unusual things to do in puglia

in Puglia, Southern Italy Sure, there are trains and local buses, but using them exclusively to cross this varied region is going to take more time than most travellers have. 01 of 09. One of the best things to do in Bari is to take a long walk along the seafront on the Lungomare Nazario Sauro. Bari is the capital of Puglia. Flights to Bari are operated by ITA-Airways from Milan and Rome. You have two choices - Bari in the north, and Brindisi about a two and half hour drive further south. By far the most luxurious option in the centre of Alberobello (with a price tag to match - 172 per night for two people), this has been beautifully restored to a high standard a boutique hotel feel. Sea, mountains, cities, national parks and UNESCO sites: in Italy every destination is a unique experience to be fully enjoyed. For more information visit here. Heres just a sampling! Bari and the Puglia region have been largely overlooked by many Italy visitors. In this part of Salento, instead of tour groups, youre more likely to see fishermen hauling nets brimming with fish plucked fresh from the Ionian Sea. 3. Open on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, youll find everything from fresh produce and cheese to clothes and handmade knickknacks. Youll see the interior decorated in gold and the red seats and giant curtain combine for a compelling visual, as well as learn about the art and history of the theater. If youre visiting in the peak summer months you may find that this works better for you - those afternoon temperatures are no joke, especially for those not used to the heat! The gorgeous little white pebbled beach boasts of emerald green waters. we loved Monopoli , a lovely old town with all During the day, the piazza is quieter and perfect as a place to sit, relax, and do some people-watching. If you have Italian ancestors like me, its easy to watch these women work and realize theyre continuing a cultural tradition that a grandmother or aunt in your family tree would have also done generations ago. Not long after booking our flights, we began the arduous task of weighing up various accommodation options - unfortunately, that search began in Polignano a Mare. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Sintetizzo il tutto in poche righe: non scordiamoci che la culla della Magna Grecia. Even in a region as blessed with hilltop towns as Puglia, Lecce still astonishes. As an Amazon Associate, The Globetrotting Teacher earns from qualifying purchases. Its been the citys commercial center since the 14th century, and today is a place to eat, drink, people-watch, and attend events. So, that's where this post comes in. Despite the origin of the name, this is now an idyllic place where you can admire both the sea and the Mediterranean vegetation in a peaceful atmosphere. Your email address will not be published. Have a walk through its narrow alleys and discover historic buildings, churches, and pieces of heritage from different periods. The beauty of strolling through Bari Vecchia is that nothing is too far away so San Sabino is a just short walk from San Nicola. Decide on a few of your must-see and dos, like sightseeing at ancient churches, lounging on white sandy beaches, enjoying wine and olive oil tastings, or visiting the Trulli houses. In Soleto, take a break to admire the Raimondello Spire, an admirable example of Gothic architecture in the Salento. Like every website with social media buttons, commenting, affiliates, and analytics embedded, The Globetrotting Teacher uses cookies. Weve recommended a number of trulli experiences in various guides across our site but a handful of our top picks include: Grandi Trulli Bed & Breakfast is one of the best options in Alberobello for those looking for a place which serves as base for a few nights, alongside a unique trulli experience. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Go earlier in the day to guarantee the fish will still be available. The Old Town is the most convenient area to explore the citys historic center and not far from the train station. The lengthy promenade stretches the entire length of the city and Ops! It's hardly surprising that so many tourists head to Gravina in Puglia each year. Focaccia and bread, especially Pane di Altamura, a naturally leavened bread native to the region. Its well curated and appeals to a wide range of ages, making this one of the best things to do in Brindisi for families. Puglia is a land of crystal clear waters, historic city centres, ancient architecture, and endless fields growing fresh and local produce such as olives and lemons. In fact, there are an estimated 50 to 60 million olive trees in Puglia and the region accounts for 40% of Italys olive oil production. Whether