Apulia, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Apulia, Italy's southern jewel known for its stunning coastlines, unique trulli houses, Baroque architecture, and delectable cuisine.

Apulia, also known as Puglia, is a captivating region in southern Italy. Famous for its stunning coastline along the Adriatic Sea, Apulia offers a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The region is home to picturesque towns, pristine beaches, and rolling vineyards. The town of Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique trulli houses. These whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Another must-visit is the city of Lecce, often called the 'Florence of the South' due to its Baroque architecture. Apulia is also renowned for its culinary delights. The region produces some of Italy's finest olive oil and wine. Local dishes, such as orecchiette pasta and seafood, are a treat for the taste buds. The welcoming locals and their traditions add to the charm, making Apulia an unforgettable destination.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Apulia.

Visit in spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Rent a car to explore the region's hidden gems and countryside.
Try the local olive oil and wine; they are some of the best in Italy.
Learn a few basic Italian phrases; it’s appreciated by the locals.
Carry cash as some small eateries and shops may not accept cards.

Top City Travel Guides in Apulia

The cities of Apulia, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Matera

Bari

Destinations in Apulia

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Puglia

Explore Apulia: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Apulia

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Zoosafari Fasanolandia

Experience the thrilling combination of amusement rides and wildlife at Zoosafari Fasanolandia, a must-visit family attraction in Italy.

4.5

Grotte di Castellana

Discover the enchanting Grotte di Castellana, a stunning natural cave system in Italy, showcasing nature's beauty and geological wonders.

4.6

Parco Nazionale del Gargano

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Parco Nazionale del Gargano, a stunning natural park in Italy, perfect for outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters.

4.6

Lama Monachile

Discover the enchanting beauty of Lama Monachile, a stunning beach in Polignano a Mare, where cliffs meet crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable experience.

4.7

Best landmarks in Apulia

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Grotte di Castellana

Discover the enchanting Grotte di Castellana, a natural wonder featuring spectacular stalactite formations and a captivating underground world in Italy.

4.6

Parco Nazionale del Gargano

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parco Nazionale del Gargano, a national park in Italy's stunning Apulia region.

4.6

Castel del Monte

Explore the breathtaking Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site with unique octagonal architecture and stunning Apulian views.

4.5

Cave of Poetry

Discover the breathtaking Cave of Poetry in Roca Vecchia, a natural wonder blending stunning views, rich history, and cultural significance for an unforgettable experience.

4.5

Best restaurants in Apulia

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Antò - Cucina tipica pugliese

Experience authentic Puglian cuisine at Antò - a traditional restaurant in Bari known for its warm atmosphere and delicious regional dishes.

4.6

Al Trabucco da Mimì

Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking Adriatic views at Al Trabucco da Mimì in Peschici.

4.4

Grotta Palazzese

Experience exquisite dining in a breathtaking sea cave at Grotta Palazzese, where stunning views meet exceptional Italian cuisine.

4.0

La Pasteria

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Pasteria in Martina Franca - where homemade pasta meets artisanal excellence.

4.8

Best bars in Apulia

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Tony Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive drink selection at Tony Bar in Speziale, where locals and visitors come together to enjoy Italian nightlife.

4.4

Cotriero

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Cotriero, Pizzo's premier lido with delicious food, drinks, and live music.

4.4

Sunset Café

Experience the breathtaking sunsets and local flavors at Sunset Café, a must-visit bar in Capilungo for every traveler.

4.5

La Casa Del Mojito

Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at La Casa Del Mojito, where delicious mojitos and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable memories in Polignano a Mare.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Apulia

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Riobo

Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Riobo, Gallipoli's top disco club, where unforgettable nights and vibrant music await.

4.0

Masseria Il Trappeto

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Masseria Il Trappeto in Monopoli, where every night is a celebration of music, dance, and culture.

3.8

Mamanera Beach

Discover Mamanera Beach - A lively disco club in San Foca offering vibrant nightlife, stunning coastal views, and unforgettable dance experiences.

4.5

Guendalina

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Santa Cesarea Terme at Guendalina, a top disco club and live music venue with stunning coastal views.

4.4

Best shops in Apulia

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Parco Commerciale Casamassima

Discover Parco Commerciale Casamassima, a premier shopping mall in Bari, Italy, offering diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences for all.

4.4

Puglia Village

Explore Puglia Village - A premier outlet shopping experience in Molfetta, where fashion meets local culture and charm.

4.2

Centro Commerciale Porte dello Jonio

Experience the best of shopping and dining at Centro Commerciale Porte dello Jonio, Taranto's premier shopping destination.

4.2

Centro Commerciale GrandApulia

Experience shopping like never before at Centro Commerciale GrandApulia: a vibrant mall with diverse shops, delightful dining, and endless entertainment.

4.3

Explore Apulia on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Apulia, mapped for you.

