The Ultimate Puglia Itinerary: 7 and 10 Days
Updated at: 20-07-2025
Best time to visit Puglia
Late spring (May early June) and early autumn (September early October) deliver warm days, comfortable evenings and far fewer crowds than midsummer. You’ll swim in crystal‑clear water, park easily in historic centres and find tables at beachside trattorie without a wait. If you crave nightly festivals, buzzing seaside clubs and sun‑baked beach days, July and August have it all along with the year’s highest prices and busiest roads. Read more on: Best time to visit Puglia
How to Get Around Puglia
The most practical way to explore Puglia is to rent a car as soon as you land at Bari or Brindisi airport. This puts the region’s white‑washed hill towns, secluded beaches and countryside masserie at your fingertips without waiting for bus or train timetables. A hire car lets you stop anytime in tiny villages, photograph around or linger over a seaside lunch without hassle.
Is Puglia Crowded?
Puglia is mostly crowded in summer, between July and August. Yet it still feels more relaxed than Venice, the Amalfi Coast or Florence. Crowds in Puglia concentrate by season and location so timing and itinerary choices make all the difference.
How Many Days to visit Puglia?
One week delivers a satisfying taste of Puglia, but two to three weeks let you savour every plate of orecchiette, every sandy cove and every white‑washed village lane at a relaxed, southern‑Italian pace.
Why Choose a 7 or 10 Day Itinerary in Puglia?
If you’re planning a trip to Puglia, timing is everything: 7 or 10 days is the sweet spot to truly fall in love with the region enough time to soak it all in, without rushing from place to place.
In just one week, you’ll experience the very heart of Puglia: the golden Baroque beauty of Lecce, the iconic white trulli of Alberobello, the turquoise embrace of Baia dei Turchi, and the pink sunsets along Polignano’s seafront. Transfers are short, your days are full but never overwhelming; you’ll have time to get lost in alleys scented with fresh focaccia, sip a caffè leccese in a lively piazza, and head back each night feeling like you’ve truly experienced each destination.
With 10 days, you can widen your horizons and go beyond the must sees: spend a night in a traditional masseria tasting DOP olive oil among ancient olive trees, hop over to the Tremiti Islands for snorkeling in crystal clear waters, bike past the dry stone walls of the Itria Valley, or detour into Gargano to hear the cicadas sing in the Umbra Forest. The pace slows down, you leave room for the unexpected, and you can treat yourself to a long seaside lunch in Monopoli or a wine tasting stop at a Primitivo cellar in Manduria.
Practically speaking, both formats optimize logistics and budget: fly into Bari or Brindisi, enjoy short driving distances, and rent a car that won’t eat up your fuel budget. A mid length stay stretches out fixed costs (like rentals and insurance) over more days and lets you take advantage of weekly rates at masserie and B&Bs.
Bottom line: 7 days give you a rich, complete taste of Puglia, while 10 days turn your vacation into a story packed with unforgettable details. No matter which option you choose, you’ll take home the sound of Adriatic waves, the flavor of warm bread drizzled with new olive oil, and that signature white light you only find in Puglia.
7 Day Itinerary: From Bari to the Wonders of the Itria Valley
 If you are short on time, here is the Ultimate Puglia Itinerary for 7 Days:
- Day 1 Bari
- Day 2 Polignano a Mare
- Day 3 Monopoli
- Day 4 Alberobello
- Day 5 Locorotondo and CisterninoÂ
- Day 6 Martina Franca
- Day 7 Back to Bari via Egnazia
Day 1 Bari
Land, leave your bags and head to Old Town
Once you land at Bari airport, pick up your rental car at the airport, and dive straight into the maze of Bari Vecchia. Follow the scent of fresh focaccia to the Basilica of San Nicola, then stroll the waterfront at sunset. Enjoy a seafood dinner and spend the night in the old town to feel the real Adriatic vibe.
Touch down at Bari Airport, collect your rental car, and drop your luggage before losing yourself in the honey‑coloured lanes of Bari Vecchia. Let the aroma of fresh focaccia guide you to the Romanesque Basilica di San Nicola, then drift along the lungomare as sunset paints the Adriatic. Finish with a seafood feast and an overnight stay in the heart of the Old Town the quickest way to slip into Puglia’s easy rhythm.
Local‑Led Experiences to Kick‑Start Your First Day in Bari
I’ve tried many tours here, and these are the ones that always turn a simple stroll into a story.
- Half‑Day Old‑Town Immersion
- Panoramic Train & Taste Tour
- Private Two‑Hour Focus Walk
Each begins in Bari Vecchia with licensed guides who blend history, street food, and those secret photo angles locals love.
