July 31, 2025
Top 5 Towns to Visit in Puglia (and What to Do in Each)
Puglia is a region made of moments — cliffside sunsets, cobblestone walks, olive-scented breezes. If you're planning a trip, here are five unforgettable towns you should not miss — each with its own soul, rhythm, and story.
Ostuni – The White City
Why Visit: Hilltop charm, whitewashed alleys, Adriatic views.
What to Do:
- Get lost in the maze of white alleys
- Enjoy an aperitivo on a panoramic rooftop
- Visit the 15th-century cathedral
- Shop at local artisan markets
Concierge Tip:
Book a private photographer for a sunset shoot in the old town — the golden light is unforgettable.
Alberobello – Land of the Trulli
Why Visit: UNESCO World Heritage Site, fairytale architecture. What to Do:
- Walk through Rione Monti's trulli-lined streets
- Visit a trullo interior with a local historian
- Shop for handmade ceramics and trulli miniatures
Concierge Tip:
Add a trulli cooking class for an unforgettable hands-on cultural experience.
Polignano a Mare – Cliffs Over the Sea
Why Visit: Dramatic coastline, hidden beaches, elegance.
What to Do:
What to Do:
- Dine inside a sea cave restaurant
- Swim beneath the famous Lama Monachile bridge
- Watch cliff divers plunge into turquoise waters
Concierge Tip:
Book a private boat at golden hour to explore caves and toast the sunset on the water.
Lecce – The Florence of the South
Why Visit: Baroque architecture, artisan culture.
What to Do:
What to Do:
- Take a private walking tour with an art historian
- Visit paper mâché workshops
- Enjoy a wine tasting in a 17th-century palazzo
Concierge Tip:
Ask for an in-villa art class with a Lecce-born painter — ideal for couples or families.
Matera – City of Stone
Why Visit: Ancient cave dwellings, cinematic atmosphere (technically in nearby Basilicata).
What to Do:
What to Do:
- Stay overnight in a luxury cave hotel
- Visit rock churches carved into the cliffs
- Dine by candlelight in a grotto restaurant
Concierge Tip:
Add Matera to your itinerary for a 1-night immersive extension — it pairs beautifully with Puglia’s coastal energy.
