Puglia holidays

Ostuni, Puglia, Italy
Ostuni, Puglia, Italy Ostuni, Puglia, Italy Puglia, Italy Puglia, Italy Puglia, Italy

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Holidays to Puglia reveal an untouched region of scenic Baroque towns, vineyard-sprinkled countryside and some of the prettiest beaches in Italy.

Traditional Italy

The Puglia region makes up the stiletto heel to Italy’s boot. It’s stretched over 19,300 square kilometres – with 800 of that devoted just to coastline. The Italians have managed to keep this place a bit of a secret, so you can expect some parts to come tourist-free. It’s all about wandering the Baroque churches, vineyards and fine-sand beaches completely undisturbed.

Coastal towns

No spot of Puglia is the same. Gold-coloured wheat fields blanket the north, and sandy coves and sea caves take their place to the south. The coastline is punctuated with limestone cliffs, national parks and quaint towns. One of these is Torre Canne, which is worth a visit for its mineral-rich hot springs and dune-backed beach. Further along, Torre Guaceto’s wild beaches are all part of a beautiful nature reserve.

Historic cities

Puglia doesn’t fall short in the history department. Everyone from Greeks, Romans, Normans and Byzantines has left their mark on the region. Reminders of the centuries-old invasion threats still stand in the medieval watchtowers that dot the coastline. The city of Ugento houses some of the best ancient finds, including a 5th-century bronze Zeus statue. Then, there’s Fasano, just inland from the seaside hamlet of Savelletri, where you’ll find pre-Roman churches, palaces and crumbling walls.

Popular hotels in Puglia

Top things to see and do in Puglia

Beaches

Tread the soft sands on Pescoluse Beach

Pescoluse beach has gained a reputation as the Maldives of Salento. This could be down to the powder-like sands, or the off-shore dunes, which resemble tiny islets come sunset. What’s more, the whole stretch is backed by wild white lilies and ferns.

Try cliff-jumping at Polignano a Mare Beach

The bay in Polignano a Mare is flanked on either side by soaring cliffs. They’re used by Red Bull for its Cliff Diving World Series, but locals are just as likely to be seen diving off them. For something less adrenaline-fuelled, take a swim in the glassy waters – you’ll be able to see to the bottom of the seabed.

Escape the crowds at Torre Guaceto

Just 25 minutes’ drive from Brindisi, this wild stretch of sand is only accessible by foot, which explains its unspoilt looks. En route, you might cross paths with lizards, tortoises, or even a flock of flamingos. There are plenty of deserted spots, so it’s easy to unwind.

Facts about Puglia

Currency

Euro

(EUR)

Language

Italian

Time zone

GMT +1

Flight duration

3 hours from Stansted

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What travel adapter do I need for Puglia?

When visiting Puglia, you'll need a European-style two-pin plug adapter Type C, Type F and Type L which has three-round pins. Most sockets accept the standard European plug with two round pins. We recommend bringing at least one adapter for your electronic devices.

Where are the best places to shop in Puglia?

Puglia offers diverse shopping experiences. In Bari and Lecce, you'll find charming boutiques and artisan shops selling local crafts and fashion. Many towns host weekly markets where you can buy fresh produce and regional specialties. For souvenirs, look for ceramics, olive oil, and traditional textiles.

What are the best beaches in Puglia?

Puglia boasts Baia dei Turchi near Otranto with soft sand and clear waters backed by pine forests, while Punta Prosciutto on the Ionian coast features shallow turquoise waters and sandy stretches. Polignano a Mare provides a small pebble beach set beneath clifftop caves and historic buildings. We recommend visiting early morning for a quieter atmosphere at popular spots.

Where can I try local food in Puglia?

Traditional Puglian cuisine is available throughout the region. We recommend trying local trattorias and agriturismi for authentic dishes. Look for orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, and seafood specialties. Many resorts also offer Puglian nights where you can sample regional delicacies.

Should I tip in Puglia?

Tipping in Puglia isn't obligatory, but it's appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a small tip of 5-10% is welcome if not included in the bill. For taxis and hotel staff, rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip is a nice gesture.

Are there any local customs I should know about in Puglia?

When visiting Puglia, greet locals with buongiorno for good morning or ciao for hello. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches. Tipping around 10% for good service is appreciated in restaurants and cafes.

What's the nightlife like in Puglia?

Puglia's nightlife varies by location. Coastal towns like Gallipoli and Otranto offer lively beach bars and clubs during summer. In cities like Bari and Lecce, you'll find a mix of wine bars, pubs, and piazzas where locals gather. Many resorts also provide evening entertainment for a relaxed night out.

What should I pack for Puglia?

For Puglia, pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Bring sun protection essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Include comfortable walking shoes for exploring, swimwear for beach days, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.

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