The 25 Bucket List Things To Do in Puglia, Italy: From Olive Groves to Ocean Views!
They say Italy is a land of love, but nothing prepared me for how deeply I would fall for Puglia. Winding through olive groves, golden coastlines, and ancient hilltop towns on a road trip across this southern Italian gem, I found myself constantly in awe. It wasn’t just the stunning scenery—it was the warmth of the people, the unpretentious beauty of everyday life, and the kind of food that makes you want to linger at the table just a little longer.
Puglia is the region on the heel of Italy’s boot, and while it’s becoming more popular, it still feels beautifully untouched. If you’re dreaming of sun-soaked days, long lunches, and living like a local, here’s my guide to the absolute best things to do in Puglia.
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1. See the Trulli of the Itria Valley
Let’s start with something right out of a fairytale—the trulli of the Itria Valley. These whimsical, cone-roofed limestone houses are unique to this part of Puglia and are like something from a storybook. The Itria Valley, nestled between Bari and Brindisi, is dotted with these ancient dwellings, some of which are over 500 years old. The best way to explore this area is by car, as the valley winds through scenic towns like Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Martina Franca. Speaking of which, don’t miss Martina Franca—a stunning town known for its elegant Baroque architecture and vibrant piazzas. Wandering its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time.
The Itria Valley is a 1-hour drive south of Bari.
Travel Tip: Rent a car! Public transport in the Itria Valley is limited, and a car gives you the freedom to explore towns like Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Martina Franca at your own pace. The best times to visit are spring or fall when the countryside is green and less crowded.
2. Inspect the Pasta Street in Bari (‘Strada delle Orecchiette’)
Speaking of Bari, this coastal capital is far more than just a jumping-off point. Head to Strada delle Orecchiette, a narrow lane in the old town where local nonnas sit outside their homes making orecchiette pasta by hand. It’s a charming, authentic experience that reminds you how deeply food is woven into the culture here. Bari is easily accessible by air (Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla) or train and offers a lively mix of history, seaside charm, and real Southern soul.
Travel Tip: Head there in the morning when the ladies are making fresh pasta. Be respectful—this is their home! Pair your visit with a stroll through Bari Vecchia (Old Town) and try a plate of orecchiette with tomato and ricotta forte. You might like this 2-hour walking tour of the Old Town of Bari with a visit to the Strada delle Orecchiette.
3. Stay in a Trullo in Alberobello
One of the highlights of my trip was staying in a trullo in Alberobello, the trulli capital of Puglia. Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and walking through its ancient lanes lined with hundreds of trulli is an experience like no other. Spending the night in one? A must. There’s something deeply grounding about sleeping in a structure built entirely of stone, with thick walls that keep you cool even in the hottest months. From Bari, it’s just over an hour’s drive, and trust me—it’s worth every minute.
Alberobello is less than 1-hour drive south of Bari and about 1-hour drive north of Brindisi.
Read more: 17 Best Things to Do in Alberobello Italy
Travel Tip: Book your trullo accommodation early, especially in summer—this is one of Puglia’s most iconic experiences. Stay at least one night to enjoy Alberobello after the day-trippers leave. Parking can be tricky, so check if your trullo offers private parking.
4. Admire the Baroque City of Lecce
Another city that stole my heart was Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South”. With its ornate Baroque buildings, golden stone facades, and buzzing squares, Lecce is a masterpiece of sculpted stone and elegant piazzas. The Basilica di Santa Croce and Piazza del Duomo are must-sees, and the city is also full of lively cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. Be sure also to explore the Roman amphitheater, and the hidden courtyards tucked behind centuries-old doors.
You can reach Lecce by train or car from Bari or Brindisi, and it’s an ideal base to explore the Salento peninsula. Lecce is 30 minutes from Brindisi and about 1 hour and a half from Bari.
Travel Tip: Lecce is very walkable, so leave your car outside the city center if possible. Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to see the golden stone glow in the sunlight. Don’t miss local crafts like papier-mâché (cartapesta), which Lecce is famous for.
