Top 10 Things to Do in Puglia, Italy – Discover the Soul of Southern Italy

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring winding cobbled streets, relaxing on sandy beaches, or tasting fresh seafood under the warm sun, then the Puglia region in southern Italy should be at the top of your list. From ancient historic sites to breathtaking coastlines, here’s your essential guide to the top 10 things to do in Puglia, Italy.

1. Wander Through the White City of Ostuni

One of the most iconic towns in Puglia, Ostuni—nicknamed the "White City"—sits majestically on a hill, surrounded by endless olive groves.

• Stroll the old town with its narrow alleys and whitewashed homes
• Relax in the main square with a cappuccino in hand
• Visit the cathedral and admire the blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles
• Explore nearby towns like Cisternino and Martina Franca in a day trip
• A short walk to scenic views of the puglian countryside

2. Marvel at the Trulli Houses of Alberobello

You can’t visit Puglia without seeing Alberobello, famous for its fairy-tale-like trulli houses.

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's a must-see in any Puglia Italy itinerary
• Explore one town filled entirely with these iconic dwellings
• Learn how they were originally built without mortar
• Enjoy local wine tastings and souvenirs from local government-supported shops
• A guided tour helps uncover hidden details of this unique spot

3. Swim at Polignano a Mare’s Clifftop Beaches

Polignano a Mare is one of the most beautiful beach towns in all of Italy.

• Dive into the azure waters of Lama Monachile
• Discover hidden sea caves along the puglian coastline
• Perfect in early June when the crowds are thin
• Come during golden hour for spectacular cliffside photos
• Great restaurant options overlooking the sea

4. Explore the Baroque Town of Lecce

Nicknamed the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is a gem for fans of baroque architecture and art.

• Admire baroque churches like the Basilica di Santa Croce
• Visit San Sabino Cathedral, a spiritual and architectural treasure
• Learn what makes Lecce such a vibrant cultural hub
• Take cooking classes to learn local dishes like orecchiette pasta
• Enjoy city tours that walk you through the history of this baroque town

5. Take a Coastal Trip to Santa Maria di Leuca

At the southernmost tip of Puglia, Santa Maria di Leuca (often just called Santa Maria) is where the Ionian coast meets the Adriatic.

• Famous for its lighthouse and panoramic sea views
• Book a boat tour to explore nearby sea caves
• The town is peaceful in the late evening, perfect for romantic strolls
• Just a few hours by car from Lecce
• Known for its mix of myth and beauty, dating back to the Middle Ages

6. Visit Castel del Monte

A mysterious 13th-century octagonal fortress, Castel del Monte is an architectural wonder in northern Puglia.

• A UNESCO site and top historic quarter highlight
• Its perfect geometry continues to fascinate historians
• Best reached by rent car or day trip from Bari
• Offers stunning views of the region and surrounding olive groves

7. Relax in the Gargano Peninsula and National Park

The Gargano Peninsula is home to Gargano National Park, one of the most diverse natural areas in Puglia Italy.

• Discover fortified farmhouses and Tremiti Islands along the coast
• Perfect for hikes through Gargano National Park situated inland
• Experience nature, solitude, and stunning beaches
• Ideal for explore Puglia road trips or guided tours
• Known for eco-tourism and hidden coves

8. Stroll Bari Vecchia and Discover its History

The old town of Bari, known as Bari Vecchia, is full of charm and character.

• Visit St. Nicholas Basilica, a major pilgrimage site
• Get lost in the maze of winding cobbled streets
• Try fresh seafood and local focaccia in family-run eateries
• Learn the town's role in trade between Italy and the East
• Start your journey with Google Maps to find hidden gems

9. Enjoy Cooking Classes in the Itria Valley

The Itria Valley is the culinary heart of Puglia, where olive groves, vineyards, and farms dominate the landscape.

• Join cooking classes to learn Puglian recipes
• Visit local government farms and taste organic olive oil
• Try local cuisine rooted in ancient traditions
• Ideal for travelers who want authentic experiences away from tour buses

10. Drive the Coast and Discover Small Seaside Towns

The Puglia region offers stunning coastlines dotted with charming towns and beaches.

• Rent a car and take your time to explore Puglia at your own pace
• Stop at less crowded towns like Monopoli, Gallipoli, and Vieste
• Enjoy seafood feasts in coast restaurants with locals
• A visit to the Salento region guarantees postcard views
• Catch the golden hour for unforgettable photo ops

FAQs

What is a must-see in Puglia?

• Alberobello’s trulli houses are a top must-see attraction in Puglia—an architectural wonder you won’t find elsewhere.
• The old towns of Lecce, Ostuni, and Polignano a Mare offer rich history and local culture.
• Visit the Basilica of St. Nicholas in Bari, which draws pilgrims from around the world.
• Explore Castel del Monte, a UNESCO-listed fortress with mysterious symmetry and panoramic views.
• Spend the morning at a seaside hotel in Gallipoli or Monopoli, then explore nearby cities in the afternoon.
• Many historic sites charge only a small fee for entrance, making them budget-friendly stops.

What is the most beautiful part of Puglia?

• The coastal cliffs of Polignano a Mare and the beaches of Salento are some of the most photogenic spots in all of Puglia.
• Ostuni, known as the “White City,” is stunning with its all-white architecture and views of olive groves stretching to the sea.
• Alberobello and the Itria Valley offer postcard-perfect scenes with trulli homes and rolling vineyards.
• For a quiet escape, the historic charm of Bari Vecchia and its St. Nicholas Basilica is hard to beat.
• Waking up in a hotel overlooking the Adriatic and walking the town in the morning is pure magic.
• Many of these beautiful places are just a half hour apart, making them easy to explore.

How many days in Puglia is enough?

• 5 to 7 days is ideal to experience Puglia's top cities, coastlines, and inland gems without rushing.
• Spend 1-2 days each in Lecce, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare—three very different but iconic places.
• Use Bari as a hotel base; from there, day trips to Ostuni or Matera are doable in under a half hour by train or car.
• Enjoy slow mornings in charming towns and relaxing evenings by the coast.
• If you're short on time, even 3 days can give you a taste of the history, cuisine, and charm of Puglia.
• Some museums and churches charge only a small fee, perfect for travelers on a budget.

What is the most famous thing about Puglia?

• Puglia is most famous for its trulli houses, especially in Alberobello, and its whitewashed cities like Ostuni.
• The region’s history spans Greek, Roman, and Norman influences—visible in architecture, food, and traditions.
• The Basilica of St. Nicholas in Bari is one of Italy’s most sacred pilgrimage sites.
• Olive oil production is huge here; olive trees cover much of the landscape.
• Puglia’s hotels, often built into historic buildings with original first floor details, offer a unique stay.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Puglia

This list of the top 10 things to do in Puglia only scratches the surface. Whether you're into historic sites, sea caves, local wine, or exploring Puglia's old towns, this southern Italy destination delivers magic at every turn. With its blend of beaches, baroque towns, and warm hospitality, Puglia Italy is totally unique and absolutely worth visiting.