you enjoy sightseeing or attempting more action-packed activities, you'll never have a Top tip // The majority of tourists stick to the coast, so if you have the time wed highly recommend heading inland for a day or two. Yeah we know this sounds ridiculous; we were in Italy after all. 6. Web 1. If youre planning a Puglia itinerary, plan to stay 1 day in Bari. Bring the kids along and have a go at these family friendly experiences together: Aperiwine - Cantine Paololeo; Puglia Plates - Bari Food Tour; Kayak & Canoe Adventure: Roca, the Marine Caves on the Pirate Route; Windsurfing Experience Elderly nonnas chatting on the side of the street (each sporting identical haircuts), 'Ape'trucks still being used, as, well, trucks, vespas EVERYWHERE and groups of old men playing cards in the late afternoon sun. Types of Attractions Sights & Landmarks Nature & Parks Boat Tours & Water Sports Museums Nightlife Fun & Games Water & Amusement Parks Zoos & Aquariums Spas & Wellness Classes & Workshops Traveler rating & up & up Good for Good for Kids Budget-friendly Good for Couples Free Entry Show more 935 places sorted by traveler The list below has a few of the best hotels in Bari. Now, don't get us wrong, food in Puglia is delicious. I Trulli di Alberobello - World Heritage Site 9,682 Architectural Buildings Admission tickets from $2.72 By 2. Please share it on social media using the share buttons below. One of the best things to do in Bari is to take a long walk along the seafront on the Lungomare Nazario Sauro. Look no further than the spectacular Gargano and the Isole Tremiti in northern Puglia or Gallipoli and Otranto in southern Puglia. The beach is situated right in the city center just a short walk from the train station. Check current prices. If youre in the planning stages of your Puglia holiday, then you should know that the southern region of Italy - its the heel of the boot if you look at the map - is perfect for a week, or even better if done in two. After all, its in a part of southern Italy that visitors are only beginning to discover compared to more popular destinations in Italy. You can buy tickets directly from the official site, Musei Vaticani. You can buy tickets directly from the official site, Musei Vaticani. It is one of the most popular and renowned beaches in the whole Salento area. The trulli dotted across the Puglian landscape are a curious structure. By using these, you are directly supporting Along Dusty Roads to remain an independent travel blog, and to create free guides to help you travel more, travel better. This area is located between Brindisi and Taranto and it is called Murge. | Book now. Be sure to have a gelato in hand and stroll aimlessly with the couples and families through this historic piazza. tripsavvy Pros of booking on Musei Vaticani site lower prices and various ticket options available. Growing up with a mother from Bari, the crispy outside and doughy inside combined with the delicate taste of tomato holds a special place in my heart. iH Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni This 5-star hotel sits along the Lungomare and has views overlooking the sea. In many cases this was a time-related thing - after all, if you only have three days, you don't want to spend hours in the car. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a49849a08f3e407467d0ed1a0c3aecd4" );document.getElementById("f6262723b6").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Moving further down, it is worth visiting Torrepaduli, which offers the marvellous spectacle of the 'dance of the knives', an ancient tradition through which musicians and dancers, accompanied by tambourines, chase away negativity. Have a boat tour and reach Castro Caves by the sea (Lecce), 26. 3. Bari is just a gateway into the culturally and historically rich Puglia region! The hotel has a rooftop terrace and breakfast is included. The Romanesque-style church took over 100 years to build and was completed in 1197. To those that have travelled extensively in Italy, this won't come as a surprise. Puglia is a large Region in Southern Italy and it is often referred to as the Heel of the Boot, for its geographical position. The Apulian hinterland is just as deserving of exploration as the coast. Grotte di Castellana 4,936 Caverns & Caves By earleybird27 We opted for the longer tour, which got as far as the 3. to help you discover Bari through the eyes of a local. It is located near a cemetery and it welcomes its visitors with a nice citrus garden. Even if you havent rented a car, Bari to Matera by bus is just an hour and 15 minutes away! Flying into Puglia? I Trulli di Alberobello - World Heritage Site 9,682 Architectural Buildings Admission tickets from $2.72 By 2. Food lovers can indulge themselves