Ben & Mirko
When In Puglia
Lecce
Lecce it's one of our favorite cities in Puglia. We love the beautiful architecture, lively yet relaxed atmosphere, tasty food and wine, and the central spot for exploring the Salento. Lecce has a favorable location and is within a stone's throw of some charming and interesting coastal destinations such as Gallipoli or Santa Maria di Leuca. Pasticciotto, puccia, rustico leccese are a must eat here! Check out "Masseria le Stanzie" for an unforgettable lunch!
Alberobello
Undoubtedly, the sole reason most people come to Alberobello is to wander the trulli-lined streets; there is after all no other place like this in the world! Once you arrive in the town's centre, it's immediately clear where to head - the Rione Monti quarter within the 'trulli zone'. Lunch or dinner at "La Cantina" with traditional dishes and cozy ambiance and local wines is strongly suggested.
Ostuni
Ostuni is one of the most stunning cities in southern Italy famous for the dazzling effect of its whitewashed houses. It is a genuine and charming example of Mediterranean architecture. The city of Ostuni is a series of levels, staircases, small roads, alleys, arches. Hints of the Middle Ages are at hand in every corner, in every view to the sea, in the portal of a palace, in the walls of a convent or the front of a church.
Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is arguably one of the most romantic spots in the region, a craggy slice of land with several caves that has seen its fair share of invaders throughout history along its limestone cliffs. The historical white-watched Medieval town is just as pleasant as the adjoining coastline, a beautiful little gem and an essential part of any trip through Puglia.
Monopoli
With a much more lived-in feel than some of the more popular tourist towns in the area, Monopoli allows you to have a beautiful, quintessentially southern Italian experience whilst still catching glimpses into everyday life; fishermen and their catch returning to the photogenic harbor in the mid-morning, groups of men - young and old - congregating on the street to discuss everything and nothing in a sing-song language often too quick to understand, nonnas on balconies watching the world go by, and bars full of locals and not tourists.
Gravina in Puglia
Where nature has given birth to a complex cave system and humans have carved out unique churches in them, Gravina in Puglia is a bucket-list item that you should check on your travels to Southern Italy. The town is a rich mixture of natural formations, harmonious architecture, and typical organic produce that you can take back as souvenirs to keep tasting the delicious memories of Puglia.
San Nicola di Tremiti
The Tremiti Islands are a real paradise on Earth: the crystal clear sea reflects the colors of the lush surrounding vegetation. The colors vary from emerald green where the seabed is lower, while it becomes blue where the seabed is made of light sand, almost white, recalling Caribbean landscapes.
Trani
Trani is known for its picturesque seaport and historic cathedral. The city really flourished during the 11th century and its strategic location played an important part during the Crusades.
Castel del Monte
Castel del Monte is one of the many castles built in southern Italy in the thirteenth century by Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor. It's seen as the greatest of his castles, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Otranto
What makes Otranto such a great destination to visit is the fact that you have a pretty town and pretty harbour all in one place. The crystal clear waters of the harbour and so clean that there's even a small city beach ideal for families right in the centre of the old town.
Castellana Grotte
The Caves of Castellana Grotte are over 3000 metre in length and are a good opportunity to enjoy one of the most amazing natural wonders in Puglia. Daily tours of the cave are available in English, French German and Italian. The cave tour is amazing and very well organised. The colors of the rocks and the different formations are truly astonishing.
Gargano National Park
One of the best things about the Gargano is its diversity. As well as the beautiful coastline, you can head inland into the mountains, which are a novelty after exploring the rest of the rather flat region of Puglia. Monte Sant'Angelo is the most picturesque mountain town to visit. Almost a region within a region, providing a home for countless habitats.
Bari
With a gorgeous old town, bustling traditional harbor and Italy’s best beaches nearby, the Italian port city of Bari is an unmissable treat. Add a thriving local food scene and you may never leave... Must try: "La Locanda di Federico", "La Uascezze", "Panificio Fiore" and the famous focaccia barese, panzerotti, braciole, sgagliozze and of course orecchiette at "Arco Basso".