--- title: Our exclusive guide to Puglia - top addresses and activities description: Discover the best of Puglia with our guide to the finest beaches, restaurants, and local experiences in Italy's southern region from Bari to Salento. --- [![Le Collectionist](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/logotype_stories-01.svg "Le Collectionist")](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/) [![Discover our holiday homes](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/5524673/c201153e-599f-45ae-afb2-42030f16b9c2.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/5524673/c201153e-599f-45ae-afb2-42030f16b9c2) [![Le Collectionist](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/logotype_stories-01.svg "Le Collectionist")](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/) ![Le Collectionist](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Lecollectionist_Blog_July2020/images/search.svg) - [Destinations](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/en/tag/destinations) - [Homes](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/en/tag/where-to-stay) - [Holiday Inspiration](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/en/tag/inspiration) - [Concierge Services](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/luxury-concierge-services) - [Destination Guides](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/guides) - [Catalogues](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/our-catalogues) - [About Le Collectionist](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/our-added-value) - [Beautiful Destinations](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/en/tag/destinations) - [Holiday Intel](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/en/tag/inspiration) - [Exploring Our Homes](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/en/tag/where-to-stay) - [Our City Guides](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/guides) - [Our Catalogues](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/our-catalogues) - [About Le Collectionist](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/our-added-value) - [Contact Us](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/lp/contact-us) - [| FR](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/fr) [![](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Lecollectionist_Blog_July2020/images/language.svg)](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/?hsLang=fr) ![Le Collectionist](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Lecollectionist_Blog_July2020/images/search.svg) ![Le Collectionist](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Lecollectionist_Blog_July2020/images/mail-v2.svg) Villa Name ![Villa preview](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/Module%20Product/placeholder.jpg) Retour # PUGLIA  A LE COLLECTIONIST DESTINATION GUIDE At the tip of Italy's boot, explore the sun-drenched medieval towns, iconic whitewashed villages and breathtaking beaches of Puglia. In this region of infinite beauty and ancient culture, the sun shines on the wilderness all year round. [OUR TOP 5](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-puglia#top-5) [WHERE TO STAY](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-puglia#where-to-stay) [WHEN TO GO](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-puglia#when-to-visit) [FOR FAMILIES](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-puglia#family) [BEACHES](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-puglia#best-beaches) [RESTAURANTS](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-puglia#restaurants) [OUR EXPERIENCES](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-puglia#experiences) [![puglia](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hs-fs/hubfs/0T8A0745.png?width=2000&height=1333&name=0T8A0745.png "puglia")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) ## **Where authenticity reigns supreme ** [Puglia](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) is like a living breathing painting, rich in **culture** and **beautiful landscapes**. Stroll through olive groves, wild fig and pomegranate trees, and admire Baroque churches and Byzantine buildings. Follow us through this unspoilt corner of [Italy](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/italy) and towards the mysterious **Adriatic** **Sea**, which has fascinated the world for thousands of years. ## OUR CONCIERGE'S TOP 5 PICKS ### 1 - **Stroll through the streets of Locorotondo ** Perched atop a hill in the **Valle d'Itria**, the **white-washed buildings** in **Locorotondo** stand proudly against a sea of green. Once past the ancient walls that form a ring around the town, take your time to meander through the **winding** **streets**. Against this pristine **white** **canvas**, it’s the minute details of forest **green** **shutters** and terracotta **flower** **pots** that will catch your eye.  **In a nutshell** Old town / White-washed buildings ### 2 - **Taste the region’s exquisite produce in a private cooking class** A paradise for **epicureans**, food is treated with reverence in Puglia. From **sea** to **land**, the diverse terroir provides everything needed for a feast of kings. From *focaccia* adorned with thyme to soup where **seabream**, **king** **prawns** and **muscles** take centre stage, tap into the expert knowledge of our **private** **chefs**.  **In a nutshell** Cooking class / Local produce ### 3 -**Marvel at the trulli in Alberobello  ** Distinctive with their **conical** **roofs** and **limestone** **walls**, marvel at the brilliant white roofs that emerge like turrets from the rolling green fields. A **UNESCO World Heritage site**, the prehistoric technique of drywall buildings makes the buildings feel as timeless as the land itself.  **In a nutshell** Trulli / Traditional village ### **4 - Visit the historic centre of Lecce ** Wander down through the ancient labyrinth in **Lecce**, known as the ‘Florence of the South’. In this time capsule, the native limestone and **Baroque architecture** collaborate to create a grandiose cityscape. Preserving its past while looking forward, **17th-century churches** stand alongside **contemporary art galleries**.  **In a nutshell** Historic centre / Baroque architecture ### 3 - **Go on a bike tour** Cycle through the **patchwork quilts of green fields** in Puglia, as the slightly salty air lures you closer to the **sea**. On your journey, pause to marvel at the traditional *masserias*, with their whitewashed walls and conic roofs. Then slow down your peddle as you pass by **quaint** **villages**, where *nonnas* rolling *orecchiette* invite you inside to refuel.  **In a nutshell** Bike tour / Spectacular landscape [![robert-bye-Dwbx7kMvKQM-unsplash 1](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hs-fs/hubfs/robert-bye-Dwbx7kMvKQM-unsplash%201.png?width=2000&height=1477&name=robert-bye-Dwbx7kMvKQM-unsplash%201.png "robert-bye-Dwbx7kMvKQM-unsplash 1")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) [![kristijan-nikodinovski-8Q4CnHJ8mTI-unsplash](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hs-fs/hubfs/kristijan-nikodinovski-8Q4CnHJ8mTI-unsplash.png?width=2000&height=1477&name=kristijan-nikodinovski-8Q4CnHJ8mTI-unsplash.png "kristijan-nikodinovski-8Q4CnHJ8mTI-unsplash")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) [![diego-geraldi-iSt-YL1Z8PI-unsplash](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hs-fs/hubfs/diego-geraldi-iSt-YL1Z8PI-unsplash.png?width=2000&height=1333&name=diego-geraldi-iSt-YL1Z8PI-unsplash.png "diego-geraldi-iSt-YL1Z8PI-unsplash")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) ## **WHERE TO STAY IN PUGLIA** ### **Monopoli** Since **500 BC**, **Monopoli** has stood guard along Puglia's **glistening** **coast**. As the ebb and flow of the tide sets the leisurely pace to your escape, embrace the tradition of **slow** **living**. Down the serpentine alleys, laundry gently flutters in the sea breeze and locals take a table outside the **aperitivo** **bars** as they have done for centuries.  **In a nutshell** Ancient town / Seaside   [![AMORE](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/AMORE.jpg "AMORE")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/casa-amore-province-of-bari) ## Casa Amore ## [Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/casa-amore-province-of-bari) ### **Polignano a Mare** The **Adriatic Sea**, **mythical caves**, **limestone cliffs**… The theatrical landscape in **Polignano a Mare** will take your breath away. The natural environment inspires brave spirits who plunge from the summits of these **cliffs** into the inviting waters below. However, if you are less adrenaline-seeking, join the company of the locals gathering in the **village** **square** for a sunset-coloured *Aperol* *spritz*. **In a nutshell** Seaside / Cliffs [![TAYANA-1](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/TAYANA-1.jpg "TAYANA-1")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-tayana-province-of-bari) ## Villa Tayana [Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-tayana-province-of-bari) ### **Ostuni ** Perched along the **hillside**, this white-washed village radiates majesty with its **Gothic** **cathedral** and imposing vantage point over the sea. Wander through the winding streets and then come the evening, marvel as the chalky walls become the canvas for the **rainbow** **sunsets**.  **In a nutshell** Hillside / White-washed buildings [![ULIVIVILLA](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/ULIVIVILLA.jpg "ULIVIVILLA")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-ulivi-ostuni) ## Villa Ulivi [Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-ulivi-ostuni) ### **Lecce** Every building in Lecce seems to be an ode to **ornate** **architecture**. These limestone buildings create a **dreamy off-white landscape** where upon further inspection, the most detailed **tableaux** are etched.  **In a nutshell** Main city / Baroque architecture [![](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/Masseria%20Bonaccia-1.jpg)](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/masseria-bonaccia-salento) ## Masseria Bonaccia ## [Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/masseria-bonaccia-salento) [![](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Gif-Puglia.gif?width=1880&height=775&name=Gif-Puglia.gif)](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) ## WHEN TO VISIT PUGLIA ### **Spring** As the Mediterranean sun kisses the wild landscapes, head to Puglia in **spring**. With **glorious** **weather** and average temperatures of **22°C**, **May** is the perfect season for embracing the art of doing nothing.  [Things to do in Italy in March](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionists-guide-to-visiting-italy-in-march) [Things to do in Italy in April](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/our-guide-to-visiting-italy-in-april) [Things to do in Italy in May](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/our-guide-to-visiting-italy-in-may) ### **Summer** Puglia in **summer** is a sun-drenched paradise, where the temperatures reach the mid **30°Cs**. There is a **palpable** **energy**, as teenagers jump from cliff edges into the turquoise waters and **laughter** seems to be the song of the summer.  [Things to do in Italy in June](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-visiting-italy-in-june) [Things to do in Italy in July](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/our-guide-to-visiting-italy-in-july) [Things to do in Italy in August](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/our-favourite-places-to-visit-in-italy-in-august-for-local-events) ### **Autumn** Like the **summers** **of** **childhood**, there is an eternal magic to Puglia even in **autumn**. After September and autumn as schools restart, enjoy these **long** **days** and **glorious** **sunshine** without having to compete for a prized spot on the paradise beaches.  [Things to do in Italy in September](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/our-best-cities-to-visit-in-italy-in-september) [Things to do in Italy in October](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/exotic-locations-in-italy) [Things to do in Italy in November](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/where-to-go-in-italy-in-november) [![Vue-1-2](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Vue-1-2.jpg?width=2000&height=1333&name=Vue-1-2.jpg "Vue-1-2")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) ## **FAMILY HOLIDAYS IN PUGLIA** ### **Learn the secrets of pasta making ** From the soft rounded domes of *orecchiette* to the elegant twirls of *strozzapreti*, each pasta shape has a distinct **personality**. Discover these generational secrets and the technique of *pasta fatta a mano,* making **pasta** **by** **hand**. It’s like having access to the **family recipe book**, where each successor has added their hand-scribbled notes in the margins.  **In a nutshell ** Pasta making / Private class  ### **Go on a bike excursion through the olive groves** Your **little explorers** will delight as they race through the **seas of olive groves** in Puglia. Surrounded by wild beauty, guess the ages of the **centennial olive groves**, where tufts of green emerge from thick contorted trunks. A relatively **flat** **landscape**, it’s perfect for all the family, although when you feel the need to rest your weary legs, a **family-run trattoria** is guaranteed to appear like an oasis in a desert.  **In a nutshell** Olive groves / Bike ride ### **Enjoy a beach day at a typically Puglian Lido ** With their sunbeds, showers, changing rooms and stellar restaurants, enjoy the natural beauty of Puglia’s beaches in **complete** **comfort**. Your budding architects can build their **towering** **sandcastles** that resemble the leaning tower of Pisa until the sun reaches its zenith. Then, head indoors to savour fresh **local produce for lunch**, all washed down with a glass of **homemade** **lemonade**.  **In a nutshell** Lido / Beach day [![Fenêtres](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/Fen%C3%AAtres.jpg "Fenêtres")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) [![barques](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/barques-2.jpg "barques")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) [![Door](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/Door-1-1.jpg "Door")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) [![Pêche](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/P%C3%AAche-2.jpg "Pêche")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) ## **THE BEST BEACHES IN PUGLIA** ### **Lido Bambù** On the golden sands at **Lido Bambù**, become mesmerised by the rippling **Adriatic Sea** that stretches out towards infinity. From the comfort of your sunbed, order an ambrosial **cocktail** and then, as the sun begins to retire for the evening, take a few steps to the **restaurant** and bar where **signature Apulian dishes** await.  **In a nutshell** Beach club / Golden sands  ### **White Ostuni Beach Club** This **small beach club** is in constant evolution throughout the day. In the afternoon, bask in the radiant **Mediterranean sun** then come the evening dance to the rhythm of the **guest DJs** as the sunset spills over the sea.  **In a nutshell** Beach club / Fine sands ### **Lama Monachile** Flanked by **two** **cliffs**, this **small** **beach** is a haven of natural beauty. The crystal-clear waters invite you to wade in, or if you’re the adventurous type, join the crowds diving from the **rocky** **summits** with a splash.  **In a nutshell** Free beach / Cliffs ### **Lido Ottagono** On this **private** **beach**, spend your days alternating between dips in the **turquoise** **waters** and drying off under the Italian sun. The only thing that will pull you away from this routine is the aroma of the **freshly cooked octopus sandwiches** which make the perfect lunchtime feast!  **In a nutshell** Beach club / Turquoise waters ### **Togo Bay Beach** This **picture-postcard beach** has everything you could hope for with **champagne** **sands** and **turquoise** **waters** that glisten in the sunlight. Spend your days with a book in hand or simply transfixed on the impressive vista before your eyes.  **In a nutshell** Beach club / Fine sands [![puglia-1](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/puglia-1.jpg "puglia-1")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) [![Swimming hole-1](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/Swimming%20hole-1.jpg "Swimming hole-1")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) ## **THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN PUGLIA** ### **Osteria del Tempo Perso ** Inside **Osteria del Tempo Perso** lies a charming **bistro-style restaurant** where an eclectic mix of bottles, brass pots and artwork mount the white-washed walls. With great reverence for **tradition**, savour dishes like **orecchiette** with **clams** and courgette flowers, all cooked of course with the finest **olive** **oil**.  [Osteria del Tempo Perso](https://www.osteriadeltempoperso.com/) *Via Gaetano Tanzarella Vitale, 47, 72017 Ostuni BR, Italy* ### **Grotta Palazzese ** For a truly extraordinary evening, take a seat inside a **natural cave** at **Grotta** **Palazzese**. One side looks out on the **marine horizon** and the other on the **craggy** **contours** of the cave. Yet, whichever side you choose, your attention will be stolen as soon as the meal is served.  [Grotta Palazzese](https://www.grottapalazzese.it/en/about-us/) *Via Narciso, 59, 70044 Polignano a mare BA, Italy* ### **La Cantina Alberobello ** In this traditional spot, each **pasta** shape is **hand**-**rolled** and perfectly formed. Here, the *orecchiette* is coated with glossy sausage ragù meanwhile the elegant *spaghetti* glistens in a simple sauce of **extra virgin olive oil**, garlic and red pepper flakes.  [La Cantina Alberobello](https://www.facebook.com/LaCantinaAlberobello/?locale=it_IT) *Vico Soldato Ignoto, 12, 70011 Alberobello BA, Italy* ### **Le Zie Trattoria Casareccia** Take a seat among locals at **Le Zie Trattoria Casareccia** where an unpretentious menu allows quality **regional** **produce** to shine. Choose between dishes such as stewed octopus, bean purée with wild chicory or chickpea pasta to discover recipes that have been **perfected over centuries**.  [Le Zie Trattoria Casareccia ](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g194791-d1799600-Reviews-Trattoria_Le_Zie_Cucina_Casareccia-Lecce_Province_of_Lecce_Puglia.html) *Via Colonnello Archimede Costadura, 2, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy* ### **Cibus** Take a seat in the courtyard at **Cibus**, where the **climbing** **plants** run up the white-washed walls and form a canopy. At this **Michelin-star restaurant**, savour dishes like **local** **rabbit** in a fresh tomato and olive sauce or snail *tortelli* with yellow tomatoes and Pecorino cheese fondue. With such an impressive and **unique wine list**, your server will be ready to advise on the perfect pairing.  [Cibus](https://ristorantecibus.it/) *Via Chianche di Scarano, 28-6, 72013 Ceglie Messapica BR, Italy* [![Terrasse restaurant](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/Terrasse%20restaurant.jpg "Terrasse restaurant")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) [![Restaurant entre copines-1](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/Restaurant%20entre%20copines-1.jpg "Restaurant entre copines-1")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/puglia) ## **OUR EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES IN PUGLIA** Let our [luxury concierge service](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/our-luxury-concierge-service) elevate your travel experience. From private chefs and in-villa spa treatments to tailored local experiences and seamless logistics, every detail is thoughtfully arranged to match your needs.  Discover our most exclusive and unforgettable experiences in Puglia. ### **Savour the best olive oils in the region** As the **olive oil capital of the country**, Puglia’s landscape is saturated with centennial olive groves. Taking their responsibility seriously, you can speak to olive oil farmers who will explain the **complex** **flavour** **profiles** of their **liquid** **gold**, like a sommelier talking about the finest vintage. The difference? Best fresh, these olive oils come practically straight from the press.   **In a nutshell** Olive oil tasting / Spectacular landscape  ### **Sample the region’s best wines** In this **sun-drenched region**, discover some of the vineyard's most iconic reds. If you’re looking for a **full-bodied** wine at a great price then taste the Primitivo and Negroamaro varieties, where the notes mirror some of the region’s most delicious fruits: **black** **cherry**, **plum** and **blackberry**.  **In a nutshell** Wine-tasting / Full-bodied reds ### **Lunch at Borgo Egnazia followed by a spa afternoon** At [Borgo Egnazia](https://www.borgoegnazia.com/), discover food that follows the **rhythm of the seasons** yet with a contemporary twist at the **Michelin**-**star** restaurant, [Due Camini](https://www.borgoegnazia.com/?section=food_and_drink&t=ristorante&rn=due-camini). Then, your blissful afternoon can continue at the [Vair spa](https://vairspa.com/en/home-en/), where even the massages take inspiration from the Puglian land. Indulge in **massages** such as *U mor* (the sea) which seeks to emulate the cadence of the sea, as the heavenly **sea-salt candle** transports you to the open waters.  **In a nutshell** Michelin star restaurant / Spa afternoon ### **Set sail with a boat day ** Where the **Adriatic** and **Ionian** **Seas** meet the heel of Italy’s boot, the brilliant azure blue waters lap against golden sands and rocky cliffs. Like the **explorers of yesteryear**, set sail to discover this **meeting point** of the Mediterranean. Then at the **sun-drenched** **beaches**, plunge into the delightfully warm waters, heated up by the brilliant sun.  **In a nutshell** Boat day / Beaches ## A SNEAK PEAK OF OUR HOMES IN PUGLIA [![Frame 33](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Frame%2033.jpg?width=2000&height=2000&name=Frame%2033.jpg "Frame 33")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/casale-normanni-ostuni) ## Casale Normanni [Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/casale-normanni-ostuni) [![Trullo Chiarezza](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/Trullo%20Chiarezza.jpg "Trullo Chiarezza")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/trullo-chiarezza-ostuni) ## Trullo Chiarezza [Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/trullo-chiarezza-ostuni) [![masseria-1](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/masseria-1.jpg "masseria-1")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/masseria-ozen-ostuni) ## Masseria Ozen [Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/masseria-ozen-ostuni) [![Villa Zora ](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/hubfs/Villa%20Zora%20.jpg "Villa Zora ")](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-zora-ostuni) ## Villa Zora [Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-zora-ostuni) [EXPLORE OUR HOMES](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/search?destinationId=201) [DISCOVER OUR DESTINATION GUIDE SERIES](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/guides) #### ABOUT US We unite spectacular homes with bespoke services and experiences, creating unforgettable holidays. 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