Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share with you an authentic Italian experience in the beautiful region of Puglia. Having lived in Italy for two years, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the country’s rich culture, history, and cuisine. This 9-day itinerary is designed to help you explore the best of Puglia, starting from the charming city of Bari, during the winter season.
Day 1: Exploring Bari’s Old Town
Kick off your Pugliese adventure by immersing yourself in the historic heart of Bari. Start your day at the Basilica di San Nicola, a stunning Romanesque church that houses the relics of St. Nicholas. Afterward, wander through the narrow streets of Bari Vecchia, the charming Old Town, and soak in the authentic atmosphere. I recommend stopping for a traditional Pugliese lunch at Terranima, where you can savor local specialties like orecchiette pasta and focaccia barese. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the Lungomare, Bari’s scenic seafront promenade, and enjoy the coastal views.
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 dwellings with stone roofs. Explore the charming streets and visit the Trullo Sovrano, a two-story trullo that offers insight into the traditional way of life. In the afternoon, indulge in a wine tasting experience at a local winery, where you can sample the region’s renowned wines and learn about the winemaking process. For dinner, I suggest Il Trullo, a cozy restaurant serving delicious Pugliese cuisine in a trullo setting.
Day 3: Castello Svevo and Murgia National Park
Start your day by visiting the impressive Castello Svevo, a 12th-century castle that offers panoramic views of Bari and the Adriatic Sea. Afterward, venture into the Murgia National Park, a protected area known for its unique karst landscape and hiking trails. Explore the park’s natural beauty, including the Pulo di Altamura, a deep sinkhole formed by erosion. For a casual lunch, stop by one of the local masserie (farmhouses) for a taste of authentic Pugliese cuisine.
Day 4: Matera and the Sassi di Matera
Today, you’ll embark on a day trip to the captivating city of Matera, famous for its ancient Sassi di Matera – a complex of cave dwellings carved into the rocky landscape. Explore the winding streets and visit the Museo Nazionale Ridola to learn about the history and culture of this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site. For dinner, I recommend Ristorante Francesca, which offers dishes inspired by the Sassi di Matera and the local culinary traditions.
Day 5: Polignano a Mare and Grotte di Castellana
Spend the day exploring the charming coastal town of Polignano a Mare. Stroll through the picturesque Centro Storico (historic center) and admire the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea from the town’s cliffs. In the afternoon, venture underground and visit the Grotte di Castellana, a breathtaking cave system featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites. For dinner, I highly recommend Grotta Palazzese, a unique restaurant carved into a cave overlooking the sea.
Day 6: Relaxation in Margherita di Savoia
Take a break from sightseeing and spend a relaxing day in the coastal town of Margherita di Savoia. Soak up the sun on the town’s beautiful beaches or indulge in a rejuvenating experience at the Terme di Margherita di Savoia, a thermal bath complex known for its therapeutic waters. For a farm-to-table dining experience, visit Masseria Barbera, a local masseria (farmhouse) that serves delicious Pugliese cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Day 7: Altamura and its Historic Center
Today, explore the historic town of Altamura, known for its iconic bread and impressive architectural landmarks. Start your day at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Altamura, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the region’s history. Afterward, wander through the charming Centro Storico (historic center) and admire the beautiful churches and palaces. Don’t forget to try the famous Pane di Altamura, a traditional bread baked in wood-fired ovens.
Day 8: 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 lush forests. Visit the Foresta Umbra, a dense beech forest that offers hiking trails and breathtaking scenery. If weather permits, take a boat tour to the nearby Tremiti Islands, a beautiful archipelago with crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages.
Day 9: Final Day in Bari
On your final day in Bari, take the opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant markets and shops. Visit the Mercato di Via Benedetto Brin, a bustling outdoor market where you can find fresh produce, local specialties, and souvenirs. For a seafood lunch, I recommend Biancofiore, a cozy restaurant known for its delicious seafood dishes and friendly atmosphere.
General Travel Tips for Bari, Italy
- Dress in layers during the winter months, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
- Many attractions and restaurants may have reduced hours or be closed on Sundays and holidays, so plan accordingly.
- Renting a car is recommended for exploring the region and reaching smaller towns, but public transportation and guided tours are also available.
- Don’t forget to try the local specialties, such as orecchiette pasta, focaccia barese, and the famous Pane di Altamura bread.
- Be prepared for a more relaxed pace of life and embrace the authentic Italian experience.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore the beautiful region of Puglia and experience its 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 authentic experiences. Buon viaggio!