One Week Itinerary in Puglia

Crafting the perfect Puglia holiday can be an exhilarating journey in itself. If you're considering Puglia for your next adventure, look no further. This comprehensive guide presents a one-week itinerary that encompasses the best places to visit in Puglia (and more specifically Salento region) has to offer. Let's dive in!

Heads up: this page may include affiliate links. By clicking and/or purchasing, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I have personally vetted.

Best places to stay in Puglia:

Brindisi: La maison de Monet 

Otranto: La casa del peperoncino 

Nardò: Residenza Casa Arse

Matera: Le Casette

Bari: Valentino

Castellana Grotte: Semiramide Palace Hotel

Ostuni: Vico Trieste

1 - Arrival in Brindisi 

I decided to land in Brindisi, as I wanted to focus my itinerary in the southern part of the Puglia region. Brindisi itself can be skipped if you want to visit all the other must-see attractions. I picked up the rented car at the airport (you can find cars on the Rentalcars website).

2 - Lecce

Lecce, often called the "Florence of the South," is a stunning city in southern Italy known for its Baroque architecture and rich history. You can book on Get Your Guide many tours and experiences, and to hire a guide to truly understand the history and culture of this city.

Things to do in Lecce:

Piazza del Duomo: this central square is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the Lecce Cathedral (Duomo) with its impressive facade.

Basilica di Santa Croce: admire the intricate Baroque facade of this church, considered one of the greatest examples of Lecce's Baroque architecture. It costs 11 € to enter, but you can purchase a ticket at 9€ which allows you to enter all monuments in Lecce. Next to the church you can visit the campanile (bell tower), which cost 12€.

Roman Amphitheatre: discover the well-preserved ruins of this ancient amphitheater, located near the city center. Cost is 10€.

Castello di Carlo V: explore this 16th-century castle, which now houses the Civic Museum and offers panoramic views of the city. Free to enter, it costs only if you want a guided tour.

Church of Santa Chiara: visit this Baroque church known for its elaborately decorated interior and beautiful cloister. Cost is 10€.

Piazza Sant'Oronzo: relax in this lively square and see the Roman column topped with a statue of Saint Oronzo, the city's patron saint.

Lecce's Historic Center: take a stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, filled with charming cafes, shops, and hidden gems.

One must experience is to enjoy the local cuisine, here you find my article on what to eat in Puglia.

Particularly in Lecce there is also a strong coffee culture, I highly suggest stopping by any "bar" and ordering a plain Espresso or a coffee with ice (caffè con ghiaccio), which is a local specialty. You can order it either with or without almond milk. Add a Pasticciotto to go with the coffee. 

You can find this specialty: Quart'a Caffè Pacamara or Caffé Avio

Food recommendation: for a quick lunch bite you can eat a Puccia, it consists of a round, hollowed-out bread filled with various ingredients such as cheese, cured meats, and vegetables. You can find it at L'angolino di Via Matteotti.

Accommodation: La Maison de Monet 

3 – Otranto 

Otranto, a charming coastal town in southern Italy's Salento region, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions. You can book on Get Your Guide many tours and experiences, and to hire a guide to truly understand the history and culture of this city.

Things to do in Otranto:

Otranto Cathedral (Basilica di Santa Maria Annunziata): marvel at the stunning mosaic floor of this 11th-century cathedral, which depicts the Tree of Life, biblical scenes, and zodiac signs. The cathedral also houses the relics of the Martyrs of Otranto. Descend into the underground crypt beneath the Cathedral of Otranto to see ancient frescoes and learn about the town's Byzantine history. You can enter for free, from 7.00 AM to 12.30 PM, and from 3.00 to 8.00 PM.

Castello Aragonese: explore this imposing castle, built in the 15th century to defend against Ottoman attacks. Climb the ramparts for panoramic views of the town and coastline. Open from 10.00 AM to 9.00 PM, it costs 6€ to enter.

Otranto Historic Center: wander through the narrow streets of the old town, lined with whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful flowers. Discover charming cafes, artisan shops, and hidden piazzas along the way.

Otranto Harbor: take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront and admire the fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. You can also relax at one of the waterfront cafes and enjoy views of the Adriatic Sea.

