Things to do & places to visit in Puglia, Italy

A patchwork of vineyards and olive groves, dotted with whitewashed hill towns and sun-bronzed beaches—Italy’s southern heel has no shortage of photogenic landscapes. There are a few surprises, too, including the baroque city of Lecce and the Itria Valley, with its UNESCO-listed trulli houses.

Puglia #9 destination in Italy 2023. The average rating score is 4.46 based on 174.7k traveler reviews, of 226 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Rome, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 14:47.

Top things to do (30)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Castello Aragonese (3.130 reviews)
- Interesting place
Monday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 AM Spent < 1 hour Castles

Masterpiece of the Italian renaissance military architecture that shows important remains of almost three thousand years of history. Free guided tours every day at : 0900 - 01:00 See more..
5.0 Cattedrale di Trani (2.918 reviews)
- What A gem
Monday: 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Churches & Cathedrals

A Roman Catholic cathedral dedicated to Saint Nicolas the Pilgrim is a gem a definitely must to see if in Trani and around. Despite the interior is simple it looks impressive. The crypt is also impressive, space with graceful arches, columns decorated with Romanesque capitals housing the saint's relics, and that of St. Mary. The bell tower is stunning , unfortunately I did not have chance to climb up to this 59 m tower for nice view. Close to the cathedral there is paid parking, which is convenient as in the vicinity of the cathedral there ar castle and the small fishing harbor with the fishermen market. See more..
5.0 Santuario di San Michele Arcangelo (1.903 reviews)
- Holy place
Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Religious Sites

This sanctuary pulsing with tourists, is the prime place which is visited. So no matter which time you visit it will be crowded. But late afternoon can be the best time. It is said that St. Michael have left a footprint in stone inside the grotto. After the entrance you will walk down the stairs to grotto. Before you enter the grotto pay attention to silver and bronze doors cast in Constantinople in 1076. You can not see the footprints they are covered by the statue of archangel. Unfortunately not many info given on info panels about the sanctuary. The entrance free, only fee for the museum. In high season open from 7:00-20:00 (19:30 weekdays) off season 7:00-13:00 / 14:30-19:00 (17:00 weekdays). See more..
5.0 Leuca Explorer (1.608 reviews)
- Amazing experience in almost private tour
Monday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Scuba & Snorkelling • Boat Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Boat Rentals • Private Tours

An amazing experience. We got lucky and managed to visit several beautiful grottas. Mr Mino is friendly and tries to do his best. Lack of English isn't a barrier, and he went an extra mile literally and figuratively and made the experience one of the most remarkable of our vacation. See more..
5.0 Leucos Escursioni (1.346 reviews)
- Mussels, Sunset, Acoustic Guitar & Lovers Cave
Monday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Scuba & Snorkelling • Historical & Heritage Tours • Boat Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Boat Rentals

Valentino was the coolest guide. He gave a unique tour of the caves of the Adriatic Sea and took my husband and I to the lovers caves at the end of our tour to watch the sunset. We swam through the caves and came back aboard to find him catching fresh sea urchin for us to enjoy with some local rosé. Then he brought out a grill and starting cooking up some fresh local mussels with tomatoes and white wine! It was perfectly seasoned and the most delicious mussels we’ve ever had. He played his guitar to some music from the radio as we watched and sailed to the sunset. It was really a dream come true and a memorable moment that will last forever in our minds. Grazie Mille for this experience, Valentino! Elisa & Maël See more..
5.0 Circolo Ippico Malepezza (1.332 reviews)
- Nice and safe horse experience
Monday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours • Horseback Riding Tours

Nice trip, very well organized and lovely people. Very safe as well because they also use a small car and flags to make other people aware of the fact that sometimes the horses must walk on the street. But these are just small parts of the trail. Mostly it’s through the campsite and lovely cliffs of Sant Andrea. In my opinion the horses also seem healthy which is always important to me. See more..
4.5 I Trulli di Alberobello - World Heritage Site (9.681 reviews) from $2.68
- A day in Alberobello
Spent 2-3 hours Architectural Buildings

A collection of 1,400 beehive buildings built and lived in by peasants. See more..
4.5 Centro Storico, Lecce (5.717 reviews)
- Worth visiting
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Came here today on a day trip from Bari 20€return on train and about 1 hr 45 mins each way. Possibly it being a Monday, mid October or a combination of both, some restaurants and shops were closed, and it wasn't busy at all. Some lovely buildings to see. In the Piazza Duomo you can buy a 9€ ticket to see the Museum of Sacred Art (which didn't excite me) and 5 mJor churches. This Piazza is lovely. Has the bell tower but they wanr 12€ to go up it. The Roman Ampitheatre is also impressive See more..
4.5 Grotte di Castellana (4.935 reviews)
- Beautiful cave system, poor organization
Spent 2-3 hours Caverns & Caves

