Things To Do
Ostuni
Chris and Jessica visited Puglia in September 2018. We stayed in Ostuni, a whitewashed town on top of a hill (that we loved) as a home base. We will spend a few days here before the wedding weekend.
Polignano a Mare
A town perched on the cliffs above the Adriatic Sea. Chris and Jessica did a day trip here in September 2018.
Alberobello
Visit for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Trulli. Chris and Jessica did a day trip here in September 2018.
Lecce
Known for its baroque buildings, this small city/large town has beautiful architecture, especially within the historic walled center. Chris and Jessica did a day trip here in September 2018, and Jessica & Angela stayed for 2 nights in April, 2024. Go to Alvino for the delicious rustico pastry, and the best gelato is at Pasticcerie Natale. You can take the high speed Frecciarossa train from Rome. Be aware, you may need to walk downstairs and back upstairs one story to cross under the tracks depending which platform you arrive/depart. Pack accordingly.
Rome
Jessica has visited Rome multiple times. It has an International airport making it a good option to fly to from the US. It's a great city to start (and/or end) your trip, spending a few days before venturing into the countryside. My favorite way to see Rome is old to less old - starting with the Roman Forum and Colosseum (reserve tickets in advance), the Pantheon (free), then working your way to the Trevi Fountain (free), Spanish Steps (free), and Vatican City with St. Peter's Basilica (free) and the Vatican Museum with the famous Sistine Chapel (reserve tickets in advance). There are endless delicious restaurants, sites, and shops. I love buying art in Piazza Navona and walking through Campo de' Fiori. Don't cram too much into each day, it's worth leaving time to stroll the city. This city is busy with tourists. Puglia is a short flight or a 5 hour train ride from Rome. Angela & Jessica loved the train experience, but would only recommend it if you're planning a stop in Rome.
Orvieto
Jessica studied abroad here for a summer in college. It's a small town, an easy one hour train from Rome or Florence, perched on top of a hill, famous for its church. Orvieto makes for a great day trip from Rome or Florence.
Florence
Florence is the perfect city for art lovers and shopping. Jessica's favorite museum here is the Uffizi. The Duomo is a must-see and climbing the stairs to the top is a worthwhile attraction but not for those who are catastrophic or afraid of heights. Don't miss the leather market while in Florence!