7 day itinerary for Pouilles

Itinerary

The Puglia region (or "Pouilles" in Italian) is a stunning destination filled with charming towns, beautiful coastlines, and delicious cuisine. With a relaxed pace in mind, here’s a lovely 7-day itinerary that’s perfect for couples looking to soak in the romance and beauty of this enchanting area.

## Day 1: Arrival in Bari

Morning: Arrive in Bari, the capital of Puglia. Check into a cozy hotel or a charming B&B in the old town.

Afternoon: Stroll through the narrow streets of Bari Vecchia. Don’t miss the Basilica di San Nicola, a beautiful church with a fascinating history.

Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner at a local trattoria. Try the orecchiette pasta with turnip tops, a Puglian specialty.

## Day 2: Polignano a Mare

Morning: After breakfast, take a short train ride to Polignano a Mare (about 30 minutes). This picturesque cliffside town is famous for its stunning views.

Afternoon: Spend the day exploring the charming streets, and don’t forget to visit the famous Lama Monachile beach. You can also take a boat tour to see the sea caves if you’re feeling adventurous!

Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant overlooking the sea. The sunset views here are simply magical!

## Day 3: Alberobello and Locorotondo

Morning: Head to Alberobello (about 30 minutes from Polignano a Mare), known for its iconic trulli houses. Spend the morning wandering through the Trulli district, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Afternoon: After lunch, take a short drive or train ride to Locorotondo, a charming hilltop town. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through its circular old town and perhaps sample some local wines.

Evening: Return to Alberobello for dinner. Try some local dishes and enjoy the quaint atmosphere.

## Day 4: Matera Day Trip

Morning: Take a day trip to Matera (about 1.5 hours by car or bus). This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, known as "Sassi."

Afternoon: Explore the Sassi di Matera, visiting the rock churches and enjoying the breathtaking views. Don’t forget to stop for lunch at a local eatery.

Evening: Return to Puglia and have a relaxed dinner at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant.

## Day 5: Ostuni and the Beaches

Morning: Head to Ostuni, the "White City" (about 1 hour from Matera). Wander through its whitewashed streets and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Afternoon: After lunch, make your way to one of the nearby beaches, like Torre Guaceto or Rosa Marina. Spend a leisurely afternoon soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner, savoring fresh seafood and local wines.

## Day 6: Lecce

Morning: Travel to Lecce, often referred to as the "Florence of the South" (about 1 hour from Ostuni). Check into your hotel and start exploring.

Afternoon: Visit the stunning Baroque architecture, including the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo. Take your time to enjoy the local shops and cafes.

Evening: Have a romantic dinner in Lecce, perhaps trying the local specialty, pasticciotto (a delicious pastry) for dessert.

## Day 7: Gallipoli and Departure

Morning: On your last day, head to Gallipoli (about 30 minutes from Lecce). Explore the old town, perched on an island, and visit the beautiful beaches.

Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the sea, soaking in the last moments of your Puglian adventure.

Evening: Depending on your departure time, you can either head back to Bari for your flight or spend a little more time in Gallipoli before saying goodbye to this beautiful region.

Tips for a Relaxed Trip:

• Transportation: Renting a car is a great way to explore at your own pace, but trains and buses are also available for many routes.
• Dining: Make reservations for dinner, especially in popular towns, to ensure you get a table at the best spots.
• Pace: Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your interests. If you find a place you love, spend more time there!

Enjoy your romantic getaway in Puglia! It’s a region that’s sure to steal your hearts. 🌹✨