15 BEST Things to Do in Puglia, Italy (For First Timers)

This guide shows you the 15 best things to do in Puglia, southern Italy, whether that’s beautiful towns, astounding coasts, or a city center. Settle on your Puglia Itinerary and start planning your next trip that’s a mix of history and natural landscapes to get the best of this place.

What is Puglia

Sun, sea, sand dunes, trulli, and olive trees that are centuries old. All of this is undoubtedly Puglia, a beloved province and popular summer vacation spot in Italy and beyond.

However, the Italian heel has an additional, non-tangible worth. It provides each and every one of its guests with that powerful experience aspect. It is really a place that should be experienced with all of the senses in order to completely appreciate the customs associated with the history, art, and culture of this area as well as to properly appreciate its forms, sounds, scents, and tastes.

Puglia has a plethora of locations to see, but we can help you get a sense of what it has to offer. These are the top 9 locations in Puglia that you just must see while on vacation, from the idyllic beaches of Salento to the untamed hills of the Itria Valley, passing via the verdant Umbra Forest and the Tremiti archipelago.

Best Things to Do in Puglia:

Here are some of the best things to do in Puglia if you decide to visit... (which you definitely should!)

1) Explore Otranto

Italy's easternmost city is Otranto. This intriguing beach village's best feature is its superb fusion of history, culture, and environment. The Aragonese Castle is unquestionably one of the reasons to stop at Otranto. Its interior sections, which include the bastions, the vaults, and the towers, are open for exploration.

Wander around the historic center, which consists of white homes leaned against one another and overlooks tiny, cobbled alleys lined with hanging clothing and stores. During your tour, allocate some time to visit the Cathedral, built in the latter part of the year 1000.

This Cathedral partly dedicates itself to remembering the eight hundred Christian victims who perished in the Turkish invasion in 1480, aptly naming Otranto the "city of martyrs."

Reach the Alimini Lakes a short distance from Otranto, and let the breathtaking natural splendor of this designated natural park enchant you. Here, you can see many migrating bird species and other creatures inhabiting the lakes' waters.

As you go along the shore, you'll come across one of Otranto's most well-known beaches, the Baia dei Turchi, so named because it seems to be the location where the Turks landed before to their invasion in the fifteenth century. Because of its immense scenic significance, this uncontaminated region has been listed by the Italian Environment Fund as one of the 100 locations in Italy that must be preserved.

2) Bari is a must-see in Puglia

You must include Bari, the capital of Puglia, on your itinerary. The Basilica of San Nicola, the city's patron saint, is the first place one arrives at in the old center.

A magnificent example of Romanesque-Apulian architecture, its crypt holds the saint's remains and is a popular pilgrimage site for both Orthodox and Christian believers. Indeed, it stands as one of the few worship sites in Italy that honors both rites.

Enter the winding lanes of Bari Vecchia, the bustling center of the city, from the Basilica of San Nicola. Take a leisurely stroll through this labyrinth of lanes where, particularly in via Arcobasso, ladies equipped with pastry boards, water, and semolina are busy making the well-known "stracinet" (orecchiette).

Cathedral of San Sabino

There are several churches, notably the Cathedral of San Sabino, as you stroll along the "chianche," the enormous stones that line the streets of Bari Vecchia. Every year on June 21st, the day of the summer solstice, the light shines through the facade's rose window, illuminating the similar marble rose window with eighteen petals located on the nave floor. It is a really remarkable sight.

The Fort of Sant'Antonio Abate, with its walls, is a must-see in Puglia. It is a popular gathering spot for Bari residents for strolls along the waterfront, where one can take in the stunning views of the Adriatic while also admiring the late Art Nouveau architecture.

However, Bari is more than this; it's a city whose mouthwatering cuisine will tantalize your senses as well as your sight. Panzerotti, broad bean puree, orecchiette with turnip tops, and other delicious dishes will spoil you.

3) Venture to Gargano

The Gargano is this point in northern Puglia. If you've heard about it, you probably know that it's also called the " Spur of Italy " because it juts out onto the Adriatic. The enormous range of sceneries in this region is particularly impressive, with woods, hilly areas, lakes, a coast full of white cliffs, long sandy beaches, and settlements facing the sea.

