Itinerary

The Puglia region, or "Pouilles" as it's known in French, is a stunning part of Italy filled with charming towns, beautiful coastlines, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a delightful 6-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of what Puglia has to offer!

## Day 1: Arrival in Bari

Morning:

• Arrive in Bari, the capital of Puglia. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Start your day with a stroll through the Bari Vecchia (Old Town). The narrow streets are filled with history and charm. Don’t miss the Basilica di San Nicola, a beautiful church dedicated to Saint Nicholas.

Lunch:

• Grab a bite at a local trattoria. Try orecchiette con cime di rapa (pasta with turnip tops) – a Puglian specialty!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Castello Normanno-Svevo, a medieval castle with fascinating architecture and views of the city.
• Take a leisurely walk along the lungomare (seafront promenade) and enjoy the sea breeze.

Evening:

• Dinner at a seaside restaurant. Savor some fresh seafood and a glass of local wine.

## Day 2: Alberobello and Locorotondo

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to Alberobello (about an hour from Bari). This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its unique trulli (traditional stone huts).
• Explore the Rione Monti area, where you can see the most iconic trulli.

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at a local eatery. Try panzerotti, a delicious stuffed pastry.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Locorotondo, a picturesque hilltop town known for its circular layout and whitewashed buildings.
• Stroll through the charming streets and enjoy the stunning views of the Itria Valley.

Evening:

• Head back to Alberobello for dinner. Try some local wines and traditional Puglian dishes.

## Day 3: Matera Day Trip

Morning:

• Take a day trip to Matera (about 1.5 hours from Bari). This ancient city is famous for its Sassi (cave dwellings) and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Start your visit at the Cattedrale di Matera for panoramic views.

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch in one of the cave restaurants. Try cicoria (wild greens) and bread from Matera.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Sassi di Matera. Visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario to see how people lived in the caves.
• Don’t forget to check out the Rock Churches with their stunning frescoes.

Evening:

• Return to Bari for dinner. Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps with a gelato as you stroll through the city.

## Day 4: Polignano a Mare and Monopoli

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to Polignano a Mare (about 30 minutes from Bari). This stunning coastal town is perched on cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
• Explore the charming old town and visit Lama Monachile, a beautiful beach.

Lunch:

• Have lunch at a cliffside restaurant with a view of the sea. Try the local specialty, sea urchin pasta if you’re feeling adventurous!

Afternoon:

• Drive to Monopoli, another lovely coastal town. Explore the historic center, visit the Castello Carlo V, and relax on the beach.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner in Monopoli, perhaps at a restaurant specializing in fresh seafood.

## Day 5: Ostuni and the Valle d'Itria

Morning:

• Head to Ostuni, known as the "White City" for its whitewashed buildings. Explore the narrow streets and visit the Cattedrale di Ostuni.

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria. Try focaccia or burrata cheese, a Puglian delight!

Afternoon:

• Spend the afternoon exploring the Valle d'Itria. Visit Cisternino and Martina Franca, two charming towns known for their beautiful architecture and local markets.

Evening:

• Return to Ostuni for dinner. Enjoy the local cuisine and perhaps a glass of Primitivo wine.

## Day 6: Gallipoli and Departure

Morning:

• On your last day, head to Gallipoli (about 1.5 hours from Bari). This coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches and historic center.
• Explore the old town, visit the Castello Angioino, and take a stroll along the seafront.

Lunch:

• Have a leisurely lunch at a beachside restaurant. Try the local fried fish or pasta with seafood.

Afternoon:

• Spend some time relaxing on the beach or exploring more of Gallipoli. If time allows, visit the nearby Baia Verde for some sunbathing.

Evening:

• Head back to Bari for your departure. If you have time, enjoy a final dinner in the city, reminiscing about your wonderful Puglia adventure!

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And there you have it! A delightful 6-day itinerary that captures the essence of Puglia. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Buon viaggio! 🌞🍝🏖️