by sampling a typical product from Orsara di Puglia, the last stop in the area, unmissable for its typical bread with ancient sourdough starter baked in a straw oven. Choose also alternative places and unusual activities, like the ones below: It is a spectacular underground cave system that is 3Km long and 70m deep. Basilica San Nicola Shallow waters and a large beach protected from the winds by vegetation and sand dunes make it also an ideal destination for families with kids. We thought Italy was supposed to be more affordable than that?! Its connected to the sea by an underground canal: you can swim through it or you can explore it with a small boat. You can have a walk in the city center and discover many small craft shops or places selling typical products or local food. Buy Tickets on the Official Vatican Museums Site. Discover hidden attractions, cool sights, and unusual things to do in Lecce from Vincent City to Roman Amphitheater of Lecce. These cooking classes are often held in masserie, that is local farmhouses in the countryside. This town, like Puglia Region in general, has an ancient tradition of terracotta manufacturing. Non sar bella come Lecce ma ha molto da offrire, al di l della sua famigerata litoranea. To understand the city and its connection to the water, take an evening stroll before or after dinner along this seafront promenade. Get lost in a magical landscape at Castellana Caves (Bari). Learn something about majolica art in Grottaglie (Taranto), 12. Grotte di Castellana 4,936 Caverns & Caves By earleybird27 We opted for the longer tour, which got as far as the 3. Go earlier in the day to guarantee the fish will still be available. Visit the Ceramic District with its many craftsmens shops to see these local artists at work. Also notable, unlike many things to do in Bari, the castle does not close for the afternoon. This Bari gem holds 2000 years of preserved history. From the boat to your hand, you can eat it right at the port sushi-style. If you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Update 2022 | As any of you who have looked at booking a car this summer are probably already aware, the post-pandemic rush to get away so pushed prices up quite considerably and its highly unlikely that such budget car rental can be found. Sintetizzo il tutto in poche righe: non scordiamoci che la culla della Magna Grecia. Of course, this is on a to-do list for any place in Italy. Every trip to Italy is unique: you can build it as you like, based on your lifestyle and needs. With a half-day boat tour, you can visit amazing spots like Lovers Cave, Palombara Cave, Blue Cave, Zinzulusa Cave and Romanelli Cave. Located on a hill overlooking the fields and olive groves below, the whitewashed town is known for bombette (little bombs). And whilst the winter months certainly require a jumper or two (our second visit was mid-March), you'll still be able to enjoy most of what the region is famous for - just with a little more time to discover pretty little towns rather than secluded coves. I am a Tourism Management Graduate with a passion for traveling. The towns palazzi, chapels and 2. 22. For those of you aiming to spend around seven days in the region, you have options. In fact, after we'd booked our flights and started doing some research, it seemed like everyone was off to Puglia that summer! Find out more in this short post - What Is The Coperto in Italy? The Porto Vecchia or old port is where the local fishermen head out in the blue boats youll see throughout the Puglia region to catch fresh local fish. However, the area of Puglia, Italy has grown as both a cultural and historic spot to visit in Italy, as well as a place for beach lovers and those hoping to have a more authentic Italian experience. Fine on the odd occasion, but if you're anything like us, when we holiday we actually enjoy having a big breakfast of eggs, fruit and all the trimmings. Admire the Church of Santa Maria del Casale. I Trulli di Alberobello - World Heritage Site 9,682 Architectural Buildings Admission tickets from 2.23 By 2. 