Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share my personalized 11-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful region of Puglia in southern Italy. Having lived in Italy for two years, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the country’s rich culture, history, and cuisine. This itinerary is designed to provide you with an authentic experience, steering clear of tourist traps and focusing on the hidden gems that locals love.
Day 1: Exploring Bari’s Old Town
Start your journey in the charming city of Bari, the capital of Puglia. Spend the day wandering through the narrow streets of Bari Vecchia, the historic old town. Visit the iconic Basilica di San Nicola, a stunning Romanesque church that houses the relics of St. Nicholas. Afterward, stroll along the Lungomare, a picturesque seafront promenade, and enjoy the local street food scene. Bari Vecchia is a great place to sample traditional Pugliese specialties like focaccia barese and panzerotti.
Day 2: Alberobello and Wine Tasting
Today, embark on a day trip to the enchanting town of Alberobello, famous for its unique trulli houses. These cone-shaped stone dwellings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a true architectural marvel. After exploring the town, visit a local winery for a wine tasting experience. Puglia is known for its excellent wines, and you’ll have the chance to sample some of the region’s finest varietals. For dinner, I recommend Osteria del Borgo Antico, a cozy restaurant serving delicious local dishes.
Day 3: Castello Svevo and Murgia National Park
Start your day in Bari by visiting the impressive Castello Svevo, a 12th-century castle with a rich history. Afterward, head to the Murgia National Park, a stunning natural area perfect for hiking and exploring. The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, as well as ancient rock churches and settlements. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Day 4: Matera and the Sassi di Matera
Today, you’ll embark on a day trip to the nearby city of Matera, famous for its ancient Sassi di Matera cave dwellings. These remarkable structures, carved into the rocky landscape, have been continuously inhabited for over 9,000 years. Explore the winding streets and visit the numerous churches and museums to learn about the unique history and culture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 5: Polignano a Mare and Grotte di Castellana
Spend a relaxing day in the picturesque coastal town of Polignano a Mare. Soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches and stroll through the charming old town. For a unique dining experience, I highly recommend Ristorante Grotta Palazzese, a restaurant built into a natural cave overlooking the Adriatic Sea. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Grotte di Castellana, a stunning underground cave system with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Day 6: Lecce, the Baroque Gem
Explore the historic center of Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South” for its stunning Baroque architecture. Wander through the narrow streets and admire the intricate carvings and decorations adorning the churches and palaces. Don’t miss the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo. For dinner, I suggest Alle Due Corti, a fantastic restaurant serving traditional Salentine cuisine.
Day 7: Gargano Peninsula and Tremiti Islands
Venture to the beautiful Gargano Peninsula, a stunning natural area known for its pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush forests. Visit the Foresta Umbra, an ancient beech forest, and take a boat tour to explore the nearby Tremiti Islands, a small archipelago with crystal-clear waters and picturesque coves.
Day 8: Cooking Class in Bari
Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Puglia by taking a cooking class in Bari. Learn how to prepare classic dishes like orecchiette pasta and focaccia barese from a local chef. Not only will you gain valuable cooking skills, but you’ll also get to enjoy the fruits of your labor for a delicious lunch or dinner.
Day 9: Monopoli and Castellana Grotte
Start your day in the charming coastal town of Monopoli, known for its picturesque harbor and historic center. Stroll along the seaside promenade and explore the narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Castellana Grotte, a vast underground cave system with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Day 10: Free Day in Bari
On your final full day in Puglia, take the opportunity to revisit your favorite spots or explore more of Bari at your leisure. You could spend more time wandering through Bari Vecchia, visit local markets, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant city.
Day 11: Departure
Sadly, it’s time to bid farewell to the beautiful region of Puglia. Before your departure, make sure to pick up some local souvenirs, like olive oil, wine, or handmade ceramics, to take a piece of Puglia home with you.
General Travel Tips for Bari, Italy
- Rent a car for easy transportation between towns and day trips.
- Check opening hours for attractions, as some may have reduced hours in the fall.
- Book accommodation in advance, as fall is a popular time for travel in Puglia.
- Attend local festivals and events, such as wine festivals or olive harvesting celebrations.
- Try the local cuisine, including orecchiette pasta, focaccia barese, and burrata cheese.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore the hidden gems of Puglia and experience the region like a local. Remember, the best way to truly immerse yourself in a destination is to embrace the culture, try new things, and step off the beaten path. Buon viaggio!