The capital of Puglia is a vibrant mix of old-world charm and modern energy. The city’s historic center, Bari Vecchia, is a maze of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and busy markets, where life feels authentic and full of character. One of the most iconic spots is Via delle Orecchiette, where you’ll find Nonne making fresh, handmade pasta right on the streets, creating the famous orecchiette (little ear)—a tradition that has been passed down for generations. Beyond the old town, Bari has a stunning seaside promenade, lively piazzas filled with cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene. The Basilica di San Nicola, an important pilgrimage site, is a must-visit, showcasing beautiful Romanesque architecture. Bari is also a great place to enjoy fresh seafood—whether it’s a simple plate of raw octopus or a classic dish of spaghetti alle vongole, the food here is something special.

LOCOROTONDO

One of Puglia’s lovelier little towns, Locorotondo is a maze of narrow alleys, vibrant flower-filled balconies, colorful shutters, and picture-perfect doorways. Its name means ‘Round Place’ in Italian as the town is built in a circular layout, with a perfect ring of whitewashed houses built around a hilltop. Locorotondo’s houses have a unique architectural feature ‘cummerse roofs’—pointed gable roofs that give the town’s skyline a charming and distinctive look. Walking through its beautoful streets, you’ll find hidden courtyards, small artisan shops, and cozy trattorias serving delicious local dishes. 

CISTERNINO

One of Puglia’s hidden gems, this little town is known for its unspoiled, authentic southern Italian vibe with its winding narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and flower-filled balconies. The town has maintained its local charm, with centuries-old buildings and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it feel like time has slowed down. Unlike more touristy spots, Cisternino feels truly authentic, with more locals than tourists, giving you a true taste of Italian life without the crowds. You’ll find locals chatting in the piazzas, butchers grilling meat to order, and small trattorias serving simple but delicious Apulian dishes. The town is famous for its fornelli, traditional butcher shops that double as restaurants, where you can pick your cut of meat and have it grilled on the spot. The heart of Cisternino is its historic center, a labyrinth of alleys and stone archways leading to hidden courtyards and panoramic terraces overlooking the countryside of the Itria Valley. Its unpretentious charm and slower pace make it one of the region’s best-kept secrets.

MONOPOLI

Nestled along Puglia’s Adriatic coast, Monopoli is a seaside gem that beautifully blends history, vibrant local life, and coastal charm. This harbor town is filled with whitewashed buildings, colorful fishing boats, and lively piazzas, making it a perfect place to soak in authentic southern Italian vibes. Monopoli’s historic city centre is a maze of narrow alleys, lined with stone churches, charming cafes, and local boutiques. At the heart of it all is Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, a busy square where locals gather for espresso in the morning and aperitivo in the evening. The town’s centuries-old city walls and watchtowers tell the story of its rich maritime history, along with a medieval castle, Castello di Carlo V overlooking the sea. One of Monopoli’s biggest draws is its stunning coastline, dotted with hidden coves, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The town has several small beaches right in the center, including Cala Porta Vecchia, a picturesque beach perfect for a quick dip. Beyond the scenic views and rich history, Monopoli is a food lover’s paradise. Fresh seafood is at the heart of its cuisine, with traditional trattorias serving up grilled fish, octopus, and the famous Puglian dish, orecchiette with seafood.

LECCE

Know as the “Florence of the South” and one of the most culturally rich cities, Lecce feels like walking through an open-air museum. The stunning Baroque city in the heart of Puglia is filled with ornate churches, elegant piazzas, and historic buildings made of local limestone. It’s a city full of charm and history. Wander through the narrow streets, where you’ll find beautiful architecture, vibrant cafés, and lively squares. Built on Roman foundations, many of the city’s structures are made from Lecce Stone, a unique material that gives the whole city a warm, golden glow at sunrise and sunset, making Lecce shine like honey. The heart of the city is Piazza del Duomo, one of Italy’s most beautiful squares, where the intricate details of Lecce Cathedral and its towering bell create a stunning view. Nearby, the Roman Amphitheater, a 2nd century, still hosts performances today. The food here is just as special—make sure to try a rustico leccese, a flaky pastry with mozzarella and tomato, or a pasticciotto, a creamy custard-filled pastry that’s best with an espresso.

MATERA

*Not part of Puglia”, but it’s so close that it’s a must add to your Puglia road trip itinerary. As the oldest city in Italy and some say the third oldest in the world, Matera is carved into the rocky cliffs of southern Italy’s Basilicata region. Once abandoned and labeled the ‘shame of Italy’ due to extreme poverty and poor living conditions, Matera has transformed into a UNESCO World Heritage Site and earned the prestigious title of ‘European Capital of Culture’ . Today, it’s one of the most captivating destinations in the world. Wander through the maze of winding alleyways and stone staircases in the Sassi district where each turn reveals hidden restaurants, cave hotels, rock churches, and breathtaking viewpoints. It’s truly mind-blowing—like stepping into a movie. Movies such as the Passion of the Christ, Wonder Woman, and James Bond were shot here.