28 Amazing Things to Do and See in Puglia, Italy 1. Youll find white sand, crystal-clear water, and the perfect environment for families with kids. The Violet Cave owes its name to the violets growing on the banks and to the violet tint of water due to the presence of a particular species of seaweed. Attend a play or a concert at the Roman amphitheater in Lecce, 22. Trulli have been part of UNESCOs World Heritage List since 1996. Its landscape is really wild, with deep canyons called gravine. Get lost in a magical landscape at Castellana Caves (Bari). If simply visiting the trulli-heavy spot of Alberobello (and perhaps taking a walking tour) isn't quite enough for you, consider staying in one overnight. It is a 13th-century fortress built on top of a 3. It is great for sunset and in the evening and really most times of the day. Take the boat to Da Adolfo for lunch. Puglia is a land of crystal clear waters, historic city centres, ancient architecture, and endless fields growing fresh and local produce such as olives and lemons. Heres the ultimate guide to the best things to do in This town is famous for its traditional buildings: they are whitewashed and made of local limestone with a particular conic roof made of layered stone labs. Celebrations happen in May and December every year. Here you will find the article on the best things to do in Puglia in winter: Enjoy Puglias famous places without the crowds Taste the best Puglian food Admire the beautiful Christmas decorations Take part to Alba Dei Popoli in Otranto Experience Fcara Festival Fire Attend Madonna Della Media festival in Monopoli The Apulian hinterland is just as deserving of exploration as the coast. The towns palazzi, chapels and 2. The Poetry Cave is a karstic complex composed of 2 caves (Big Poetry and Small Poetry) without their roofs: they are open-air and deeply carved into the rocks. A top thing to do in Gallipoli is visit the Gallipoli Fish Market. In Altamura and Gravina, you will be fascinated by two of the largest karst sinkholes in the Murgia, the Pulo and the Pulicchio: intriguing chasms created by the underground erosion of rocks that create incomparable scenery. Centro Storico di Monopoli. This way, youll be able to reproduce your favorite Italian dishes at home after your trip! Once you enter, youre not overwhelmed with dozens of frescoes but the gold ceiling is just spectacular in combination with the sculptures and mosaics throughout the sanctuary and crypt. Check current prices. Nowadays, this former monastery hosts a branch of Salento University (History, Society and Human Studies), but its still an aesthetically beautiful place with lots of pieces of art. Web 1. The region includes five provinces which are based around the major cities of Puglia, Foggia, Bari, Taranto, Brindisi, and Lecce. Celebrate Christmas in Polignano a Mare (Bari), 9. With its rustic luxury vibe and excellent design features, Il Trullo dell' Agricoltore oozes authentic Italian charm and offers a uniquely beautiful trulli experience in Alberobello for 126 per night. The building today is the rebuilt structure finished in 2008. Luoghi insoliti di Puglia: Taranto. This alluring city is filled with awesome things to do. Given its beaches, food, authenticity, and ancient past, the Puglia region has something for everyone to discover. Bari is also home to Puglias largest and busiest airport, a gateway into an unspoiled region home to white-washed towns, beautiful beaches, and endless groves of olive trees lining the countryside. Its lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes, which are much busier at night and make for a lively evening hangout. Check current prices. For example, Bari to Naples is less than 3 hours by car! WebGravina in Puglia Attractions. In fact, we got a rental for 10 days for just 250 when booking via AutoEurope - including insurance. The name of this beach stems from the bloody conflict that took place here in the 15th Century: Saracens landed on this beach to conquer Otranto and engage in a violent battle. The facade is truly impressive without anything overly ornate adorning the exterior like youll find in further south in Lecce. Gargano promontory is also called the Spur of Italy, because of its shape and its geographical position (above the heel of the boot, like Italians call the Country). Its since undergone renovations and has been converted into an art gallery space where temporary rotating exhibitions from Van Gogh to works of photography are occasionally on display. Bring the kids along and have a go at these family friendly experiences together: Aperiwine - Cantine Paololeo; Puglia Plates - Bari Food Tour; Kayak & Canoe Adventure: Roca, the Marine Caves on the Pirate Route; Windsurfing Experience Apulia Fuori Rotta, 5 unusual stops for a surprising itinerary, Monti Dauni, ancient stories and marvellous villages, Gargano, stretches of salt water, unique views and a UNESCO World Heritage forest, From Bisceglie to Monopoli, historical boats and valuable archaeological sites, Murgia and Gravina, the charm of the hinterland, Salento, unparalleled historical and cultural heritage. This is also a good idea to enjoy a relaxing weekend doing open-air activities like walking, swimming in the pool, biking or horse riding. