Puglia, Italy
Puglia is a place where time slows down. Drift through sleepy whitewashed towns like Ostuni and Locorotondo, and end with seafood feasts beside the sea. It’s where rustic trattorias serve orecchiette made by hand, and every dish tells a story of local tradition.
We fell hard for Puglia in 2019.
This guide brings together our favourite spots, honest tips, and the kind of hidden gems we seek out whenever we travel. If you're craving authentic Italy without the crowds, Puglia might just be your next great adventure.
Puglia Highlights
This page is under construction, so whilst we put together our full guides, below is a quick list of our Puglia highlights
Towns To Visit
Alberobello – Famous for its UNESCO-listed trulli houses. Unique and photogenic, but quite touristy. Best for a short visit.
Polignano a Mare – Cliffside town with dramatic sea views and a charming old centre. Great for aperitivo and coastal strolls.
Monopoli – Authentic harbour town with fewer crowds. Great food, lovely cathedral, and local charm.
Ostuni – The White City. Magical at sunset with glowing streets and a relaxed evening buzz.
Gallipoli – Coastal town with historic streets and Ionian beaches. Known for seafood and summer vibes.
Lecce – “Florence of the South”. Baroque architecture, vibrant piazzas, and plenty of culture and cuisine.
Matera – Famous for ancient cave dwellings (Sassi). Surreal, atmospheric, and ideal at sunrise or sunset.
Locorotondo – One of Puglia’s prettiest hill towns. Quiet, whitewashed, and ideal for slow wandering.
Local Foods To Try
Orecchiette (ear-shaped pasta, often served with turnip tops or tomato sauce)
Burrata – creamy, soft cheese made from mozzarella and cream
Sun-ripened tomatoes – simple, fresh, and bursting with flavour
Local Wines
Primitivo - Our absolutel favourite wine to drink
Negroamaro
Beaches
Lama Monachile / Cala Porto (Polignano a Mare)
A tiny pebble beach tucked beneath a Roman bridge. Come early if you want a spot – otherwise, enjoy the view from above. A must-see if you’re in town.
Spiaggia di Punta Prosciutto (North of Gallipoli)
Known for its crystal-clear water and soft sand. Ideal for a full beach day. Family-friendly and beautiful.
Where To Stay
Near Matera
Farmhouse Torre Spanish: Countryside charm with easy access to Matera.
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita: For a stay like no other – luxe rooms carved into the ancient caves. Check it out here
Countryside Retreat
Masseria Montenapoleone: Traditional farmhouse with rustic-chic rooms and relaxed vibes.
Ostuni is one of the most charming towns in Puglia, with its iconic whitewashed old town, buzzing food scene, and nearby beaches. In this guide, we share our top recommendations – where to eat, stay, and watch the sunset – plus a few hidden gems you won't want to miss.