Puglia, the sun-soaked region tucked away in the heel of Italy’s boot, is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. With its pristine beaches, culinary treats, and rich cultural heritage, it offers everything you could want from an Italian getaway. Imagine endless olive groves stretching as far as the eye can see, vineyards bathed in golden sunlight, and fresh farm-to-table food. Puglia is a region that is rising in popularity for a reason. It gives you all of the benefits of the Amalfi coast but with a more personal feel – and even better – without the crowds!
This part of Italy is renowned for its crystalline coastline and offers an array of sunny beach towns, each possessing unique charm. One of the most iconic is Polignano a Mare, which boasts pristine stretches of golden sand framed by rugged cliffs and clear waters. Its beaches are famed for their picturesque beauty and offer ideal spots for sunbathing, swimming, and exploring sea caves.
Puglia’s rich history spans millennia and is a dream for any history buff out there. Many hotels in the region dedicate themselves to displaying this history front and center. The unique trulli buildings and the authentic masserie offer a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Alberobello, UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for its distinctive trulli houses, whose conical roofs dot the landscape like something out of a storybook.
Puglia’s culinary scene is one completely unique to part of the country. One cannot talk about Puglian cuisine without mentioning the iconic orecchiette pasta, which is often served with rich tomato-based sauces or creamy ricotta. Olive oil, a staple of the region, adds depth to dishes like frisella, a rustic bread salad bursting with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olives. And let’s not forget the famous burrata cheese, which pairs perfectly with local bread and sun-ripened tomatoes. There is a lot of importance placed on freshness and sustainability when it comes to food in Puglia. Farm-to-table eating is a lifestyle here and this means that everything you will taste will be a direct representation of the people and land you are visiting.
Whether you’re drawn by its pristine beaches, its rich history, or its culinary delights, this enchanting region offers something for every traveler. So why wait? Embark on your own journey of discovery and let Puglia surprise you at every turn. Make sure to visit before the crowds of the summer – and if you want to opt for slow, luxury travel, then let our experts guide you through this captivating region on our 8-day Puglia small group trip or design a custom Puglia trip for you. Take the guesswork out of planning your itinerary and allow yourself to be fully immersed in the experience, knowing that every detail has been carefully curated by Italians who know the region. We focus on supporting local vendors and businesses so that you not only enrich your own journey but also positively impact the lives of those who call Puglia home.
