Puglia ranks first in the ranking of famous places in Italy. Puglia has it all in great abundance that every Italophile craves. From beautiful heavy towns with a tangible and magnificent past and dream-like and extravagant churches by the finest architects of Europe to the footprints of an endless procession of culture and conquerors that are stamped in stone, marble and gold, olive-green seas, and the super delicious Italian food.
The charm of Puglia attracts so many tourists and the hospitality of Puglia is one of the main reasons that attract tourists here. Puglia, in recent years, has become a new hotspot in Italy. It is a perfect place that offers a unique experience and fills you with a bucket of memories that lasts for a lifetime. Let’s explore Puglia a little more!
THINGS TO DO IN PUGLIA
Pay a visit to the capital of Puglia, Bari
Known for the Basilica San Nicola, a significant Catholic Pilgrimage, Bari is the largest city near Puglia. It is in the old town center, which possesses several small streets with narrow passages. Also, do not forget to stop here for a pleasing cup of espresso in one cafe on Piazza Mercantile. you can pay a visit to Bari Cathedral, a Romanesque church with gorgeous architecture, and Castello Normanno-Svevo, a castle from the 13th century.
You can also take a stroll along the promenade by the sea and try the local pasta, ricochetted. Also, you can relax at the large, pubic sandy beach, Pane e Pomodoro. Here, you can also visit Castel del Monte, the castle with impressive architecture and that too perched on the top of a hill. The castle possesses the shape of an octagon and its surroundings are known for their vineyards and excellent wines. Other than these particular spots, there is a lot to witness in Bari and it is definitely fun to explore Bari.
Unveil the natural beauty of the Gargano Peninsula
How can you miss Gargano in Puglia? It is a hilly and wooded peninsula region of Puglia on the coastline of the Adriatic Sea. The region features sandy beaches, lush forests, and bright sea caves. If you are a lover of nature, then here you can visit Forest UmbreXa and Gargano National Park. Here you can get a map and just stroll along so many hiking trails. Do stop by the shores of the small town of Vieste to witness the spectacular view of the sea.
From here, you can also go for a road trip to the Tremiti islands and go for scuba diving or swimming and other water sports there. Also, here you can go to the Sanctuary of Monte Sant Angelo which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is in the charming town of the same name in the hills.
Explore Valle Dítria’s Pretty towns
This area known for its vineyards and olive groves in the Puglia region, deserves a visit and this can be found in Valley Dítrua or Itria Valley in Puglia. The top Italian quality olives are got from here only. The landmark of Itria Valley is Alberobello. It is a fairytale-like town that has whitewashed Trulli houses with specific rooftops in a cone shape. Here, you can take a stroll in this pleasant town and can buy some perfect and creative handmade souvenirs or local wines.
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In Martina France, here in the region, you can witness some exemplary architecture of Baroque. Ducale, in the center of the city is Piazza Roma and today t serves as the city’s town hall and museum. There held a great opera festival every year that makes Martica Franca a musical world.
Explore the white city of Puglia, Ostuni
Puglia has a unique white city, Ostuni is a must-visit. It has recognizable white streets and buildings and is also known for its Romanesque and Baroque architecture. This picturesque city of Puglia has so many amazing sights to behold. Also, this town is dominated by the gothic cathedral, Ostuni. Also, you can pay a visit to another popular tourist to pay a visit is Cisterino, a pretty old town, halfway between Ostuni and Lorocotondo.
Road trip to Salento Peninsula
Go for a road trip to the southernmost part of the Puglia region. Its shores are surrounded by two seas: the Ionian Sea in the west and Adriatic in the east. The place has a strong connection to Greek heritage. Here, besides a specific dialect, one can also admire so many beautiful places that have great experience of strong cultural influence from Greece, like Corigliano d’Otranto or Calimera.
While this road trip does witness the city of Lecce, one of the most beautiful cities in Southern Italy. Baroque in the 17th century marked the beginning of the construction of some beautiful palaces and Lecce often reminds visitors to Florence. As you walk through the old town, you will feel delighted by the Basilica di Santa Santa Corce. The construction of this site lasted for 200 years. The elegant beauty of this place is captivating.
