11 Best Trulli Hotels in Alberobello, Italy

Mom and daughter in a trullo hotel pool with the famous stonework buildings behind them that make up a UNESCO tradition on a holiday in Puglia

Iconic of Puglia, charming Alberobello seems ripped out of the pages of a storybook.

With ancient olive trees on the rolling hills, the landscape is the perfect backdrop for the town’s unique draw: the stone, white-washed trulli dwellings that make this town a UNESCO site.

So what exactly are trulli? These historic and enchanting limestone dwellings are known for white-washed walls and their conical stone roofs, often adorned with symbols.

view as you enter the trulli hotel in alberobello

The origins of these iconic structures are steeped in legend, with tales of tax evasion and the cunning of local residents adding to their mystique — though that’s likely more fiction than fact.

According to them, this taking-off putting-back task would be almost impossible for the residents of the trulli – particularly for elderly people.

To have their roof off and them back on again would be such a hard work that they would very likely rather pay taxes.

While supposedly, the roofs were made of assembled stones so they could be removed quickly to not be taxed as a dwelling, in reality, this would be awfully difficult to achieve.

More likely, the peasants who lived and farmed there built these structures to abide by restrictive rules against permanent dwellings, such as not using mortar to assemble a house.

Whatever the reason for these enchanting buildings, you can’t deny that as you wander through the narrow, winding streets of Alberobello, you feel transported to another era.

Each trullo tells a story of tradition, endurance, and architectural marvel — but together, they form a beautiful town marked by clusters of trulli interspersed with cozy piazzas and local shops, perfect places to pop by for a morning espresso or stroll by on an evening passeggiata.

For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the Alberobello experience, the magic doesn’t need to end once the sun goes down!

sunset time in the alberobello town of puglia with its famous trulli, some of the alberobello trulli hotels have been converted into boutique hotels

A handful of these charming dwellings have been thoughtfully converted into trulli hotels in Alberobello, one of the most unique ways to spend a night in Italy (another being Matera’s charming cave hotels).

Modernized for the comfort of their guests, these boutique hotels still retain their rustic charm. It’s a place where you can touch, feel, and live within the walls of history!

So, after marveling at the quaint beauty of Alberobello by day, make your fairytale complete by nestling into a trullo hotel by night.

The Best Trulli Hotels in Alberobello

Real-Life Fairy Tale: Le Alcove-Luxury Hotel nei Trulli – View Property Here

Are you ready to experience a real-life fairy tale? Stay at Le Alcove-Luxury Hotel nei Trulli, and you’ll get your wish. 

Located smack-dab in the center of Alberobello and filled with contemporary comforts, this hotel is a traveler’s dream come true.

Your first step in crafting your real-life fantasy vacation is choosing from one of the five traditional Trulli huts Le Alcove offers.

Each independent dwelling pays homage to an ancient profession through its unique architectural shape, furniture, and decor. 

Options include the Weaver, the Knight, the Storyteller (Il Cantastorie), the Dreamer (Il Sognatore),and the Poet (Il Poeta).

No matter which you select, you’re in for a one-of-a-kind experience. 

Plus, imagine the sweetheart points you’ll score if you surprise your loved one by booking the room that reminds you of them the most!

Of course, all the rooms pamper you with modern comforts. 

Underfloor heating and cooling will regulate you no matter the time of year without marring the beauty of the stone.

Enjoy free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, comfortable beds, and elegant toiletries in your en-suite bath!

Depending on which room you choose, you may even also have access to your own private spa bath.

Waking up to admire the swirling patterns of the beautiful stones on your ceiling is its own brand of Zen you’ll have to experience to believe!

All guests can enjoy a tasty continental breakfast to fuel the day’s excursions, and the hotel’s hot tub to unwind before bed. 

From its soothing neutral color palette with just enough color accents to charm the eye, we think that this small and intimate getaway is the perfect Alberobello trulli hotel experience. 

It certainly lives up to the motto on its website, truly giving you the chance to “live your fairy tale.”

Private Oasis: LuX – Exclusive Trulli Relax – View Property Here

If you’re looking for a private experience, LuX-Exclusive Trulli Relax has you covered.

This one-bedroom hideaway is a trullo vacation home with all the fixings!

Greet each day with continental and Italian breakfast options, including local specialties, fresh pastries, and juice. 

You can even take breakfast to-go to get a head start on the day’s adventures! That is, if your plans even take you into town in the first place. 

The trullo itself is so attractive that you may wish to enjoy the day by curling up with a good book in the living room or trying your hand at making Italian fare in the fully-equipped kitchenette. 