Half‑Day Old‑Town Immersion
Castle ramparts, Basilica di San Nicola, pasta‑rolling lanes, and a coffee break in Piazza Mercantile, all at an easy pace.
Panoramic Train & Taste Tour
Glide through the elegant Murat district on the little train, then wander medieval alleys with warm focaccia and a stop on Via delle Orecchiette.
Private Two‑Hour Focus Walk
Tailor the route to castle secrets, street‑food corners, or golden‑hour viewpoints at a pace that’s entirely yours.
Insider tip: Bring flat shoes for the limestone cobbles, a refillable bottle for the public fountains, and ask your guide where to find the creamiest pistachio gelato you won’t regret it.
Stay in Bari 1 night
Checkout you Accomodation in Bari and choose between you preferred solution:
- Travel B&B for an uncomplicated solution with garden and bar in the heart of the historic center and close to the seaside
- Green Park Penthouse Suite, a Luxury hotel with restaurant, room service, bar, garden, year round outdoor pool and terrace
- Villa Longo de Bellis, a well preserved historic Villa with direct beachfront access, stunning sea views, private balconies, hot tub and spa bath
Day 2 Polignano a Mare
In the morning, head to Polignano a Mare (about 35 min from Bari), where white houses teeter above a jade cove. and gaze out from Lama Monachile the cliffside views are photo perfect. Soak in the cliff‑top panorama, then snag a grilled‑octopus sandwich before diving into the maze of stone lanes hung with bougainvillea. Browse artisan shops carved into the rock, pause at terraces that frame the Adriatic like a living postcard, and wrap up the evening with a spritz on a sea‑view balcony. When night falls, retreat to a B&B tucked inside the old walls waves below, stars above, and tomorrow’s coastal adventures already whispering through the shutters.
Cliff‑Edge Thrills for Day 2: Polignano a Mare
Polignano’s drama starts where limestone meets Adriatic. These outings let you swap the postcard view for the insider’s angle whether on a paddleboard or a skippered launch.
- Sea‑Cave Boat Cruise
- Stand‑Up Paddle Session
- Classic Coast‑Hugging Cruise
- Private Skippered Tour
Sea‑Cave Boat Cruise
Drift beneath limestone arches, glide into cobalt caverns, then pop the bow back out into blinding sunlight for the classic Lama Monachile shot.
Stand‑Up Paddle Session
An instructor teaches the basics in calm water, then guides you to hidden pebble coves where the sea turns electric blue.
Classic Coast‑Hugging Cruise
Circle the old town from below, spot the statue of Domenico Modugno, and snap that cliff‑top skyline from the best possible angle.
Private Skippered Tour
Set your own pace: linger for a swim at Cala Port’Alga or time the return to watch the sun ignite the cliffs in gold.
Guided Kayak Adventure
Launch from Cala Paura and paddle into turquoise grottoes where sunlight shards dance on limestone walls. A local instructor keeps the pace easy, points out cliff‑top poetry plaques and guides you beneath the old town’s white balconies.
Insider tip: Seas are glass‑calm at dawn and sunset; pick an early or late slot for the best light and the quietest coves. Flat shoes (for slippery decks) and a dry bag for your phone will make life easier.
Stay in Polignano a Mare 1 night
Checkout you Accomodation in Polignano a Mare and choose between you preferred solution:
- Allure 84 is a wonderful apartment in a historic building located right in the centre, an excellent way to experience the rhythms of the locals.
- Dimora Talenti a wonderful location positioned on the cliff with sea views, a terrace and concierge services, room service, and bike rental.
- Masseria Del Crocifisso, to stay in an historical farm house (Masseria), few minutes out of city center, where you'll be able to connect to the countryside rhythms in a structure full of services.
Day 3 Monopoli
Begin with espresso and a still‑warm pasticciotto at a café table in the old‑town square in Polignano, then roll twenty minutes to Monopoli’s sun‑bleached harbor. Trace the stone ramparts above Cala Porta Vecchia, venture inside the seaside castle, and meander through the narrow alleys where fishing nets dry on doorsteps. Weather cooperating, spread your towel on the sandy pocket beach tucked beneath the walls for a midday dip. By late afternoon, nurse a spritz in lively Piazza Garibaldi and watch the sky blush pink over bobbing gozzi. End the night in a port‑view B&B, lulled to sleep by the soft thrum of engines prepping for the next morning’s catch.
Harbor‑Side Experiences for Day 3: Monopoli
Monopoli’s charm lives on the water and in the lanes just behind it. These outings add texture to a lazy seaside day without pulling you far from the castle walls:
- Monopoli–Polignano Coastal Cruise
- E‑Bike Olive‑Grove Loop
- Morning Out with Local Fishermen
- One‑Hour Harbor Spin
Monopoli–Polignano Coastal Cruise
Slip past pastel façades, duck into grottoes only a few meters wide, and toast the blue horizon with a cold spritz before gliding back toward the old harbor.
