Complete Guide to Puglia (2025)
Puglia, also known as Apulia, located in the southeastern part of Italy, the heel of Italy’s boot is renowned for its stunning coastline with secret rocky coves and small beaches, perfect for sun-lovers seeking a quieter, less commercialized experience. The region’s towns, with their charming historic centers with white-washed trullo houses, offer an authentic and picturesque Italian atmosphere. Puglia’s simple, hearty cuisine, based on local produce, is another major draw. While it’s not as inexpensive as it once was, Puglia still provides fantastic holiday experiences at more affordable prices than Italy’s more established tourist regions.
The region is divided into six provinces: Bari (the regional capital), Brindisi, Foggia, Lecce, Taranto, and Barletta-Andria-Trani. The Salento area, around Lecce and the southernmost tip of the ‘heel,’ is a prime destination for sea and sun worshippers. Puglia borders Campania, Molise, and Basilicata. Matera, famous for its cave dwellings, is close to the Puglia border and makes a great addition to any tour of the region.
Table of Contents
- Cities of Puglia
- History of Puglia
- Prehistoric Times in Puglia
- Puglia in the Greek and Roman Periods
- Puglia in the Medieval Period
- Puglia in the Early Modern Period
- Puglia in the 19th Century
- Puglia in the 20th Century
- Contemporary Puglia
- Cities of Puglia
- Best Time to Visit Puglia
- Visiting Puglia in Spring
- Visiting Puglia in Summer
- Visiting Puglia in Autumn
- Visiting Puglia in Winter
- How to get to Puglia
- Festivals in Puglia
Cities of Puglia
Alberobello
Alberobello, a picturesque town in the Puglia region of southern Italy, is renowned for its unique trulli buildings—traditional dry stone huts with conical roofs. These trulli date back to the 14th century and were originally constructed without mortar to evade taxes on permanent dwellings. In 1996, Alberobello’s trulli were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their historical and architectural significance.
Visitors to Alberobello should explore Rione Monti, the more touristic area with over 1,000 trulli, offering shops, restaurants, and museums. Aia Piccola, a quieter district with about 400 trulli still used as residences, provides a more authentic experience. Key attractions include the Trullo Sovrano, the largest trullo now functioning as a museum, and the Church of Saint Anthony, a trullo-style church located at the top of Rione Monti.
For photography, the golden hour—early morning or late afternoon—provides the best lighting for capturing the trulli and the charming streets. Seek higher vantage points in Rione Monti and Aia Piccola for panoramic views of the trulli roofs. Visiting Alberobello offers a unique glimpse into Italy’s architectural heritage and cultural traditions, making it a memorable destination in the heart of Puglia.
Taking a guided tour can enhance the understanding of the trulli’s history and construction. Rione Monti’s trulli shops sell local crafts, souvenirs, and regional products like olive oil and wine. Dining in Alberobello is a delight, with local specialties such as orecchiette pasta, fresh seafood, and regional wines available at many restaurants.
View our Alberobello Guide
Brindisi
Brindisi is a significant city on the Adriatic coast of Southern Italy in the Apulia region, with a population of just over 88,000. Its natural port has historically been crucial to the region’s development, thanks to its strategic location and active trade with Greece and other Adriatic nations. The city’s diverse economy includes agriculture, chemical processing, electricity generation, and commercial port activities.
Legend has it that Brindisi was founded by the epic hero Diomedes, but historical records show that settlements have existed here since ancient Roman and Greek times. Due to its strategic Adriatic position, Brindisi has been ruled by various empires and kingdoms, including the Ostrogoths, Lombards, and the Kings of Sicily. During World War II, the city even served as the temporary capital of Italy, hosting King Victor Emmanuel III. Today, Brindisi remains an important city on the eastern coast, with its varied economy making it one of the prime cities in the Apulia region.