Since vacation is all about unwinding, this accommodation has a serious advantage over other dwellings, in that it comes with its very own private spa. 

When you see the blue waters of the circular hot tub swirl beneath the stone before the stunning, mandala-shaped illuminated wall art, you’ll wonder how you fell into this magical paradise.

Enjoy a snooze on the lounge chairs and admire the hanging plants before drying off and returning to the “normal world” to continue your stay.

Children aren’t allowed at this Alberobello trulli hotel, which makes it ideal for a couples’ stay.

Even if you find it difficult to leave your work or your littles, I think that the beauty of this place, with its attention to even the tiniest of details and gorgeous wood/industrial accents, will help you unplug in no time!

For the Birds: Resort La Corte Dell’Astore – Wild in Style Resort – View Property Here

La Corte Dell’Astore is a resort for the birds — or bird lovers, at least!

It’s inspired by the ancient arts of falconry and hospitality and has plenty of ways for you to have personal experiences with each. 

The resort seeks to offer a healing space where each guest can unite their heart, mind, and senses with the natural world, and I think they more than succeed in that mission.

Not only can you visit resident birds of prey (under the expert supervision of your host), but you can also go on hunting expeditions with hawks or paragliding with eagles.

The resort also houses a macaw, parrot, Galapagos tortoises, donkeys, and horses, all of which are a great hit with kids (who are welcome to stay!).  

Even the rooms themselves will help you connect with our fine feathered friends.

Each room is named after a different type of falcon and offers a uniquely inspired ambiance.

Lest we give you the impression that La Corte Dell’Astore is a down-to-nature experience, let us assure you that it’s absolutely a full-fledged resort.

The architecture and interior decor are plush, elegant, and deliberately minimalist, creating an ultimate luxury experience. 

You’ll be treated to creature comforts such as free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, gardens, and even a hot tub. 

The outdoor pool, precisely manicured courtyard, outdoor fireplace, bar service, and lavish breakfast buffet of sweet and savory delicacies will make you feel like you’re royalty throughout your stay.

Best Pool (Adults Only): Il Gabellota Resort – View Property Here

If nothing screams “vacation” more to you than relaxing by the pool, Il Gabellota Resort is the best trulli hotel in Alberobello for you. 

This resort offers a rounded pool and beautiful sun deck, with plenty of lounge chairs and a stone and wood awning. Just wait until you see it lit up at night!

Stone is a featured design element throughout the property, not just in your trullo.

During the day, you can walk the ground’s stone paths from within the safety of traditional dry stone walls.

Il Gabellota will nourish your soul with the peace of the countryside pouring out from its greenery, picnic areas, marble floors, and ancient olive trees.

While Alberobello is UNESCO World Heritage Site, don’t worry – the luxury here is very much modern!

Relax and unwind in your air-conditioned trullo, complete with a TV and mini-bar. 

Call ahead to ask which rooms have private patios, kitchenettes, and floral gardens, or just come and let the amenities in your room be a pleasant surprise! 

To take your trip to the next level of comfort, book a massage treatment (or two or three) at the spa.

This resort is only for adults, so you’ll likely enjoy a side of peace along with your complimentary breakfast. 

Coolest Architecture: La Mandorla Luxury Trullo – View Property Here

If you like staying at destinations with uniquely shaped rooms, you won’t want to miss a stay at La Mandorla.

Each room in this adults-only resort is a one-of-a-kind architectural wonder, complete with alcoves, vaulted stone ceilings, and illuminated shelves cut into the rock itself. 

The rooms are the ultimate in luxury as well, from their fireplaces, underfloor heating, air-conditioning, and — you guessed it — hot tubs!

The rooms even have beauty stations with lighted mirrors, so you’ll feel as celebrity-level glamorous as you prepare for the day ahead. 

Each accommodation has a seating area, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a walk-in shower perfect for a long, luxe morning routine. 

A dining area and kitchen are also included, so you can even practice your culinary skills once you recover from the delicious a la carte breakfast offered each morning. 

During the day, you can visit the spa, gardens, or on-site coffee shop. Relaxing with a good book on the outdoor furniture is an absolute must. 

When you want a luxurious trulli stay in Alberobello, La Mandorla is a clear stand-out.

Resort, or Little Town?: Tipico Resort – View Property Here 

Despite its name, Tipico Resort is anything but typical.

You’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon a little town of your very own as you enjoy the trulli and stone buildings emblematic of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The trullo or stone building you stay in will be updated, no cave man living here!

All the rooms feature air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and stone walls and floors.

You’ll want to plan some time to take pictures of everything in your accommodation: this place is all about the details! 

