Imagine wandering through charming villages bathed in sunlight, savoring delicious Italian food, and exploring a place where history and beauty intertwine. That's Puglia, Italy's hidden gem. In this blog post, we'll introduce you to this enchanting region and all it has to offer. Get ready to discover the secrets, traditions, and magic of Puglia.
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My 12-Day Journey through Puglia
Last summer, me and my girlfriend embarked on a 12-day adventure through the heart of Puglia. We explored the cities of Bari, Monopoli, Lecce, and Brindisi, starting our journey in Bari and concluding it in Brindisi. What made this trip unique was our decision to forgo renting a car, opting instead for public transportation to save on costs and truly immerse ourselves in the local culture.
I'll share my experiences and insights from this memorable journey in this article. From the stunning beaches of Monopoli to the historic architecture of Lecce, I'll take you on a virtual tour of Puglia and provide valuable tips for planning your own adventure.
Let's dive into Puglia together, where time slows down, history comes alive, and every moment is a chance to create memories. Get ready to be captivated by the charm of Puglia and let my experiences guide you in planning your perfect holiday.
Getting to Puglia for Your Holidays
Now, let's talk about how you can actually get to Puglia for your vacation. We'll break this down into two simple options.
By Car: Your Holiday Road Trip to Puglia
If you like the idea of driving around and exploring at your own pace, a road trip is a great choice. One of the advantages of taking your car is that you don't need to worry about arranging transportation once you're in Puglia. However, it's essential to consider your starting point and whether it's convenient to drive to Puglia from where you live.
Traveling by Plane: Flying to Puglia
Puglia has two major airports, located in Bari and Brindisi, making it easy for travelers to reach this beautiful region by air.
Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI): It's in the capital city, Bari, and it's the largest airport in Puglia. If you're starting your journey in the northern part of Puglia or Bari itself, this airport is convenient.
Brindisi Airport (BDS): Located in the southern part of Puglia, it's great if you plan to explore the southern towns or the Salento Peninsula.
Both airports have car rental services so you can pick up a car and start your Puglia adventure right away. Whether you land in Bari or Brindisi, these airports make it easy to begin your fantastic holiday in Puglia.
Curious about flights to Puglia? Find budget-friendly flight options to this beautiful region on Trip.com/flights.
Getting Around in Puglia
Now, let's explore how to move around Puglia. We'll discuss two options: renting a car and using public transportation, based on my own experiences.
Car Rentals in Puglia
Renting a car in Puglia offers fantastic flexibility. You can explore at your own pace, venture off the beaten path to discover hidden treasures, and reach places not well-connected by buses or trains. An excellent feature is that some rental services, like Discovercars.com, allow you to drop off the car at a different location than where you picked it up. This means you could travel from Brindisi to Bari, for instance, without needing to return to the original location to drop off the car.
Driving in Puglia can be a bit challenging, especially in historic towns with narrow streets. Finding parking, especially in crowded areas, can be frustrating. Keep in mind that renting a car also means you'll need to budget for rental fees, fuel, and insurance, which can add up.
If you're interested in more road trip adventures, check out my other blog post: Discover Europe by Car: Unmissable Road Trips for Next Summer.
Navigating with Public Transport in Puglia
Public transport in Puglia primarily involves trains and buses. It's a cost-effective way to travel and, for the most part, environmentally friendly. Based on my own experiences, I found that taking trains between major cities was comfortable and offered some stunning views. I used Trip.com to book train tickets in advance for added convenience.
Using public transport in Puglia can be a bit of a hassle. You'll need to figure out where to buy tickets, where to catch your bus or train and stick to their schedules. This can make you feel less free compared to having your own car.
In the end, whether you rent a car or use public transport in Puglia depends on your preferences, budget, and where you plan to go. Both options have their pros and cons, so choose the one that aligns best with your travel style and itinerary.
Puglia's Must-See Places: My Personal Journey
Let's go on a journey to explore some incredible places in Puglia that I've had the pleasure of visiting and absolutely loved. Each of these spots has its own special charm and beauty, waiting for you to discover.
Bari - Where our Puglia Adventure Began
Bari is where our Puglia adventure started. We landed here in the early morning and decided to spend one night to kick things off. It turned out to be a fantastic decision. This bustling city has a mix of history and a beautiful coastline.
