Puglia, located in the heel of Italy’s boot, is a region with a rich history, grand architecture, and natural beauty. For travelers seeking authentic, sustainable, and slow travel, travel to Puglia offers a welcome escape from the crowds and provides a deep connection with local traditions, along with the chance to truly be immersed in southern Italy’s slow living mentality. Here are our eight must-visit places in and around Puglia that represent all that this region has to offer.
1. Monopoli: A Hidden Gem of Authentic Puglian Life
Imagine blue fishing boats bobbing in the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, with fresh seafood around every corner. This is what Monopoli has to offer its visitors. It’s a city rich with maritime history that invites travelers to slow down and explore its medieval streets.
What makes Monopoli unique is its balance between local life and tourism—it’s a town that hasn’t rushed to accommodate mass tourism, making it perfect for those looking to explore authentic Puglian culture. Don’t miss the medieval castle, overlooking the Adriatic, which serves as a symbol of the city’s rich and complex history.
2. Polignano a Mare: Travel to Puglia for Stunning Cliffs and Caves on the Adriatic Coast
Perched on dramatic limestone cliffs by the sea, Polignano a Mare is a destination known for its vivid blue waters and ancient caves. Many visitors may recognize its famous beach, Lama Monachile, where the Adriatic carves into the city leading to a pristine white sand beach.
Famous for its poetry-adorned walls and pristine beaches, Polignano is a classic representation of what any traveler wants in an Italian beach town. For those hoping to avoid the crowds, visiting in the off season is the way to go. Visiting in the fall or spring also lets travelers experience this beautiful town more authentically and sustainably.
3. Bari: Discover the Capital of Puglia’s Rich History and Culture
As the capital of Puglia, Bari is often seen as a bustling gateway to the region. But for those who experience its historic center, Bari Vecchia, the city shows a more traditional side where grandmothers make orecchiette pasta by hand in the streets, and the pace of life feels much slower.
Travelers also shouldn’t miss the chance to grab a panzerotto—a fried dough pocket stuffed with mozzarella and tomato sauce—at one of the many stalls in the area. Visiting the “N’derr alla lanz” fish market for freshly caught seafood is another must-do, as the market showcases the connection between local culture and the sea.
Bari’s beaches are also far less crowded than many other nearby towns, making it an unlikely place to experience both busy city streets and quiet sparkling beaches. Like many cities, it offers experiences for every type of traveler if you know where to find it.
4. Alberobello: Explore the Trulli and UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Alberobello, the capital of the Valle d’Itria, is a town pulled straight out of a fairytale with its iconic trulli—whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an example of how ancient architecture and modern sustainability can come together. Found throughout the Valle d’Itria, each trullo is built from local materials and designed to naturally regulate temperature, a tradition that has existed for centuries in this area.
The buildings are also lovingly maintained and restored by the local people, who are deeply passionate about educating visitors about their magical little town. Visitors will most likely experience the world-famous southern Italian hospitality, as many locals may even invite you in for a drink and treat to share what makes their home special.
This is why Alberobello, along with the surrounding valley, is a fantastic representation of the people and history of Puglia.
5. Ostuni: The White City and Its Olive Grove Traditions
Also known as “La Città Bianca” (The White City), Ostuni is a collage of whitewashed buildings surrounded by olive groves. Its hilltop location offers panoramic views of the countryside and the Adriatic Sea. Ostuni’s commitment to preserving its agricultural traditions, especially olive oil production, is central to its charm.
The entire region of Puglia has struggled to keep its olive groves healthy as disease has spread and wiped out many trees in the area. It is people in cities like Ostuni that are innovating to keep their olive groves healthy, and ensuring that both travelers and locals are able to enjoy them for many more centuries.
From local markets to white cobblestone streets, you can see the regional passion for sustainability and history around every corner.
6. Lecce: Baroque Splendor and Artisan Craftsmanship in Southern Italy
Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is renowned for its Baroque architecture. But what sets Lecce apart is the way it balances this grandeur with local, authentic living. Artisan workshops thrive here, particularly those specializing in the region’s famous cartapesta (papier-mâché) art.
The best way to experience this town is by taking time to meet the artisans and experience slow travel by exploring the piazzas, sampling the local cuisine, and exploring the city’s hidden corners that most tourists overlook. And staying in central, authentic accommodations that showcase the local hospitality is the best way to experience Lecce while supporting the local community.
7. Otranto: Italy’s Easternmost Point with Nature and History
Otranto is on Italy’s easternmost point, surrounded by ancient, white walls and crystal-clear water. Strolling down the seaside streets, looking down at the fishing boats, is about as relaxing as it gets. The town’s rich history is apparent from its architecture, like the medieval castle and the intricate mosaics inside the local cathedral.
Nearby, there are stunning protected natural areas that are perfect for eco-travelers, offering hiking trails, olive groves, and panoramic views of the Adriatic. For those who enjoy birdwatching, these areas also host a variety of local wildlife. Visitors can also take a journey to a local lighthouse or one of the area’s breathtaking lakes.
8. Santa Maria di Leuca: Experience the “Maldives of Salento”
Further to the south, Santa Maria di Leuca marks the meeting point of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. But it’s the surrounding coastline, often referred to as the “Maldives of Salento,” that can’t be missed on a visit to Puglia. With crystal-clear waters and stretches of white sand, the area is perfect for those looking to slow down and enjoy nature.
Beyond the main town’s cliffs and historic lighthouse, the unspoiled waters are ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. Visiting during the off-peak season allows travelers to fully appreciate this stunning region without the crowds, and truly feel connected to the natural beauty of this part of Italy.
Special Mention – Matera: Ancient Cave Dwellings and Slow Tourism Near Puglia
Though technically in the neighboring region of Basilicata, being only 60 minutes from Bari means Matera still deserves a spot on this list. Famous for its ancient cave dwellings known as Sassi, Matera is a symbol of creative adaptation.
These ancient homes carved into rock have been inhabited for centuries and are now being restored as boutique hotels and cultural spaces that honor the town’s history. Matera’s transformation into a UNESCO World Heritage site and European Capital of Culture in 2019 has been mindful, focusing on preserving its history while embracing slow tourism, making it a destination that cannot be missed when in this corner of the world.
Plan Your Next Trip to Italy’s Hidden Gem
Each of these destinations offers a unique flavor of Puglia, but what unites them is their demonstrations of sustainability, authenticity, and slower living. These are places where time seems to stand still, allowing travelers to connect deeply with the land, the people, and the traditions that have shaped the region.
Plan your next Italian adventure to Puglia with our expert travel designers. We know the region like the back of our hand and we can’t wait to show you why we love it so much. You can also reserve a spot on our carefully curated group trip coming in 2025!