From elegant textures, tiling, unique wall art, and distinctive decor, each room has its own unique character and presence in the resort. 

Outside the rooms, you can enjoy a convenience store, hair/beauty salon, outdoor areas, and winding streets that you can walk or bike down while heading to the breakfast room.

Regardless of the size of your family or travel party, Tipico is an excellent place for an Italian getaway. 

Perfect Daydream: Monte Adamello – View Property Here

Here’s another beautiful trullo hotel that is its own individual unit for perfect privacy.

This vacation home, Monte Adamello, is a two-bedroom townhome that is a big hit with couples.

The home is situated in a great location outside of Alberobello and is beautifully decorated.

Its homey and colorful furniture, textiles, and accents transform it into a real-life dream!

You’ll also enjoy a variety of amenities during your stay.

These include a full and queen bed, air-conditioning, a fully-stocked kitchen with tea and coffee maker, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a walk-in shower, a bathtub, and even chocolate! 

All of this is accessible from your private entrance and comes with daily housecleaning.

Luna, who runs Monte Adamello, is an Airbnb Superhost who provides an excellent stay for guests.

Whether you need packed lunches, grocery deliveries, or have special dietary restrictions for your meals, Luna can make it happen!

If you’re looking for private accommodation for a family or small group trip, Monte Adamello may be your perfect place.

Most Exotic: Masseria Rosa Trulli Relais – View Property Here

When the typical Alberobello trulli resort isn’t enough to satisfy your itch for a truly special travel experience, Masseria Rosa Trulli Relais is there for you.

This converted 19th-century farmhouse is a mere 1.2 miles from Alberobello and offers both stone cottages and the traditional trulli. 

What makes it unique is its decor and pool area!

The neutral-colored furniture and crisp and curved lines in the rooms form a hybrid of what you’d expect in a trullo and what you’d expect perhaps in a sunny beach house. 

The stonework around the pool (complete with hydromassage!) and gardens look like something from either a summer or desert resort magazine.

Yet these juxtapositions of style elements only add to the resort’s tastefulness. 

Far from a destination that can’t seem to make up its mind, Masseria Rosa is a place of intentional, blended exoticism. 

All accommodations come with a private bathroom and LCD TV. Some come with a kitchenette. 

All rooms also have access to everything you’ll need for an extraordinarily relaxing and healthful stay.

Imagine walking through well-kept gardens surrounded by stone walls, groves of centuries-old olive trees, orchards, and vegetable gardens. 

Perhaps you’ll enjoy the sun from the comfort of the panoramic patio or one of the stone gazebos by the pool.

They also have a great spa including a Turkish bath, hydromassage, relaxation and herbal tea corner.

Regardless of how you spend your time here, you’ll leave Masseria Rosa with more balance in your body, mind, and spirit.

A Cozy Nook: Trullo Giardino Fiorito – View Property Here

If you’re into tiny houses, hobbit holes, and cozy spaces, Trullo Giardino Fiorito is a perfect little gem just for you! 

From its tile shower, pleasing lawn, and miniature archways leading to the kitchen and sitting area, this studio accommodation is the perfect place to unwind.

It is also highly Instagrammable, so be sure to snap a few pics!

When you’re not out adventuring in Alberobello, you can kick back and relax in front of the flat-screen TV or cook a meal in the fully equipped kitchen.

You’ll likely want to eat outside on your private patio if the weather is nice!

Since the sofa converts into a bed, you can also bring 1-2 other guests with you.

And, each morning, all of you can enjoy buffet breakfast options, including fresh pastries and juice, 

When it comes to memorable bed and breakfasts, Trullo Giardino Fiorito is sure to please.

Best Outdoor Spaces: Le Dieci Porte – View Property Here

Owners Stella and Christophe have done an excellent job designing a most enchanting getaway location!

It was Stella’s longtime dream to own and run a Alberobello trullo resort, and you can feel her care and passion radiating throughout the place as soon as you enter the doors of Le Dieci Porte.

The decor is minimalistic, yet very tasteful and intentional to give guests a relaxing experience.

While each room is unique and cozy, each comes with free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, comfortable linens, fully equipped kitchens (including a dishwasher!), and a washing machine. 

Of course, you can also enjoy the À la carte and Italian breakfast options with fresh, local offerings if you prefer, and we think you will!

Of all the resorts on this list, we think this one has the best outdoor spaces! 

A tantalizing, grassy lawn frames a beautiful outdoor pool, beckoning you to take off your shoes and go for a swim.

A sun terrace, outdoor fireplace, and patios will make you want to linger and mingle with other guests after your exciting day at the spa, Alberobello, or the comfort of your trullo.