In the morning, I couldn't resist the temptation to visit Panificio Fiore, a renowned bakery. Their focaccia barese is a must-try. Yes, you might have to wait in line for a bit, but trust me, it's absolutely worth it. The freshly baked focaccia with its flavorful toppings was a delicious start to our Puglia journey.
As we wandered through the narrow streets of the old town, I was captivated by the impressive Basilica of Saint Nicholas. And don't get me started on the fresh seafood at the lively fish market – it's a must-try! Bari is a vibrant city with a stunning coastline, making it an ideal starting point for your Puglia journey.
Monopoli - A Delightful Discovery
After our one-night stay in Bari, we took a train, about a 45-minute ride, to the coastal town of Monopoli. We didn't have high expectations, but little did we know that this charming town would steal our hearts. We ended up spending four unforgettable nights here.
Monopoli welcomed us with open arms and a picturesque old town. The narrow streets, historic buildings, and stunning beaches were a treat for the senses. But what truly made our time in Monopoli special was the local experience.
One of our most memorable moments was at Vini e Panini, where we enjoyed a delightful charcuterie board paired with local wines. The relaxed atmosphere and the flavors of Puglia made this spot a hidden gem in Monopoli.
Polignano a Mare: A Coastal Escape
During our stay in Monopoli, we decided to hop on a short train ride to the coastal town of Polignano a Mare. It's a beautiful place, but we quickly noticed that it was swarming with tourists, especially since we visited in August during the peak summer season.
Our attempt to find a spot by the water was fruitless due to the crowds, so we decided to explore the town differently. We opted for a boat tour along the coastline and through the caves, which turned out to be a fantastic choice. The views from the water were simply breathtaking, and we got to witness the rugged beauty of the cliffs and the sea up close.
After the boat tour, we took a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Polignano a Mare. We wrapped up our day with dinner at Bella 'Mbriana, where we enjoyed delicious food at reasonable prices. It was a pleasant dining experience that didn't break the bank.
Keep in mind that visiting Polignano a Mare during the summer season means larger crowds. For a quieter experience, it might be a good idea to explore this coastal gem during the off-season months when the town is less crowded and you can fully enjoy its beauty.
Alberobello: A Trulli Disappointment
From Monopoli, we decided to take a bus to Alberobello, a journey that took us about an hour. We had heard about the unique trulli houses and wanted to see them for ourselves.
However, our visit to Alberobello didn't quite meet our expectations, and we found ourselves not staying for very long. While the trulli houses were indeed unique and interesting to see, the town itself felt overly touristy, and the experience left us somewhat underwhelmed.
Perhaps it was the contrast to the quieter charm of Monopoli that made Alberobello seem less appealing to us. After a brief exploration and lunch, we decided to head back to Monopoli, feeling that the trip hadn't been entirely worth it.
It's worth noting that experiences can vary, and while Alberobello didn't resonate with us, others may find it more captivating. It's always good to explore and form your own opinions when traveling.
Historical Lecce: A Delightful Discovery
After our enjoyable stay in Monopoli, we journeyed to the historical city of Lecce, where we spent four wonderful nights. Lecce, often referred to as the "Florence of the South," is a city rich in history and artistic beauty.
We found Lecce to be a beautiful city with a unique charm. The Baroque architecture and well-preserved historical landmarks left us in awe as we explored ornate churches, palaces, and ancient Roman ruins.
During our stay, we dined at A'Roma l'Osteria, a delightful restaurant we visited twice. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the food was exceptional. We savored their delicious carbonara and all'amatriciana dishes, which were absolute highlights of our dining experiences in Lecce.
One memorable experience was a pasta-making course we participated in, where we learned to craft orecchiette, a traditional Puglian pasta. It was a fun and educational activity that allowed us to connect with the local culinary traditions on a deeper level.
Otranto and Torre dell'Orso: Coastal Escapes from Lecce
During our stay in Lecce, we made two exciting day trips to explore the coastal gems of Otranto and Torre dell'Orso, each offering a unique and memorable experience.
Torre dell'Orso - A Day by the Beach
On one of the warm days in Lecce, we decided to escape to the coastal paradise of Torre dell'Orso. This charming seaside destination, not far from Lecce, offered a perfect beach day getaway. With its crystal-clear waters and pristine sandy shores, Torre dell'Orso was an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun.
