Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow and a former resident of Italy. I’m thrilled to share with you an authentic 12-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 help you experience the best of Puglia like a local, avoiding tourist traps and discovering hidden gems along the way.
Day 1: Explore Bari, the Gateway to Puglia
Start your journey in the vibrant city of Bari, the capital of Puglia. Immerse yourself in the charming Bari Vecchia (Old Town), where you’ll find narrow alleys, historic buildings, and a lively atmosphere. Visit the iconic Basilica di San Nicola, a stunning Romanesque church that houses the relics of St. Nicholas. In the evening, stroll along the Lungomare seafront promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. For dinner, I recommend trying the local street food and seafood specialties in Bari Vecchia.
Day 2: Discover the Trulli Houses of Alberobello
Today, embark on a day trip to the enchanting town of Alberobello, famous for its unique trulli houses. These cone-shaped stone dwellings with whitewashed walls and grey conical roofs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a true architectural marvel. Explore the charming streets and visit a local winery for a wine tasting experience, where you can sample the region’s delicious wines. For lunch, I suggest Ristorante Biancofiore, where you can savor traditional Pugliese dishes in a trulli setting.
Day 3: Explore Bari’s History and Nature
Start your day by visiting the impressive Castello Svevo, a Norman castle that offers stunning views of the city and the sea. Afterward, venture into the Murgia National Park, a protected area known for its unique landscapes and hiking trails. Explore the park’s natural beauty, including caves, rock formations, and diverse flora and fauna. For dinner, I recommend trying the local cuisine at one of the restaurants in Bari Vecchia.
Day 4: Discover the Sassi di Matera
Today, take a day trip to the captivating city of Matera, famous for its ancient Sassi di Matera cave dwellings. These unique rock-cut settlements, dating back to the Paleolithic era, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a glimpse into the region’s fascinating history. Explore the winding streets, visit the rock churches, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this remarkable city. For lunch, I suggest Osteria del Borgo Antico, where you can enjoy a cave dining experience.
Day 5: Relax in Polignano a Mare and Explore the Grotte di Castellana
Spend a leisurely day in the charming coastal town of Polignano a Mare. Relax on the beautiful beaches, stroll through the picturesque historic center, and admire the stunning sea views. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Grotte di Castellana, a stunning underground cave system known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. For dinner, I highly recommend Grotta Palazzese, a romantic restaurant built into the cliffs overlooking the sea.
Day 6: Explore the Baroque Beauty of Lecce
Today, you’ll visit the enchanting city of Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South” for its stunning Baroque architecture. Wander through the historic center, admiring the intricate carvings and ornate facades of buildings like the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine at Cucina Casareccia, where you can savor authentic Salentine dishes.
Day 7: Discover the Gargano Peninsula and the Tremiti Islands
Embark on a day trip to the stunning Gargano Peninsula, a rugged coastal area known for its natural beauty. Visit the Foresta Umbra, a dense forest with hiking trails and ancient beech trees. If time permits, take a boat tour to the nearby Tremiti Islands, a breathtaking archipelago with crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches. For dinner, I recommend Trabucco da Mimi, a unique restaurant built on a traditional fishing platform, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views.
Day 8: Learn the Art of Pugliese Cuisine
Today, immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Puglia by participating in a cooking class. Learn how to prepare classic Pugliese dishes like orecchiette pasta, focaccia barese, and tiramisu from a local chef. Not only will you learn valuable cooking techniques, but you’ll also gain insights into the region’s culinary heritage and the importance of using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Day 9: Explore Monopoli and the Castellana Grotte
Start your day in the charming coastal town of Monopoli, known for its historic center, picturesque harbor, and beautiful beaches. Stroll through the narrow streets, admire the Baroque architecture, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Castellana Grotte, a stunning underground cave system featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes. For dinner, I suggest trying the local seafood specialties at one of the restaurants in Monopoli’s historic center.
Day 10: Discover the Charming Towns of the Valle d’Itria
Spend the day exploring the picturesque towns of the Valle d’Itria, a region known for its rolling hills, olive groves, and trulli houses. Visit the charming towns of Martina Franca, Locorotondo, and Cisternino, each with its own unique character and architectural style. Stroll through the narrow streets, admire the whitewashed buildings, and indulge in the local cuisine and wines. For lunch, I recommend trying the farm-to-table dishes at Masseria Il Frantoio in Ostuni, where you can also enjoy an olive oil tasting experience.
Day 11: Free Day in Bari
Spend your last full day in Bari at your leisure. You can use this time to revisit any attractions you may have missed, indulge in some last-minute shopping, or simply relax and soak up the local atmosphere. If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider taking a boat tour along the coast or visiting a local olive oil mill to learn about the region’s renowned olive oil production.
Day 12: Departure Day
Sadly, it’s time to bid farewell to the beautiful region of Puglia. Before departing, take one last stroll through Bari Vecchia and savor the sights, sounds, and flavors that have made your trip so memorable.
General Travel Tips for Bari, Italy
- Rent a car for easy transportation between towns and attractions.
- Check opening hours for attractions and make reservations if needed.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic centers and hiking trails.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases for better communication.
- Embrace the slower pace of life and savor the authentic experiences.
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 create lasting memories. Buon viaggio!