If you’re on a trip with your whole family or are planning a more extended stay in the region, Le Deici Porte is a place to make your own. 


Social Media Star: Chiancole Trulli – View Property Here

I think Chiancole Trulli is the place for you if you want an amazing Alberobello trulli hotel stay with pictures to match.

While all of the accommodations on this list are beautiful, this one will pop the most on your social media feeds, thanks to its crisp lines and tasteful decorative accents.

For instance, the outdoor garden lounge area is a wonderfully balanced series of rectangles: an L-shaped stone bench (topped with comfy cushions) that makes perfect symmetrical shots!

The vacation home has beautiful tilework, stone arches, and carefully chosen accent furniture.

You may have trouble sleeping on your first night, not because of being in a strange bed (the beds have signature Simmons brand mattresses, after all), but because the interior is so lovely! 

When you wake up, you can take breakfast in your room or on the patio.

The accommodation has free Wi-Fi, a cable flat-screen TV, comfy bathrobes, and a working kitchen.

With two bedrooms housing a full and queen bed, it can accommodate up to 4 guests at a time.

You can take breakfast in your room or outside on the patio — either view is beautiful!

A structure of five cones, Chiancole Trulli allows you to have the best of everything all to yourself (which makes it all the easier to take as long as you need to capture the perfect shot for your feeds!)

Most Calming: Trullo Essenza-Trulli Antì Charme & Relax – View Property Here

Do you need to completely unplug from your everyday life, catch up on some meditation sessions, or forge a deeper connection with your partner in an undistracted space?

If so, Trullo Essenza-Trulli Anti Charme and Relax is your place.

This 5-star Superhost Airbnb accommodation consists of 4 cones designed with relaxation and spaciousness in mind.

If you need alone time, the two bedrooms can afford you privacy, or you can go and meditate outside under the covered patio and outdoor seating area!

The entire place has a fresh and airy feel from its palette of tans and whites.

Gorgeous yet subtle accents of wall hangings, pottery, and wood appear tastefully on the walls.

The furnishings are modern and rustic, and the beds look like pillowy clouds.

Clean-cut lines blend everything together with such cozy comfort that the setting will become the background of your consciousness and allow you to reconnect with yourself and those you’re traveling with.

In addition, you’ll get an exceptional breakfast, a fully-equipped kitchen, flat-screen TV, and your very own patio and sun deck.

You’ll also receive daily housekeeping services and can select from various massage and spa options for an additional charge.

Couples especially like this location, although your dog can come along as the third wheel upon request!

You can’t beat Trullo Essenza-Trulli Anti Charme and Relax when you need some calm in whatever form you wish to enjoy.

Best Pool (Families): I Trulli Del Nonno Michele – View Property Here

Although technically speaking, two entities can’t both be best, we simply had to include a second “Best Pool” title in this set, since our first choice is adults-only.

Like Il Gabellota Resort, I Trulli Del Nonno Michele’s pool has rounded edges, an expansive deck, plenty of lounge chairs, and an awning.

It’s just stunning, and as if that weren’t enough, it also has an added structure: an impressive rock feature that frames the waters!

Since I Trulli Del Nonno Michele’s pool looks just as good lit up at night, the difference between the two properties boils down to personal preference for the accommodations and whether or not you plan to bring the kiddos.

That’s right, children are welcome at I Trulli Del Nonno Michele!

I Trulli Del Nonno Michele’s Trulli range in size from studio to two-bedroom apartments, which means there’ll be something for every size party. 

The Trulli feature stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and alcove rooms. All accommodations have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a kitchenette, a seating area, and an LCD TV. 

A self-service breakfast and BBQ facilities are provided with each stay. 

In addition to the pool, there is a spa, plenty of common areas and terraces for enjoying the outdoors, and even a fenced playground.

While Il Gabellota Resort is probably the place to go if you want a great pool and adult privacy, we wouldn’t rule out I Trulli Del Nonno Michele for couples’ visit either, as it is a gorgeous bed and breakfast.

The 17 Best Places to Visit in Puglia

The heel of Italy’s boot, the region of Puglia is far less crowded than other parts of Italy, yet it has a lot to offer.

While not completely undiscovered by tourism, and indeed rather popular in the summer, Puglia is still a bit of a hidden gem in terms of Italian tourism.

You won’t find the crowds of Venice, Cinque Terre, or Rome here – though you also will find plenty of beach-hoppers in the scorching summer months on Puglia’s gorgeous stretch of coastline.

driving around puglia on an empty road

Plus, Puglia is one of the cheaper places in Italy!