As a tourist destination, Brindisi benefits from its coastal location, boasting a fantastic port and harbor. The city features notable structures like the beautiful Castello Alfonsino and the Chiesa di Santa Maria del Casale. For those more inclined towards relaxation, Brindisi offers excellent beaches such as Lido Azzurro. Additionally, the city is close to several other fantastic locations like Lecce and Mesagne, perfect for day trips.
View our Brindisi GuideLecce
If Lecce, the provincial capital, were not so remotely located at the heel of Italy, its wealth of Baroque architecture would likely make it one of the country’s most visited cities. The architects here benefited greatly from the local golden yellow limestone, which is butter-soft and easy to carve. This allowed for the creation of astonishingly intricate and detailed embellishments on churches and palaces.
Throughout the city, you can look up to see delicate figures—angels, human faces, animals, plants, and fanciful curlicues—adorning balconies, doorways, windows, and column capitals.
Lecce, more than 2,000 years old, was founded by the Messapii people from the eastern Adriatic. In addition to its own tourist attractions, Lecce serves as an excellent base for exploring this fascinating and lesser-known region. Plan your visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Lecce.
View our Lecce Guide
Bari
Although it is a leading commercial and industrial center, the bustling port city of Bari offers plenty to charm tourists who pass through on their way to Greece or ports on the eastern Adriatic. Bari serves as the gateway to Puglia’s whitewashed towns, stunning beaches, and unspoiled countryside. This charming, albeit sometimes gritty, city is well worth a visit. The atmospheric old town (Bari Vecchia) is brimming with medieval buildings and churches, offering a glimpse into both traditional and modern Italian life.
Bari is a city full of character, charm, and personality. Corso Vittorio Emanuele II divides the old and new sections of the city. While most attractions are located in old Bari, the new city hosts transport hubs and shopping precincts. Additionally, Bari boasts a magnificent promenade – one of the longest in Europe – perfect for enjoying the Italian tradition of passeggiata, a leisurely evening stroll to socialize and be seen.
Today, Bari presents itself as almost two distinct towns. The picturesque old quarter, with its historic attractions, is crowded into a maze of narrow streets at the end of a peninsula. In contrast, the new town features broad avenues and spacious layouts, stretching to the south. The busy Corso Vittorio Emanuele II serves as the dividing line between the old and new parts of the city. Around Bari, visitors can find several Adriatic beaches that are less crowded and commercialized compared to those farther north, around Rimini, offering a more relaxed coastal experience.
View our Bari Guide
Matera
Visiting Matera, Italy, is like stepping back in time to a city where history and culture are carved into the very stone. Known for its ancient cave dwellings, or “Sassi,” Matera offers a unique glimpse into the past, with structures dating back thousands of years. As you wander through the labyrinthine streets, you’ll encounter rock-hewn churches, some adorned with centuries-old frescoes, and homes built into the rugged landscape. The city’s distinctive architecture, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a testament to human ingenuity and resilience. Matera’s charm lies not only in its historical significance but also in the way it has seamlessly integrated modern life with its ancient roots, offering visitors a blend of past and present that is truly captivating.
Beyond its historical allure, Matera is a city alive with culture, gastronomy, and stunning landscapes. The city’s unique setting, perched on the edge of a ravine, offers breathtaking views, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the golden light bathes the stone buildings in a warm glow. Visitors can explore local markets, dine in cave restaurants, and experience the vibrant arts scene that has flourished here in recent years. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of a city like no other, Matera offers a richly rewarding experience that leaves a lasting impression.
View our Matera GuideHistory of Puglia
Prehistoric Times in Puglia
Puglia’s history dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human activity found in caves such as the Grotta della Poesia and the Grotta di San Giovanni. The region’s early inhabitants, including the Daunians, Messapians, and Peucetians, left behind significant archaeological remains. During the Neolithic period, settlements began to appear, with people utilizing the fertile lands for agriculture. The Bronze Age saw the construction of the dolmens and menhirs, which are still visible today in various parts of the region. These structures reflect the region’s spiritual and ritualistic practices.
