Why Visit Puglia

Tucked away in southern Italy, Puglia offers everything a UK traveller might seek: a slower pace of life, Mediterranean charm, warm hospitality, stunning coastlines, and exceptional cuisine. Whether you’re a couple looking for romance, a family with kids, or a solo explorer, this region — often overshadowed by Tuscany or Amalfi — delivers authenticity and beauty in equal measure.

Day 1: arrival in Brindisi & Lecce exploration

Most UK visitors land at Brindisi Airport (BDS), serviced by direct flights from major cities like London and Manchester. Upon arrival, rent a car — essential for this journey — and drive 30 minutes to Lecce. Check into a charming boutique hotel or a historic palazzo in the old town.

Start with a relaxed walking tour: marvel at the ornate baroque façades of Basilica di Santa Croce, visit the ancient Roman amphitheatre, and soak in the lively buzz of Piazza del Duomo. In the evening, enjoy a traditional meal of orecchiette pasta with turnip tops, paired with a local Primitivo wine.

Did you know? Lecce stone is so soft it’s often called “the marble of the South” and was carved into the city’s famous facades.

Day 2: Lecce to Otranto – Baroque to coastline

After a slow breakfast, head east towards the Adriatic coast. Otranto, a fortified seaside town, awaits. On the way, stop at Acaya Castle for a quick detour into medieval Puglia.

In Otranto, walk the promenade, visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata with its 12th-century mosaic floor, and climb the city walls for stunning sea views. Spend the afternoon at Baia dei Turchi, one of the region’s most beloved beaches.

Optional: Book a boat tour to explore hidden grottos and coastal cliffs.

Day 3: Beaches of Salento – Relaxation & local cuisine

Dedicate this day to beach-hopping along the Ionian coast, known for its Caribbean-like waters. Visit Porto Cesareo, Torre Lapillo and Punta Prosciutto — ideal for families and sunseekers.

Stop for lunch at a seaside restaurant: try grilled seafood, fritto misto, or linguine alle vongole, paired with chilled rosé. After lunch, enjoy a siesta and then take a sunset stroll along the marina.

Pro tip: Reserve beach loungers in advance during July and August.

Day 4: Gallipoli – Island charm and sunset views

Gallipoli (“beautiful city” in Greek) is a walled island town connected to the mainland by a bridge. Wander its narrow cobbled alleys, visit the fish market, and tour the Angevin-Aragonese castle.

Lunch suggestion: try scapece, a traditional fried fish marinated in vinegar and saffron. Then spend your afternoon at Purità Beach, just beneath the city walls. Gallipoli is especially magical at sunset — enjoy dinner on a rooftop as the sky glows over the Ionian Sea.

Day 5: Ostuni & Itria Valley – Whitewashed wonder

Drive north to Ostuni, the “White City”, famed for its whitewashed houses, alleyways and hilltop cathedral. Take time to explore the views over the olive groves and coastline.

Continue into the Itria Valley, stopping in charming towns like Ceglie Messapica, Cisternino, or Martina Franca. Spend the night in a masseria — a traditional farmhouse turned luxury accommodation — and dine on homemade focaccia, local cheeses and garden-fresh vegetables.

Day 6: Alberobello, Locorotondo the trulli magic

No visit to Puglia is complete without Alberobello, the UNESCO-listed town of trulli — cone-roofed white stone houses. Explore the Rione Monti district, visit the Trullo Church of St. Anthony, and capture stunning photographs of this iconic setting.

In the afternoon, continue to Locorotondo, a peaceful hilltop town known for its white wine and panoramic views. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local cantina before heading back to your masseria for a quiet evening under the stars.

Day 7: Polignano a Mare & departure

On your final day, take the coastal road to Polignano a Mare, a cliffside town famous for its dramatic scenery and Lama Monachile beach. Sip a gelato from “Mario Campanella”, then walk down to the beach under the ancient bridge.

End your trip with a seaside lunch at Grotta Palazzese (a cave-restaurant) or a more casual spot overlooking the cliffs. Then return to Brindisi to drop off your car and catch your flight — heart full, camera full, and ready to plan your next visit.

Travel tips for UK visitors

• Driving: Essential for reaching rural towns and beaches. Avoid ZTL zones in historic centres.
• Timing: Visit in May–June or September for great weather and fewer crowds.
• Language: English is spoken in tourist spots, but basic Italian phrases go a long way.
• Currency: Euro (€) — bring some cash for small shops and beach vendors.
• Connectivity: Buy a local SIM or use UK roaming if still covered.

A journey through authentic Italy

This 7-day itinerary through Puglia offers the perfect balance between culture, coastline and cuisine. From Lecce’s baroque marvels to the crystalline beaches of Salento, and the whitewashed towns of the Itria Valley, it captures the heart of southern Italy.

Whether it’s your first time in Italy or you’ve visited many times before, Puglia’s charm feels fresh, raw, and deeply real. This isn’t just a holiday — it’s a cultural experience you’ll want to repeat.