Discover the Allure of Puglia, Italy

Puglia embodies everything that is seductive about southern Italy: rolling countryside blanketed in almond and olive groves, turquoise beaches, snug whitewashed villages, and long, lazy lunches enjoyed with prized local wine.

Lapped by two seas and stretching 432km (268 miles) from north to south, the region delivers an array of diverse landscapes, from the dappled woods of the Gargano promontory to the Greek-speaking towns of far-flung Salento. Cycle between bougainvillea-draped towns in Valle d’Itria, snorkel the Tremiti Islands, or relish creamy pastries in the baroque city of Lecce.

The list of things to do is as long as Puglia itself. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some highlights that will inspire you to plan your own Puglian escapade.

1. Island Hop the Tremiti Archipelago

Experience more joy on the Isole Tremiti (Tremiti Islands) than Julia the Younger, who was exiled here in the 1st century CE. Located about 20km (12 miles) off the Gargano Promontory, this compact archipelago of five islands—San Domino, San Nicola, Capraia, Crettaccio, and Pianosa—is a pristine wonderland of white cliffs, Aleppo pines, and crystal-clear waters rich with marine life. Enjoy delightful stays on vibrant San Domino or medieval San Nicola, where the abbey boasts 11th-century mosaics. Boating and diving tours from San Domino allow you to explore the serene, uninhabited Capraia.

Planning tip: For pleasant beach weather without the July and August crowds, consider visiting in June or September. Ferries to San Domingo operate seasonally from Vieste, Manfredonia, and Peschici, and throughout the year from Termoli. Most tourist facilities on the islands are closed in winter.

2. Hike the Parco Nazionale del Gargano

If the northern Puglia’s Gargano promontory reminds you of the Dalmatian coast, it’s no coincidence. Millions of years ago, this “spur” of Italy was attached to present-day Croatia. Today, much of this rugged land is protected within the 1181-sq-km (456-sq-mile) Parco Nazionale del Gargano, which features some of Italy’s most stunning landscapes.

Discover well-marked hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. Strap on your boots and explore paths through the enchanting Foresta Umbra, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich with wildlife and over 65 varieties of orchid. For breathtaking coastal views, traverse the trail from Vignanotica to Mergoli, which showcases the region’s lush coastline.

Planning tip: Vieste, known for its charm, serves as an excellent base for exploring the national park. It’s wise to book accommodations well in advance during the busy summer season.

3. Feast Like a Local at Masseria

At a masseria, the fortified farmhouses scattered across Puglia, you can relax by the pool under fragrant orange trees, taste exquisite olive oils, or even learn to make pasta. These charming establishments vary from rustic to sophisticated and often feature farm-to-table restaurants and cooking classes. One standout is Il Frantoio, a 500-year-old olive farm known for its exceptional olive oils.

4. Find Your Perfect Puglian Beach

Chances are you’ve seen mesmerizing images of Cala Porto, famed for its topaz waters and cliff-hugging houses. However, this iconic cove is merely one of many stunning beaches along the Puglian coast. Mattinata features beautiful cliffs leading down to serene white sands and turquoise waters at Baia delle Zagare. In Salento, discover Baia dei Turchi, known for its clear waters that rival the Caribbean. On hot summer days, take a refreshing dip at Cala dell’Acquaviva, where salt and spring waters meet for a rejuvenating experience.

5. Celebrate Coastal Heritage on a Trabucco

Travel along the coast between Peschici and Vieste to see ancient fishing platforms known as trabucchi. These stilted structures were historically used to lower nets into the sea using a unique winching system. After years of neglect, trabucchi are now being restored by nonprofit organizations, allowing visitors to participate in traditional fishing experiences and olive oil tastings. Some have even been converted into seafood restaurants, with Al Trabucco da Mimì being a popular choice.

6. Cycle the Trulli-Scattered Valle d’Itria

The Valle d’Itria, stretching from Putignano to Ostuni, teems with rolling vineyards, olive trees, and whimsical trulli—traditional limestone huts with conical roofs exclusive to Puglia. While the picturesque streets of Alberobello are worth a visit, consider renting a bicycle to explore the quieter backroads of the Valle d’Itria. This area will lead you to hidden gems like the rupestrian church of Santa Maria di Barsento and vineyards that produce local wines.

Planning tip: Many operators in the Valle d’Itria offer bicycle rentals and guided tours, making exploration accessible and enjoyable.

7. Fall Under the Spell of the Pizzica

Puglia’s pizzica dance, historically linked to healing rituals, continues to captivate audiences today with its hypnotic, rhythmic motions. Experience the true essence of pizzica in Salento, the dance’s spiritual home, especially during the Notte della Taranta festival in August. This vibrant event features lively dancing and concerts across various towns, culminating in an epic finale in Melpignano. Throughout the year, consider taking classes to learn this liberating dance style.

8. Binge on Baroque in Lecce

Lecce is renowned for its architectural opulence, exemplified by the unique barocco leccese style that flourishes throughout the city. Marvel at the Basilica di Santa Croce, which showcases intricate sculptures and allegorical elements that adorn its facade. The nearby cathedral towers over the stunning Piazza del Duomo, a baroque masterpiece that shines during golden hour.

Local tip: Don’t leave Lecce without trying the pasticciotto, a delightful pastry filled with luscious crema pasticcera, best sampled at Caffè Alvino, conveniently located near both the basilica and the cathedral.