Where to Stay in Puglia: The Ultimate Guide to 10 Must-Visit Destinations

Puglia, the sun-drenched region in southeastern Italy, boasts a captivating blend of ancient history, picturesque landscapes, and culinary delights. Planning a trip to this captivating destination requires careful consideration of where to stay. Here's an in-depth guide to 10 must-visit destinations in Puglia, each offering a distinct experience and a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler.

1. Bari: The Capital of Puglia (120,000 Population)

Bari, the bustling capital of Puglia, welcomes travelers with its vibrant streets, historic old town, and scenic waterfront.

• Top Attractions: Bari Cathedral, Norman-Swabian Castle, Petruzzelli Theatre
• Accommodation: Bari offers a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts. Prices start from around €50 per night.
• Recommended Hotels: Palazzo Calò, Grande Albergo delle Nazioni, Nicolaus Hotel

2. Polignano a Mare: A Picturesque Clifftop Town

Nestled on a limestone cliff overlooking the turquoise Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare offers breathtaking views and a charming atmosphere.

• Top Attractions: Lama Monachile Beach, Grotta Palazzese Restaurant, Historical Center
• Accommodation: Polignano a Mare features a selection of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Prices range from €70 to €200 per night.
• Recommended Hotels: G'Acquamarina Suite, Grotta Ardito Hotel & Spa, La Maison di Pietra

3. Monopoli: A Hidden Gem on the Coast

With its whitewashed houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and secluded beaches, Monopoli exudes an authentic Italian charm.

• Top Attractions: Monopoli Cathedral, Charles V Castle, Porto Rosso
• Accommodation: Monopoli offers a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and apartment rentals. Prices start from around €60 per night.
• Recommended Hotels: Hotel Santa Maria, Dimora Bellavista Charming Guest House, Relais Corte Altavilla

4. Alberobello: The Trulli Capital of the World

Alberobello is renowned for its unique trulli, cone-shaped limestone houses that give the town a whimsical and charming character.

• Top Attractions: Trulli District, Rione Monti, Trulli Sovrano
• Accommodation: Alberobello offers a variety of hotels and guesthouses located within and near the Trulli District. Prices range from €50 to €150 per night.
• Recommended Hotels: La Corte Dell'Astore, Albergo Diffuso Sextantio, Trulli Holiday

5. Lecce: The Baroque Capital of Puglia (95,000 Population)

Known as the "Florence of the South," Lecce showcases an opulent Baroque architecture and a lively cultural scene.

• Top Attractions: Basilica of Santa Croce, Duomo di Lecce, Roman Amphitheater
• Accommodation: Lecce boasts a range of hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Prices start from around €40 per night.
• Recommended Hotels: Palazzo Massari, Hotel President, The Originals City, Hôtel Libertine

6. Trani: A Coastal City with a Medieval Heritage

Trani, situated on the Adriatic coast, captivates visitors with its well-preserved medieval center and picturesque harbor.

• Top Attractions: Trani Cathedral, Swabian Castle, Porto di Trani
• Accommodation: Trani offers a range of hotels and guesthouses, many of which provide sea views. Prices range from €70 to €150 per night.
• Recommended Hotels: Hotel Moderno, Hotel San Paolo al Convento, Relais Paradiso

7. Ostuni: The White City of Puglia

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Itria Valley, Ostuni is renowned for its whitewashed houses and panoramic views.

• Top Attractions: Ostuni Cathedral, Mura Urbiche, La Cava Park
• Accommodation: Ostuni features a selection of hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Prices range from €60 to €120 per night.
• Recommended Hotels: Masseria Cervarolo, Hotel La Terra, Trullo Noci

8. Gallipoli: A Historical Port City

With its ancient walls, labyrinthine streets, and vibrant nightlife, Gallipoli offers a blend of history and entertainment.

• Top Attractions: Castello di Gallipoli, Sant'Agata Cathedral, Baia Verde Beach
• Accommodation: Gallipoli offers a range of hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Prices start from around €50 per night.
• Recommended Hotels: Vivosa Apulia Resort, Hotel Costa Brada, Parco Gondar

9. Otranto: A Coastal Town with a Rich History

Otranto, located on the southeastern tip of Puglia, boasts a captivating blend of Byzantine, Norman, and Turkish influences.

• Top Attractions: Otranto Cathedral, Castello Aragonese, Baia dei Turchi
• Accommodation: Otranto offers a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Prices range from €60 to €130 per night.
• Recommended Hotels: Hotel Palazzo Papaleo, La Fattoria, Masseria Bandino

10. Martina Franca: A Baroque Jewel in the Itria Valley

Set amidst rolling hills and vineyards, Martina Franca is renowned for its elegant Baroque architecture and lively cultural scene.

• Top Attractions: Basilica di San Martino, Palazzo Ducale, Museo Archeologico Nazionale
• Accommodation: Martina Franca offers a selection of hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Prices start from around €50 per night.
• Recommended Hotels: Masseria Torre Coccaro, Palazzo Ducale Suites, Hotel Villa San Martino

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Accommodation in Puglia

• Booking too late: Puglia is a popular tourist destination, so it's crucial to book your accommodation in advance to avoid high prices and limited availability.
• Ignoring location: Consider the proximity of the accommodation to your desired attractions and transportation hubs.
• Overlooking amenities: Determine which amenities are essential for your comfort and ensure the hotel or guesthouse offers them.
• Neglecting reviews: Read online reviews from previous guests to gain insights into the quality of service and amenities.
• Assuming all hotels are safe: Always prioritize safety when choosing a place to stay, especially if you're traveling alone or with family.

Conclusion

Puglia offers a diverse array of destinations, each with its own unique charm and attractions. By carefully considering your travel needs and preferences, you can choose the ideal location for your stay. Whether you seek the vibrant atmosphere of a coastal town, the historical richness of a walled city, or the serenity of the countryside, Puglia has something to offer every traveler. By following the tips and recommendations provided in this guide, you can ensure a memorable and enriching experience in the captivating region of Puglia.

Additional Resources

• Puglia Tourism Board
• Airbnb in Puglia
• Booking.com in Puglia

Tables

Table 1: Popular Destinations in Puglia with Tourist Count

Table 2: Accommodation Price Ranges in Puglia

Table 3: Recommended Hotels in Puglia