Puglia, Italy: A Guide to Discovering the Heel of the Boot.

André Freitas January, 2025

When you think of Italy, the first places that come to mind are likely Tuscany, Rome, and Venice. However, there’s another destination that captivates anyone willing to explore Italian gems beyond the usual routes. We’re talking about Puglia, a region in southern Italy. Even if you’re not one to memorize maps, you probably know Italy is shaped like a boot, and Puglia, in the country’s south, is precisely the heel that completes the boot’s design.

In this beautiful and surprising region, you’ll find not only an incredible turquoise sea but also charming towns brimming with culture, tradition, and history—not to mention superb cuisine. With so much to offer, Puglia might seem like a well-kept secret. However, we at Cieli di Toscana have all the tips to help you uncover this remarkable Italian region and make the most of your visit.

The Main Cities in Puglia

Bari

Bari is the capital of Puglia. Historically, once under Greek and Arab rule, its historic center is walled and filled with narrow streets reminiscent of the Middle East. Moreover, the city is also home to Saint Nicholas. For visitors, a great tip is to take a bike tour, as it makes exploring the city even more fun. Furthermore, be sure to visit the famous Via delle Orecchiette, a must for food and authenticity lovers. In addition, Bari offers another significant advantage: it serves as a hub for ferries connecting Italy to Greece and Croatia.

Lecce

Nicknamed the “Florence of the South,” Lecce provides a glimpse of what to expect: specifically, baroque architecture and cultural attractions that will enrich your trip. Additionally, the lively streets, live music, candlelit outdoor dining, and diverse groups of tourists all contribute to the kind of atmosphere that makes any trip to Italy unforgettable. Ultimately, Lecce is a destination that blends charm, culture, and vibrancy in a way that leaves a lasting impression.

Polignano a Mare

When you see a picture of this small beach, you’ll want to visit immediately. Besides the turquoise waters nestled between cliffs, you’ll discover a fascinating and welcoming medieval village. This is evident in the title of “world’s most welcoming city,” awarded in 2023 during the 11th edition of the Traveller Review Awards. Moreover, it’s a perfect spot for walking, offering countless picturesque corners for Instagram-worthy photos and unforgettable memories.

Monopoli

Imagine everything you expect from an Italian town, and you’ve pictured Monopoli. Known as the city of “100 districts,” this small commune is filled with winding streets, ancient architecture, and flower-adorned squares. Furthermore, colorful street markets, inviting restaurants, charming seafronts, and a quaint harbor complete the idyllic scene. Besides the tranquil and picturesque atmosphere, Monopoli offers the quintessential Puglia experience—a true recipe for happiness in Italy.

Cisternino

Cisternino is one of Puglia’s hidden gems. With whitewashed streets adorned with flowers, it offers an elegantly charming atmosphere. The surrounding olive groves add a natural touch of beauty. The town is also renowned for its mouthwatering aroma of grilled meat. Known as “la capitale dei fornelli,” its historic center is home to butcher-restaurants, making it a haven for meat lovers, especially fans of salsiccia (sausage) and bombette, a typical Italian meat roll.

Ostuni

For enthusiasts of whitewashed towns, Ostuni is Italy’s crowning jewel. Aptly nicknamed “the white city,” it appears from afar as a white fortress of medieval houses. Its maze of narrow streets is filled with craft shops, restaurants, bars, squares, and museums, creating a slightly chaotic yet utterly enchanting vibe. As a result, Ostuni is an extraordinary destination that deserves a spot on your Italian travel list.

Alberobello

Alberobello is Puglia’s most famous town, thanks to its remarkable concentration of trulli—stone houses with conical roofs designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consequently, this unique authenticity makes the town a tourist magnet, filled with souvenir shops. Despite the crowds, it’s an unmissable destination for any Italian itinerary.

Locorotondo

Another medieval village that will steal your heart as you wander its streets with a gelato in hand. Perched atop a hill, Locorotondo boasts a historic center that transports you to the past. In addition, narrow lanes, whitewashed homes adorned with flower pots, charming squares, and breathtaking views of Valle D’Itria make this visit unforgettable.

Where to Stay in Puglia

Borgo Egnazia

Surrounded by olive tree gardens, this extraordinary resort was designed to resemble a Puglian village, with low stone buildings connected by narrow alleys that immediately captivate. Inside, contemporary luxury takes center stage, complemented by a traditional stone spa, restaurants, and activities like golf, swimming pools, and tennis. In conclusion, it’s a self-contained destination perfect for the whole family.

Masseria San Domenico

This boutique hotel seamlessly combines coziness with high-end amenities. In fact, a 15th-century watchtower, originally used by the Knights of Malta, has been carefully restored into a luxury resort, preserving its original structure and materials. Furthermore, guests can enjoy not only a private beach but also an 18-hole golf course overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

Castello di Ugento

A royal-worthy stay awaits at Castello di Ugento. Perched atop a hill, it offers stunning terrace views. Alongside its five-star amenities, its standout feature is a professional culinary school that caters to both students from the Culinary Institute of America and amateur chefs and guests.

Restaurants in Puglia

Puglia is a paradise for food lovers. Thanks to high-quality local ingredients and centuries-old culinary traditions, the region offers an authentic and flavorful cuisine. For that reason, fresh seafood, exquisite olive oils, juicy figs, and melt-in-your-mouth bread truly make food the star of the show here.

Primo Restaurant (Lecce)

Run by young chef Solaika Marrocco, born in Gallipoli, this cozy restaurant combines a vaulted stone ceiling with modern, personalized dishes. The refined creations showcase Puglian and Salento ingredients, delighting both the eyes and the palate.

Osteria Piazzetta Cattedrale (Ostuni)

Run by a husband-and-wife team, this charming eatery near the cathedral offers culinary surprises. Moreover, its dishes skillfully combine traditional techniques with innovative ideas, highlighting the finest local ingredients. Consequently, it provides a unique and unforgettable dining experience.

Orto (Monopoli)

In this Mediterranean-style courtyard restaurant, meats and seafood are beautifully paired with fruits and vegetables, many of which are sourced from the on-site garden.  The presentation is both delicate and tailored, ensuring that every meal is a unique experience. Reservations are recommended.

Cielo (Ostuni)

This elegant restaurant blends traditional regional cuisine with creative ingredients and presentations. Moreover, guests can choose between dining in the orange and olive tree-lined courtyard or the vaulted indoor hall.

Trattoria delle Ruote (Martina Franca)

Set in a rustic space adorned with antique tools, this trattoria serves authentic Puglian cuisine. For that reason, the unchanged menu includes handmade pasta, artisanal salami, local cheeses, and fresh mozzarella. With just a few tables, it’s perfect for a relaxed, unforgettable meal.

How Long to Stay in Puglia

The rule is simple: the more time, the better. However, to experience the essentials, aim for at least a week. A 10-day itinerary, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed pace, perfectly aligned with the la dolce vita lifestyle.

Getting Around Puglia

Your mode of transportation depends on your travel style and itinerary preferences.

Rental car: Offers freedom to explore and improvise but requires attention to traffic, safety, and parking.

Private driver: Adds cost but provides comfort and reduces travel fatigue.

Relying on experts can help you choose the best option for your Puglian adventure.

Personalize Your Trip

Looking for a detailed, personalized itinerary to explore Puglia? The Cieli di Toscana team is ready to craft the perfect experience. So contact us and get ready for a unique journey to southern Italy.

André Freitas é publicitário e já viajou pra 28 países, fazendo malabarismos pra sempre incluir a Itália no roteiro, o que rendeu 19 cidades e uma lista de dicas.