Travel Guide for
Puglia

Q: What is the best time to visit Puglia?

The best time to visit Puglia is late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October), when you’ll find warm weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices compared to the busy summer months.

Q: Are there any unique foods I should try in Puglia?

Yes! You should definitely try orecchiette pasta with turnip tops (orecchiette alle cime di rapa), fresh burrata cheese, and the local focaccia barese. Each town usually has its own local specialties.

Q: How can I get around Puglia without a car?

While having a car is most convenient, you can also use regional trains and buses to get between major towns like Bari, Lecce, and Alberobello. For smaller villages or beaches, consider renting a bike or arranging a local taxi.

Q: Which beaches do locals prefer in Puglia?

Locals love the beaches near Torre dell’Orso, Punta Prosciutto, and Porto Selvaggio. These spots are popular for their clear water and beautiful natural scenery. Try to visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.

Q: What is a lesser-known town worth visiting?

Locorotondo is a beautiful, lesser-known whitewashed town with winding alleys and panoramic views. It’s famous for its local wine and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect day trip away from the busier tourist spots.

Italy

Mediterranean; hot, dry summers, mild winters

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Introduction Key Facts Map Logistics Weather Accommodation Itinerary Attractions FAQ Related Guides

Introduction

Puglia, Italy’s sun-drenched southeastern region, stretches along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Known for its whitewashed hill towns, ancient olive groves, and the unique trulli houses of Alberobello, Puglia is steeped in history and tradition.

September brings mild, pleasant weather—ideal for leisurely strolls through charming villages or relaxed coastal visits without summer crowds. Savor regional cuisine, explore Roman ruins in Lecce, or enjoy slow-paced vineyard tours. Puglia offers a tranquil, affordable escape with easy access and warm southern hospitality, perfect for senior travelers.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleSenior

Dates03-17 September 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationApartment or house, resort, hotel, villa

Interests and Activities:

gastronomynightlife and entertainmentfestivals and eventsarts and culturesightseeing and tours

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Key Facts

Location

Southern Italy

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

4,000,000

Language

Italian, Apulian dialects

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type F/L plugs

Time zone

UTCCET/CEST (UTC+1)

Country code

+39

Internet access

Widespread 4G/5G, broadband, moderate cost

Climate

Mediterranean; hot, dry summers, mild winters

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Language:

Italian

hello
ciao (chao)
goodbye
arrivederci (ah-ree-veh-dehr-chee)
yes
sì (see)
no
no (noh)
how much
quanto costa? (kwan-toh koh-sta)
please
per favore (pehr fah-voh-reh)
thank you
grazie (grah-tsee-eh)
excuse me
mi scusi (mee skoo-zee)

Map

Logistics

Getting to Puglia is easy and comfortable for seniors. The region has two main airports—Bari and Brindisi—both of which offer direct flights from several major European cities. Train travel is also a pleasant option: Italy’s efficient rail network links Puglia to Rome, Milan, and other main cities with frequent, relaxing journeys.

For local travel within Puglia, regional trains and buses connect towns and coastal villages affordably. Ferries run from Greece and Croatia to Brindisi or Bari if you wish to arrive by sea. September is typically mild, making travel pleasant, though it’s wise to book accommodations and tickets in advance as the area is a popular late-summer destination.

Weather

Puglia enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Sun is abundant from late spring through early autumn, making this region especially enticing for beach lovers and outdoor activities. Rain is infrequent in summer, though brief thunderstorms can occasionally roll in starting in September.

From September 3 to September 17, expect pleasantly warm temperatures—generally 23–29°C (73–84°F) during the day and comfortably cool evenings. Humidity is moderate, and rain showers are possible but usually short-lived. Extreme weather like storms or heatwaves is uncommon, so it's an ideal time for sightseeing, savoring local gastronomy, or enjoying open-air events and nightlife.

Food & Drink

Puglia’s cuisine is rustic and fresh, with favorites like orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, fresh seafood, and taralli crackers. Local olive oil and robust Primitivo wines are a must-try. For dessert, sample pasticciotto or almond pastries with an espresso.

Great mid-range restaurants include Osteria del Tempo Perso in Ostuni and Trattoria Le Zie in Lecce, both offering local specialties with attentive service and accessible settings. For a leisurely afternoon, enjoy coffee or an aperitivo in Bari at Antico Caffè del Carmine.

