Puglia’s best places: Our guide to a lesser-traveled southern Italy gem

We’ve visited Puglia many times and discovered some favorites among many places in this a southern region in  Italy known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns and delicious cuisine.

 Puglia is a great alternative to the more crowded southern destinations in Italy, such as the Amalfi Coast. Here are some of our picks as the most charming places to visit in Puglia:

 Alberobello, the UNESCO World Heritage site, is best known for its trulli, centuries-old dry-stone huts with conical roofs also made of stone. A town filled with these unique structures creates a magical atmosphere. The most "touristy" Trulli district is Rione Monti, but Aia Piccola is quieter and walkable. Behind the large town church, you'll find more small lanes of trulli leading to Trullo Sovrano, an unusual two-story version of the structure. Yes, you can very likely rent a stay in a trullo, but as originally designed, it may feel somewhat like living in a shed.

Polignano a Mare: Located on rocky limestone cliffs on Italy’s southern Adriatic coast, Polignano a Mare is a charming town with a cove nestled at the bottom of one of those cliffs. Founded in the fourth century BC, modern Polignano a Mare has amenities and plenty to do in and around the tiny old town area.

Ostuni mixes Gothic, Romanesque and Byzantine architecture.

Ostuni, known as the "White City," is an awe-inspiring town of numerous white-washed houses and winding streets combining Gothic, Romanesque and Byzantine architecture. Based on archeological discovery, it's believed the area has been inhabited since Paleolithic times. The old town is a citadel high atop a hill still fortified by ancient walls.

Walk Lecce at night for dramatic views

Lecce, called the "Florence of the South," remains a beautiful baroque city with stunning architecture, lively piazzas, and charming cafes. Like so many cities, Lecce’s narrow streets open to reveal historic churches and beautiful old palaces. Lecce beaches also rank among the best of the south.

You’ll find friends around every corner in Matera.

Matera, not technically in Puglia, has the same feel just across the border in Basilicata, definitely worth a visit. Matera represents a paradise for history and culture buffs with its ancient cave dwellings. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was also the European Capital of Culture for 2019. While growing in popularity, Matera and other towns in the region remain relatively low in tourist traffic.

Gallipoli at sunset, a few steps from our seaside restaurant.

Gallipoli’s old town uniquely situated on an island off a peninsula will surprise you as a picturesque fishing village of colorful boats with plenty to see and do. Plan to do much walking: a seaside promenade, winding alleys of whitewashed houses. Focus on the Old Town district, quite distinct from the modern downtown.

Located on the easternmost point of Italy, Otranto’s beautiful historic center, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters ranks it as a charming seaside town worth considering.

Ourt personal guide shows our small group around Martina Franca.

The elegant town of Martina Franca, larger than most in the region, offers all the usual attractions --  historic architecture, charming piazzas, and delicious cuisine -- but also has gained widespread acclaim for opera festivals. C'mon, you need to see at least one in Italy, the 17th century birthplace of this musical art form.

Trani: "Overlooked gem" is an overused travel term, but this coastal town close to the main airport in Bali fits the bill: As a picturesque seaport with an historic cathedral, the city's flourished for a millennium, and has been a wartime strategic location since the 11th century Crusades. Not a historian? How about enjoying beaches, a vibrant city center, tasty food, and exciting nightlife? 

The charming hilltop of Cisternino fills its narrow streets with the whitewashed houses of many Puglia towns. But it's got a lock on butchers with barbecue. And there's no need for fussing with a sit-down restaurant. Pick a delicious meat dish from any butcher, take a seat outside with a carafe of wine, and wait for your meal delivery.

Locorotondo: Situated between Martina Franca and Alberobello in the Valle d'Itria, two of our previous recommendations, this beautiful town delivers the same charming whitewashed houses and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. As an unfortified hamlet for feudal lords for 500 years, it retains the historic layout of a town organized around a city center. Locorotondo is a lovely destination for a relaxing vacation in Puglia. As usual in ancient towns, plan to walk, not drive.

These are just a few of the many charming places we recommend in Puglia. Our travelers visit Puglia every year, and if you want to experience its unique character and beauty, we can make sure you find an enchanting experience with its history, culture, cuisine and landscapes.