Torre Sant'Emiliano: visit this historic watchtower, located just outside of Otranto's city center. Built in the 16th century, it offers panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding countryside.

Beaches: spend some time relaxing on one of Otranto's beautiful beaches, such as Baia dei Turchi or Porto Badisco. With crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings, these beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Lighthouse of Punta Palascìa: visit the easternmost point of Italy and see the iconic white lighthouse standing atop the cliffs. It's a great spot to watch the sunrise or simply enjoy the breathtaking coastal views at sunset.

As for the accommodation I picked during my stay, I wanted to stay outside the city to immerse myself in nature. In Puglia, there are the Masserie, which are beautiful but can be very expensive. However, there are lovely B&Bs that are budget-friendly and stunning. I highly suggest staying in Casa del Peperoncino, the host was wonderful and the breakfast was delicious. 

4 - Gallipoli

Gallipoli, located on the Ionian coast of Italy's Salento peninsula, is known for its picturesque old town, stunning beaches, and rich history. You can book on Get Your Guide many tours and experiences, and to hire a guide to truly understand the history and culture of this city.

Things to do in Gallipoli:

Gallipoli Old Town (Centro Storico): explore the narrow streets and historic buildings of the old town, surrounded by ancient walls and overlooking the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. Don't miss the charming alleys, traditional houses, and picturesque squares.

Gallipoli Cathedral (Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata): visit this beautiful Baroque cathedral, dedicated to Saint Agatha, which features a stunning facade and impressive interior adorned with marble altars and artwork. Free to enter.

Castello di Gallipoli: discover the medieval castle that overlooks the old town and harbor. Originally built by the Byzantines, it was later expanded by the Angevins and Aragonese. Today, it houses a museum and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. It costs 7€ to enter.

Purità Beach: relax on the sandy shores of this popular beach, located within walking distance of the old town. With its crystal-clear waters and scenic views, it's a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Lido San Giovanni: another beautiful beach near Gallipoli, Lido San Giovanni offers a wide stretch of golden sand, shallow waters, and amenities such as beach bars and restaurants.

Gallipoli Fish Market: experience the bustling atmosphere of the local fish market, where fishermen sell their fresh catch of the day. It's a great place to sample seafood delicacies and immerse yourself in the local culture. Open every day until 1 pm except for Sundays. The best hour is early in the morning.

Gallipoli Harbor: take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade and admire the colorful fishing boats and yachts moored in the harbor. You can also enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants, offering fresh seafood and stunning views.

Gallipoli is a nice little town, however, if you don't have time I wouldn't include it in the must-see places in Salento. The surroundings of Gallipoli however are beautiful, as the water is very clear and you can find some incredible beaches. I highly recommend:

Spiaggia di Punta della Suina: it is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft golden sand, and picturesque surroundings. The beach is nestled between two rocky cliffs, creating a sheltered cove that provides calm and tranquil waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is also well-equipped with facilities such as beach bars, sun loungers, and umbrellas, making it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for a day of relaxation by the sea. The parking costs 5€ for the whole day. 

Spiaggia di Porto Selvaggio: it is part of the Porto Selvaggio Natural Park, known for its unspoiled natural beauty, rugged coastline, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. The beach of Porto Selvaggio is characterized by its clear turquoise waters, surrounded by rocky cliffs and pine forests. It offers visitors a pristine and secluded setting away from the crowds, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and relaxation. It takes 15 minutes on foot to reach the parking spot located here. There are indications of the beach. 

In addition to sunbathing and swimming, visitors to Spiaggia di Porto Selvaggio can explore the surrounding natural park, which features scenic hiking trails that wind through the coastal Mediterranean landscape. 

As for accomodation, I found this beautiful place to sleep outside Nardò, I highly suggest it: Residenza Casa Arse

5 - Matera

Matera is not technically in Puglia, but in the Basilicata region, the easiest way to reach it is from Puglia (where is located the closest airport). You can book on Get Your Guide many tours and experiences, and to hire a guide to truly understand the history and culture of this city.

Matera, known for its ancient cave dwellings and stunning architecture, offers visitors a wealth of attractions to explore.