Tipping isn’t obligatory—just rounding up the bill is enough. Menus often include vegetarian options, and autumn brings mushroom and truffle dishes. Many eateries close for a midday break, so plan your meals accordingly.

Pizza

Pizza is one of Italy's most famous and beloved foods. It features a thin, crispy crust topped with...

Lasagna

Lasagna is a classic Italian pasta dish consisting of layers of wide flat pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy...

Risotto

Risotto is a creamy and comforting Italian rice dish cooked with broth until it reaches a velvety consistency....

Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a luscious and decadent Italian dessert made from layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and...

Ossobuco

Ossobuco is a traditional Milanese dish featuring braised veal shanks cooked with white wine, broth, and aromatic vegetables....

Accommodation

In Puglia, charming towns like Alberobello, Ostuni, and Lecce offer beautiful apartments and historic villas, perfect for a relaxed senior trip. Resorts along the coast—such as those near Polignano a Mare or Otranto—provide great amenities and accessible comforts. Browse booking sites like Booking.com or Airbnb for apartments and villas in quiet neighborhoods.

Hotels in Bari and Matera make excellent bases, combining modern comforts with old-world atmosphere. For a local touch, “masseria” stays (country estates) near towns like Fasano and Monopoli can be both comfortable and unique. September is popular for late-summer travelers, so reserve early for more choices and better prices. Look for accommodation with elevators and minimal stairs.

Itinerary

Day 1

September 04 · Thursday

Ease into the rhythms of southern Italy, acclimating to the region's warm hospitality and lively ambiance.

Stroll through Bari Vecchia

Wander the labyrinthine streets of Bari Vecchia, the atmospheric old town, to soak up its lively ambiance and centuries-old history. Pause for a gelato in a shady square and watch locals chat and play cards.

Bari Vecchia, Bari, Italy

Evening Aperitivo by the Seafront

Enjoy a traditional Pugliese aperitivo at one of Bari’s seaside cafés. Savor local wines and small bites while you take in the Adriatic views and the gentle pace of life.

Lungomare Nazario Sauro, Bari, Italy

Visit the Basilica di San Nicola

Marvel at the Romanesque architecture and rich history of the Basilica di San Nicola, one of Bari's most important landmarks. It's a peaceful spot to reflect and appreciate the region’s spiritual heritage.

Basilica di San Nicola, Bari, Italy

Bari’s Ultimate Street Food Tour - Small Group by Do Eat Better

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Bari is a fascinating city and is certainly one of the capitals of Italian street food: panzerotti, sgagliozze, focaccia barese and many other delicacies known and appreciated around the world are native of this land! Thanks to our Street Food Tour in Bari you can taste the most famous street food of the city, walking through the alleys of the old town and visiting the places really frequented by locals, you will immerse yourself in the scents and flavors of Bari together with a local friend who will tell you all the funny anecdotes and curiosities that distinguish them.Please, note that the tour is always run in English and Italian.

5.0 (1023 reviews)

From $87 USD

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Day 2

September 05 · Friday

Delve into Baroque art and architecture, discovering the elegance and artistry that define Puglia's historic gems.

Guided Tour of Lecce's Baroque Monuments

Discover the 'Florence of the South' with a walking tour focused on Lecce's extravagantly ornate Baroque architecture. Admire intricate facades and stonework, with tips on key details to look for in churches and palaces.

Centro Storico, Lecce, Italy

Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce

Marvel at the lavish facade and stunning interior of Lecce’s Basilica di Santa Croce, a masterpiece of Baroque art. Notice the decorative sculptures and learn about their symbolism from local guides.

Basilica di Santa Croce, Via Umberto I, Lecce, Italy

Explore Piazza Duomo and Lecce Cathedral

Wander the elegant Piazza Duomo, home to Lecce’s magnificent Cathedral and Bishop's Palace. Gain insights into the unique spatial layout and its theatrical Baroque elements perfect for photos and relaxed sightseeing.

Piazza Duomo, Lecce, Italy

Private guided tour of Otranto - Puglia

MANUAL

Free Cancellation

Private guided tour of the beautiful village of Otranto with an expert guide who will accompany you to discover the most fascinating places and the history of this important town of Salento

5.0 (3 reviews)

From $151 USD

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Day 3

September 06 · Saturday

Savor traditional Apulian flavors, exploring local markets and enjoying hands-on experiences with regional gastronomy.