E‑Bike Olive‑Grove Loop
Pedal effortlessly through centuries‑old masserie and stone‑walled lanes, then coast downhill for a swim at Cala Porta Vecchia just as the bells of the cathedral chime noon.
Morning Out with Local Fishermen
Cast nets at dawn, learn to untangle octopus the old‑school way, and fry a portion of the catch right on deck salt spray included.
One‑Hour Harbor Spin
Perfect for tight schedules: circle the fort, snap the classic skyline shot, and still make it back in time for an ice‑cold aperitivo in Piazza Garibaldi.
Insider tip: Early evenings bring a golden back‑light on the seafront ramparts ideal for photos. Pack a light jacket; offshore breezes can feel surprisingly cool even after a hot day.
Accomodation in Monopoli 1 night
Stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city by choosing accommodation in Monopoli's historic center or a short distance away in the countryside:
- Masseria Spina Resort, an 18th century manor farm few minutes from Monopoli’s center with an outdoor pool and rustic style accommodations.
- Palazzo Venezia offers you luxury seafront rooms with a terrace overlooking the old port, in the heart of the historic center.
- Playa del Mar is a luxury hotel overlooking the sea, a few steps from the historic center, which offers spectacular sea views from its rooms with terraces or balconies.
Day 4 Alberobello
Leave the plains behind and step into the Itria Valley’s storybook core. In just 25 minutes you’re in Alberobello. Arrive at dawn to wander Rione Monti before the crowds, then cross to Aia Piccola where families still live in Trulli. When evening falls, check into your own restored trullo and drift to sleep under a vaulted stone ceiling, the most authentic experience the valley can offer.
Trulli‑Side Experiences for Day 4: Alberobello
Narrow lanes, conical roofs, and pockets of silence at dawn Alberobello feels other‑worldly.
These guided walks bring the stories behind the stones to life, adding a layer of meaning you’d never pick up on your own.
- Private Trullo Tour + Tasting
- Classic Rione Monti & Aia Piccola Walk
- Alberobello & Locorotondo Duo Tour
Private Trullo Tour + Tasting
Explore locked‑door interiors, meet a master lime‑plaster artisan, then sample local cheeses and a ruby Primitivo right inside a centuries‑old trullo.
Classic Rione Monti & Aia Piccola Walk
A compact route that weaves between the postcard domes and the quieter residential quarter, perfect for photographers chasing soft morning light.
Alberobello & Locorotondo Duo Tour
Start among trulli, then roll five minutes to Locorotondo’s white‑washed balconies for a DOC wine stop that rounds out the rural panorama.
Insider tip: Trulli walls hold the night’s cool carry a light layer for early starts, and ask your guide to point out the zodiac symbols painted on chimney stacks.
Accomodation in Alberobello 1 night
Staying in Alberobello lets you experience the magic of the Itria Valley in one of the area's most iconic and beautiful locations. You can stay both in the city and in the countryside, fully enjoying the rhythms of nature and the magic of the ancient structures that host you.
- Masseria Mangiato 1557 offers a farm stay experience within a historic building with garden and lots of activities organized for guests like bike tours, hiking, and cycling
- Tipico Resort Trulli offers accommodations in the center of Alberobello in traditional Apulian Trulli houses or stone buildings. This stay allows you to enjoy the Trulli Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Hotel Ramapendula is a family friendly stay in Alberobello with outdoor swimming pool, an Apulian restaurant and rooms balconies with garden views. In the morning you can enjoy a typical Italian breakfast that includes coffee, cappuccino and fresh pastries.
Day 5 Locorotondo and Cisternino
Ease into the morning with a scenic 15‑minute drive to Locorotondo, a white‑washed circle perched above vineyards and olive groves. Sip crisp local whites in a vaulted cellar, then coast downhill to Cisternino. Here, butcher‑restaurants fire up the grills at dusk. Order sizzling bombette, grab a plastic table on the cobblestones, and eat like a true Valle d’Itria local. After sunset, choose between the quiet of your trullo in Alberobello or the rural hush of a nearby masseria.
Hill‑Top Highlights for Day 5: Locorotondo & Cisternino
These guided walks turn two of the Itria Valley’s most picturesque villages into living open‑air museums perfect for travelers who want local context without losing that leisurely, small‑town rhythm.
Locorotondo Old‑Town Stroll
Follow a certified guide through concentric lanes lined with white “cummerse” houses, pop into a tiny church painted with baroque frescoes, and toast the view with a chilled glass of Locorotondo DOC right on the panoramic belvedere.
