14 day itinerary for La Puglia

Itinerary

Puglia, with its stunning coastline, charming towns, and delicious cuisine, is a fantastic destination for a 14-day adventure. Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances relaxation, exploration, and culinary delights!

## Day 1: Arrival in Bari

• Morning: Arrive in Bari, the capital of Puglia. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the old town (Bari Vecchia). Visit the Basilica di San Nicola and the Castello Normanno-Svevo.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Puglian dinner at a local trattoria. Try orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe!

## Day 2: Polignano a Mare

• Morning: Head to Polignano a Mare (about 30 minutes from Bari). Explore the stunning cliffs and beaches.
• Afternoon: Have lunch at a seaside restaurant and then visit the famous Lama Monachile beach.
• Evening: Watch the sunset from the cliffs and enjoy gelato at a local shop.

## Day 3: Alberobello and Locorotondo

• Morning: Drive to Alberobello (about 40 minutes). Explore the iconic trulli houses and visit the Trullo Sovrano.
• Afternoon: Head to Locorotondo, known for its circular old town. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and stroll through the charming streets.
• Evening: Return to Alberobello for dinner and perhaps a local wine tasting.

## Day 4: Matera (Day Trip)

• Morning: Take a day trip to Matera (about 1.5 hours from Alberobello). Explore the Sassi cave dwellings.
• Afternoon: Visit the rock churches and enjoy lunch in a cave restaurant.
• Evening: Return to Puglia and have a relaxed dinner.

## Day 5: Ostuni and Cisternino

• Morning: Drive to Ostuni, the "White City." Wander through its whitewashed streets and visit the cathedral.
• Afternoon: Head to Cisternino for lunch. Explore the town and try the famous “bombette” (grilled meat rolls).
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening back in Ostuni, perhaps with a sunset view.

## Day 6: Lecce

• Morning: Travel to Lecce, known as the "Florence of the South." Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Roman amphitheater.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch and explore the baroque architecture.
• Evening: Try some local pasticciotto (a delicious pastry) and enjoy dinner in the vibrant city center.

## Day 7: Gallipoli

• Morning: Head to Gallipoli (about 30 minutes from Lecce). Explore the old town on the island and visit the castle.
• Afternoon: Relax on the beach or enjoy some fresh seafood for lunch.
• Evening: Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy a sunset dinner.

## Day 8: Otranto

• Morning: Drive to Otranto (about 30 minutes from Gallipoli). Visit the Otranto Cathedral and its stunning mosaic floor.
• Afternoon: Explore the Aragonese Castle and enjoy lunch by the sea.
• Evening: Relax at a beach bar and enjoy a casual dinner.

## Day 9: Santa Maria di Leuca

• Morning: Travel to Santa Maria di Leuca, the southernmost point of Puglia. Visit the lighthouse and the Basilica.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a boat tour of the sea caves or relax on the beach.
• Evening: Have dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring local seafood.

## Day 10: Taranto

• Morning: Head to Taranto (about 1 hour from Leuca). Visit the Aragonese Castle and the National Archaeological Museum.
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch in the old town and take a stroll along the waterfront.
• Evening: Try some local Taranto specialties for dinner.

## Day 11: Castel del Monte and Trani

• Morning: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, Castel del Monte (about 1 hour from Taranto). Explore this unique octagonal castle.
• Afternoon: Head to Trani, known for its beautiful cathedral by the sea. Enjoy lunch and explore the charming harbor.
• Evening: Have dinner in Trani, perhaps trying the local fish dishes.

## Day 12: Bari and Surroundings

• Morning: Return to Bari. Visit the Petruzzelli Theatre and the local markets.
• Afternoon: Take a short trip to the nearby town of Bitonto, known for its olive oil and beautiful churches.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Bari, perhaps at a rooftop restaurant.

## Day 13: Relaxation Day

• Morning: Spend a leisurely morning at a beach of your choice, like Torre dell'Orso or Monopoli.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a spa day or a cooking class to learn about Puglian cuisine.
• Evening: Have a relaxed dinner, reflecting on your trip.

## Day 14: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast in Bari. Do some last-minute shopping for local products like olive oil and wine.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A delightful 14-day itinerary through Puglia, filled with history, culture, and mouthwatering food. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌞🍝🏖️