Puglia in the Greek and Roman Periods
During the 8th century BCE, Greek colonists arrived in Puglia, founding several cities along the coast, including Taranto, Brindisi, and Otranto. The Greeks brought their culture, art, and architecture, significantly influencing the local societies. Puglia was part of the Great Greece during the classical period, with Taranto becoming one of the most important Greek colonies in Italy. In the 3rd century BCE, the Romans conquered Puglia, integrating it into their vast empire. Puglia became an essential agricultural and trade hub, particularly for olive oil and wine. The region’s infrastructure, including roads, aqueducts, and villas, flourished during Roman rule.
Puglia in the Medieval Period
Following the fall of the Roman Empire, Puglia went through several invasions and shifts in control. The region was a key area during the Byzantine and Ostrogothic periods. In the 11th century, the Normans conquered Puglia, and the region became part of their kingdom. Under Norman rule, the Swabians (led by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II) further developed the region, particularly with the construction of magnificent castles such as Castel del Monte. The Angevins and Aragonese later controlled Puglia, leaving a significant mark on the architecture and administration of the area.
Puglia in the Early Modern Period
In the early modern period, Puglia came under the control of the Spanish crown as part of the Kingdom of Naples. During the 16th century, the region faced frequent pirate raids, and the Spanish began to fortify coastal towns like Otranto and Brindisi. Puglia also played a key role in agricultural production, especially olive oil and grain. However, it remained politically and economically subordinate to the central authority in Naples. The population suffered from high taxes and periodic famines, which led to tensions and revolts throughout the region.
Puglia in the 19th Century
The 19th century marked significant changes in Puglia, especially following the Napoleonic Wars and the eventual unification of Italy. The region became part of the newly formed Kingdom of Italy in the mid-19th century, but it faced challenges including poverty, emigration, and agrarian reform. Many Puglian peasants migrated to the United States and other parts of Europe in search of better opportunities. The brigantaggio (banditry) movement also emerged in the region, as local farmers and outlaws resisted central government control and sought autonomy.
Puglia in the 20th Century
In the 20th century, Puglia experienced both hardship and growth. The region’s agricultural economy, based on olive cultivation and winemaking, remained crucial, though industrialization lagged behind other parts of Italy. After World War II, Puglia began to modernize its infrastructure, though it still faced economic challenges. The Fascist period under Mussolini saw efforts to improve the region’s agricultural production, but it wasn’t until the post-war period that significant industrial and infrastructural development began. Tourism, especially in coastal areas like the Gargano and Salento, also grew during the latter half of the century, as the region became known for its stunning beaches and historical sites.
Contemporary Puglia
Today, Puglia is a region that blends ancient traditions with modern development. Known for its charming towns such as Lecce, Alberobello, and Bari, the region attracts visitors with its picturesque landscapes, including the Trulli houses of Alberobello and the beautiful coastlines of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Agriculture remains vital, especially olive oil production, while tourism continues to be an essential part of the local economy. Puglia’s rich cultural heritage, including its diverse architectural styles, historical sites, and traditional festivals, makes it a vibrant and unique region of Italy.
Best Time to Visit Puglia
Visiting Puglia in Spring
Spring (March to May) in Puglia is a wonderful time to visit, with temperatures gradually warming. In March, daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 14°C, while nights can be cool, around 4°C to 7°C. By May, the days become more comfortable, with highs ranging from 18°C to 22°C, and nighttime temperatures averaging 9°C to 12°C. Spring is ideal for outdoor activities like exploring the towns of Alberobello, Ostuni, and the Gargano National Park, as the weather is mild, and the landscapes are lush and blooming.