The cave itself deserves 5 stars but the organization of this place is not the best. They opened the register to buy tickets only 15 min before the tour resulting in the tour being late. The groups are huge and you can't really enjoy the place as you should beacuse of the big groups especially at the end where the most beautiful part is. You literally get 60 seconds to view Grotta Bianca and then you have to move along because the groups are so big. Can't even imagine what it's like during the peak season. There's a shorther (1km) and a longer tour (3km). We chose the longer one and we're glad we did because the further in you go the more beautiful it gets. The most beautiful part is at the very end of the tour called Grotta Bianca or the White cave. Photo's are only allowed in the first room. See more..
4.5 Basilica San Nicola (4.478 reviews)
- Awesome Interior.
Monday: 7:00 AM - 8:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas was built in the end of the 11th century Saint Nicholas and is an example of the Romanesque architecture in thios part of Italy, but also has Byzantine influences The church has a rectangular ground plan, with a crypt in the basement that contains the grave of Saint Nicholas. The interior is awesome, especially the gold blade ceiling with paintings. Admission is free, although a (small) donation will always be appreciated. See more..
4.5 Centro Storico di Polignano a Mare (4.254 reviews)
- Amazing day trip
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Not far from Bari you can find this amazing places “spoilt” by tourists. It will be hard to avoid them however this should not put you off. Despite drizzling I have still relaxed stay. It is nice to walk cobbled narrow streets, walk around cliffs with stunning viewing points and of course visit the iconic stone beach Lama Monachile and have a meal in restaurant, preferably as far as possible from the center. See more..
4.5 Centro Storico Otranto (4.126 reviews)
- great place to be
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Walking Areas

Great place to walk around seeing shops, restaurants, bars and a beautiful castle. Walking areas along the water at night is wonderful.. Highly suggest strolling around city center at night... See more..
4.5 Castel del Monte (3.525 reviews)
- You need a car or a guide to take you there, but it's worth it!
Historic Sites • Castles

Castel del Monte still sits in a remote area of Puglia, accessible by vehicle only. Although the outside is perfectly preserved, the interior has been stripped bare years ago and the rooms are basically hollowed out. A good guide will help you reimagine the castle and bring light into a darkened world. This was not a military building, but rather a pleasure palace for the king's enjoyment. The castle sits high on a hill and is easily visible for miles around. Park in the parking lot and walk up a small incline into the castle itself. You will love it. The site has a few amenities, a coffee shop, bathrooms, and some people selling snacks, but generally it is commerical free. See more..
4.5 Peschici centro storico (2.682 reviews)
- Small old city
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

At the beginning of October it was nice to walk the small historic part of Peschici when many tourist has gone and the city slows down. At that time also many tourist shops and also restaurants close and you can stroll the cobbled street with white-washed houses in more relaxed manner. If you do not come by car it is easy to find free parking within 5 minutes walk from the old. See more..
4.5 Duomo di Lecce (2.631 reviews)
- Do This As Part of the LeccEcclesiae Pass
Churches & Cathedrals

My wife and I wanted to visit the Duomo, Santa Croce and some other churches in Lecce and found that some had an admission fee. At the tourist info centers (the ones with the big “I”) we found they were selling a “LeccEcclesie” pass that, for €9, included entry into the Duomo e Cripta, Basilica di Santa Croce, Chiesa di Santa Chiara, Chiesa di San Matteo, Museo d/Arte Sacra and Chiostro Antico Seminario. If you’ve been to European churches you know how fabulous they can be and these were not disappointing. The sacred art was amazing and most of the artifacts had a QR code you could use to get more information on-the-spot. I would definitely buy this ticket; no need to get it on-line, just buy in person. It is valid for one visit per site but you can take up to two weeks to use it if you are in the area for a while. See more..
4.5 Centro Storico di Gallipoli (2.482 reviews)
- Great place off season.
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Come visit here around September -October the weather is perfect and it is NOT crowded no matter how many stars we give :) It is great to see the beaches in the morning and then sunset . But certainly come for dinner around 7:00 pm everything opens up, stores , restaurants . So I recommend look for restaurants off the water after 7:00 PM (19:00) . But if go and check out the scenery around sunset :) See more..
4.5 Cattedrale di Otranto (2.369 reviews)
- The Tree of Life
Monday: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

