Located in the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is a wonderful region that attracts travelers with its charm, beautiful coastline, and rich history. Known for its picturesque landscapes, lovely villages, and delicious cuisine, Puglia offers a very unique and authentic Italian experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a foody, a beach lover, or simply a curious traveler, this hidden gem of Southern Italy has something for everybody.
- Alberobello
- Monopoli
- Polignano a Mare
- Ostuni
- Matera (technically not Puglia)
1. Alberobello
Alberobello is a place that seems like it just came out from a fairy tale. This lovely village is known for its unique trulli houses, which makes the landscape seem like something out of a dream. Alberobello’s “trullo” (plural: “trulli”) is a traditional stone house with a distinctive conical roof. Trulli are constructed using local limestone and feature thick walls and a domed roof made of layered stone slabs. These were originally designed to be easily dismantled and reconstructed, which allowed residents to avoid taxes on permanent structures. The roofs are not only pretty, but also practical. They help regulate the interior temperature, keeping the trulli cool in the hot summers and warm during the winter. Here’s a guided tour option if you want to learn more detailed history: LINK
2. Monopoli
Located along the Adriatic coastline, Monopoli truly captures the essence of Italy. It’s not as famous as big cities (yet), but it’s really special. The town has old buildings and pretty beaches. People there are friendly, and the food is delicious. Its white buildings are aesthetic, giving different vibes than other popular cities in Italy. Don’t forget to spend some time at the beach area if you are going in the summer as Monopoli’s beaches are known for their crystal-clear, turquoise waters.
3. Polignano a Mare
Imagine a lovely town high up on cliffs overlooking the clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. This special place is called Polignano a Mare, and it’s another wonderful town in Puglia. With its pretty views, interesting history, and friendly locals, it’s a perfect spot for people who want to experience the real beauty of Italy. The town has small, winding streets that go between white buildings covered in colorful flowers and artistic decorations. You can walk around and enjoy the rocky coastline or take a boat to a scenic cave (tour LINK). Polignano a Mare feels like a typical Italian coastal town, with its nice views, charming buildings, and welcoming atmosphere. It is absolutely one of my favorites.
4. Ostuni
Ostuni is often called “The White City” because its buildings are all shiny and white. As you wander through its narrow streets, you’ll be able to enjoy the town’s unique beauty and energy. Ostuni has been around for a really long time, and many groups of people throughout history were interested in it because of where it sits on the hill. Nowadays, Ostuni is a place where people make art and do creative things. They have art shows, parties, and make wonders with their hands. You will find some of them along the streets so just walk around and get lost.
5. Matera
Matera is a city that’s like a trip back in time. It looks really ancient, where the buildings are made of stone and have a long history. It’s technically not in Puglia but in a place called Basilicata; however, it’s very close from Puglia so I’d recommend you to definitely check it out. The city is very different from others because it has houses built into rocks and lots of interesting things to see. Also, if you think Matera is beautiful during the day, wait until you see it during the night. The entire city lights up and seeing it from the viewpoint will leave you speechless. If you like ancient things, historical places, or just want to see something different and amazing, Matera is a place you’ll love. If you want to actually go into the cave houses, there are several of them that are hotels; however, if you are taking a daytrip, this tour is a great option: LINK
How do you move between the towns in Puglia?
All these towns are small enough to see in a day, so I’d personally recommend you to base yourself in one town and go around from there, instead of moving from town to town with all your suitcases and stuff. I based myself in Monopoli and it was great, as they have quite good public transportation connections.
Now, there are several public transportation choices:
Trains:
The train system in Puglia is a popular way to travel between towns. The Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE) and Trenitalia are the main train operators in the region. Trains are generally reliable, comfortable, and offer scenic views of the countryside. Major towns like Bari, Lecce, Brindisi, and Foggia are well-connected by train.
Buses:
Buses are another common mode of transportation in Puglia. They serve both urban and rural areas, making it easy to travel between towns and even to smaller villages that might not have train stations. However, personally I had some troubles with the bus, as it can be delayed or randomly change the bus stop without really clarifying where the new one is (thankfully I got lots of help from the locals). It definitely requires patience. Also, some buses do not really show nor announce which stop is coming up, so make sure to have your map open and keep your eyes on it.
Car Rentals:
Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring Puglia at your own pace. It gives you the flexibility to visit remote areas and places that might not be easily accessible by public transportation. The region has well-maintained roads, and driving can be a great way to explore the countryside. I tried this method as well and I loved it! Renting a car in a smaller town could be complicated though, so make sure to do your research and arrange it in advance.
Taxis:
Taxis services are available in major towns and cities. They can be a convenient option for short distances; however, it’s not so easy to get one in the smaller towns.
Transportation Summary:
Ultimately, the choice of transportation depends on your preferences, schedule, budget and the towns you plan to visit. Puglia’s transportation options make it relatively easy to move between towns and experience the region’s diverse landscapes, culture, and history.
And there you have it – a glimpse into the captivating towns that make Puglia a true Italian masterpiece. From Alberobello’s charm to Matera’s timeless beauty, these places capture the heart and essence of the region. But remember, the towns in this list are only a part of all of Puglia’s treasures. Each town in the region holds unique stories and experiences waiting to be discovered.
Safe travels and happy exploring! x