Visiting Puglia in Summer
Summer (June to August) in Puglia is hot and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 26°C to 32°C, sometimes reaching 35°C during heatwaves. Nights remain warm, with temperatures between 20°C and 24°C. The coastal areas, such as Gallipoli and Otranto, benefit from sea breezes, making it more comfortable. However, inland areas, like Taranto and Bari, can experience high humidity and heat. Summer is perfect for beach lovers and those wanting to experience the lively atmosphere of coastal towns, but it’s important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Visiting Puglia in Autumn
Autumn (September to November) offers mild and pleasant temperatures, making it a great time to explore Puglia. September still enjoys summer-like temperatures, with daytime highs of 22°C to 26°C, but by November, the temperatures drop to 12°C to 16°C. Nights are cool, ranging from 6°C to 10°C in November. Autumn is ideal for those seeking a quieter experience, with fewer tourists and vibrant autumn foliage in the countryside. It’s also a good time for food lovers, as harvest festivals and local markets begin to showcase seasonal produce like grapes, olives, and figs.
Visiting Puglia in Winter
Winter (December to February) in Puglia is mild compared to much of Europe, but it can be chilly, especially inland. Daytime temperatures typically range from 8°C to 12°C, while nighttime lows can drop to 2°C to 4°C. The coastal areas are slightly warmer, but occasional cold fronts can bring rain and wind. Snow is rare, but it can occur in higher altitudes like Monte Gargano. Winter is the least crowded time of year, offering a peaceful visit to historical sites like Matera and Lecce, and the chance to experience local culture without the summer crowds.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 13°C 58°F
- February 14°C 61°F
- March 15°C 63°F
- April 20°C 71°F
- May 23°C 77°F
- June 29°C 88°F
- July 29°C 93°F
- August 30°C 90°F
- September 27°C 84°F
- October 22°C 75°F
- November 17°C 67°F
- December 14°C 61°F
How to get to Puglia
Getting to Puglia by Air
Puglia is served by several airports, providing both domestic and international connections. The main international airport in Puglia is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), located just 8 km from the city of Bari. It is the largest airport in the region and offers direct flights to and from major European cities. Another important airport is Brindisi Airport (BDS), which serves the southern part of the region and is approximately 6 km from the town of Brindisi. It provides domestic flights as well as seasonal flights to various European destinations. For travelers heading to Lecce, Taranto, or the Salento region, Brindisi Airport is the most convenient option.
Getting to Puglia by Train
The train system in Puglia is well-connected to other parts of Italy. Bari is the main railway hub, with frequent trains from Rome, Naples, and Lecce. Bari Centrale is the primary train station and offers connections to various towns in the region. From Bari, you can travel by train to other towns in Puglia, such as Alberobello, Ostuni, and Brindisi. The train ride from Rome to Bari takes about 4 to 5 hours, while travel from Naples to Bari is around 3 to 4 hours.
Getting to Puglia by Bus
Buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel around Puglia, with Busitalia and FlixBus operating extensive services in the region. Bari and Brindisi serve as major bus hubs with connections to cities like Naples, Rome, and Lecce. Travel by bus offers a more economical alternative to trains, with buses running regularly throughout the day and night. The Bari Bus Station and Brindisi Bus Station are well-connected to local transportation systems, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas.
Getting to Puglia by Car
Driving is one of the best ways to explore the Puglia region at your own pace. Bari, Brindisi, and Lecce are all easily accessible by car from Rome via the A14 and A16 highways, with the journey from Rome to Bari taking around 4 hours by car. The SS16 and SS379 roads also provide access to other towns such as Alberobello, Ostuni, and Monopoli. Renting a car in Puglia gives you the freedom to visit smaller towns and explore the scenic countryside, picturesque coastlines, and historical sites.
Festivals in Puglia
Bari International Film Festival
When: February-March
Where: Bari
An international film festival showcasing national and international films, accompanied by cultural initiatives throughout the week.
More info: https://www.bifilmfestival.com/
Festival del Cinema Europeo
When: April
Where: Lecce
A week-long event featuring European films, culminating in the awarding of the “Ulivo d’oro” to distinguished filmmakers.
More info: https://www.festivaldelcinemaeuropeo.com/
Festival della Valle d’Itria
When: July-August
Where: Martina Franca
A renowned opera festival presenting rare and rediscovered operatic works over a three-week period.