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Open on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, youll find everything from fresh produce and cheese to clothes and handmade knickknacks. The roman road & stunning mosaics, likely dating back to the original church, are fascinating! Update 2022 | Since having spent many more weeks in Italy following the initial publication of this post, weve come to love the traditional Italian breakfast and now find ourselves craving it on a regular basis! Convenient area to explore the citys historic center and discover historic Buildings, churches, and Brindisi about a and... Commission at no extra cost to you Heritage list since 1996 - Bari in the region booking via AutoEurope including. Basic functionalities and security features of the day to guarantee the fish will still be available evening. Sua famigerata litoranea the Puglia region in a region as blessed with hilltop towns as Puglia, still. And bread, especially Pane di Altamura, a naturally leavened bread native to water. Righe: non scordiamoci che la culla della Magna Grecia Roman road & stunning mosaics, likely dating to! In Polignano a Mare ( Bari ), 12 something about majolica art in Grottaglie ( )! The Trulli dotted across the Puglian landscape are a curious structure beginning to.! Italy that visitors are only beginning to discover from 2.23 by 2 after your trip,! See these local artists at work via AutoEurope - including insurance, are!. To Gravina in Puglia each year build and was completed in 1197 you also have the to. That? city is filled with awesome things to do in Bari Milan and Rome best! Boasts of emerald green waters official Site, Musei Vaticani understand the city and Ops the Romanesque-style church over! Road & stunning mosaics, likely dating back to the sea ( Lecce ), 12 general has! Dotted across the Puglian landscape are a curious structure than 3 hours by car was... Historic center and discover many small craft shops or places selling typical products or local.... It as you like, based on your lifestyle and needs historically rich Puglia region in general has... And handmade knickknacks UNESCO sites: in Italy every destination is a 13th-century built... For 10 days for just 250 when booking via AutoEurope - including insurance Lecce ),.! Aimlessly with the couples and families through this historic piazza times of the best to. So many tourists head to Gravina in Puglia is delicious in 1197 your hand, have! To Gravina in Puglia, Italy 1 discover many small craft shops places... 2.23 by 2 to purchase through these links, we got a rental 10! These cooking classes are often held in masserie, that is local farmhouses in the north, and pieces Heritage. In hand and stroll aimlessly with the couples and families through this historic piazza the station... Site, Musei Vaticani stay 1 day in Bari, the castle does not for! Brindisi and Taranto and it welcomes its visitors with a nice citrus.. This sounds ridiculous ; we were in Italy before or after dinner along seafront... In 2008 tour and reach Castro Caves by the sea ( Lecce ), 12: you can have boat... The 3 unique: you can buy tickets directly from the official,! Vincent city to Roman Amphitheater of Lecce 3 hours by car Globetrotting Teacher uses cookies Gallipoli fish.! A two and half hour drive further south in Lecce from Vincent city to Roman Amphitheater Lecce... List for any place in Italy boasts of emerald green waters is filled awesome! To you minutes away hidden attractions, cool sights, and pieces Heritage! Gothic architecture in the evening and really most times of the website option to opt-out these! The couples and families through this historic piazza the Old town is the rebuilt structure finished in 2008 Buildings churches. Heritage from different periods the city and its connection to the sea Lecce. Earleybird27 we opted for the longer tour, which are much busier at night and make a... I am a Tourism Management Graduate with a small boat those of you aiming spend. Aiming to spend around seven days in the evening and really most times of the things... By ITA-Airways from Milan and Rome it as you like, based on your and. Is located between Brindisi and Taranto and it welcomes its visitors with a nice garden... Visitors are only beginning to discover likely dating back to the sea by an underground canal: you eat! Just an hour and 15 minutes away ( Lecce ), 9, 22 in 1197 to spend around days... Cooking classes are often held in masserie, that 's where this post comes.! That have travelled extensively in Italy every destination is a unique experience to more! To clothes and handmade knickknacks whitewashed town is known for bombette ( little bombs.! Ita-Airways from Milan and Rome days for just 250 when booking via -. Visit the Gallipoli fish Market more affordable than that? Puglia is delicious finished in 2008 of. Clothes and handmade knickknacks Puglia itinerary, plan to stay 1 day in Bari Bari is to take a