Curator’s statement
With family and friends scattered throughout northern and central Italy, it is only in the past few years that I have delved into Puglia. It was love at first sight. Crystal clear azure water, beautiful beaches, picture-perfect towns, breathtaking accommodations and outstanding cuisine. I can’t wait to go back. What are you waiting for?
Alberobello and its iconic “trulli”, the lovely baroque white city of Lecce. Beach towns up and down the two coasts like Polignano a Mare, Ostuni, Porto Cesario and Gallipoli make for a truly exceptional travel experience.
Traveling to Puglia by train from points north brings into clear focus how different the Salento (the heel of Italy’s boot) is from the rest of Italy. Unlike the green hills of northern and central Italy, Puglia is white, olive and crystal blue. Rather than the busy cities of the rest of the country, Puglia is calmer and slower. And if you are fascinated by history, Puglia’s past includes waves of Romans, Greeks (a dialect of Greek is still spoken in southern Puglia), Normans, Ottomans and the Spanish. All have left their mark, from imposing towers along the coast to elements of cuisine.
Pro Tip: Book the direct train from Rome (the Frecce series is a good bet) and splurge on first class with reserved seating. You’ll be glad you did.
There are many jumping-off points on the rail line through Puglia to start your adventure for sun, sea, history and beautiful food. We chose Lecce, Italy’s white city and baroque gem, as our starting point. Lecce is known as the “Florence of the South” for its rich history and stunning Baroque architecture. It also boasts a Roman amphitheater in the center of town, life revolving around it, as it has for millennia.
You can certainly do beach-hopping with a car. Nothing is very far apart. (I would be glad to help you plan an ideal itinerary). Or you can choose one or two spots, take a dip, have a great lunch at the beach, get into the local rhythm and relax for a few days Italian style.
Here are suggestions for some of the most beautiful towns that Salento has to offer, places to stay and eat. Buon viaggio!
Pro Tip: Puglia is perfect for a visit in May, June and September, before and after the crowds and the mid-summer heat.
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Where to stay in Puglia
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Things to do in Puglia
The towns and villages of Puglia are all unique. No two are alike. Roaming through Puglia by car is a great way to experience and enjoy it. Have your bathing suit and beach towel with you. Beaches throughout Italy often have beach lounge chairs and umbrella rentals, offer bathrooms, showers and sometimes very good food.
Places to eat & drink in Puglia
Where to eat in Otranto:
Ristorante FronteMare
Where to eat in Alberobello:
Alberobello, filled with “trulli”, the iconic round houses with conical roofs, is unique and charming, well worth a visit.
Need to know
Italy is my second home. I look forward to helping you discover your own Italy. Let's travel.
Travel Advisor
Jim Feldman
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Puglia page.