5. Visit Ostuni
A short drive from Bari is Ostuni, known as La Città Bianca—the White City. Perched on a hill overlooking the Adriatic, its labyrinth of whitewashed buildings and cobblestone streets is nothing short of magical. You can wander for hours through this dreamy town, stopping for gelato or an Aperol spritz with a view. Ostuni is also just 30 minutes from Alberobello by car.
Read more: 17 Unforgettable Things To Do in Ostuni Italy – Puglia’s White City
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—the old town is all cobblestone streets and stairways. Visit around golden hour for magical photos. Parking is outside the historic center, so be ready for a short uphill walk.
6. Take Puglia Cooking class “Le orecchiette, che pasta!”
For a hands-on experience, take a Pugliese cooking class called “Le orecchiette, che pasta!” near Ostuni and learn to make classic dishes like orecchiette with tomato sauce, frisa, and cime di rapa. It is a deliciously fun way to connect with the local culture.
The class is held in Ceglie Messapica, only 12 km from Ostuni.
Travel Tip: Go hungry—you’ll be eating everything you cook!
7. Sleep in a Masseria
One of the best things to do in Puglais is to stay in a masseria, a traditional farmhouse turned luxurious countryside retreat. Many masserie are nestled among ancient olive trees and offer farm-to-table dining, cooking classes, and warm hospitality. It’s a peaceful, authentic experience that connects you deeply to the land and culture.
Travel Tip: Choose one in the countryside near towns like Ostuni, Monopoli, or Lecce. Many offer cooking classes, wine tastings, and farm-to-table meals—don’t miss out! Book directly on their website for the best rates and packages.
8. Dine in Grotta Palazzese, the famous Italy’s Cave Hotel in Poliganano a Mare
For a once-in-a-lifetime meal, dine at Grotta Palazzese in Polignano a Mare, a 5-star hotel and a restaurant set inside a natural sea cave overlooking the turquoise Adriatic. The setting is unreal—waves crashing beneath you, candlelight, and fine cuisine. Polignano itself is a postcard-perfect coastal town, easily reached from Bari by car or train. You don’t need to be the hotel’s guest to dine in the restaurant. However, tables along the railing overlooking the sea are reserved for the hotel’s guests.
Travel Tip: Make reservations weeks (even months) in advance, especially in summer. Dress smart—it’s a fine dining experience. Try to dine at sunset for the most stunning ambiance.
9. Tour the sea caves of Poliganano a Mare by boat
While in Polignano a Mare, take a boat tour of the sea caves, which will give you a completely different perspective of the rugged coastline and hidden grottos. Highly recommended!
Travel Tip: Book a tour from the marina or online in advance. Choose a smaller boat for better access to the caves. Morning tours offer calmer seas and better lighting for photos.
10. Enjoy Gallipoli – the Ibiza of Italy
If you’re looking for seaside vibes with a party twist, head to Gallipoli, often called the “Ibiza of Italy.” Located on the western coast of the Salento peninsula, Gallipoli offers gorgeous beaches, buzzing nightlife, and a charming old town on an island. Puglia’s Little Ibiza is a place where charming old streets lead you to buzzing beach clubs and sunset aperitivos. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and fun.
Gallipoli is about a 3-hour drive from Bari, a 1-hour drive from Brindisi, and a 30-minute drive from Lecce. It is well worth visiting if you love both beach days and lively evenings.
Travel Tip: If you’re into beach clubs and nightlife, visit in July or August. If you prefer quiet streets and local vibes, aim for shoulder season. The old town is on an island, so park near the port and explore on foot.
11. Explore Salento beaches
If you’re looking for beach bliss, head to the Salento region, where you’ll find some of Italy’s most stunning coastlines. The Salento beaches are among the best in Italy, with powdery white sand and clear, shallow water. The most famous Salento’s beach is Pescoluse Beach, nicknamed the Maldives of Italy. It’s a dreamy spot to swim and relax, especially during golden hour.