Locorotondo and Alberobello Combo Tour
If you skipped Alberobello yesterday, this half‑day option links trulli lore with Locorotondo’s balcony vistas, finishing at a family‑run wine shop for a quick tasting of Verdeca and Susumaniello.
Insider tip: Book an early‑afternoon Locorotondo slot; the narrow lanes empty out for siesta, and you’ll have the terraces almost to yourself. Ask the guide where to find the best “caponata pugliese” for a light lunch before driving to Cisternino.
Accomodations in Locorotondo or Cisternino 1 night
Experience the rhythm of the Itria Valley in accommodations in one of the beautiful historic towns on the hills of Locorotondo or Cisternino. You'll be amazed by the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, dotted with olive groves and vineyards. You can choose to experience country life, fully immersing yourself in the local nature, by staying in Masserie (typical farmhouses) or Trulli (typical trulli) in the surrounding countryside.
Choose accommodations in Locorotondo or a stay in Cisternino to explore the Itria Valley stress free and fully enjoy the unique views and exceptional food.
- 1783 Dimora d'Epoca offers comfortable rooms in a historic building in the city center of Locorotondo, featuring a private bathroom with a minibar and tea and coffee making facilities for a relaxing stay.
- Dimora Ritunno, is a private Trullo B&B in Locorotondo with infinity pool, hot tub, garden, bikes and fast. Lavish Apulian breakfast of pastries, fruit and local cheeses.
- Agriturismo Masseria Aprile is a 17th‑century trullo‑dotted farmhouse in Locorotondo. Hosts can enjoy a garden drinking house‑made wine and greet the day with a terrace breakfast.
- Borgo Elaia is a family‑friendly B&B in Cisternino with garden restaurant, seasonal pool and rooms with garden views. Features family suites and a kid‑pleasing buffet.
- Casa Vacanza Bizantina is a cosy Cisternino retreat, with one bedroom home and roomy lounge. Full kitchen and washer, everything you need for an easy, independent stay.
Day 6 Martina Franca
Start amid Martina Franca’s baroque façades, tracing wrought‑iron balconies to hidden frescoed courtyards that whisper of Spanish baroque grandeur. When church bells strike noon, roll out to the vineyards for a chilled glass of Verdeca. Here, limestone soils and sea breezes craft wines as fresh as the valley’s morning light an elegant finale to a day steeped in Puglian artistry. From Martina Franca you can easily explore nearby UNESCO gems and nature reserves.
Baroque Sips & Underground Mills for Day 6: Martina Franca
Beyond ornate palaces and whitewashed alleys, Valle d’Itria hides cellars and underground mills that reveal why locals call this corner “terra di sapori” (land of flavors).
These stops add depth, and flavor, to your fifth day:
- 3 hours of pure terroir and Cellar
- Four‑Wine Flight in a Stone Cellar
- Hypogeum Olive‑Mill Tour
- Mill‑Side Aperitivo Experience
3 hours of pure terroir and Cellar
Step into a historic Valle d’Itria cellar, breathe oak‑scented barriques and sample seven stellar wines with a local sommelier. Explore their birthplaces, meet the makers and pair every sip with Apulian treats.
Four‑Wine Flight in a Stone Cellar
A sommelier pairs crisp whites and soft reds with taralli and capocollo, explaining why Martina’s limestone soils make each sip so clean and fragrant.
Hypogeum Olive‑Mill Tour and Taste
Descend into a red stone cave where olives were once pressed by hand; centuries old millstones and lantern lit rooms will make you feel like you're on a secret movie set. Enjoy a taste of extra virgin olive oil accompanied by special local bread.
Mill‑Side Aperitivo Experience
Finish under vaulted ceilings with a board of local cheeses, salumi, focaccia, and a drizzle of vivid green EVO oil straight from the tank.
Insider tip: Schedule the mill visit for late morning, when the stone floor stays cool and the olive aroma hangs in the air. Keep a small bottle handy most hosts let you fill it with freshly pressed oil to savor back home.
Accomodations in Martina Franca 1 night
Choose your preferred accommodations in Martina Franca and enjoy your stay in the Baroque city center or in the countryside nearby:
- Rossini Guest House is a revamped Martina Franca retreat with all necessary amenities like a fully furnished kitchen. You can relax on the city‑view terrace or balcony and enjoy the fun, and cozy tiny restaurants, the city center offers you.
- Hotel Villa Rosa offers garden‑side calm in Martina Franca. The Hotel s at a 15‑minute stroll from the centre This leafy hideaway offers a pool with sun‑deck, airy rooms, plus a Pugliese‑flavoured restaurant and complimentary breakfast.
