Key Destinations:
- Bari: Bustling port city and Puglia’s capital, known for its old town, vibrant markets, and orecchiette ladies.
- Trani: An elegant harbour town with a waterfront cathedral and chilled-out vibe.
- Barletta & Andria: Known for bold red wines and medieval architecture.
- Gargano Peninsula: A dramatic landscape of coastal cliffs, caves, and dense forests that feel like another world.
What Makes It Special:
- A mix of Norman and Swabian castles, including Castel del Monte (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
- Fewer tourists, meaning quieter beaches and towns.
- Nature lovers rejoice: Gargano National Park is a haven for hikers and beach seekers.
- Access to the Tremiti Islands — think turquoise waters, scuba diving, and untouched charm.
Who It’s Perfect For:
- History buffs and architecture nerds.
- Adventurers seeking rugged coastlines and authentic towns.
- Travellers entering Puglia from Rome or Naples via Bari.
South Puglia: Baroque Towns, Beaches & La Dolce Vita
Key Destinations:
- Lecce: Known as the “Florence of the South,” its golden sandstone buildings glow at golden hour.
- Ostuni: The White City perched on a hill, postcard-perfect from every angle.
- Alberobello: Home to the iconic cone-shaped trulli houses.
- Gallipoli & Otranto: Coastal towns with stunning beaches and lively old towns.
What Makes It Special:
- Rich Baroque architecture and cultural heritage.
- Warmer water, smoother sand, and more beach clubs.
- The Salento region is famous for local wine, live music (pizzica), and olive groves.
- Ideal for those chasing the slow Italian dream: long lunches, golden sunsets, and a glass of Primitivo.
Who It’s Perfect For:
- Couples looking for romance and rustic luxury.
- Foodies who travel with their taste buds.
- Anyone wanting to unwind, unplug, and truly savour the south.
Accommodation & Atmosphere: North vs South
- North Puglia: Think rural farmhouses (agriturismos), historic city hotels, and wild coastline stays.
- South Puglia: Boutique masserie (fortified farmhouses turned luxe lodgings), stylish B&Bs, and coastal retreats.
- Vibe: The north is rugged and raw. The south is polished and picturesque. Both are wonderfully Italian.
Food & Wine: A Tale of Two Tables
- North: Famed for bold reds like Nero di Troia, seafood from the Adriatic, and rustic pasta dishes.
- South: Home to Salice Salentino and Primitivo wines, burrata, orecchiette with turnip tops, and a strong Greek culinary influence.
Wherever you eat in Puglia, you’re winning.
How to Choose: Ask Yourself These Questions
- Flying into Bari or Brindisi?
- Do you crave hiking and castles, or beaches and aperitivos?
- Want to explore caves and medieval towns, or baroque cities and seaside sunsets?
- Prefer a base in a lively town or a tranquil countryside setting?
Or… Why Not Both?
If you have 7 to 10 days, blend the two for the ultimate Puglia experience. Start in Bari and explore the castles and coastlines of the north, then make your way to Lecce, soaking up the beaches and beauty of the south.
If you’re not sure where to start, Travel Puglia’s signature tours take in both regions. You won’t need to choose — you just need to show up. From the whitewashed villages of Ostuni to the coastal cliffs of Vieste, we’ve curated an itinerary that brings out the best of each end of the heel.
Final Verdict: Follow Your Travel Personality
- North Puglia: Raw, rugged, and packed with historical charm.
- South Puglia: Romantic, relaxing, and rich in food, wine, and warmth.
Whichever part you pick, you’re in for a journey that captures the very essence of Italy — minus the crowds, plus a whole lot of charm.
Ready to explore? Your perfect Puglia experience is waiting.