Bari Mercato del Pesce Experience

Start your day with an early visit to Bari’s Mercato del Pesce, observing fishermen auction their fresh catch. Sample raw seafood like locals do and chat with friendly vendors for insider tips on local specialties.

Mercato del Pesce, Piazza del Ferrarese, Bari, Italy

Orecchiette Pasta-Making Class with Nonna

Join a cooking class led by a local nonna to handcraft orecchiette, Puglia’s famous pasta. You’ll learn secret techniques and enjoy a delicious meal at the end—perfect for culinary enthusiasts.

Old Town, Bari, Italy

Exploring Altamura’s Bread Traditions

Travel to Altamura to sample the renowned ‘Pane di Altamura’. Visit a historic bakery where you can observe traditional wood-fired baking techniques and taste the freshest bread.

Altamura, Italy

Trani, Wine Tasting, and Castel Del Monte tour from Bari or Ostuni

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Free Cancellation

Explore fantastic scenery and appreciate centuries-old traditions that have remained largely unchanged. Visit Castel del Monte and Trani and enjoy award winning wines with an optional delicious lunch.

5.0 (2 reviews)

From $343 USD

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Day 4

September 07 · Sunday

Wander through picturesque villages, soaking up local stories and embracing the coastal culture that shapes Puglia.

Explore Polignano a Mare’s Cliffside Old Town

Stroll the maze-like streets of Polignano a Mare, perched dramatically above turquoise waters. Enjoy panoramic sea views from balconies and learn about the village’s history from local anecdotes.

Polignano a Mare, Italy

Visit the Marina of Monopoli

Discover the bustling fishing harbor of Monopoli, where you can observe fishermen mending nets and old boats. Chat with locals and savor an authentic coastal vibe that characterizes the Adriatic shore.

Porto Vecchio, Monopoli, Italy

Walk through the Whitewashed Streets of Ostuni

Meander through Ostuni's whitewashed alleys, listening to legends from local storytellers. Admire sweeping views of olive groves and the Adriatic, pausing at cozy cafés for traditional pastries.

Ostuni, Italy

Private Tour in 3 towns: Locorotondo, Monopoli, Polignano a mare.

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

This tour invites you to explore three of Puglia’s most beautiful hidden gems: the cliffside charm of Polignano a Mare, the whitewashed elegance of Locorotondo, and the coastal beauty of Monopoli, with its historic harbor and sunlit piazzas. Each town offers its own unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. From dramatic sea views to quiet cobblestone streets, this journey is perfect for anyone who loves discovering the authentic heart of Italy.

5.0 (6 reviews)

From $104 USD

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Day 5

September 08 · Monday

Join in seasonal festivities, experiencing the color and music of Puglian festivals and the joy of community gatherings.

La Festa della Madonna della Madia

Experience Monopoli's vibrant 'Festa della Madonna della Madia,' where locals honor their patron saint with a colorful procession, live music, and impressive fireworks over the harbor. Arrive early for good viewpoints.

Centro Storico, Monopoli, Italy

Sagra delle Orecchiette

Attend an orecchiette festival in a charming village, celebrating the beloved local pasta with food stalls, demonstrations, and music. Great chance to taste a variety of handmade orecchiette recipes.

Alberobello, Italy

Evening Pizzica Dance Performance

Enjoy a traditional Pugliese folk dance show—la pizzica—in a town piazza. Watch dancers and musicians in colorful costumes and maybe join a beginner’s dance workshop yourself!

Piazza Sant'Oronzo, Lecce, Italy

Bari By Night City Centre and Seafront Walking Tour

MANUAL

Free Cancellation

Take a walk through the picturesque city of Bari after dark during this 2-hour night tour. Meet your guide in piazza del Ferrarese to begin this enchanting evening tour of the City. A night tour is especially nice in summer, to take advantage of cooler evening temperatures. See some of the city's most famous monuments illuminated, including The Basilica of San Nicola, the Cathedral of San Sabino, the pictoresque alleys of old town with its shops of crafts and street food. Low your pace to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a night walking to discover the town from the old centre to the modern area with the most famous streets of shopping, like Corso Cavour and Via Sparano. Ask your guide suggestions about the best places for food and fashion shopping.

5.0 (1 reviews)

From $250 USD

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Day 6

September 09 · Tuesday

Discover artisan workshops and local crafts, gaining insights into time-honored traditions and creative expression.