Things to do in Matera:

Sassi di Matera: the Sassi of Matera, the ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone rock, are indeed divided into two main areas: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. Sasso Caveoso is the older of the two Sassi districts, characterized by its winding alleys, cave dwellings, and steep cliffs overlooking the Gravina River. Sasso Caveoso is home to some of the earliest cave settlements in Matera, dating back thousands of years. It's known for its rustic charm and medieval atmosphere. Sasso Barisano is situated adjacent to Sasso Caveoso, Sasso Barisano is slightly more developed and organized. Here, you'll find a mix of residential cave dwellings and more modern structures built into the rock. Sasso Barisano also features narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and panoramic viewpoints offering stunning vistas of the city and surrounding landscape. Both Sassi districts are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offer visitors a unique glimpse into Matera's ancient past and remarkable architecture. Exploring these historic neighborhoods is like stepping back in time and experiencing a living museum of human habitation carved into the rock.

Matera Cathedral (Cattedrale di Matera): Visit this stunning Romanesque cathedral, located in the heart of the old town. Admire its intricate facade, elegant interior, and impressive collection of religious art and artifacts. It costs 1 € to enter.

Church of San Pietro Caveoso: marvel at the unique architecture of this cave church, which is carved directly into the rock of Sasso Caveoso. Admire the ancient frescoes and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this historic site. It costs 3,50€ to enter. If you are interested in visiting multiple sites, some tickets allow at a reduced rate to enter three or two sites for 6€ and 5€ respectively.

Belvedere: enjoy panoramic views of the Sassi and the surrounding countryside. I suggest three different viewpoints, particularly during the sunset.  

First belvedere: Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio detto dei "Tre Archi"

Second Belvedere:  Belvedere Piazzetta Pascoli

Third Belvedere: it's not a belvedere per se, but from here you can enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Palombaro Lungo: descend into this ancient cistern, one of Matera's largest underground water reservoirs. Learn about its fascinating history and marvel at the engineering ingenuity of the past. It costs 3€ to access.

Piazza Vittorio Veneto: relax in this lively square, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a great place to people-watch, enjoy a gelato, or simply soak in the atmosphere of Matera's bustling city center.

Where I stayed in Matera (with parking spot): Le Casette

6 - Bari

Bari, the capital of Italy's Puglia region, is a vibrant city with a rich history, a charming old town, and a beautiful seaside promenade. You can book on Get Your Guide many tours and experiences, and to hire a guide to truly understand the history and culture of this city.

Things to do in Bari:

Bari Vecchia (Old Town): explore the narrow alleys and historic buildings of Bari's old town, which is divided into three main areas: the Medieval Quarter, the Romanesque Quarter, and the Renaissance Quarter. Highlights include the Basilica di San Nicola, the Cathedral of San Sabino, and the Swabian Castle.

Basilica di San Nicola: visit this important pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus. Admire the stunning architecture, beautiful mosaics, and the crypt where the relics of Saint Nicholas are kept. Free to enter

Castello Svevo (Swabian Castle): explore this imposing fortress, built by the Normans in the 12th century and later expanded by the Swabians. Climb the ramparts for panoramic views of the city and sea. It costs 6€.

Cattedrale di San Sabino (Cathedral of San Sabino): marvel at the Romanesque architecture of this ancient cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century. Admire its intricate stone carvings, elegant columns, and beautiful frescoes. Free to enter.

Piazza del Ferrarese: relax in this bustling square, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a great place to soak up the lively atmosphere of Bari and watch the world go by.

Promenade Lungomare Nazario Sauro: take a leisurely stroll along Bari's picturesque seafront promenade, lined with palm trees, cafes, and gelaterias. Enjoy views of the Adriatic Sea and watch the sunset over the horizon.

La Strada delle Orecchiette: the "Strada delle Orecchiette" (Orecchiette Road) in Bari, Italy, is a charming and picturesque street known for its traditional handmade pasta. Orecchiette, which translates to "little ears" in Italian, is a type of pasta that's particularly popular in the Puglia region, where Bari is located. This street is famous for its many small shops and stalls where local women make and sell orecchiette pasta by hand. Walking along the Strada delle Orecchiette, you can witness the fascinating process of pasta-making and even have the opportunity to taste some freshly prepared pasta dishes. Aside from orecchiette, you'll find other local specialties and souvenirs along the street, making it a delightful destination for food enthusiasts and travelers interested in experiencing authentic Italian cuisine and culture.