This church has a very impressive ceiling but it is the floor that demands your attention. It is a huge 12th century mosaic of the tree of life. Nearly every animal or bird that could be thought of is represented. It would be great if one could fly below the ceiling and view it all at once. In reality it was roped off to prevent footsteps and much was covered with pews. This is a must see for anyone who loves mosaics. See more..
4.5 Basilica di Santa Croce (2.327 reviews)
- Breathtaking
Monday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

The basilica is one of the true gems of Baroque architecture. The facade, newly restored, absolutely dazzles in the sunlight. You need to study the intricate details on the facade and examine the work artists did in creating this masterpiece. The interior does not disappoint. It too is a Baroque masterpiece, The churches in Lecce are open all day long, but they come with fees. Check out a joint fee for the cathedral and the basilica. See more..
4.5 Grotta della Poesia (2.326 reviews)
- Grotta Della Poesia <3
Caverns & Caves

Small Area & Parking is hard to find but well worth the troubles to either jump or swim into a grotta. Water is Aqua blue in the cave, just a breath taking experience. I recommend that if go you do get a good pair of swim shows with a grip cause the algae on rocks when you 1st walk in is very slippery. One other positive is that its no more than 5 minutes from the beach torre dell'Orso where the Due Sorella are which is an amazing beach. I suggest if you stay by grotta that you pack a cooler cause all food places are by the beach and none in that immediate area for quick access but alot by the beach which is 5 min drive ta 15-20 min walk from grotta. See more..
4.5 Citta Vecchia - Bari (2.194 reviews)
- Authentic
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Bari Vecchia or the old town is not a big area still one cab get easily lost in the medieval maze of cobbled streets. I enjoyed strolling the streets not only at day time but also during the night when the streets are less busy, more relaxing and with different perspective, Why not to star at Piazza del Ferrarese and walk the up the city walls, the wall end not far away from the Basilica di San Nicolas. You can have a good meal or drink, watch the locals enjoying there live. This is not just tourist part. You can really be part of the authentic live of local people. You see the children playing on streets, boys playing football, men watching football match and drinking beer, peer into households through open doors covered only by the curtains, hanging clothes or local women making the typical pasta. See more..
4.5 Spiaggia di Vignanotica (2.109 reviews)
- Awesome beach
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Beaches

Awesome beach with the mix of sand and small stones and crystal clear and turquoise sea. One of my favorite in Gargano. While lying on the beach you can enjoy fantastic view a cliffs lining the beach. I can imagine that the beach in the high season must be too crowded as even in October was a lot people. In October it was not problem to go by car down to the beach, park for free and then walk down the 250m trail to the beach. There is small bar serving light meals. See more..
4.5 Vieste Promenade (2.091 reviews)
- Wonderful walk with views
Scenic Walking Areas

This is a beautiful promenade along the coast/beach line of Viesta. Lots of photo spots as you walk. You can stop and enjoy a coffee or gelato along your way. Make sure to take a promenade at night as well, beautiful if the moon is out as well. See more..
4.5 Cava di Bauxite (1.796 reviews)
- The closes thing to Mars on Heart!
Bodies of Water

OMG guys this site is definitively worth a visit! Is a very short drive from Otranto's Port, unfortunately is not touristically promoted nor well sign posted but if you have a navigation device, you can use the following coordinates that will lead you directly on site. N: 40°7'54" E: 18°30'2" You could even take a bath in the cave. Enjoy it! See more..
4.5 Bahia Porto Cesareo (1.793 reviews)
- Long weekend with friends
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent More than 3 hours Beaches • Beach & Pool Clubs

Bahia, is an exclusive Beach Lounge Club that overlooks the beautiful beach of Torre Lapillo. You will be enveloped by magical atmospheres that Salento alone can emanate. A combination of images, aromas and flavors that will remain forever etched in your mind. Our staff always awaits you with a smile to make you spend wonderful holidays or simply for small moments of relaxation. Let yourself be pampered by all our comforts: latest generation sunbeds, suites, restaurant with zero-km products, free Wi-Fi and much more. In other words, the ideal location to regenerate forces by the crystalline Ionian sea. La Bahia has become a must. Impossible not to be fascinated. Bahia Porto Cesareo Live a summer full of emotions See more..
4.5 Centro Storico (1.755 reviews)
- White pearl
Spent More than 3 hours Historic Walking Areas

