Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share my personalized 12-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful region of Puglia, 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 authentic side of Puglia, avoiding tourist traps and embracing the local way of life.
Day 1: Exploring Bari’s Old Town
Start your journey in the charming city of Bari, the capital of Puglia. Immerse yourself in the historic Old Town (Bari Vecchia), where you’ll find narrow streets lined with traditional houses and charming piazzas. Visit the iconic Basilica di San Nicola, a stunning Romanesque church that houses the relics of St. Nicholas. After exploring the Old Town, take a leisurely stroll along the Lungomare, Bari’s scenic seafront promenade. For dinner, I recommend Trattoria Papavero, a cozy restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
Day 2: Alberobello and Wine Tasting
Today, embark on a day trip to the picturesque town of Alberobello, famous for its unique trulli houses – whitewashed, cone-shaped buildings with stone roofs. Wander through the charming streets and admire these iconic structures. In the afternoon, visit a local winery for a wine tasting experience and learn about the region’s renowned wines. For dinner, I suggest Ristorante Il Trullo Antico, where you can savor traditional Pugliese dishes in a trulli setting.
Day 3: Castello Svevo and Murgia National Park
Start your day by visiting the impressive Castello Svevo, a 12th-century castle that offers stunning views of Bari’s Old Town. Afterward, head to the Murgia National Park, a protected area known for its unique landscapes and hiking trails. Explore the park’s natural beauty and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the stunning scenery. In the evening, indulge in a delicious meal at Terranima, a restaurant that focuses on locally sourced ingredients and traditional Pugliese flavors.
Day 4: Matera and the Sassi di Matera
Today, take a day trip to the nearby city of Matera, famous for its ancient Sassi di Matera – a complex of cave dwellings carved into the rocky landscape. Explore these fascinating cave houses and learn about the unique history and culture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. For lunch, I recommend Ristorante Francesca, where you can enjoy traditional Basilicata cuisine in a cozy setting. In the evening, return to Bari and dine at Ristorante Biancofiore, a local favorite known for its delicious seafood dishes.
Day 5: Polignano a Mare and Grotte di Castellana
Spend the day in the charming coastal town of Polignano a Mare, known for its picturesque cliffside setting and beautiful beaches. Stroll through the historic center, admire the stunning views, and relax on the beach. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Grotte di Castellana, a stunning underground cave system with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. For dinner, I highly recommend Ristorante Grotta Palazzese, a unique restaurant built into the cliffside, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
Day 6: Lecce and Its Baroque Architecture
Today, explore the beautiful 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 buildings. Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo, two of Lecce’s most iconic landmarks. For lunch, stop at Osteria del Corso, a cozy osteria serving traditional Salentine cuisine. In the evening, dine at Ristorante Alle Due Corti, a highly regarded restaurant offering a modern twist on classic Pugliese dishes.
Day 7: Gargano Peninsula and Tremiti Islands
Embark on a day trip to the stunning Gargano Peninsula, a natural paradise known for its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and the Foresta Umbra, a dense forest with hiking trails. If time permits, take a boat tour to the nearby Tremiti Islands, a beautiful archipelago with crystal-clear waters and secluded coves. For dinner, I suggest Ristorante La Caravella, a seafood restaurant in Peschici that offers a fantastic view of the Adriatic Sea.
Day 8: Cooking Class in Bari
Today, immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Puglia by participating in a cooking class. Learn how to prepare authentic Pugliese dishes from a local chef, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. After the class, enjoy the delicious meal you’ve prepared, accompanied by a glass of local wine. In the evening, explore Bari’s vibrant nightlife or relax at your accommodation.
Day 9: Monopoli and 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 a leisurely lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Castellana Grotte, a stunning underground cave system with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. For dinner, I recommend Ristorante La Pignata, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Pugliese cuisine in Monopoli.
Day 10: Salento Region and Otranto
Today, explore the beautiful Salento region, known for its stunning coastline, olive groves, and charming towns. Visit the historic city of Otranto, famous for its impressive Cattedrale di Otranto and the nearby Bauxite caves. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the architecture, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ristorante La Cucina di Mamma Lina, a local favorite serving authentic Salentine cuisine.
Day 11: Trani and Its Cathedral
Spend the day in the picturesque coastal town of Trani, known for its stunning Cattedrale di Trani, a Romanesque cathedral built on the seafront. Explore the historic center, admire the architecture, and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the harbor. For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. In the evening, return to Bari and enjoy your last night in this vibrant city.
Day 12: Bari’s Local Markets and Souvenirs
On your final day in Bari, explore the city’s local markets, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and souvenirs. Wander through the stalls, chat with the friendly vendors, and pick up some unique items to take home as mementos of your trip. For your last meal in Puglia, revisit your favorite restaurant or try a new one recommended by locals.
General Travel Tips for Bari, Italy
- Rent a car for maximum flexibility in exploring the region, or consider using public transportation (trains and buses) if you prefer.
- Many attractions and restaurants may have reduced hours or be closed on Sundays and Mondays, so plan accordingly.
- Make reservations in advance for popular restaurants and guided tours, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack layers for the winter months, including a warm jacket, sweaters, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget a hat and scarf for cooler days.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to help you navigate and interact with locals more easily.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore the authentic side of Puglia and experience the region’s rich culture, history, and cuisine. Remember, the best way to truly immerse yourself in a destination is to embrace the local way of life and seek out unique experiences. Buon viaggio!