Lecce
Best for: Culture lovers, foodies, nightlife
The "Florence of the South" — extraordinary Baroque architecture in golden stone, the best pasticciotto pastries, and gateway to the Salento beaches. Lively student nightlife. Our top pick.
Ostuni (Città Bianca)
Best for: Romantics, photographers, food
The "White City" — a whitewashed hilltop with panoramic views and excellent restaurants. Central location between Bari and Lecce. Good masserie (farmhouse hotels) nearby.
Polignano a Mare
Best for: Beach lovers, Instagrammers
A dramatic cliff town with a beach wedged between rock walls (Lama Monachile). Domenico Modugno's hometown. Best gelato in Puglia (arguably Italy). Busy in summer but magnetic.
Alberobello
Best for: Unique stays, families
Sleep in a trullo — the conical stone houses are UNESCO-listed and extraordinary. Touristy during the day but magical at night when the groups leave. Central Itria Valley location.
A Masseria (countryside)
Best for: Couples, relaxation, foodies
Puglia's converted fortified farmhouses offer pool, gardens, and extraordinary food. The quintessential Puglia experience. You need a car but the rewards are immense. Book months ahead for summer.
Our recommendation
Lecce (3 nights) for culture and Salento, a masseria or Ostuni (3 nights) for the Itria Valley, and a night in Polignano or Bari for the coast. Rent a car — Puglia without a car is frustrating.