Otranto - A Historical Marvel by the Sea
Another day, we ventured to the historic town of Otranto, which boasts a stunning coastal location and a deep historical heritage. Otranto's most striking feature is its cathedral, home to a beautiful mosaic floor that tells fascinating stories. As we explored the winding streets of the old town, we were captivated by the town's unique blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty.
Both day trips were rewarding in their own way, offering us a chance to experience the natural beauty and rich history that Puglia has to offer. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach day or a historical adventure, Otranto and Torre dell'Orso are excellent choices for day trips from Lecce.
Brindisi: A Brief Stop at Journey's End
For the final leg of our Puglia adventure, we spent our last two nights in Brindisi. Brindisi, often overlooked as a tourist destination, is more of a practical stop, especially if you're departing from its airport.
During our time in Brindisi, we took leisurely strolls along the picturesque boulevard, enjoying the sea breeze and the views of the harbor. We also visited the iconic Monumento al Marinaio d'Italia, a prominent landmark in the city.
While Brindisi provided a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere, we found that two days were more than enough to explore what the city had to offer. Brindisi may not be a must-visit destination in Puglia, but it can be a convenient and enjoyable stop if you happen to be flying in or out of its airport.
Our Puglia journey had been a delightful exploration of charming towns, historical treasures, coastal beauty, and culinary delights. We hope that our experiences and recommendations help you plan your own unforgettable adventure in this hidden gem of Italy.
Accommodations in Puglia: A Home Away from Home
During our Puglia adventure, we carefully selected a variety of accommodations that would suit our travel needs and preferences. Our choices included a mix of Airbnb rentals, hotels, and normal rooms. We didn't necessarily opt for the most expensive or luxurious options but focused on finding accommodations that offered convenience, central locations, and unique experiences.
Airbnb - A Local's Perspective
Choosing Airbnb rentals allowed us to experience Puglia from a local's perspective. We stayed in charming apartments and homes, often owned by Puglian residents who provided valuable insights and recommendations. The flexibility of having our own space, cooking facilities, and the chance to live in residential neighborhoods enhanced our sense of immersion in the local culture.
Hotels - Comfort and Convenience
Hotels in Puglia provided us with the comfort and convenience we needed. We enjoyed services such as daily housekeeping, breakfast options, and easy access to on-site amenities like restaurants and spas. The central locations of many hotels made it simple to explore the region and return to a comfortable base at the end of each day. This practical choice allowed us to enjoy the convenience of a taxi service to bring us to the airport on our last day in Puglia.
Rooms - Affordable and Practical
In Monopoli and Bari we opted for rooms within smaller complexes, which offered a hotel-like experience. These accommodations were chosen for their affordability, convenient locations, and the fact that we primarily used our rooms for sleeping, as we spent most of our time exploring.
By selecting a combination of Airbnb rentals, hotels, and rooms, we enjoyed the advantages of each accommodation type. Whether it was the local insights from our Airbnb hosts, the comfort of hotels, or the practicality of our final stay, we found the perfect home away from home at every stage of our Puglia journey.
Looking for accommodation in Puglia? Check out affordable hotels and rooms in this lovely region Trip.com/hotels or Airbnb.com.
Conclusion
Our 12-day Puglia adventure was truly enchanting. We explored Bari, Monopoli, Lecce, and more, each place leaving a special mark on our hearts.
Choosing buses and trains over a rental car helped us connect with the local way of life and save money.
We indulged in delicious local foods like focaccia barese in Bari and tried our hand at making pasta in Lecce.
Exploring coastal towns like Polignano a Mare and the unique trulli houses in Alberobello added variety to our trip.
As we wrapped up in Brindisi, we appreciated the practicality of our accommodations, which ranged from Airbnb to hotels and simple rooms.
Puglia's magic will stay with us, and we hope our journey inspires yours. Embrace the charm, traditions, and beauty of Puglia, and create your own unforgettable memories.
Bonus: Travel Tips for Puglia
When planning your next trip to Puglia, these insider tips and useful information will ensure you have an amazing time in this enchanting region.
Taste the Local Flavors
Embrace the Slow Pace
Learn Basic Italian Phrases
Plan for Siesta Time
Respect Local Traditions
Stay Hydrated and Sunscreened
Explore Beyond the Tourist Spots
Be Patient with Transportation
Support Local Businesses
Take It All In