Grottaglie Ceramics District Exploration

Visit the famous ceramics district in Grottaglie, renowned for its hand-painted pottery. Watch artisans at work in their studios and learn about patterns unique to the area. Many shops offer small group demonstrations.

Quartiere delle Ceramiche, Grottaglie, Italy

Weaving Workshop in Martina Franca

Participate in a weaving workshop where skilled local women demonstrate techniques passed down for generations. Try your hand at creating a textile souvenir and enjoy learning about these ancient traditions.

Martina Franca, Italy

Visit to a Papier-Mâché (Cartapesta) Studio

Tour a papier-mâché studio in Lecce to see how artists shape and paint intricate statues for religious festivals and folk celebrations. Discover the role of this craft in Puglian culture.

Lecce, Italy

Private guided tour in Alberobello with free tasting: discovering the trulli

MANUAL

Free Cancellation

Alberobello, the famous capital of the trulli in Puglia, recognized as Unesco World Heritage as extraordinary example of drystone building. This private guided tour allows you to discover the origins and the evolution of Alberobello and its trulli. It's the ideal guided tour for those who are not in a rush. You could take our time to experience a complete tour of the town, accompanied by a tour guide only for you. A real treat to finish off is the tasting of the extra-virgin olive oil locally produced, sweet and salty taralli...

4.9 (69 reviews)

From $93 USD

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Day 7

September 10 · Wednesday

Immerse yourself in Puglia’s vibrant nightlife, enjoying evenings filled with music, dance, and local entertainment.

Jazz Night at Teatro Petruzzelli

Experience a sophisticated evening at Teatro Petruzzelli in Bari, where live jazz performances take center stage. Enjoy top-notch acoustics and elegant ambiance—perfect for lovers of arts and culture.

Teatro Petruzzelli, Via Salvatore Cognetti, Bari, Italy

Taranta Folk and Dance Night in Melpignano

Head to Melpignano for a lively evening of tarantella dance and folk music. Whether you prefer to watch or join in, you’ll witness the region’s most energetic and iconic musical tradition.

Piazza della Repubblica, Melpignano, Italy

Seaside Cocktail Lounge in Gallipoli

Unwind at a stylish seaside cocktail lounge in Gallipoli. Sip local wines or creative cocktails while enjoying live music and views of the illuminated old town and harbor.

Riviera Nazario Sauro, Gallipoli, Italy

8-Day Five Senses of Puglia Tour in Italy

MANUAL

Why do we love Puglia? It’s both relaxed and wildly beautiful. White stone cities perched on the crystal-clear sea. Landscapes dotted with ancient olive groves and traditional whitewashed homes. History, tradition, and some of the best food in the world. Consider us like that in-the-know friend who is committed to you having the best Puglia trip ever and will take you to all the coolest places, introduce you to the best local guides, and make sure you eat and drink at the most delicious local eateries. Homebase is an authentic Masseria, which has been hand selected by us with care. Here you will find modern creature comforts, warm hospitality, and a lovely pool set amidst ancient olive groves. Daily you will be taken on guided adventures, explorations of the Itria and Alberobello Valleys, through Lecce with its astoundingly baroque architecture, and a multitude of other exciting landmarks that you’ll to enjoy first-hand, with many other experiences along the way.

5.0 (20 reviews)

From $2885 USD

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Day 8

September 11 · Thursday

Marvel at unique architecture, exploring UNESCO heritage sites and appreciating the region’s distinctive building traditions.

Trullo Sovrano Museum Visit

Tour the two-story Trullo Sovrano, the largest and most elaborate trulli in Alberobello. Learn about the ingenious construction methods and daily life of past residents through fascinating displays.

Trullo Sovrano, Piazza Sacramento, Alberobello, Italy

Rione Monti Trulli Walking Tour

Stroll through Alberobello’s iconic Rione Monti district, home to hundreds of whimsical trulli with conical roofs. Capture photos of picturesque lanes and learn the meaning of mysterious roof symbols.

Rione Monti, Alberobello, Italy

Guided Visit to Casa Pezzolla

Explore the Casa Pezzolla complex, a cluster of interconnected trulli now housing a museum on local traditions and architecture. Gain insight into the area’s unique community design.

