Itinerary

The Puglia region (or "Pouilles" in French) is a stunning part of Italy, known for its beautiful coastline, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a delightful 20-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of Puglia. Get ready for a mix of history, culture, and relaxation!

## 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!

## Day 2: Bari to Polignano a Mare

• Morning: Head to Polignano a Mare (about 30 minutes by train). Explore the stunning cliffs and beaches.
• Afternoon: Visit the famous Lama Monachile beach and take a dip in the Adriatic Sea.
• Evening: Dine at a cliffside restaurant with breathtaking views of the sunset.

## Day 3: Polignano a Mare to Monopoli

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Monopoli (about 20 minutes). Explore the charming old town and its beautiful harbor.
• Afternoon: Relax on one of the local beaches or visit the stunning Cathedral of Monopoli.
• Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local eatery.

## Day 4: Alberobello

• Morning: Travel to Alberobello (about 30 minutes by train). Explore the famous trulli houses.
• Afternoon: Visit the Trullo Sovrano and the Trulli Museum.
• Evening: Have dinner in a trullo restaurant and try local specialties.

## Day 5: Locorotondo and Martina Franca

• Morning: Head to Locorotondo (15 minutes by train). Wander through its circular old town.
• Afternoon: Continue to Martina Franca (15 minutes by bus). Explore the baroque architecture and the beautiful old town.
• Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner in Martina Franca.

## Day 6: Ostuni

• Morning: Travel to Ostuni, the "White City" (about 30 minutes by bus). Explore the whitewashed streets and stunning views.
• Afternoon: Visit the Cathedral of Ostuni and enjoy some gelato.
• Evening: Dine at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Puglia.

## Day 7: Brindisi

• Morning: Head to Brindisi (about 30 minutes by bus). Visit the Roman Column and the Swabian Castle.
• Afternoon: Stroll along the waterfront and relax at the beach.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant.

## Day 8: Lecce

• Morning: Travel to Lecce (about 1 hour by train). Explore the stunning baroque architecture.
• Afternoon: Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Roman Amphitheater.
• Evening: Try the local dish, pasticciotto, for dessert!

## Day 9: Otranto

• Morning: Take a day trip to Otranto (about 30 minutes by train). Visit the Otranto Cathedral and its beautiful mosaic floor.
• Afternoon: Relax on the beach or explore the Aragonese Castle.
• Evening: Enjoy fresh fish at a local restaurant.

## Day 10: Gallipoli

• Morning: Head to Gallipoli (about 1 hour by train). Explore the old town on the island.
• Afternoon: Visit the Gallipoli Castle and relax on the beach.
• Evening: Savor a seafood dinner overlooking the sea.

## Day 11: Santa Maria di Leuca

• Morning: Travel to Santa Maria di Leuca (about 1 hour by bus). Visit the lighthouse and the Basilica.
• Afternoon: Explore the stunning coastline and take a boat tour of the sea caves.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view of the sunset.

## Day 12: Matera (Day Trip)

• Morning: Take a day trip to Matera (about 1.5 hours by bus). Explore the Sassi cave dwellings.
• Afternoon: Visit the rock churches and enjoy the unique landscape.
• Evening: Return to Puglia and have dinner in a local trattoria.

## Day 13: Taranto

• Morning: Travel to Taranto (about 1 hour by train). Visit the Aragonese Castle and the National Archaeological Museum.
• Afternoon: Stroll along the waterfront and relax at the beach.
• Evening: Try the local specialty, "cozze" (mussels).

## Day 14: Castel del Monte

• Morning: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, Castel del Monte (about 1 hour by bus). Explore the unique octagonal castle.
• Afternoon: Enjoy the surrounding countryside and take some photos.
• Evening: Return to your base and have a relaxing dinner.

## Day 15: Cisternino and Ostuni

• Morning: Head to Cisternino (about 30 minutes by train). Explore the charming old town.
• Afternoon: Return to Ostuni for more exploration or relaxation.
• Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner in Ostuni.

## Day 16: Foggia and Gargano National Park

• Morning: Travel to Foggia (about 1.5 hours by train). Explore the city and its historical sites.
• Afternoon: Head to Gargano National Park for hiking and stunning views.
• Evening: Stay overnight in a nearby town.

## Day 17: Vieste

• Morning: Travel to Vieste (about 1 hour by bus). Explore the beautiful beaches and the old town.
• Afternoon: Visit the Pizzomunno rock and relax on the beach.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view of the sea.

## Day 18: San Giovanni Rotondo

• Morning: Visit San Giovanni Rotondo (about 1 hour by bus). Explore the Sanctuary of Padre Pio.
• Afternoon: Visit the nearby town of Monte Sant'Angelo.
• Evening: Return to your base and have a relaxing dinner.

## Day 19: Back to Bari

• Morning: Travel back to Bari (about 2 hours by train). Spend the day shopping and exploring any missed sights.
• Afternoon: Visit the Petruzzelli Theatre and the local markets.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Bari, perhaps trying some local wines.

## Day 20: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and do some last-minute sightseeing or shopping.
• Afternoon: Depart from Bari, taking with you wonderful memories of Puglia!

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This itinerary offers a mix of relaxation, exploration, and culinary delights. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests and pace. Enjoy your adventure in Puglia! 🌞🍝🏖️