Travel Tip: Rent a car to explore freely. Parking at popular beaches like Punta Prosciutto (45 minutes from Lecce) and Torre Lapillo (40 minutes from Lecce) fills up early—arrive before 10 AM in high season. Bring a beach umbrella; many areas are wild and without services.
12. Swim in Pescoluse Beach – the Maldives of Italy
If you’re looking for beach bliss, head to the Salento region, where you’ll find some of Italy’s most stunning coastlines. The most famous Salento beach – Pescoluse Beach, often called the Maldives of Italy, boasts powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Needless to say, swimming there is among the best things to do in Puglia. The beach is a 1-hour drive from Lecce and a 35-minute drive from Gallipoli.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the day for calm, turquoise waters and fewer crowds. Bring snorkel gear—visibility is excellent. Look for lidi (private beach clubs) if you prefer shade and loungers.
13. See Castel del Monte
A 1-hour drive from Bari lies Castel del Monte, an octagonal fortress built by Emperor Frederick II. It’s mysterious, majestic, and perfectly symmetrical—like a medieval riddle in stone. This UNESCO site is located in Andria and is best reached by car.
Travel Tip: Bring water and sunscreen—it’s exposed and hot in summer. Guided tours are available and worthwhile for history buffs. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Bari, with free parking on site.
14. Check out the Grotte di Castellana
40 km south of Bari is the Grotte di Castellana, one of the most impressive cave systems in Italy. Touring the underground caverns is a surreal journey through stalactites, stalagmites, and underground wonders. Undoubtedly, touring the caves is among the best things to do in Puglia.
Travel Tip: Bring a light jacket—the caves stay cool even in summer. Opt for the longer, 2-hour tour if you can; it includes the stunning White Cave. Book tickets in advance during peak season. You can reach the Grotte di Castellana on a day tour from Bari.
15. Indulge in Traditional Food in Puglia
One of the true pleasures of being in Puglia is simply indulging in its traditional cuisine. From handmade orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, seafood, and cime di rapa to the softest Altamura bread (seriously, the best in Italy), every meal feels like an event. If you can, take a cooking class to learn to make classic dishes like la frisa and orecchiette from scratch. If you’re a foodie, this experience is non-negotiable.
Read more: Best Food in Puglia: 33 Must-Try Puglia Dishes and Drinks
Travel Tip: Always ask for the daily specials—many restaurants cook based on what’s fresh at the market. Try local specialties like panzerotti, bombette, and fave e cicoria (pureed fava beans with wild chicory). Check out this food tour in Bari, this street food tour in Polignano a Mare and this street food tour in Lecce!
16. Try the Atamura bread – the best bread in Italy
In the town of Altamura, don’t miss tasting Altamura bread, which is considered the best in Italy. The crunchy crust and soft interior are unbeatable, especially when fresh from a wood-fired oven.
Travel Tip: Head to a traditional forno a legna (wood-fired bakery) for the most authentic experience. Pane di Altamura is best fresh—buy it early in the day and pair it with local cheeses.
17. Tour the Wine Museum of the Frrud Winery in Altamura
And if you’re venturing inland, don’t miss Altamura. Tour the Wine Museum at the Frrud Winery to sip Puglian reds in a 16th-century cellar.
Travel Tip: Book a tour ahead—they often include tastings. Combine your visit with exploring Altamura’s historic center and trying the famous bread from a traditional bakery.
18. Visit the Sanctuary of Saint Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo
For something more spiritual, visit the Sanctuary of Saint Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo. Saint Padre Pio, a beloved Italian saint known for his miracles and deep compassion, draws pilgrims from all over the world. This significant pilgrimage site, located in northern Puglia, can be reached in about two and a half hours by car from Bari.
Read more: How To Visit Padre Pio Shrine in San Giovanni Rotondo
Travel Tip: This is a spiritual site, so dress respectfully. Pair your visit with Monte Sant’Angelo. Pilgrims often come year-round, but weekdays are quieter.