- Masseria Fumarola, a Valle d’Itria hideaway between Trulli and Vineyards. Private woods, pool and sun‑terrace set the scene; rooms with bath, fireplace and lounge and Wi‑Fi. Savour Puglian dishes in the old manger: light lunches daily, dinner three nights a week.
- Villa San Martino, a park‑side elegance near Martina Franca with Art‑filled rooms and flower‑decked terraces. Sit amid a leafy estate minutes from the Baroque centre. Unwind in the seasonal pool and spa.
Day 7 Back to Bari via Egnazia
On your way back from Martina Franca to Bari, stop at the Archaeological Park of Egnazia for a taste of Messapian history.
Take advantage of the coves near the ancient port of Egnazia, just steps from the excavations of the ancient Messapian city.
You can catch a gannet on a quiet sandy beach, or on one of the rocks around the ancient Roman port, and then enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters in front of the archaeological site.
Drive back to Bari and finish up with some shopping on Strada delle Orecchiette, say goodbye to the pasta making nonnas, and head out.
In just one week, you’ll have savored the essence of Puglia and you’ll be craving the 10 day route next time.
10 Day Extension: From the Itria Valley to the Heart of Salento
To turn a great trip to Puglia into an unforgettable one, extend your itinerary by three days and head beyond the Itria Valley into the vibrant heart of Salento.
Day 8 Ostuni , the "White City" and Torre Guaceto Marine reserve
After breakfast in Martina Franca, cruise the Adriatic coastal road and watch the landscape bleach to white: in under an hour you’ll reach Ostuni, the “White City”. Drift through sun‑polished alleys, then steer toward the sapphire shallows of the Torre Guaceto marine reserve. Snorkel over reefs, bike the sandy tracks, or simply float where the dunes meet the sea. Evening finds you dining on orecchiette with fiaschetto tomato sauce beneath centuries‑old olive trees in a storied masseria Negroamaro in hand, cicadas in the background, and tomorrow’s adventures already whispering in the breeze.
Sun‑Bleached Trails & Sea‑Blue Escapes for Day 8: Ostuni & Torre Guaceto
Ostuni’s dazzling façades meet protected coastlines just a few miles away perfect territory for low‑impact adventures that mix history, nature, and a dash of salt spray:
- E‑Bike & Snorkel Combo at Torre Guaceto
- Coastal Dunes Eco‑Walk
- Lamacornola Countryside Ramble
E‑Bike & Snorkel Combo at Torre Guaceto
Pedal quiet olive‑grove lanes to the marine reserve, swap wheels for fins, and glide over seagrass meadows alive with damselfish and sea cucumbers.
Coastal Dunes Eco‑Walk
A naturalist guide leads you through shifting dunes and freshwater ponds where migratory herons feed; ideal for small groups and curious kids.
Lamacornola Countryside Ramble
Trace ancient dry‑stone walls, pop into a masseria for a sip of freshly pressed EVO oil, and learn why Ostuni’s limestone keeps both wine and cheese so vivid.
Insider tip: Bring reef‑safe sunscreen Torre Guaceto is a protected zone and a canvas tote for any olive‑oil or almond‑taralli souvenirs you pick up along the way.
Accomodations in Ostuni 1 night
Prepare your stay in the "White City" choosing your preferred accommodations in Ostuni. Enjoy the beautiful views from the top of the hill overlooking the olive groves below and with a spectacular view of the Adriatic sea.
- Primo Ostuni Hotel is a sea‑view family stay in the center of Ostuni. Enjoy an in‑room continental buffet, unwind on the terrace or at the bar, and rely on the 24‑h concierge, lift and paid shuttle for stress‑free exploring.
- Biancadamare is a sea‑view haven in Ostuni. Featuring Family rooms with balconies, minibar. Unwind in the rooftop pool with view over the Adriatic sea, spa and garden solarium, then greet the day with a generous breakfast, from Italian pastries to full English plates.
- Petranima Wellness in Trulli is historic Ostuni retreat in the countryside. Features view‑side pool, sun‑terrace and gardens with green vistas. Enjoy hot‑tub, gym, outdoor fireplace and bar plus a continental/Italian breakfast with espresso corner.
- Masseria San Paolo Grande in an historic oasis outside Ostuni. As an host you can enjoy the infinity pool, spa and garden sun‑deck. Local‑leaning restaurant (veg‑friendly) and pastry‑rich breakfasts complete the stay.
Day 9 Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca
On day 9, head south. Stop in Otranto and step inside its Romanesque cathedral: the twelfth‑century mosaic floor unrolls like a medieval comic strip beneath soaring arches. Check the Castle and the Aragonese walls surrounding the city center. After lunch, drive along Puglia’s most scenic coastline: Grotta della Zinzulusa, the Punta Palascia lighthouse, turquoise inlets reached by short trails.
