Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share with you my personalized 13-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, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine. This itinerary is designed to provide you with an authentic and immersive experience, steering clear of tourist traps and focusing on the hidden gems that only locals know about.
Day 1: Exploring Bari’s Old Town
Kick off your Italian adventure by immersing yourself in the charming atmosphere of Bari Vecchia, the city’s historic old town. Wander through the maze of narrow streets, admiring the whitewashed buildings and vibrant street art. Don’t miss a visit to the iconic Basilica di San Nicola, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. In the evening, stroll along the Lungomare seafront promenade and enjoy a delicious meal at Terranima, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Pugliese 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 – conical-roofed stone dwellings that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the charming streets and take plenty of photos before visiting a local winery for a wine tasting experience. I recommend Trullo d’Oro for a delightful lunch featuring regional specialties.
Day 3: Castellana Caves and Polignano a Mare
Start your day by exploring the awe-inspiring Castellana Caves, a vast underground cave system with stunning rock formations and underground lakes. Afterward, head to the coastal town of Polignano a Mare, known for its picturesque old town perched atop cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the charming streets and stop for a seafood lunch at the renowned Grotta Palazzese, a restaurant built into a natural cave.
Day 4: Beach Day in Bari
Take a break from sightseeing and soak up the sun at one of Bari’s beautiful beaches. I recommend Lido Pane e Pomodoro or Lido Bau Beach Club, both offering excellent facilities and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and indulging in delicious local seafood dishes.
Day 5: Exploring Matera’s Sassi
Embark on a day trip to the captivating city of Matera, famous for its ancient Sassi cave dwellings. Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and marvel at the unique architecture carved into the rocky landscape. Don’t miss a visit to the Parco della Murgia Materana for stunning views of the city. For an authentic dining experience, try Ristorante Regia Corte, located within a historic cave dwelling.
Day 6: Gargano National Park and Coastal Hike
Escape to the breathtaking Gargano National Park, a natural paradise known for its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and lush forests. Embark on the Sentiero Litoraneo trail, a scenic coastal hike offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. After your hike, relax at one of the park’s secluded beaches or enjoy a picnic lunch with locally sourced ingredients.
Day 7: Trani and its Romanesque Cathedral
Spend the day exploring the charming coastal town of Trani, known for its stunning Romanesque Cathedral overlooking the harbor. Stroll along the picturesque seafront promenade and admire the historic buildings and narrow streets. For lunch, I recommend Ristorante Bacco, a cozy trattoria serving delicious local specialties.
Day 8: Cooking Class in Bari
Immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Puglia by participating in a cooking class in Bari. Learn the secrets of preparing authentic Pugliese dishes from a local chef and enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch or dinner. This hands-on experience is a fantastic way to connect with the region’s food culture and create lasting memories.
Day 9: Exploring Lecce, the “Florence of the South”
Embark on a day trip to the beautiful city of Lecce, often referred to as the “Florence of the South” due to its stunning Baroque architecture. Wander through the historic center, admiring the intricate stone carvings and ornate churches. Don’t miss a visit to the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Roman Amphitheater. For a delightful lunch, try Osteria del Peso, a cozy osteria serving traditional Salentine cuisine.
Day 10: Castel del Monte and Alta Murgia National Park
Today, explore the unique Castel del Monte, a 13th-century octagonal castle built by Emperor Frederick II. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a true architectural marvel, offering stunning views of the surrounding Alta Murgia National Park. After your visit, take a leisurely hike through the park’s rolling hills and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful natural surroundings.
Day 11: Coastal Towns and Beach Clubs
Spend the day exploring the charming coastal towns of Monopoli and Ostuni, known for their whitewashed buildings, historic centers, and picturesque harbors. Alternatively, you can opt for a relaxing day at one of the region’s beach clubs, such as Lido Bau Beach Club or Lido Pane e Pomodoro, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
Day 12: Altamura and its Archaeological Museum
Visit the historic town of Altamura, famous for its delicious bread and impressive Museo Archeologico Nazionale, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the region’s rich history. After exploring the museum, wander through the charming old town and stop for lunch at Ristorante Cibus, where you can savor traditional Pugliese dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Day 13: Final Day in Bari
On your final day in Bari, take the opportunity to revisit any attractions you may have missed or simply wander through the city’s vibrant streets, soaking up the local atmosphere. Indulge in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs or enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the city’s charming cafés or restaurants.
General Travel Tips for Bari, Italy
- Rent a car for maximum flexibility in exploring the region, but be prepared for narrow streets and limited parking in some areas.
- Many attractions and restaurants observe a riposo (afternoon break) from around 1-4 PM, so plan accordingly.
- Make reservations for popular restaurants and attractions, especially during peak season.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes, as many towns have cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to help you navigate and interact with locals.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore the hidden gems of Puglia and experience the region’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine. Remember, the best way to truly immerse yourself in a destination is to embrace the local way of life and seek out authentic experiences. Buon viaggio!