Apulia Essentials

Apulia (Puglia) is located in the southeastern region of Italy. The region is well-connected by air, with major airports including Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and Brindisi Salento Airport (BDS). These airports have regular flights from major European cities. For those traveling by train, the national railway service, Trenitalia, offers frequent connections from cities like Rome, Milan, and Bologna to Bari and Lecce. Driving is also an option, with well-maintained highways connecting Apulia to other parts of Italy.
Public transportation in Apulia is efficient and includes buses, trains, and regional flights. Trains operated by Trenitalia and Ferrovie del Sud Est connect major towns and cities. Local buses cover areas not served by trains. Taxis and car rentals are also available, with rental cars providing flexibility to explore rural areas and coastal towns. For short distances, biking is a popular option, especially in cities like Lecce and Bari.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting small towns or rural areas. Contactless payments are becoming more common, but always check if a business accepts cards before making a purchase.
Apulia is generally safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded places and tourist hotspots such as Bari's Old Town and the beaches of Salento. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings. Stick to well-traveled areas and use reputable transportation services.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance (police, medical, and fire services). Major cities and towns in Apulia have hospitals and clinics, and pharmacies are widely available for non-emergency medical needs. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, pharmacists can often provide advice and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress smartly and modestly; Italians appreciate well-dressed individuals. Avoid overly casual attire in cities. Religion: Do respect religious customs. When visiting churches, dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) and speak quietly. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'buongiorno' (good morning) or 'buonasera' (good evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like orecchiette pasta and burrata cheese. Don't rush through meals; dining is a leisurely affair in Italy.
To experience Apulia like a local, visit the weekly markets in towns such as Alberobello and Martina Franca to buy fresh produce and local products. Engage with locals; Apulians are known for their hospitality. Don't miss the chance to explore the region's historic Masserias (farmhouses) and sample locally produced olive oil and wine. Attend local festivals and events, such as the La Notte della Taranta in Melpignano, to immerse yourself in regional culture.

When is the best time to visit Apulia?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Apulia

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Apulia. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-vay-der-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore
  [per fah-voh-ray]
- Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsyay]
- Excuse me/SorryMi scusi
  [mee skoo-zee]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stai]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [par-lee een-glay-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-pees-koh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vor-ray veh-day-ray eel meh-noo, per fah-voh-ray]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non man-jo kar-nay]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vor-ray pah-gah-ray, per fah-voh-ray]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vai vee-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kyah-mah lah poh-leet-zee-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kyah-mah oon doht-toh-ray]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-noh pear-soh]
- I'm illSono malato
  [soh-noh mah-lah-toh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vor-ray com-prah-ray]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [sto soh-loh gwahr-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo costoso
  [eh troh-poh koh-stoh-soh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoi ah-bah-sar-ray eel pret-soh]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [keh oh-ray soh-noh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
- Half past (10)Dieci e mezzo
  [dee-eh-chee eh med-zoh]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-gee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Due
  [doo-eh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [say]
- 7Sette
  [seh-tay]
- 8Otto
  [oht-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-vay]
- 10Dieci
  [dee-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dove si trova...?
  [doh-vay see troh-vah]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-reet-soh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoi mos-trar-mee (sool-lah mahp-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pah-sah eel prohs-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-lyet-toh (per ....)]

History of Apulia

Apulia, known as Puglia in Italian, has been inhabited since ancient times. The Messapians, an Illyrian tribe, settled in the region around the 8th century BC. They left behind a rich archaeological legacy, including impressive ruins and artifacts that showcase their advanced society. The Messapians were known for their unique language, fortifications, and urban planning, which influenced the later development of the region.
In the 8th century BC, Greek colonists established settlements along Apulia's coast, most notably Taranto (Taras), which became a significant cultural and economic center. The Romans conquered Apulia in the 3rd century BC, integrating it into the Roman Empire. The Via Appia, one of Rome's most important roads, connected Rome to Brindisi, facilitating trade and military movements. Roman influence is still visible in the region's architecture, roads, and ruins.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Apulia experienced a period of turmoil and change. The Byzantines regained control in the 6th century AD, incorporating Apulia into the Eastern Roman Empire. During this period, the region witnessed the construction of numerous churches and fortifications. The Lombards, a Germanic tribe, invaded in the 7th century, establishing the Duchy of Benevento in parts of Apulia. The interplay between Byzantine and Lombard influences shaped the region's cultural and architectural heritage.
In the 11th century, Norman adventurers, led by Robert Guiscard, conquered Apulia. They established the County of Apulia and later the Kingdom of Sicily. The Normans introduced feudalism and built impressive castles, cathedrals, and fortresses. Notable examples include the Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique octagonal shape. The Norman period marked a time of economic revival and cultural fusion, blending Byzantine, Arab, and Western influences.
The 12th and 13th centuries saw Apulia under the rule of the Swabian (Hohenstaufen) dynasty, led by Emperor Frederick II. Known as 'Stupor Mundi' (Wonder of the World), Frederick II promoted intellectual and cultural growth, founding the University of Naples and commissioning the construction of Castel del Monte. The Angevin dynasty, originating from France, took control in the late 13th century. They continued to develop the region's infrastructure and left a lasting impact on Apulia's architecture and governance.
In the 16th century, Apulia came under Spanish rule as part of the Kingdom of Naples. The Spanish period was marked by the construction of defensive structures, such as coastal watchtowers, to protect against Ottoman raids. The Bourbon dynasty took over in the 18th century, and their rule brought administrative reforms and economic development. The influence of Spanish and Bourbon architecture can still be seen in Apulia's historic buildings and urban layouts.
In the 19th century, Apulia played a significant role in the unification of Italy. The region supported the Risorgimento, the movement for Italian unification, and contributed to the efforts of key figures like Giuseppe Garibaldi. The unification in 1861 brought Apulia into the newly formed Kingdom of Italy. This period saw significant social and economic changes, including land reforms and the expansion of infrastructure, which helped modernize the region.
In the 20th century, Apulia experienced significant growth and transformation. The region became an important agricultural center, known for its olive oil, wine, and durum wheat. It also developed a strong industrial base, particularly in the cities of Bari, Taranto, and Brindisi. Today, Apulia is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant traditions. The region's historical sites, festivals, and culinary delights attract visitors from all over the world, making it a must-visit destination in Italy.