Thankfully, the fortuitous formation of the Gargano National Park aimed to safeguard the precious region, encompassing this complex network of routes and sites ideal for excursions and hiking. There are also two absolutely incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites in the area: the beautiful Monte Sant'Angelo and the Umbra Forest.

The latter is a symbol of the Gargano, the park's green lung, which spans around 10,000 hectares at a height of 800 meters. In this nature reserve, you will be able to see the most totally amazing rich flora mostly consisting of beeches and oaks, as well as local animals such as roe deer, foxes, badgers, wild boars, owls, and many other species.

Monte Sant'Angelo, on the other hand, is a town in the southern Gargano that is most known for the Sanctuary of San Michele. As you know, appearances can be totally deceiving: descend a few flights of stairs to access one of the world's most beautiful sacred caves.

This cave features a vault that serves as a ceiling to its large nave. Along its sides, several altars stand, including "the altar of the imprint," where a stone allegedly bears the footprint of the Archangel.

4) Make Your Way to Lecce

Claimed to be "the Florence of the south," Lecce is undoubtedly one of the most visited towns by people traveling to explore the must see in Puglia locations. Lecce is absolutely packed with glorious Roman, medieval, and Renaissance structures and artwork, which makes this authentic outdoor museum, in my opinion, one of the most captivating in all of Italy.

The Basilica of Santa Croce, however, is the ultimate manifestation of the city of stylistic extravagance and Lecce baroque. Unmatched in the world, its flamboyant façade is a riot of ornamental designs and detail. Admire the elaborately painted altars and the opulent coffered ceiling within, as well as the big central rose window framed by berries and laurel leaves. You will be spellbound!

Follow your path to the picturesque Piazza Duomo after seeing the Basilica to take in the other Baroque gems of Lecce, including the Seminary, the Bishop's Palace, and the Duomo (Cathedral of SS. Maria Assunta), with its towering 72-meter bell tower.

The Roman theater and the Roman amphitheater, both from the second century, which could hold up to 14,000 people thanks to its elliptical layout, are the two principal examples of Roman art from this period, which transitions from Baroque to Roman.

In Lecce's most significant plaza, Piazza Sant'Oronzo, where the patron saint's column is prominent, are both the amphitheater and the cathedral. This area is home to a perfect blend of structures from many centuries and styles, including the churches of Santa Maria delle Grazie and San Marco, also known as the Palazzo del Seggio, or Sedile.

5) Get to Itria Valley

Expanses of centuries-old olive trees on red dirt, cactus sprinkled with prickly pears, dry stone walls, rows that stretch as far as the eye can see: this is the Itria Valley. This region in central Puglia is located between the cities of Bari and Brindisi and Taranto. The region, which includes Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Martina Franca, roughly corresponds to the southern section of the Murge plateau.

Locorotondo, a true treasure with white cottages with pointy roofs (called cummerse) perched on a hill overlooking the Itria Valley, is a genuine jewel. Visit the Villa Comunale for a breathtaking vista of trulli and olive trees, and the grand Church of San Giorgio Martire with its almost 50-meter-high bell tower.

Cisternino

Cisternino is one of Italy's most intriguing villages. The municipal mansion, too, provides an amazing perspective of the valley, while the Mother Church of San Nicola and the clock tower in the main plaza are not to be missed on the other side.

Having an aperitif at Piazza dell'Orologio is a necessity, as is stopping for dinner: virtually all butchers have been converted into tiny restaurants, and avoiding the seductive fragrance of grilled meat will be almost hard. The Apulian bombette and local sausages are highly recommended.

Martina Franca is the last must-see destination in the Itria Valley. As you enter, the church of Sant'Antonio first totally catches your eye, followed by the historic center, where the Baroque style Ducal Palace and the Basilica of San Martino dominate the glorious scene. Before leaving town, don't forget to try Martina Franca's signature dish, capocollo.

Finally, for a more authentic experience, consider staying in one of Puglia's distinctive buildings: the historic walled farms often converted into hotels.In truth, there is just one password in the Itria Valley: masseria. You may choose between a magnificent farmhouse and a more traditional one, and they will all immerse you in complete serenity amid fig trees, cactus, and olive orchards.

6) Ostuni is a Must See in Puglia

Set like a white pearl between the sky and the blue sea, Ostuni captivates tourists with the whiteness of its residences that line its streets. Among the most popular must see in Puglia places and on the Salento peninsula, it is known as the "white city" because of the lime roofing that defines the majority of its residences.