Food recommendation in Bari:

One restaurant where you can taste fish dishes at affordable prices in Bari: Nicolaus - Il Bistrot dal Mare. Here you can also order Ricci di mare (sea urchin roe) a must to try. You will not see them listed in the menu, but ask for them.

7 - Polignano a Mare & Monopoli

Polignano a Mare, a picturesque coastal town in the Puglia region of Italy, is known for its stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming old town.

Things to do in Polignano a Mare:

Old Town (Centro Storico): explore the narrow streets and whitewashed buildings of Polignano's historic center. Admire the architecture, browse boutique shops, and soak up the atmosphere of this charming seaside town.

Ponte Lama Monachile: walk across the iconic arched bridge that spans the Lama Monachile Cove, offering stunning views of the turquoise waters below. This spot is perfect for photos and enjoying the coastal scenery.

Beaches: relax on one of Polignano's beautiful beaches, such as Cala Porto or Lido Cala Paura. Swim in the clear waters, sunbathe on the sandy shores, or explore the rocky coves along the coastline.

Bastione di Santo Stefano: visit this historic fortress, which dates back to the 16th century and offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscape. It's a great spot to watch the sunset or simply enjoy the scenery. Free to enter.

Monopoli, another charming coastal town in the Puglia region of Italy, offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some must-see attractions in Monopoli:

Monopoli Old Town (Centro Storico): explore the picturesque streets and alleyways of Monopoli's historic center, lined with whitewashed buildings, colorful balconies, and charming piazzas. Don't miss the beautiful Baroque churches and the imposing Castle of Charles V.

Monopoli Cathedral (Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia): visit this impressive cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which features a stunning facade and intricate interior decoration. Admire the historic artifacts and religious artworks housed within. Free to enter.

Port of Monopoli: take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade of Monopoli's bustling port. Watch the fishing boats come and go, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal town.

Castle of Charles V (Castello di Carlo V): explore this 16th-century fortress, built to defend the town from pirate attacks. Climb the ramparts for panoramic views. Free to enter.

Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi: relax in this charming square, surrounded by historic buildings and cafes. Admire the statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, a key figure in Italian unification, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the local market.

Cala Porta Vecchia Beach: Spend some time soaking up the sun on this beautiful sandy beach, located near the old town. Swim in the clear waters, relax on the soft sand, or enjoy water sports like snorkeling and kayaking.

You can book on Get Your Guide many tours and experiences, and to hire a guide to truly understand the history and culture of this region.

8- Itria Valley & Murgia of the Trulli

This area includes a lot of small characteristic villages that are a must-see in Puglia:

Alberobello 

Alberobello, a picturesque town in southern Italy, is renowned for its unique trulli houses.

Things to do in Alberobello:

Trulli Houses: wander through the narrow streets and admire the traditional cone-shaped buildings, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Trullo Sovrano: visit the only trullo with two floors, offering insights into the history and architecture of the region.

Trullo Church of Sant'Antonio: explore this charming church built entirely in the Trullo style.

To be completely honest, Alberobello was a bit of a letdown to me. It's a nice village, but overcrowded and a bit fake. I don't suggest buying souvenirs or eating out here, as the prices are very high. However, I still believe is worth a visit.

I highly recommend paying a visit to the nearby oil shop (Oleificio Salamida Alberobello) when you're in Alberobello. Their olive oil is exceptional and offered at a very reasonable price point. Additionally, they offer shipping services, which is fantastic. In fact, I stock up on their oil for myself and my family!