Casa Pezzolla, Piazza XXVII Maggio, Alberobello, Italy

Day Tour of Ostuni, Martina Franca, Alberobello from Bari

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

start 9,30am every day! you will visit some of the best places in Italy! 3 cities full in history! rich in italian pugliese architectural OLD style..Trulli..Cummerse etc. roads rich in olive trees (sometime 2000 years old!!) and more and more to see! WELCOME to faboulous Puglia or Apulia!!

4.3 (41 reviews)

From $213 USD

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Day 9

September 12 · Friday

Relish the tranquility of the Puglian countryside, learning about its agricultural legacy and scenic olive groves.

Tour of Ancient Olive Trees in the Plain of Ostuni

Embark on a guided walk among millennia-old olive trees near Ostuni. Learn from local experts about the history, cultivation, and importance of these monumental trees in Puglian culture and cuisine.

Piana degli Ulivi Secolari, Ostuni, Italy

Visit to an Organic Farm for Cheese Tasting

Enjoy a tour of an organic masseria in the countryside, where you can see traditional cheese-making in action. Savor fresh mozzarella, burrata, and ricotta alongside local olive oils and breads.

Masseria Brancati, Contrada Brancati, Ostuni, Italy

Picnic among Olive Groves with Local Products

Relax with a countryside picnic set amid silver-leaved olive groves. Sample regional delicacies, freshly baked focaccia, and fruit, while soaking in the peaceful rural landscape of Puglia.

Olive groves near Ceglie Messapica, Italy

TRANI and Castel Del Monte UNESCO from your accomodation

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

welcome to this AMAZING tour, rich in landscapes and big MONUMENTS! pick up from your accomodaton and transport with private car or van to TRANI visit (amazing small town on the adriathic cosatline of Puglia!) transportation to the UNESCO castel del Monte full visit of the last FREDERICIAN castle !!!!

4.6 (17 reviews)

From $173 USD

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Day 10

September 13 · Saturday

Engage with Puglia's artistic treasures, visiting galleries and museums that celebrate local and international talent.

Visit the Pinacoteca Provinciale di Bari

Explore Bari’s premier art gallery, featuring works by Apulian masters and Italian artists from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Don’t miss the rooms focused on contemporary and regional art.

Pinacoteca Corrado Giaquinto, Via Spalato 19, Bari, Italy

Tour Museo Archeologico di Taranto (MArTA)

Discover southern Italy’s rich history at this renowned museum, home to exquisite Greek, Roman, and Messapian artifacts. The mosaic and gold jewelry exhibitions are particularly fascinating for art lovers.

Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Taranto, Taranto, Italy

Contemporary Art at MUST Museum in Lecce

Browse modern art installations, photography, and interactive exhibits at MUST, Lecce's Museum of Contemporary Art. It offers a fresh take on Puglia’s creative scene in an inviting historical building.

MUST - Museo Storico Città di Lecce, Lecce, Italy

Day Tour of Ostuni, Martina Franca, Alberobello from Bari

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

4.3 (41 reviews)

From $213 USD

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Day 11

September 14 · Sunday

Enjoy fresh seafood and the pleasures of coastal dining, discovering the link between gastronomy and the Adriatic Sea.

Seafood Lunch by the Waterfront in Trani

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a trattoria overlooking Trani's picturesque harbor. Savor delicacies like freshly caught mussels and sea urchin pasta while watching fishing boats come and go. Reservations are recommended for the best views.

Trani Waterfront, Trani, Italy

Visit a Traditional Fishing Port in Molfetta

Explore the lively fish market and bustling docks of Molfetta in the morning, where local fishermen unload their catch. Get tips from vendors on choosing the freshest seafood and snap photos of colorful fishing boats.

Porto di Molfetta, Molfetta, Italy

Seaside Cooking Class: Apulian Seafood Specialties

Join a hands-on cooking workshop at a coastal cooking school, learning to prepare traditional Apulian seafood dishes such as 'tiella' and grilled octopus. All ingredients are locally sourced from the Adriatic.

Cooking School near Polignano a Mare, Italy

Monte Sant Angelo tour: an amazing spiritual Sanctuary of Archangel St. Michael

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

The guided tour of Monte Sant'Angelo will concentrate mainly in the historic center, the castle and the sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel, which in 2011 became a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the Longobardian routes in Puglia. The visit starts from the castle, originally a Byzantine castle built before the year 1000, was later flanked by a tower, the so-called Tower of the Giants, characterized by a height of 18 meters and a wall thickness of 3 meters and expanded by the Normans, Swabians and Aragonese. After the castle you will come to the outside of the sanctuary of Saint Michael where you will admire the imposing octagonal tower built by Charles I of Anjou on the model of Castel del Monte. The visit will continue inside the cave where the Saint Michael the Archangel is venerated from the fifth century. The tour ends with a visit to the museum and to the lapidarium inside the basilica.