Stroll through the historic center, a maze of twisting alleys and a series of little squares that ascend the sides of a hill, until you reach the lower section of the hamlet, which is encircled by an old city wall with two gates that have survived: Porta Nova and Porta San Demetrio.

Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, one of Ostuni's main attractions, in the upper portion of the city. Built around 1400, it features a highly designed façade and the second largest rose window in Europe. Ostuni also links with water and relaxation: the city and its surrounds feature beaches such as Torre Guaceto, Torre Pozzelle, Rosa Marina, and Creta Rossa.

7) Make a pilgrimage to Alberobello

Alberobello is located in the province of Bari, in the Itria Valley, and is well worth a visit during a trip in Puglia. Because in this arcane town, you may breathe a timeless aura.

Trulli and Alberobello are inextricably linked. These structures, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, create a world-class cluster.

A whitewashed limestone cylinder base, topped with a stone conical roof, makes up their structure. The pallet of hues that will appear before your eyes will take your breath away: white buildings and gray roofs that stand out against the blue sky.

The Monti neighborhood, hosting 1030 trulli of various varieties, centers the majority of them, all lined up along its streets. Stop at one of the city's trullo restaurants between districts to sample the region's specialties. If, on the other hand, you want to feel the actual character of the place, you may spend the night in a trullo.

8) Pay a visit to Tremiti Islands

The five wild islands that make up the Tremiti are San Domino, San Nicola, Cretaccio, Pianosa, and Capraia (don't mistake the latter two with the islands of the same name in the Tuscan Archipelago). San Domino and San Nicola are the only two inhabited islands out of the five. Just take note: you can totally reach Cretaccio and Capraia on foot, but Pianosa, being part of an Integral Marine Reserve, requires special permission for access.

Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts see the seabed around the islands as a veritable paradise, brimming with fish of every kind and size and providing breathtaking scenery consisting of underwater caverns, inlets, and even wrecks.

The archipelago is a Protected Marine Reserve of the Gargano National Park, with several underwater routes winding through its waters. However, some of the most amazing diving locations, such Punta Secca and Cala dei Turchi, are located near Capraia.

The Beaches!

Remember to pack shoes, a hat, and sunscreen before you head for a dip among the steep slopes of the Mediterranean scrub, as the majority of Tremiti beaches consist of rocks and stones. Why not include a camera as well (I'm talking about the old-school-go-to-a-developer camera!), to capture the most breathtaking vistas forever?

Cala Matano and Cala dei Benedettini are two of San Domino's must-see beaches, while San Nicola has a limited number of rocky spots for sunbathing. The three beautiful bays of Capraia—Cala dei Turchi, Cala di Sorrentino, and Cala Pietra del Fucile—are accessible by boat or dinghy.

Every cove and harbor on the Tremiti overlooks Caribbean-esque seas, and May through the end of September is the ideal time to take a swim in the archipelago's sea; August is less advised due to crowds.

9) Salento Peninsula is a Must-See in Puglia

Salento, in the southernmost section of Puglia, is a popular summer vacation destination for thousands of Italian and non-Italian visitors each year. A compacted collection of gorgeous historic structures and paradisiacal beaches that have nothing to envy of the Caribbean's.

The Salento peninsula is also a fantastic location for road trips: the best way to see it is by automobile, so you may stop in the most picturesque spots. Santa Maria di Leuca is a must-see while in Salento. It is the ideal destination for individuals who like to relax on pristine beaches and coasts and provides spectacular attractions such as the Devil's Cave or the Three Doors Cave.

You don't have to spend loads of cash to go all the way to the other side of the planet to get to the Maldives. They are a short distance from Santa Maria di Leuca, more exactly in Pescoluse. People call this jaw-dropping, OMG!-stretch of beachfront the Maldives of Salento due to its beautiful white sand, crystal blue sea, and endless horizon where you can lose your thoughts.

Continue your trip, returning to Gallipoli, the "pearl of the Ionian," a popular destination, particularly for young people, as the uncontested queen of Salento nightlife. All you have to do to alternate moments of rest with moments of unfettered enjoyment is visit one of the city's many beaches.

They are truly natural marvels, and they consistently rank at the top of the Legambiente rankings. Baia Verde, Punta della Suina, and Punta Pizzo are three of the most well-known beaches.