While Puglia’s coastline can be a bit busy, many of its most beautiful towns and cities are inland, offering a respite from the summer crowds in the small villages that feel a bit lost in time, like Locorotondo, Martina Franca, and Ostuni.

And while not part of Puglia proper, a trip to Matera in the Basilicata region is often paired with a Puglia trip and is well worth the detour.

While Puglia looks deceptively small on the map, there are quite a number of wonderful places to visit in Puglia, from coastal towns to vibrant cities to quiet hilltop villages.

The best way to get around is by rental car, because Puglia’s transportation choices aren’t quite as robust as other places in Italy.

I’ve included my favorite picks of Puglia (marked with an editor’s choice demarkation) as well as asked several travel bloggers to suggest their favorite destinations in Puglia in order to create a more comprehensive list of places to visit in Puglia.

Mix and match at your preference to create your own perfect Puglia itinerary!

The Best Places to Visit in Puglia

Monopoli

Editor’s Choice

This beautiful city on the seaside perfectly combines both an old and new town with a stunning walled city set on a lovely patch of the coastline.

The old town of Monopoli is quiet and quaint, with beautiful historic buildings, tasty trattorias and restaurants, and lovely guesthouses and hotels. There is a lovely harbor area where you can watch the boats bob in the water, and a small stretch of rocky beach where people enjoy laying out in the sun nearly all year round.

Meanwhile, the new town section is vibrant and lively with tons of bars, shops, and restaurants clustered around the main plaza, with a youthful and fun vibe to this part of the city.

Monopoli perfectly combines the vibe of a modern Italian city with a historical center, creating a wonderful getaway in Puglia in a picturesque setting.

Bari

Editor’s Choice

The capital city of the region and the start of many trips to Puglia due to its airport with plentiful flights to the rest of Europe, it’s hard to miss Bari when you visit Puglia.

Bari is a large city with many sights worth seeing, but most tourists make a beeline for its old town, Barivecchia. You’ll find the Basilica di San Nicola there, which dates back to the 11th century and the Castelo Svevo, a Norman-Swabian castle built in the 12th century.

But just wandering the streets of the old town without a purpose is well worth it, as you’ll see often women rolling orecchiette – little ear-shaped pasta – by hand, as if something from another time.

Just outside of the labyrinthine old town, you’ll find the modern area of Murat, laid out in a grid with plentiful shopping, restaurants, and bars to peruse and get a more comprehensive feel for what modern-day Bari is like for the hundreds of thousands of people who call this city home.

Savelletri

Contributed by Amanda O’Brien of The Boutique Adventurer

There are two main reasons to visit Savelletri in Puglia – sunsets and seafood. As these are two of my favorite things to find when I am traveling I had a fantastic time in Savelletri!

Savelletri is a seaside town in Puglia. Its closest major town is Fasano and it is about halfway between Bari and Brindisi. Savelletri has a public beach but is best known for its little fishing port. If you are staying somewhere with a kitchen head down with an icebox and grab a fresh catch from one of the local fishermen.

Even better, have lunch at one of Savelletri’s seaside seafood restaurants! You won’t have to travel far as there are about ten seafood restaurants clustered along the little fishing port. Il Veliero Savelletri has perhaps the most prime position on the port with both indoor and outdoor seating. Osteria del Porto is a couple of minutes’ walk away and receives rave reviews from the locals.

My personal favorite was Momo Pescato e Cucinato where we enjoyed amazing spaghetti with local mussels and clams washed down with local organic wine.

Make your lunch a long one – or in the summer head to Quattro Creative Wine Bar for an early evening Aperol Spritz – to ensure you are in Savelletri for its amazing sunsets. Deep oranges and pinks are offset by the dark navy of the ocean and the fishing boats and little port provide the perfect foregrounds! 

Gargano

Contributed by Trijit Mallick from BudgetTravelBuff

Gargano is one of the most beautiful parts of the southern region of Puglia. If you are planning a trip to Gargano, you should know that there is a lot more to see here than just beautiful beaches and mountains. This popular Italian tourist destination is also known as the ‘Spur of the Boot’.

From greener mountains with lush pine forests to beautiful coastline with limestone cliffs, sea caves and white sandy beaches, Gargano will not disappoint you at any season. The nearby airport is Bari Airport. You can reach to Gargano by train or bus. Take a train from Bari to San Severo station, then continue to Peschici on the Gargano line.

Here are a few of the best things to do in Gargano. The beautiful town of Vieste is the must-see place while visiting Gargano in Puglia region. This historic old town is perfect for strolling around with a stunning sea view. Enjoy a full day exploring the town and end with relaxing on the beaches.