In the late afternoon, arrive in Santa Maria di Leuca, , where the Adriatic and Ionian seas entwine climb the monumental staircase at sunset. Enjoy a seafood dinner in a harbor side restaurant and spend the night in a restored courtyard home.
Blue Coves & Sunset Sails for Day 9: Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca
Otranto’s cathedral mosaics dazzle underfoot, but the real magic happens offshore where chalk cliffs, hidden grottos, and sapphire water meet.
These boat outings unlock corners of the Adriatic you can’t reach by road:
- Half‑Day Coast‑and‑Grotto Cruise
- Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitivo
- Private Charter Experience
Half‑Day Coast‑and‑Grotto Cruise
Glide beneath the Aragonese walls, dip into emerald caverns like Grotta Monaca, and snorkel over seagrass meadows teeming with rainbow wrasse.
Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitivo
Golden light hits the white cliffs as you toast with a chilled rosato; keep an eye out for the lighthouse of Punta Palascia blinking on in the distance.
Private Charter Experience
Design your own route ask the skipper to anchor at Porto Badisco for sea‑urchin tasting or slip into the translucent pool of Grotta della Foca.
Insider tip: Mornings tend to be calmer, but photographers swear by the last light of day for mirror‑smooth seas and pastel skies. Pack a quick‑dry towel, reef‑safe sunscreen, and a waterproof pouch for your phone.
Accomodation in Otranto or Santa Maria di Leuca 1 night
Before you lace up for day‑nine discoveries, choose where to drop your bags tonight: stays in Otranto’s stone‑framed boutiques steps from the cathedral or accomodations in Santa Maria di Leuca’s breezy villas where two seas whisper under the stars. The stays below are my favourite launchpads. Pick the one that calls your name and let the Salento coastline do the rest:
- Palazzo De Mori is a cozy B&B in Otranto’s ZTL. You will find here rooms overlook the port, Adriatic and the castle. Wake to homemade cakes, then stroll 5 minutes to the cathedral, beach or local trattorie.
- Hotel Bellavista is your sea‑view hotel in Otranto with balconies gaze over the Adriatic. Enjoy bar drinks and in‑room breakfast, then wander to Scaloni beach, the castle and the port
- Agriresort Murciano rural chic accomodations in Otranto countryside. Offers infinity pool, garden sun‑deck, rooms with minibar and open‑air bath frame. Start with a lavish multi‑option breakfast, then linger over local plates and pool‑side cocktails as twilight settles..
- Masseria Bandino & Spa is 18th‑century rural retreat nearby Otranto. It has a modern pool, courtyard bar and airy rooms with minibar and balcony). There you can savour Apulian dishes, then bike or ride in the countryside.
- Villa Romasi is a garden‑view haven in Leuca center, offers Family rooms with look onto leafy grounds. Unwind on the sun‑deck, firepit or free bikes, then wake to a generous Italian breakfast.
- Approdo Boutique Hotel in Leuca offers a Mediterranean flair at the meeting of two seas. It has balconied rooms overlook the harbour where Adriatic kisses Ionian. Dine on gourmet‑praised seafood and garden‑fresh plates, then wander Leuca’s lively waterfront of bars and clubs.
- Villa La Meridiana beachfront heritage in Leuca. Is an Historic villa with private beach, pool and sun‑drenched garden, a seaside restaurant with Italian‑plus‑veg plates just steps from Marina di Leuca.
Day 10 Lecce, the Baroque Jewel
Aim north toward Lecce and watch the sunrise gild the Salento territory. Slip through Porta Napoli just as the city stirs, espresso in hand, and let the honey‑colored pietra leccese guide you. First stop: the Basilica di Santa Croce its riot of griffins, cherubs and vines in creamy limestone feels almost weightless. Wander a few blocks to Piazza Duomo, a theatrical stage of bell towers and arcades that glows like warm caramel in the mid‑morning light. Pause for a still‑warm pasticciotto at a corner café before descending into the Roman amphitheatre, where echoes of ancient cheers mingle with modern chatter. Spend the afternoon weaving through artisan workshops in the Jewish Quarter, picking up hand‑tooled papier‑mâché or filigree silver. As the sun dips, settle into an outdoor table on Piazza Sant’Oronzo: sip a chilled rosato, sample rustico pastries oozing mozzarella, and watch Lecce’s Baroque façades blush rose‑gold beneath the twilight sky.
Three busy days, but the drives are short, the roads are smooth, and in summer there’s a bus network so you can get around even without a car. Just bring your desire to slow down authentic Salento will do the rest.