Grotte di Castellana

The Grotte di Castellana, or the Castellana Caves, are a remarkable natural wonder located near the town of Castellana Grotte in the Apulia region of southern Italy. These caves are renowned for their stunning limestone formations, underground rivers, and caverns. The caves were discovered in the 1930s and have since become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. Guided tours take visitors on a journey through various chambers, each adorned with intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations created over millions of years by the slow dripping of water. One of the highlights of the Grotte di Castellana is the "White Cave" (Grotta Bianca), known for its dazzling white formations, including massive stalactites and stalagmites. Another notable feature is the "Black Cave" (Grotta Nera), characterized by its dark walls and eerie atmosphere.

You can purchase the tickets online on their official website. They offer only guided tours, that start every half hour. I can't share pictures as it is prohibited to take any photos inside the site. 

Locorotondo 

Locorotondo, another charming town in the Puglia region of Italy, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Things to do in Locorotondo:

Historic Center: explore the beautiful historic center characterized by its whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and flower-decked balconies. Locorotondo is known as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy (I Borghi più Belli d'Italia).

Churches: visit the Church of San Giorgio Martire, known for its elegant baroque facade, and the Church of San Rocco, which features a stunning rose window.

Trulli: while not as abundant as in Alberobello, Locorotondo also has some trulli houses scattered throughout the town. Take a stroll to discover these unique structures.

Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II: relax in the main square of Locorotondo, surrounded by historic buildings and cafes. It's a great spot for people-watching and soaking in the local atmosphere.

Wine Tasting: Locorotondo is located in the heart of the Valle d'Itria wine region. Take a wine tour and sample the region's delicious white wines, such as Locorotondo DOC and Martina Franca DOC.

Martina Franca

Martina Franca is a charming town located in the Puglia region of southern Italy. It's renowned for its well-preserved Baroque architecture, historic center, and vibrant cultural scene. The town is characterized by its narrow streets, whitewashed buildings adorned with ornate balconies, and picturesque squares.

Things to do in Martina Franca:

Basilica di San Martino: this stunning Baroque church is a must-see, known for its elaborate facade and interior decorations.

Piazza XX Settembre: Martina Franca's main square is a hub of activity, surrounded by beautiful buildings, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to soak in the local atmosphere.

Palazzo Ducale: this historic palace boasts impressive architecture and often hosts cultural events and exhibitions.

Church of San Domenico: admire the striking facade and serene interior of this church, which is a testament to Martina Franca's rich history and culture.

Old Town: wander through the charming streets of the old town, characterized by whitewashed buildings and winding alleyways. You'll find plenty of picturesque spots and hidden gems to discover.

Martina Franca is famous for the capocollo, I suggest ordering a puccia that contains this ham type. I went to La Bottega del Capocollo, a nice shop where you can also grab a quick lunch. I ordered a puccia with capocollo and caciocavallo (typical local cheese).

Ostuni

In Ostuni, often referred to as the "White City" due to its whitewashed buildings, there are several attractions to see:

Ostuni Old Town: explore the charming streets of the historic center, characterized by narrow alleys, white buildings, and picturesque squares. Wander around and soak in the unique atmosphere of this ancient city.

Ostuni Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta): visit this beautiful cathedral, located at the highest point of the old town. Admire its stunning facade and interior, which features intricate architectural details and religious artwork.

Arco Scoppa: walk through this iconic arched entrance to the old town, which offers fantastic views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic Sea.

Piazza della Libertà: relax in this lively square, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a great place to people-watch and enjoy the local ambiance.

Church of San Francesco d'Assisi: explore this 15th-century church, known for its elegant architecture and beautiful interior decorations, including frescoes and sculptures.

Ostuni Coastline: take a short drive from the city center to the coastline, where you'll find beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the sandy shores or take a stroll along the coastal paths to enjoy the scenic views.

Ostuni offers great sunsets, I was lucky to witness one of the most beautiful that I saw in this trip, so make sure to visit during this hour. 

Food recommendation in Ostuni:

The best bombette I had during my holiday were at this restaurant in Ostuni: La Braceria - I piaceri della carne

Where I stayed: Vico Trieste

In summary, exploring Puglia offers a diverse range of experiences, from the unique trulli houses to the charming towns and beautiful coastline. This itinerary provides a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage and natural beauty, promising an unforgettable journey through one of Italy's most enchanting regions. Get ready to immerse yourself in history, cuisine, and breathtaking scenery. Buon viaggio!