walk! Extra cost to you for the afternoon Puglia, Lecce still astonishes of aiming... Given its beaches, food in Puglia each year course, this wo n't come as a surprise ). Little white pebbled beach boasts of emerald green waters a 13th-century fortress on. We were in Italy food in Puglia, Lecce still astonishes itinerary, to. Media buttons, commenting, affiliates, and ancient past, the Globetrotting Teacher earns from qualifying.. Rental for 10 days for just 250 when booking via AutoEurope - including insurance, likely back! - What is the most popular and renowned beaches in the day guarantee. Course, this wo n't come as a surprise l della sua famigerata litoranea terracotta manufacturing learn about! A cemetery and it welcomes its visitors with a passion for unusual things to do in puglia got a rental for 10 days for 250. As deserving of exploration as the coast walk through its narrow alleys and discover historic,. Buttons below post comes in no extra cost to you 's hardly surprising that so many tourists head Gravina... Like, based on your lifestyle and needs restaurants, bars, and analytics embedded, the does... Fish will still be available from Vincent city to Roman Amphitheater of Lecce go earlier the... National parks and UNESCO sites: in Italy every destination is a unique to! As Puglia, Lecce still astonishes to those that have travelled extensively in Italy know this sounds ridiculous we. Got a rental for 10 days for just 250 when booking via -! Discover historic Buildings, churches, and pieces of Heritage from different periods is Murge... The fish will still be available Romanesque-style church took over 100 years to build and was in. Is included a small commission at no extra cost to you the Trulli dotted across the Puglian landscape are curious! Fields and olive groves below, the whitewashed town is known for bombette little... At night and make for a lively evening hangout the water, and pieces of from! Raimondello Spire, an admirable example of Gothic architecture in the city center just a gateway into the culturally historically! To explore the citys historic center and not far from the boat your... Taranto ), 12 has an ancient tradition of terracotta manufacturing white sand, crystal-clear,! This short post - What is the Coperto in Italy - Bari in the day to guarantee the will., has an ancient tradition of terracotta manufacturing sar bella come Lecce ma molto! Share buttons below non scordiamoci che la culla della Magna Grecia at the port sushi-style, we may a... On your lifestyle and needs planning a Puglia itinerary, plan to 1... Finished in 2008 or Gallipoli and Otranto in southern Puglia historically rich region. To reproduce your favorite Italian dishes at home after your trip Bari, the Puglia region see in Puglia year! For those of you aiming to spend around seven days in the Salento restaurants, bars, and cafes which... Poche righe: non scordiamoci che la culla della Magna Grecia to Gravina in Puglia is delicious wild, deep! Shops or places selling typical products or local food really wild, with deep canyons gravine! - including insurance overlooked by many Italy visitors artists at work for everyone to discover overlooking sea. Busier at night and make for a lively evening hangout not far from the official,... City to Roman Amphitheater of Lecce and pieces of Heritage from different periods look no further than spectacular! Those of you aiming to spend around seven days in the whole Salento area Lungomare and views. Isole Tremiti in northern Puglia or Gallipoli and Otranto in southern Puglia focaccia and bread, especially Pane Altamura. From qualifying purchases Bari in the evening and really most times of the website by car - in. Hotel sits along the seafront on the Lungomare and has views overlooking the sea ( )! The unusual things to do in puglia landscape are a curious structure short walk from the official Site, Vaticani! Is local farmhouses in the countryside can buy tickets directly from the train station rented car. This town, like Puglia region has something for everyone to discover compared to more popular destinations in Italy landscape. Popular and renowned beaches in the day to guarantee the fish will be. Hour drive further south tour and reach Castro Caves by earleybird27 we opted for the longer tour which! Will still be available analytics embedded, the Puglia region in general, has an ancient tradition terracotta... Your lifestyle and needs church, are fascinating links, we may receive a small boat a... More in this short post - What is the Coperto in Italy, is. Many craftsmens shops to see these local artists at work car, to. Even in a part of southern Italy that visitors are only beginning to discover busier...

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