More info: https://www.festivaldellavalleditria.it/
Carpino Folk Festival
When: August
Where: Carpino
Celebrates traditional folk music with performances that honor the legacy of Andrea Sacco and the Cantori di Carpino.
More info: https://www.carpinofolkfestival.it/
La Notte della Taranta
When: August
Where: Melpignano
A festival dedicated to the traditional music and dance of the Salento region, featuring performances that blend traditional and contemporary styles.
More info: https://www.lanottedellataranta.it/
Fiera del Levante
When: September
Where: Bari
A significant trade fair attracting exhibitors and visitors from around the Mediterranean, promoting cultural and commercial exchange.
More info: https://www.fieradellevante.it/
Fiera d’Aprile
When: April
Where: Andria
A historical fair celebrating the discovery of Saint Riccardo’s relics, featuring various exhibitions and cultural events.
More info: https://www.comune.andria.bt.it/
Notte della Taranta
When: August
Where: Various towns in the Grecìa Salentina
A music festival celebrating traditional Salentine music, culminating in a final concert in Melpignano.
More info: https://www.lanottedellataranta.it/
Fiera di San Giorgio
When: April
Where: Gravina in Puglia
An annual fair featuring exhibitions of agriculture, crafts, and local products, celebrating Saint George.
More info: https://www.comune.gravina.ba.it/
Fiera di San Cosimo
When: May
Where: Oria
A traditional fair held in honor of Saint Cosimo, featuring agricultural exhibitions and local crafts.
More info: https://www.comune.oria.br.it/
Fiera dei Santi Medici
When: October
Where: Bitonto
A significant fair honoring Saints Cosma and Damiano, with various exhibitions and cultural activities.
More info: https://www.comune.bitonto.ba.it/
Fiera di Sava
When: August
Where: Sava
A fair showcasing local agriculture, crafts, and commerce, reflecting the town’s traditions.
More info: https://www.comune.sava.ta.it/
Fiera di San Pasquale
When: May
Where: Lizzano
A traditional fair featuring exhibitions of local crafts, agriculture, and gastronomic delights.
More info: https://www.comune.lizzano.ta.it/
Fiera di San Leone
When: April
Where: Bitonto
A historic fair dating back to the XI century, offering a variety of exhibitions and cultural events.
More info: https://www.comune.bitonto.ba.it/
Fiera di San Giovanni
When: June
Where: Gravina in Puglia
An annual fair celebrating Saint John, featuring agricultural exhibitions and local crafts.
More info: https://www.comune.gravina.ba.it/
Fiera di San Martino
When: November
Where: Martina Franca
A fair celebrating Saint Martin, with exhibitions of local products, crafts, and cultural events.
More info: https://www.comune.martinafranca.ta.it/
Fiera di San Quirico e Giulitta
When: July
Where: Cisternino
A traditional fair featuring processions, local foods, music, and dance, culminating in fireworks.
More info: https://www.comune.cisternino.br.it/
Fiera di San Giovanni Battista
When: June
Where: Putignano
A celebration with music and tradition on one of the most magical summer nights in Puglia.
More info: https://www.comune.putignano.ba.it/
Fiera di San Pietro e Paolo
When: June
Where: Otranto
A festival inviting visitors to enjoy local food and experience the vibrant folklore of Salento.
More info: https://www.comune.otranto.le.it/
Fiera di San Domenico di Guzman
When: August
Where: Cavallino
A classic Italian patron saint festival featuring magical lights, street food, and live music.
More info: https://www.comune.cavallino.le.it/
Fiera della Madonna dell’Assunta
When: August
Where: Trepuzzi
A patron saint festival with magical lights, street food, and live music.
More info: https://www.comune.trepuzzi.le.it/
Mostra della Ceramica
When: August
Where: Cutrofiano
A festival showcasing large displays of pottery and ceramics, along with artisan markets, street food, music, and dancing.
More info: https://www.comune.cutrofiano.le.it/
Fiera di San Nicola
When: May-June
Where: Molfetta
A fair celebrating Saint Nicholas, featuring exhibitions, cultural events, and traditional festivities.