Hands‑On Heritage for Day 10: Lecce, the Baroque Jewel
Lecce’s golden façades are only half the story, the rest lives in hidden workshops and guided walks that peel back 2,000 years of craft and culture.
Here some of the nicest experiences you could ever have in Lecce:
- Pietra Leccese Carving Workshop
- Papier‑Mâché Masterclass
- Small‑Group Baroque Walk
- Jewish Lecce Heritage Tour
Pietra Leccese Carving Workshop
Chisel the city’s famous honey‑toned limestone under a master artisan’s eye and take home your own miniature rose window.
Papier‑Mâché Masterclass
Shape wet paper into angels and saints, the same technique that fills Lecce’s churches, while an English‑speaking interpreter bridges every detail.
Small‑Group Baroque Walk
Trace griffins and cherubs from Santa Croce to Piazza Duomo with a licensed guide who keeps the stories vivid and the pace relaxed.
Jewish Lecce Heritage Tour
Descend into medieval mikveh baths and uncover a lesser‑known chapter of the city’s mosaic history.
Insider tip: Book an afternoon carving or papier‑mâché slot workshop doors open onto quiet courtyards that glow peach in the golden hour, perfect for photos of your freshly crafted souvenir.
Accomodation in Lecce 1 night
Ready to trade baroque facades for a good night’s sleep? Below you’ll find my hand‑picked stays in Lecce, from velvety‑stone palazzi draped in frescoes to smart hideaways tucked just beyond the city gates. Choose the Lecce base that sings to your travel rhythm:
- B&B Palazzo Personè Dimora Storica is a 15th‑century stay in Lecce. Opposite Santa Croce, this stone‑arched retreat mixes chic furnishings with history. Stroll to the cathedral or the station in minutes, then start your day with an à ‑la‑carte breakfast a few steps away.
- Palazzo Zimara Boutique Hotel: garden‑side calm in Lecce. Borrow a bike, soak in the hot‑tub, then retreat to your sound‑proof room with balcony and minibar. Enjoy the on‑site bar‑restaurant, and breakfasts from continental to vegan.
- Masseria & Spa LuciaGiovanni is a Moorish haven 5 mins drive from Lecce. Located in a 17th‑century manor with a vast lagoon pool and luxe spa. Offers arched ceilings rooms, brass‑trimmed baths, buffet breakfast, fine Italian dining and beach perks in nearby San Cataldo.
- Masseria Borgo Mortella is an historic Lecce hideaway in the countryside. Has a salt‑water pool, sun‑deck, garden frame and a small gym. Wake to a continental‑plus‑gluten‑free spread of local pastries, cheeses and fruit.
Unmissable Experiences: Crystal Seas, White Villages, and Trulli
Start your trip with sunrise at Baia dei Turchi: pink light illuminates the emerald sea, and for a moment, the whole Adriatic feels yours. Head to Torre dell’Orso: rent a kayak, paddle out to the San Cristoforo caves, and snorkel among the arches where seahorses hide.
From Otranto, drive up the scenic SP 358 coastal road each turn opens onto a natural balcony, perfect for a photo or a break with fresh focaccia. In Castro, book a boat tour with skipper and cruise to Grotta Zinzulusa, a world of stalactites plunging into clear water.
Leave the sea behind and venture inland. Ostuni, the “White City,” welcomes you with labyrinthine alleys and Moorish arches stop here for an aperitivo with Verdeca wine and fennel seed taralli on a terrace overlooking olive groves. Nearby, Locorotondo and Cisternino show off their flower decked balconies and “cummerse”: explore them by e bike along country lanes lined with stone walls.
The Itria Valley’s iconic heart, Alberobello, deserves much more than a quick walk through. Spend the night in an authentic trullo and take a pasta making class at a masseria in the morning: you’ll learn how to “drag” orecchiette under the watchful eyes of the local nonnas, then sample melted caciocavallo and capocollo from Martina Franca.
In the afternoon, cross the plateau of ancient olive trees along the Via Traiana; a sommelier will guide you through an extra virgin olive oil tasting amid stone mills and underground presses. End the day on the cliffs of Polignano a Mare: grab a seat at Lama Monachile’s terrace, sip an almond iced coffee, and watch the sun sink behind the whitewashed buildings. That’s the moment you realize: Puglia isn’t just a place to visit it’s a place to live, intensely.
Where to Stay: Dreamy Masserie, Boutique Hotels, and Trulli
Wake up to the smell of fresh bread in a sunlit courtyard, fall asleep under a conical roof with the cicadas singing, sip a glass of Negramaro among ancient olive trees in Puglia, where you stay is part of the journey.