10) Visit the Grotta della Poesia (Cave of Poetry)

Grotta della Poesia is one of those places that takes your breath away the moment you see it. It’s a natural swimming hole carved into the cliffs, and the water is this unbelievable shade of turquoise. On hot days, it’s the perfect place to take a dip and cool off.

I remember the first time I dove in—it felt like swimming in a secret, magical pool. The name itself means “Cave of Poetry,” and it’s said that ancient poets were inspired by the beauty of this spot. It’s easy to see why!

What I love about Grotta della Poesia is that it’s not just beautiful, it’s also an adventure. You have to hike a bit to get there, and the view as you approach the cliffs is just stunning.

Once you arrive, you can either relax on the rocks or take the plunge into the cool water below. I always make sure to visit early in the morning before it gets too crowded. It’s one of those places that feels untouched, like nature’s perfect swimming pool.

11) Swim at Togo Bay Beach

Togo Bay Beach is my go-to spot for a perfect beach day in Puglia. The sand here is soft and white, and the water is crystal-clear with shades of blue that look straight out of a postcard. Every time I visit, I can’t help but spend hours just lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and taking dips in the refreshing water. It’s the ideal place to relax, whether you’re lying under an umbrella or taking a swim.

What sets Togo Bay apart from other beaches is the vibe. It’s a bit more relaxed and less crowded than some of the more popular spots, which I absolutely love. The beach clubs are a nice touch too, offering loungers, umbrellas, and a little bit of luxury to your beach day.

Whenever I’m there, I make sure to grab a drink and enjoy the laid-back, beachy atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an entire day and leave feeling completely refreshed.

12) Explore Cava di Bauxite

Cava di Bauxite is one of the most visually striking places I’ve visited in Puglia. The first time I saw the bright red cliffs surrounding a vibrant emerald-green lake, I was completely blown away.

It’s a former bauxite quarry, and the colors here are so intense, it almost feels otherworldly. Walking around the lake, you get this sense of being in a totally different landscape, far from the typical beaches and towns of Puglia.

I love visiting Cava di Bauxite because it’s such a peaceful spot. There are usually only a few people around, which makes it feel like a hidden gem. The contrast of the red earth against the greenery and the blue sky makes it a dream for photographers. I always recommend this place to anyone looking for something a little different from the usual beach and town visits. It’s a beautiful reminder of the diverse landscapes Puglia has to offer.

13) Check Out Castel del Monte

Castel del Monte is one of the most fascinating places I’ve visited in Puglia. It’s this mysterious, octagonal castle that sits alone in the countryside, and its shape and design are unlike anything else I’ve seen.

Every time I visit, I’m struck by its perfect symmetry and the sense of intrigue that surrounds it. Built in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II, no one knows exactly why it was constructed, and that mystery just adds to its allure.

What I love most about Castel del Monte is the panoramic view from the top. Once you climb up, you can see the countryside stretching out in every direction. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for history lovers, but also for anyone who enjoys architecture and a good mystery.

There’s something about standing in a castle that has stood for centuries that gives you this deep connection to the past. It’s a must-see, and I always leave feeling a bit more curious than when I arrived.

14) Visit Zoosafari

I never expected to find a safari park in Puglia, but Zoosafari in Fasano is an absolute blast. It’s one of the largest safari parks in Europe, and I had so much fun driving through and seeing animals like lions, zebras, and giraffes up close. I love that you can do it all from the comfort of your own car, making it a unique experience compared to the typical zoo visit. The animals roam freely, and it feels like you’re on a mini African safari right in Italy.

15) Explore Matera

Even though Matera technically isn’t in Puglia, I always make it a point to visit when I’m in the region because it’s so close. This city is like stepping into a time machine. The ancient “sassi,” which are cave dwellings carved into the cliffs, create such a unique atmosphere.

Walking through the winding alleys, it’s easy to feel the weight of history. The view at sunset, with the warm glow over the stone buildings, is absolutely magical. I love taking my time here, exploring the churches carved into rock and stopping for a coffee with a view.

What makes Matera even more interesting is its recent transformation. For years, it was one of Italy's poorest cities, but now it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been rejuvenated while still preserving its ancient charm.

I’ve found that Matera perfectly combines that old-world feeling with a growing art and cultural scene. It’s no wonder it was named the European Capital of Culture a few years ago! You can spend an entire day just soaking in its atmosphere and learning about its layered history.

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