If you are an adventure enthusiast, take a 30-minute drive from Vieste to Foresta Umbra. Explore the Gargano National Park taking any of the trails along with the coastline. This protected nature reserve is perfect for bird watching and some wild orchids. 

Take a sea cave tour to Grottoes from Vieste to see the years old sea caves and grottoes. You cannot afford to miss this boat trip while visiting Gargano.

Keep your one day reserved for Tremiti Islands tour. Explore the castle-monastery and enjoy a seaside lunch in Isole Tremiti, Italy’s only island in the Adriatic sea. You can also do swimming or snorkeling in the sea.

If you are planning for a trip to Gargano, I would highly recommend staying there at least 2 nights. You can stay in L’isola dei Sapori Boutique Hotel Restaurant which is located right by Lake Varano and an ideal hotel to stay with your family.

Molfetta

Contributed by Rohan Cahill-Fleury of Life With Less

Molfetta is a quiet little town on the coast of Puglia. As with much of this area, its main draws are its charming old town and coastal outlook. With the easy and cheap train system running through Bari and the surrounding towns it makes a great day trip or stop off on the way to other parts of the region. Because it’s one of the lesser-known towns it’s a great place to wander without other tourists around.

Molfetta has been around since the fourth century and has a quaint little, old town complete with balconies, stone archways, and watchtowers overlooking the ocean. Molfetta’s old town sits right next to a picturesque little harbor. This is also the site of the local fish market which sells produce fresh off the boats. There are, as expected in Italy, several beautiful and historic churches in the town as well as an excellent selection of gelaterias, pizzerias, and delicatessens.

Just outside of Molfetta town is Pulo di Molfetta which is a huge sinkhole making way for an incredible network of caves. Some of them can be visited but others have been deemed unsafe because of mining and earthquake damage. There are plenty of great apartments and B&Bs available in Molfetta making it easy to use it as a base for a few days when exploring this gorgeous part of Puglia. 

Martina Franca

Contributed by Sabrina Brett of Moon & Honey Travel

Martina Franca is a disarmingly elegant town dating back to the 10th-century. With its polished stepstones and Juliet-like balconies, Martina’s Baroque-style Centro Storico is a delightful place to spend a few hours or even a full day.

During your visit, head to the impressive Piazza Maria Immacolata for espresso, or just a good dose of people watching. Visit the 18th-century Basilica di San Martino. Tour L’Acropoli di Puglia to learn about the olive oil production in the Istria Valley. And spend the rest of your time exploring Martina’s labyrinth of streets. When you’re craving something to eat, go to La Pasteria, Gaonas, or Cibando.

If you’re visiting in July or August, time your trip with the Festival della Valle d’Itria, Martina Franca’s summer opera festival.

Located in the province of Taranto, it’s easy to include Martina Franca in any Puglia itinerary. Consider stopping here on your way to or from Alberobello, Ostuni, or Locorotondo.

Discover more secret places to visit in this Italy travel guide.

Trani

Contributed by Megan Starr of Megan & Aram

Trani is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Puglia, Italy.  And while it is one of the best places to visit in the famed Southern Italy region, not many people actually know about the city of roughly 54,000 residents. 

A short train ride away from Bari, Trani is known for a few notable sights, such as the Trani Cathedral built by Frederick II of Swabia in 1233 that sits on the calm and idyllic harbor and the Svevo Castle, a fortress that sits right on the sea that you’re able to visit for an affordable price. 

One of the best things to do in Trani is to head to Villa Comunale di Trani, a large park and promenade that hugs the seafront.  The green spot is large and home to a few cafes and many locals taking a stroll with their dogs.  Also inside of Villa Comunale di Trani, visitors will get to see several sculptures of famous Tranesi that are spread out within the park.  It is a perfect way to connect with the city’s history- from its role in the Crusades to its modern-day position in the south of Italy.

Trani is located a mere 40 kilometers from Bari and is a fantastic day trip from the city.  In Trani, you can do everything from taking a stroll around Villa Comunale di Trani to enjoying a Moscato tour and more.  It is also a prime place to indulge in figs, olives, and almonds and boasts some of the finest ingredients in the Puglia region.  It is absolutely one of the best off-the-path places to go to in Puglia.

Polignano a Mare

Editor’s Choice

The picturesque seaside town of Polignano a Mare is known for its tiny strip of beach, Cala Porto, which is beautifully nestled between two cliffs, creating a ‘secret beach’ feel.

Unfortunately, the beach isn’t so secret — this is one of the most popular places to visit in Puglia. But as you wander around the old town of Polignano a Mare, you’ll see why this town has so much to offer.

