It doesn’t take a geography expert to find Puglia on Italy’s map: it’s right on the high heel of the boot. Every year, a procession of tourists flocks to the region to be amazed by its architecture, landscapes, produce, olive oil, and wine. It’s nearly impossible to single out the city that most deserves visiting, which explains why many tourists keep returning for more.
However, a handful of cities tend to appear in most Puglia Tours and may deserve special attention. Learn more about them below.
Bari
Bari is usually the first city tourists arrive at since it’s Puglia’s capital. It may not be the most scenic place in the region, but it’s because the competition is tough. It’s famous for its vibrant city life, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions. Its coastline (lungomare) is especially stunning at sunset.
The old town (Bari Vecchia) is a jewellery box for architecture lovers, with ancient churches and narrow streets. Bari is also a convenient starting point for further explorations, as it’s just a short bus trip from cities like Alberobello, Matera, and Lecce.
Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare has some of the most recognisable coastlines in the region. Unsurprisingly, it’s one of Italy’s most popular getaway destinations. Not many towns blend ancient architecture and cobblestone streets with sandy beaches and crystalline sea.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II and the Porta Vecchia (old gate) are must-sees. However, visitors should also take a boat trip for a complete experience. While most beaches may be pretty busy during peak season, the most secluded beach in the area (Spiaggia di Porto Cavallo) is only a 45-minute walk from the city centre.
Lecce
Lecce has been nicknamed the “Florence of the South” for a reason. Lecce’s beautifully preserved Baroque architecture is so distinguished in style that it’s called “Lecce Baroque.” While 17th-century buildings dominate the city skyline, there are also archaeological sites dating back to the Roman Empire.
Lecce’s cathedral, Porta Napoli, the Piazza di Sant’Oronzo, and the Basilica di Santa Croce are some of the unmissable local attractions. Local food is also unique. Known as peasant cuisine (cucina povera), Leccese dishes are based on simple but fresh and high-quality ingredients.
Casamassima
Casamassima is one of Puglia’s best-kept secrets, even though it’s pretty close to Bari. Nearly every wall in the old town is painted in a different shade of blue, which is regularly retouched as a part of a proud tradition.
It’s unclear where this tradition came from, but legend has it that people used to believe it could drive away evil spirits. Architecture marvels include the castle, the Church of the Purgatory, and the Clock Tower.
Ceglie Messapica
Speaking of hidden gems, Ceglia Messapica is a must-visit for food lovers. Locally, it’s known as the “gastronomical capital” of the Valle d’Itria, but the place remains somehow overlooked by most tourists. It’s the best place to try the Biscotto di Ceglie, a local cookie, though the city is also famous for its cheese-tasting tours.
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