Top 5 Puglia Itineraries: Exploring the Best Beaches and Beyond
Puglia is a destination that’s almost a continent in itself, overflowing with diverse attractions. Whether you’re planning your 2022 Puglia holidays or still deciding where to stay and what to do, this guide outlines five curated Puglia itineraries that blend beautiful beaches, stunning nature, charming towns, and vibrant art cities into the ultimate travel experience.
1) Gargano: Where Nature Meets the Sea
For a short yet comprehensive 3-day tour featured in our Puglia Itineraries, the Gargano area offers breathtaking natural landscapes, including the Umbra Forest and dramatic sea cliffs. Explore the picturesque towns of Vieste and Peschici, perfect for trekking, mountain biking, canoeing, and snorkeling. Gargano is also ideal for family explorations, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation. Start your journey at Monte Sant’Angelo, visiting the ancient sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo, and enjoy panoramic views over the Gulf of Manfredonia from this mountainous pinnacle.
Access: The nearest airport is in Bari, approximately 2.5 hours away. Alternatively, travel by train to Foggia and rent a car or arrange a private transfer.
Highlights:
- Explore Monte Sant’Angelo and its historical sanctuary.
- Enjoy outdoor activities in Vieste, from sunset tours to jeep adventures through the Umbra Forest.
- Don’t miss a ferry trip to the stunning Tremiti Islands.
2) Puglia itineraries: Murgia and the Sea
Descending from Gargano as part of your Puglia Itineraries, visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Siponto, where past and present merge beautifully. Drive past Europe’s largest saltworks on your way to the iconic Castel del Monte, enjoying views of mountainous salt piles and pink flamingos. Andria, nearby, offers culinary delights such as burrata cheese and extra virgin olive oil.
Stay: Consider budget-friendly vacation homes in Margherita di Savoia.
Highlights:
- Marvel at the modern art installation by Edoardo Tresoldi in Siponto.
- Sample local gastronomy in Andria.
- Explore old Bari’s charming streets, the Basilica of San Nicola, and nearby coastal towns of Polignano and Monopoli.
3) Trulli, Masserie, and Ancient Olive Groves
This route, highlighted in our Puglia Itineraries, might begin in a traditional trullo in Alberobello or a historic masseria (farmhouse). Consider staying in Ostuni for a range of accommodations. Visit the iconic trulli of Alberobello, akin to skipping the Eiffel Tower when in Paris. Enjoy a wine tasting in Locorotondo or Cisternino and explore Ostuni’s whitewashed streets.
Highlights:
- Stay in a unique trullo or luxurious masseria.
- Visit Matera nearby to see the famous Sassi.
- Experience the elegant town of Martina Franca.
4) From Primitivo Lands to Baroque Lecce
Base yourself in the evolving city of Taranto, once a major Greek metropolis. Visit the MAR Ta museum and stroll through the old town. In Grottaglie, explore the famous ceramics district and the typical Pumo sculptures. Wine lovers should not miss a visit to Manduria, known for its Primitivo wine.
Highlights:
- Explore the ceramic workshops of Grottaglie.
- Taste Primitivo wine in Manduria.
- End your journey in Lecce, enjoying its baroque architecture and sampling pasticciotto pastry.
5) Salento: Sun, Sea, and Beyond
Consider basing in Marina di Ugento, a highlight in our Puglia Itineraries, with options ranging from all-inclusive resorts to charming inland masserie. Discover fine sandy beaches and clear waters, from the popular Maldive del Salento to the tranquil Santa Maria di Leuca.
Highlights:
- Swim and sunbathe along both the Ionian and Adriatic coasts.
- Visit charming towns like Otranto and the secluded beaches of Porto Badisco and Castro Marina.
- Experience the local life in the quaint village of Ruffano.
Customize Your Journey Whether you prefer a 7-day car tour, a 10-day comprehensive experience, or something shorter, our expertise as tour operators specializing in Puglia allows us to design personalized holidays that cater to your specific interests and needs. Contact us to craft your unforgettable Puglia itinerary or for more information on visiting this diverse and beautiful region.
For more intriguing details and insights about Puglia, be sure to visit our blog articles.