While indeed quite popular with tourists, Polignano a Mare still manages to maintain an authentic feel, bursting with Southern Italian charm. Its old town streets are undeniably charming, and there are plentiful restaurants and cafes that beckon you to order an espresso and relax a while.

If you’re the kind of person who likes to buy souvenirs when you travel, we found the best souvenirs of our trip in Polignano a Mare, which has gorgeous ceramics — for something unique, pick up a ceramic cactus paddle, which is symbolic of the region.

Santa Maria al Bagno

Contributed by Nadine Maffre of Le Long Weekend

Located between the better-known Puglia towns of Gallipoli and Lecce, Santa Maria al Bagno could be easily overlooked while touring Italy’s heel.

But despite shying away from the limelight, it’s a seaside town well worth spending time in. Stop in at Salsedine Beach Bar to sunbathe where the cool kids hang out, or head into the middle of town to jostle for space at the town’s main beach. The petite cove gets busy with locals in the summer months, but in May and early June, there’s plenty of space to shake out your towel.

The sheltered bay is one of the best places to swim in Puglia due to its unspoiled coastline and crystalline water. When you’ve worked up an appetite, simply head across the road to one of the trattorias that spill out onto the main square.

If it’s not quite beach weather, or you’re looking for more things to do, there are also plenty of natural and cultural attractions to keep you busy. Head into the Museum of Memory and Hospitality, which tells the stories of Holocaust survivors after the Second World War. Visit the Torre del Fiume which used to play a key role in protecting this coastal area, and explore the Porto Selvaggio reserve for walks in a protected forest.

Ostuni

Editor’s Choice

The picturesque white-washed city of Ostuni is one of the most beautiful places in Puglia, with both a lovely historic town and a more modern and lively new town with plenty going on to entertain you for an afternoon or even a longer stay.

The old town of Ostuni is repainted in white every two years to keep it looking fresh, and indeed, it almost gave me a bit of a Cycladic island vibe with its white walls and colorful doors and shutters. Its historic defensive walls separate the old town from the new and are an interesting place to wander around during your time in Ostuni.

We also found some of the most beautiful Italy souvenirs here and couldn’t help shopping quite a bit while in Ostuni!

Meanwhile, the new town of Ostuni has some notable architecture worth seeing, centered around the Saint Oronzo column in Ostuni’s main square, Piazza della Libertà.

The Ostuni Cathedral and the Ostuni Town Hall (which used to be a palace) are also must-sees for architecture lovers.

Lecce

Contributed by Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

Located in the far south of Puglia in what’s known as the “heel” of Italy, Lecce is a beautiful historic city filled with ancient Roman ruins and ornate Baroque palaces and churches. It’s often referred to as the “Florence of the South”.

But while Lecce is arguably just as beautiful as Florence, the two cities look very different. Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, whereas Lecce is built in the extravagant Baroque style that became popular a century or two later.

And in fact, the specific type of Baroque architecture found in Lecce is so distinctive that it has been given a name of its own: barocco leccese, or Lecce Baroque. Some identifying features of barocco leccese to look for include twisted columns, floral motifs and wrought-iron balconies.

You’ll find some of the best examples of this Baroque architecture among the buildings that line Via Palmieri. And of course, there are also the city’s many churches, including the Church of Santa Croce and the Cathedral. The former is famous for its rose window, while the latter is quite unusual in that it has two ornately carved façades — one facing north and another facing east.

Be sure to try the delicious local cuisine while you’re in Lecce too! A popular street food here is the stuffed bread roll known as the puccia, which is sold at specialty eateries (puccerie) all over town. And you can’t fail to notice the orecchiette being served up at every restaurant in town. By far the most popular shape of pasta in these parts, orecchiette are made fresh with just semolina flour and water (no eggs), making them one of many vegan-friendly dishes in Puglian cuisine.

Alberobello

Editor’s Choice

Famous for its trulli – traditional Apulian round huts with conical roofs, made of white-washed stone – the small town of Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town has over a thousand trulli still beautifully preserved today, making it a must-see on virtually all Puglia itineraries.

… which inevitably means that it’s a bit crowded with day trippers, especially during the peak season, but it’s still such a unique place that I think it’s well worth seeing, even sharing it with lots of other tourists.

Most of the trulli are clustered in Rione Monte, where they have been mostly converted into souvenir shops, selling typical Italian food products, ceramics, and works made out of olive wood amongst more typical mass-produced kitsch.

It’s also well-worth exploring the more modern part of town, away from the trulli, where there are ample places to stop for a coffee and people watch.

If staying overnight, be sure to stay in a trullo (the singular form of trulli) — many have been converted into quite comfortable and unique hotels!