4.6 (24 reviews)

From $232 USD

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Day 12

September 15 · Monday

Experience the excitement of daily markets, connecting with locals and sampling produce, crafts, and delicacies.

Mercato Coperto di Martina Franca

Explore the bustling indoor market of Martina Franca, where stalls overflow with fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, and local meats. Chat with traders for cooking tips and sample regional cheeses and olives.

Mercato Coperto, Piazza Crispi, Martina Franca, Italy

Farmer’s Market in Noci

Visit Noci’s traditional farmer’s market to browse seasonal produce, artisan breads, and homemade preserves. Enjoy free tastings and pick up authentic Puglian treats to bring home or picnic with.

Piazza Garibaldi, Noci, Italy

Crafts and Antiques Market in Cisternino

Discover local crafts, antiques, and textiles at Cisternino’s open-air market. Talk with artisans about their handmade goods and enjoy the small-town ambiance and historic architecture lining the market square.

Centro Storico, Cisternino, Italy

8-Day Five Senses of Puglia Tour in Italy

MANUAL

5.0 (20 reviews)

From $2885 USD

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Day 13

September 16 · Tuesday

Venture off the beaten path, uncovering lesser-known sites and delightful surprises throughout the region.

Santuario di San Michele Arcangelo Cave Shrine

Descend into the mystical grotto sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo in Monte Sant’Angelo, a UNESCO site steeped in legend and spirituality. Its unique setting and peaceful aura make for a truly memorable visit.

Santuario di San Michele Arcangelo, Monte Sant’Angelo, Italy

Nature Walk in Bosco Incoronata Regional Park

Explore tranquil trails through oak and maple woods in the lesser-visited Bosco Incoronata outside Foggia. Don't miss the rustic chapel and bring binoculars for birdwatching amidst ancient trees.

Parco Regionale Bosco Incoronata, Foggia, Italy

Traditional Bakery Visit in Laterza

Stop in Laterza for a behind-the-scenes look at a historic bakery specializing in 'Pane di Laterza.' Taste their famed bread fresh from the wood-fired oven and learn about baking traditions that are disappearing elsewhere.

Laterza, Italy

Cooking class, dinner and wine tasting in Lecce (Corigliano)

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Join Enza and her family in their charming villa in Corigliano d’Otranto, a picturesque village just 15 minutes from Lecce and one of the most beautiful historic towns in Salento. Discover the joy of making orecchiette and macaroni using traditional Apulian techniques and fresh local ingredients. This immersive cooking class takes place in an authentic and welcoming Salento home, where simplicity meets tradition. Together, we'll prepare classic regional recipes using seasonal produce, handmade pasta, extra virgin olive oil, and vegetables grown in our garden or sourced from local farmers. You'll enjoy a rich table of traditional dishes passed down through generations, from orecchiette with tomato and basil to maccheroni with seafood or chickpea cream and walnut crumble – all paired with excellent local wines. We'll end the evening with a delicious jam tart, a sip of homemade limoncello, and a touch of traditional music – the true flavors and authentic spirit of Puglia.

5.0 (280 reviews)

From $92 USD

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Day 14

September 17 · Wednesday

Reflect on your journey through Puglia, cherishing newfound friends, memories, and the region’s vibrant spirit.

Farewell Brunch at a Historic Masseria

Savor a leisurely farewell brunch at a beautiful masseria, surrounded by olive groves. Relive highlights of your travels with new friends over Puglian pastries, cheeses, and coffee in an authentic rural setting.

Masseria Salinola, Contrada Salinola, Ostuni, Italy

Memory Sharing Circle in a Scenic Piazza

Gather with your group in a charming town piazza to share favorite memories, stories, and photos from your time in Puglia. It's a heartfelt way to connect and honor the friendships you’ve made on your journey.

Piazza della Libertà, Ostuni, Italy

Personalized Souvenir Shopping in Putignano

Wander the artisanal shops of Putignano to find meaningful souvenirs crafted by local artists. Choose handmade ceramics or textiles that capture the distinctiveness of Puglia for a lasting keepsake.