On the way to Leece I stopped in this nice city which can be called the white pearl. The historical center of the Ostuni is a labyrinth of twisting cobbled streets with whit-washed houses. The city is quite small and even out of the season, at the beginning of Octobe, was heavily visited by tourists. As the city is surrounded by olive trees all over the city you can buy the regional olive oil of the high quality. From the train station you have to walk about 3 KM up or take bus/mini-bus from the train station which match the arrivals/departures. Tickets are bought at the tobacco shops or bars (0,80€). See more..
4.5 Togo Bay Beach (1.656 reviews)
- Fantastic beach club
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent More than 3 hours Beaches • Beach & Pool Clubs

Located in the beautiful place called Salento, among sandy paths and untouched nature, Togo Bay is an oasis of emotions between the dunes and the sea to enjoy the sun and the beach in perfect relaxation. See more..
4.5 Area Marina Protetta di Torre Guaceto (1.617 reviews)
- Beautiful!
Monday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Torre Guaceto Marine Protected Area (MPA) is located in southeastern Italy (southern Adriatic Sea), it covers about 2220 ha and it was established by the Mininster of Environment with a Decree on December 4, 1991. The MPA, falling within the municipalities of Brindisi and Carovigno, has a coastaline of about 8 km from the Apani area till the littoral of Punta Penna Grossa and it extends from the shoreline to 50 m depth. The management authority of the reserve is a consortium composed by the Municipal districts of Carovigno and Brindisi and the no-profit association World Wildlife Fund (Wwf-Italy) Torre Guaceto, besides a MPA, is also a State Natural Reserve extending for about 1.200 ha, having a marine front of 8 km. It was established by the Ministry of Environment, with a Decree on February 4, 2000. Besides the reserve includes the wetland of international interest "Torre Guaceto" according to the Ramsar Convention. Within the framework of the EU programme "Natura 2000" and of the linked Italian programme "Bioitaly", the Region Apulia, according to the EU Habitat Directive 92/43 proposed Torre Guaceto as a site of Communitary Interest named "Torre Guaceto Macchia San Giovanni". Furthermore, the Region Apulia individuated the wetland of Torre Guaceto as a Zone of Special Protection (ZPS) according to the EU directive 79/409 "Birds". The Site of Communitary Interest includes a marine priority habitat for the EU, the Posidonia oceanica meadows. The Management Consortium of Torre Guaceto has approved the management plan of the Site of Communitary Interest (Dir. 92/43 EC) "Torre Guaceto Macchia San Giovanni". The document has been sent to the Ministry of Environment for its approval. Torre Guaceto MPA is divided in three zones, according to the different protection: A Zone, no-entry, no-take zone; B Zone, the General Reserve; C Zone of Partial Reserve. The coastline is characterized, along the western sector, by a series of small subrectangular coves with pocket be... See more..
4.5 Centro Storico di Monopoli (1.615 reviews)
- MONOPOLI, more than a bored game!
Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites

Whitewashed, old, historic, stunning, cosy and very charming port town. Mix of local/ tourist daily way of life here. I found the locals very helpful and friendly as its a plesure to get lost in the winding back streets of the old town. No big sights to see but this adds to the overall package of this somewhat "secret gem "of a place. Train station is very close and user friendly for folk who do not want to drive but want to visit other local towns. Ostuni is on a train route and is one of the nicest hill towns we have ever seen. Magnificent and Magic Monopoli. See more..
4.5 Porto Selvaggio (1.585 reviews)
- Love this place
Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

My favorite place in the world! We come here every year in winter, it is still warm if you have a jacket, we bring sandwiches and wine and have a picnic. Beautiful scenery and very romantic. See more..
4.5 Arcipelago Tremiti (1.302 reviews)
- Beautiful Scenery
Islands

We toured around both San Domingo and San Nicola. San Nicola is the less populated of the two islands. We walked up what seemed like hundreds of steps seeing only occasional houses or shops which were mostly shuttered because the summer season was over. We finally reached the top to see the former monastery and old church. The views from the top were wonderful. After walking down, we boarded a boat and went to San Domino. This island definitely had more population. Some of our group rode up to the restaurant but others decided to walk. We walked up a gradual incline along the road somewhere between 15-20 minutes. Unfortunately, we did not have more time to explore the islands. See more..