Torre a Mare

Contributed by Corina Preda of Another Milestone

Puglia is not such a popular destination compared to other places in Italy, but it gets more and more famous each year. Especially during summer, in Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Bari, and other known towns you will meet crowds of tourists.

If you want to escape them and enjoy a day at the beach, try Torre a Mare. A former fisherman village, Torre a Mare took its name from the tower built to protect its residents from the attacks of barbarian ships, tower called Torre Pelosa (Hairy Tower).

Today, Torre a Mare is a seaside resort with only few attractions: the tower standing tall in the main square and the Fisherman’s Monument. It has also a small port and some less-known beaches with a stony and steep entrance into the water.

In the morning you can enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the cafes on the shore, admiring the sea and the blue boats in port. In the afternoon go and visit Cala Scizzo, a small isolated beach, used by the locals. If you are lucky, it will be only yours!

Torre a Mare is not a must-see in Puglia, but it is a great option when you need time to relax and enjoy the seaside without being hassled.

Locorotondo

Editor’s Choice

Not far from Alberobello but a world away from its tour buses and crowds, the small hilltop village of Locorotondo is one of the best off the beaten path places to visit in Puglia.

Its Centro Storico (old town) is picturesque and charming, with appealing shops, restaurants, and street scenes that encourage you to wander aimlessly for a while. Its churches are also well-worth popping your head into, which are quite impressive for such a small town.

It’s also worth checking out the vista at the panorama point at Porta Napoli, just outside the Centro Storico, where you can marvel at the gorgeous olive-tree-studded landscape which surrounds the city.

Otranto

Contributed by Katerina and Maria of It’s All Trip to Me

The sunny region of Puglia in Italy’s deep south has no shortage of stunning seaside towns. Among them, Otranto stands out for many reasons.

The gateway to the East, as Otranto is often nicknamed, is one of the most fabulous holiday destinations in Puglia but also the perfect base from where to explore the most pristine beaches in the region. Otranto boasts a very well preserved historic center, complete with its own castle, as well as a superb beachfront promenade, the utterly romantic Lungomare degli Eroi.

Few places can compete with the easy-going ambiance of Otranto. Whether wandering around the Old Town’s narrow alleys, watching the sunset from the Lungomare or spending endless lazy hours on the town’s gorgeous beach, Otranto is sure to steal one’s heart.

Apart from the charms of the town itself, though, Otranto also enjoys a superb location, close to a couple of the region’s most spectacular points of interest. The almost surreal Bauxite Lake, this masterpiece of nature and human abandonment alike is just a 10 minute drive or a 30 minute hike from the center of Otranto.

Similarly, it only takes 15 minutes by car to get to Cape Otranto, Italy’s easternmost point, in order to take in the beauty of the Punta Palascia Lighthouse and appreciate the tranquility of the surrounding area. There is no doubt that standing at that very point, facing the big blue sea and nothing but, one cannot escape the fate of eternally falling in love with the magic that is Otranto.

Margherita de Savoia

Contributed by Amélie Gagné of Mostly Amélie

Margherita di Savoia is likely not the first town that pops to mind when preparing a trip to Puglia, but let yourself be pleasantly surprised here. For lovers of nature, Margherita di Savoia is a little-known town on the Adriatic coast that has the largest salt flats in Europe (and the second biggest in the world). But brace yourself, they are bright pink!

A result of tiny brine shrimps who thrive and live in those salt basin, they also attract pink flamingos who feed on them. These shrimps are high in beta-carotene and the reason why those salt lakes – and flamingos – are pink. Is your mind blown yet? 

This mineral-rich ecosystem attracts a lot of wildlife, and Margherita di Savoia is a prime location for birdwatching. You can book a visit with the local environmental conservation organization Legambiente for the salt flats, pink lakes, and bird watching. The best time to visit Margherita di Savoia is from June to August – this is when you’ll have the best beach weather anyway. 

Because yes, Margherita also has amazing beaches, too! Kilometers upon kilometers of them, more precisely. Most stretches in the town center are privately owned and you need to pay to get in or to rent a lounger, but this has the added benefit that you’re never far from the next Aperol Spritz. For something a little less manicured, you can rent a  bicycle and ride a few kilometers north to Fenicottero Rosa Beach. It’s wilder and where all the locals hang. Do bring your own picnic though!

Pin This Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Puglia!

Not sure where to go in Puglia, Italy? This guide to the Puglia region of Southern Italy includes suggestions for the best places to visit in Puglia, from Bari to Monopoli to Alberobello to Polignano a Mare to Lecce and beyond. Create the perfect Puglia itinerary or Puglia road trip with this Puglia travel guide!