Puglia is one of twenty regions of Italy, geographically located in the southeast, and with a geographical shape of ‘the heel’. It is considered to have beautiful coastlines, picture-perfect towns, and historic city, which makes Puglia as an ideal place for people who want to actually see Italy. This is so as Puglia holds many attractions for history lovers; naturists; and those who are looking for the natural, unadulterated Mediterranean taste. This guide will show you the most captivating and engaging sights in Puglia as well as cities, nature, and food.

Must-Visit Cities and Towns in Puglia

Alberobello and its Famous Trulli Houses

Puglia can boast one of the most extraordinary views—a town of Alberobello. This world heritage site is popular for the trulli, which are small circular structures with conical roofs made of stone. These peculiar constructions, which go back to the 14th century, were constructed as temporary residences by farmers who did not wish to pay taxes. Today, the trulli in Alberobello are a famous tourist attraction, and people can still visit the town of Alberobello and even get an idea of how to get inside these ancient houses.

During the visit to Alberobello, do not miss visiting Trullo Sovrano, the biggest trullo of the city, and Trullo Museum, which gives a brief idea about the history and architecture of the place.

Ostuni: The White City of Puglia

Ostuni is another town in Puglia and is commonly called the ‘White City’ because of the whitewashed houses there. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea and the olive groves and the countryside, Ostuni is situated on a hilltop. The historical part of the town is represented by narrow streets, with beautiful small squares, shops, and cafes.

Apart from walking through the cobbled paths, the Cathedral of Ostuni, a Romanesque-Gothic structure, should not be missed, and the Museo Civico, which has the artifacts of the town.

Lecce: The Baroque Gem of the South

If you are interested in baroque architecture, then you should definitely visit Lecce. Popularly referred to as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce boasts of intricate baroque architecture with buildings made from a golden stone that is peculiar to the area. Lecce Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace are found in the city’s Piazza del Duomo, which is a magnificent structure. Lecce’s historical center boasts bars, restaurants, and cafes; beautiful streets; and shops for artisans, as well as cheerful piazzas.

Also the Roman Theatre, where information about Lecce as a Roman city can be obtained, and the Museo Provinciale Sigismondo Castromediano, which exhibits archeological findings in the province.

Natural Wonders and Scenic Landscapes in Puglia

Although it is famous for the small cities and stunning beaches, Puglia has much more to offer—remarkable natural views that will suit any kind of tourism.

The Gargano National Park

Tourists interested in nature will find Gargano National Park one of the most beautiful attractions in Puglia. Situated in the northern area of the region, the park covers a large piece of area of large green forests, high limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear lakes. It is perfect for hikers as well as wildlife lovers, which has many trails that stretch across deep forests, by the waterfalls, and into the primeval beech woods.

While there, one can visit the town of Monte Sant’Angelo on a hilltop and the Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo for the Christians. The Gargano coast contains several beautiful beaches; one of them is Vignanotica—the picturesque bay with cliffs.

The Sea Caves of Polignano a Mare

If you are looking for something a little more daring, then Polignano a Mare is just the place for you; this is a beautiful town located on the cliff top overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The town is well known for sea caves; tourists can take a boat ride to view the beautiful clear water around the grottoes.

The town of Polignano a Mare is also known for its historic center with its steep lanes and whitewashed houses and for Lama Monachile, a picturesque rocky beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Puglia’s Unique Beaches and Coastal Beauty

Some of the most magnificent places to sunbathe and swim are the beaches of Puglia. If you want a beach holiday, then Puglia has it all, from sandy beaches to clear waters or hidden gulfs.

Baia dei Turchi and Otranto’s Clear Waters

Baia dei Turchi is among the most beautiful beaches in Puglia, situated a little beyond the town of Otranto. The beach is also characterized by a white sandy beach and blue water for swimming and sunbathing. Otranto is a beautiful coastal town with much history, and the Otranto Cathedral is a must-see for the beautiful mosaic floor.

Just outside of Otranto are some beautiful beaches and the Alimini Lakes, a series of natural lagoons, which are ideal for kayaking or bird watching.

Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve

It is a protected area with a variety of fauna and untouched coastline situated along the Adriatic Sea. It is also a bird and marine reserve and has some of the rarest species of birds and other marine animals. Tourists can either walk around or ride bicycles within the area, and there are many paths that will lead one to isolated beaches where you can swim without being interrupted.

Puglia’s Culinary Delights: A Taste of the Heel

Puglia also boasts of delicious food, which is locally produced and incorporates a large number of first products. The area has plenty of olive oil, wines, and meals that are popular in the Mediterranean basin.

Traditional Puglian Dishes You Must Try

You should also taste the Puglian cuisine when on vacation in the region since the following are some of the most famous dishes. In Puglia, orecchiette, small, ear-shaped pasta, is probably the most famous dish and is typically accompanied by broccoli rabe and anchovies. Another legendary one is Panzerotti—fried dough with mozzarella and tomatoes inside that is great for a bite.

Seafood enthusiasts will also find much to enjoy in Puglia because the region’s coastal areas produce a lot of fresh fish and shellfish. Fritto misto, seafood fry, is recommended as well as branzino al forno, baked sea bass.

Wineries and Olive Groves of Puglia

Puglia also boasts some of the best wine-making areas of Italy, such as Salice Salentino, Primitivo di Manduria, and Gioia del Colle. It is possible for visitors to visit the wine-producing companies in the region, get acquainted with the process of winemaking, and taste various wines produced in the region.

Puglia is also one of the biggest producers of olive oil in Italy, and you can also travel to olive oil groves to discover the tradition of olive growing in the region and also to savor fresh, high-quality olive oil.

Conclusion

Puglia is a unique region because it caters to every type of traveler, and everyone will find something of interest. The architecture of the buildings, beautiful views, clean sandy beaches, and especially good food, which makes Puglia one of the most attractive regions in Italy. From the historic centers of Alberobello and Lecce, through the Gargano National Park to seafood along the coast, Puglia is a real Italy that can only entice you.