19. Go to the Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo
Nearby is the Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo, perched high above the sea and offering a profound sense of peace. The Sanctuary is a UNESCO site and one of the oldest Christian pilgrimage destinations in Europe. Built into a mountain cave, it’s both mystical and beautiful.
The Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo is only 25 km from San Giovanni Rotondo in Puglia.
Travel Tip: The road up is winding—drive carefully. The sanctuary is a UNESCO site and a powerful, peaceful place. Don’t miss the views from the castle nearby.
20. Swim in Spiaggia del Piazzamunno in Vieste
On the coast near Vieste, check out the Spiaggia del Pizzomunno (Pizzomunno Beach, also known as Scialara Beach), a golden sandy beach dominated by a towering white limestone monolith. It’s located in Gargano National Park, which is a haven for hikers, beach lovers, and anyone who appreciates unspoiled nature.
The Spiaggia del Pizzomunno is 1 hour from Monte San’Angelo. It is also 2 hours and a half north of Brindisi.
Travel Tip: Arrive early in summer for parking and a prime spot. Bring snacks or check out the beach bars (lidi) nearby. The beach is sandy and great for families.
21. Explore Gargano National Park
The Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo and Spiaggia del Pizzomunno are located in the Gargano area, a national park filled with lush forests, seaside cliffs, and hidden coves—an incredible area to hike, swim, and explore.
Travel Tip: Hike the Foresta Umbra early in the morning for cooler temps and wildlife spotting. The coastal drive from Vieste to Mattinata is one of the most scenic in Italy—don’t rush it!
22. Take a day trip to Matera
Take a day trip to Matera, just outside Puglia in the neighboring region of Basilicata. Famous for its ancient cave dwellings (Sassi), Matera is hauntingly beautiful and feels like stepping into another world. It’s an easy drive from Altamura (25 minutes) or Bari ( 1 hour).
Sleeping in a cave hotel is one of my fondest memories of my trip.
Read more: 19 Top Things to Do in Matera Italy
Travel Tip: Matera is about 1.5 to 2 hours from most central Puglia towns by car. Wear sturdy shoes—the sassi (ancient stone houses) are slippery. Don’t miss Casa Grotta and a guided tour to understand the city’s deep history.
23. Check out the stunning Baroque architecture of Martina Franca
Puglia’s Martina Franca impresses with its elegant Baroque architecture, winding alleyways, and lively squares. It’s located in the heart of the Itria Valley, and a perfect stop on a road trip through the region. Visiting this gorgeous town is among the best things to do in Puglia.
Travel Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the golden light hits the Baroque buildings beautifully. It’s a perfect stop when touring the Itria Valley. Try a local capocollo sandwich—Martina Franca is famous for this cured meat.
24. Visit Otranto
On the Adriatic coast, explore Otranto, a charming seaside town with a historic cathedral, a pretty harbor, and breathtaking sea views. It’s ideal for a relaxed day of wandering, swimming, and soaking in local life.
Travel Tip: Arrive by mid-morning to explore the old town before the crowds arrive. Don’t miss the mosaic floor in Otranto Cathedral. Pair with a visit to nearby Baia dei Turchi for a swim.
25. See how mozzarella, burata and Caciocavallo are made in Fragnite masseria
Finally, visiting the Fragnite masseria to see how mozzarella, burrata, and caciocavallo are made is one of the top things to do in Puglia. Watching the cheesemakers at work—and tasting the results—was heavenly. Masseria Fragnite is 8 km from Ostuni in Puglia.
Travel Tip: Check in advance for tour availability—these are often family-run and intimate. You’ll usually get to taste fresh cheese right after it’s made. Bring a cooler bag if you want to buy some to take with you!
Puglia is the kind of place that lingers in your memory, not just for its jaw-dropping beauty, but for its warmth, traditions, and irresistible charm. If you’re dreaming of an Italian adventure that’s off the beaten path, with rich culture and authentic experiences around every corner, start planning your Puglian road trip. I promise you’ll fall in love—just like I did.
