into town. It made everything less stressful.

We were lucky to visit Puglia during the quieter months, which made driving and parking much easier. In the summer, however, Puglia is a hotspot for both locals and tourists, which means parking near beaches or popular spots can be more challenging.

My advice? Arrive early to improve your chances of finding a parking spot with ease—just like anywhere else in Europe during the holiday season.

We rented a small car, which was perfect for navigating the narrow streets of the historic towns. Plus, to our surprise, it was a hybrid, which made it more economical. We only needed to fill up once—right before returning the car—and it cost us just €65. Not bad at all for a week of exploring!

Puglia Itinerary without a Car

If you prefer public transportation then the FS national railway system can get you to many places in Puglia. The trains serve places such as Bari, Lecce, Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, and Ostuni. From there you can continue your journey with a local train or bus. PugliaPassion gives extensive information on public transportation in Puglia.

Another option is to book a day trip with a tour.

Matera is also still possible to reach if you don’t want to rent a car. We wrote a post on various ways to reach this ancient city. Have a look so you can plan your trip accordingly.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Puglia, Italy?

The best time to visit Puglia is in spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and you get to experience Puglia’s charm without the hustle and bustle. It’s perfect for exploring historic towns and enjoying peaceful walks.

We visited Puglia mid-April, which is the low season. We often found ourselves wandering through almost deserted small towns and coastal villages. Many places were closed, and it felt like locals only returned during the warmer months.

This quietness had its pros and cons—while we missed the lively vibe and some delicious Italian lunches (settling instead for simple bread from local bakeries), we also had towns like Ostuni, Locorotondo all to ourselves, and even Matera it wasn’t crowded. The solitude made these places feel even more magical.

But perhaps the biggest perk of visiting Puglia during spring or early fall was having the beaches all to ourselves. Picture this: deserted stretches of sand, clear waters, and no crowds. We felt incredibly lucky to enjoy such peaceful moments, even though the water was still chilly for long swims in April. For us, it was perfect for a quick dip before continuing our journey. The Italians on the other hand thought we were crazy…

Keep in mind, as a friendly local told us, that Puglia’s beaches are packed during the summer. The region has long been a popular destination for Italians looking for a beach escape. So, if you’re eyeing our beach photos and imagining solitude, remember that timing is everything!

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Is Puglia Worth Visiting?

Puglia is worth visiting if you are ready to explore the best beaches on the Ionian Sea, the historic center of Matera, and the baroque architecture of Lecce. It is one of the most diverse and fascinating regions in Italy.

Its mix of culture, history, and natural beauty makes it a unique place to visit. Whether you’re wandering through the charming Alberobello or cruising along the coastal road, there’s always something amazing to see and experience.

What makes Puglia even more special is how much of it remains relatively untouched by mass tourism development. We especially loved the endless fields of olive oil trees, the dunes, and forests at the beaches, with no rows of holiday apartments or boulevards. It felt like the big players had not discovered this region yet, making Puglia more authentic and relaxed.

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Wrap Up

As you can tell we can go on and on about how amazing Puglia is. The trip was just a huge surprise for us, and we were still a bit dazzled when we got home.

Even now, when looking at the pictures we feel so lucky to have had such a wonderful experience. The region is extremely diverse, and there is definitely something for any type of traveler.

In the end, our itinerary is here to give you an indication of what you can do in Puglia in 7 days. But we also suggest sometimes letting go of these plans, hitting the breaks if you see something beautiful, and enjoying that discovery to the fullest. Enjoy!

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