To experience Puglia’s rural soul, book a masseria. Between Fasano and Ostuni, Masseria Torre Coccaro, Calderisi, or Cervarolo offer rooms converted from old stables, organic gardens, and rock hewn pools. Heading toward Otranto, Masseria Prosperi and Le Capase blend sea views with pastures the perfect option if you want to mix beaches and countryside on a 7 day trip without changing beds every night.
With 10 days, spend at least two nights in an authentic trullo. Away from the tourist crowds of Alberobello magical at dawn you’ll find scattered villages like Borgo Canonica in Cisternino or Trulli Pietraia in Locorotondo. Whitewashed rooms, stone fireplaces, and private terraces let you fully immerse yourself in the Itria Valley, a strategic base for exploring Martina Franca, Polignano, and even Matera (also known as the "City of Stones", located in the nearby region of Basilicata, less then one hour away from Bari by car).
If you prefer urban elegance, Puglia boasts boutique hotels with real character. In Lecce, La Fiermontina pairs contemporary design with classic local stone; in Monopoli, Don Ferrante transforms the old city walls into suites overlooking the Adriatic; in Ostuni, Paragon 700 features an emerald pool set among citrus trees. All offer intimate spas and rooftop terraces perfect for sunset cocktails.
Practical tips: book 4–6 months in advance for high season, double check parking if you’re driving, and opt for properties with in house restaurants so you can enjoy orecchiette and local greens without having to drive again. With the right hideaway, every night becomes a living postcard from your Puglian adventure.
Puglian Food Specialties: A Guide to Street Food and Wineries
In Puglia, travel is a bite by bite experience: every stop on your 7 or 10 day road trip has a flavor you can’t miss. Start in Bari Vecchia, where the scent of sizzling oil leads you to the king of local street food: the panzerotto. Order it “classic” tomato and mozzarella at Panificio Fiore or Mastro Ciccio, bite in under the shadow of the Castello Svevo, and let the melty cheese remind you why you came.
Heading down the coast, stop in Polignano for a cone of mixed fried fish, then on to the Itria Valley. In Martina Franca, among trulli and vineyards, butcher grills serve up famous “bombette” capocollo bites stuffed with caciocavallo cheese, best enjoyed standing up with a glass of Locorotondo DOC. In Lecce, lunch means “puccia” a fluffy roll packed with grilled veggies, roast octopus, or spicy soppressata salami. End on a sweet note with a warm pasticciotto in Piazza Sant’Oronzo, ideally at dawn when the first trays come out of the oven.
Next up: wine country. North of Puglia, near Castel del Monte, book a tasting at Cantine Rivera: Nero di Troia and crisp rosés paired with whole wheat friselle and lampascioni tomatoes. Move on to Manduria: Primitivo ripens under the blazing sun, and at Produttori di Manduria you can sample vintage bottles among vanilla scented barrels. In southern Salento, between the olive groves of Cellino San Marco, Cantine Due Palme offers sunset tours with Negramaro among the vines.
Pro tip: book winery visits online at least 48 hours ahead; many offer discounted shipping so you can relive your Puglia experience back home. Bring comfortable shoes, curiosity, and a big appetite: Puglian food never disappoints.
Practical Tips: Getting Around, Budget, and Best Seasons
To make the most of Puglia in 7 or 10 days, you’ll want smooth logistics, a realistic budget, and to pick the right time of year. Rent a car as soon as you land in Bari or Brindisi: the roads are fast, fuel is cheaper than in northern Italy, and parking outside city centers is easy. Only enter ZTLs (restricted traffic zones) if your hotel has registered your car. Prefer public transport? Trenitalia and Ferrovie del Sud Est regional trains connect the main cities, and in summer the “Salento in Bus” network gets you to most beaches just plan for a few extra waits. In the villages, bikes and electric ape cars are a great way to explore and enjoy scenic stops.
Budget wise, with €70–90 per person per day you can stay in a charming B&B, sample signature street food panzerotti, puccia, pasticciotti and visit museums or nature reserves. Add €35–40 for the rental car (fuel not included). A three course seafood meal rarely exceeds €35 in local trattorias. The priciest experiences are boat tours in Polignano and masseria tastings book online a few weeks in advance to save up to 20%.
The season makes a big difference. From mid June through August you get endless sunny days, town festivals, and warm sea but also higher prices and busy beaches. Love swimming but hate the crowds? Aim for the first half of September: warm water, harvest season, and falling prices. April and May bring almond and cyclamen blossoms to the Murge; 22°C is perfect for hiking and cycling. Winter reveals the authentic side of the baroque towns: low sun, Christmas markets, and unbeatable rates, though boat tours are on hold. Whatever month you choose, bring comfy shoes, a water bottle, and a spirit of adventure because in Puglia, wonder waits around every corner.
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