Centro Storico, Putignano, Italy

Make pasta, drink wine. Cooking class with transported included!

MANUAL

Free Cancellation

What you will do will be an authentic sensory and cultural experience. Making fresh pasta by hand is a tradition deeply rooted in Salento culture and this course offers you a practical immersion in local life and customs, going beyond traditional tourist experiences. Learning will be practical and fun and the course will allow you to gain a skill that you can take home and replicate with friends and family. The course is aimed at small groups and therefore encourages direct interaction with hosts. While making the pasta with their own hands, guests will have the opportunity to ask questions, hear stories and receive personalized attention; for this, a human bond will be created that enriches the experience. The course is perfect for those traveling as a couple, family or small groups, allowing an intimate and fun sharing of the culinary experience.

5.0 (71 reviews)

From $115 USD

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Attractions

5.0 (1 reviews)

Evening Tour by Car and Walking through the Apulian Beauties

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Enjoy a typical Apulian evening, visiting the two most iconic and well-known villages of the region at sunset and moonlight. Enjoy the wonder of a sunset among the trulli and an ice cream walking on the terraces of Polignano a Mare with the moon caressing the sea. Our drivers will always be ready and available to advise you and make this tour an experience to remember FREE WIFI IN YOUR CAR

From $122 USD

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4.3 (3 reviews)

Small Group Market tour and Dining Experience at a Cesarina's home in Brindisi

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Would you like to discover the most authentic side of Italian gastronomy and share it with other enthusiasts of the “cucina italiana”? Enjoy this shared Market tour and typical Dining experience. Visit the vibrant local market and learn about the seasonal produce and secret ingredients. Then, head to your Cesarina’s house to enjoy a 3-course dining experience, showcasing the authentic regional dishes stored in the cookbooks of your host. You will take part in an experience which is so much more than just a lunch or dinner. You will make new friends, feel like one of the family and live like the Italians do.

From $127 USD

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3.0 (2 reviews)

Small-group Street food tour in Brindisi

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Dive into Brindisi like a local foodie. Explore your Cesarina's most trusted artisanal food shops, tasting as you go. Visit a selection of small local shops, learn about the typical products of the city while tasting them. A delicious way to discover Brindisi and its gastronomy! • Street food tasting tour • Explore your Cesarina's most trusted artisanal food shops • Sample some of Brindisi typical street food staples • Do some sightseeing in Brindisi as you walk from tasting to tasting • Small-group tour with a maximum of 12 people for an authentic food experience Le Cesarine is Italy’s oldest network of home cooks all over the country in more than 120 cities. They are passionate and welcoming hosts that open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences.

From $104 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)

Discover Puglia by Vespa: Polignano a Mare, Conversano, Monopoli

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We start our journey from Polignano a Mare, famous for its breathtaking cliffs, and continue along the coast to the Abbey of San Vito, an architectural jewel overlooking the sea. We continue along the suggestive Costa Ripagnola, characterized by isolated trulli and uncontaminated beauty. We arrive in Conversano, where we visit the Aragonese Castle and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Here, we stop at a historic bakery to taste the local focaccia, immersing ourselves in Apulian gastronomy. We continue towards Monopoli and visit a farm, where we live a sensory experience at the artisan dairy, discovering the processing of milk and the production of typical cheeses. In Monopoli, we explore the old town and the picturesque old port. We conclude our tour with a visit to the workshop of Peppino Campanella, famous for his glass sculptures inspired by the sea. A unique experience between culture, gastronomy and Apulian art awaits us!

From $121 USD

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3.0 (2 reviews)

Cesarine: Small Group Market tour and Dining in Altamura

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From $127 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)

Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Lecce

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Italy has a vast and varied culinary heritage, and our local hosts are proud to share its hidden secrets. Share your passion for Italian gastronomy with other lovely guests, immerse yourself in the vibrant local market and enjoy an authentic hands-on cooking class. You'll visit the local market with your Cesarina host, who will teach you all about how to select the best ingredients with the seasons. Then, you'll return to their home, warm up with an Italian Aperitivo and enjoy the class. You'll learn how to make one iconic Pasta type, typical of the city you are visiting, and the famous Tiramisu. After the class, you will enjoy everything you've prepared with local wines. This experience is the perfect choice if you want to encounter the real Italian regional gastronomy through genuine connections, food, and friendship.

From $173 USD

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4.5 (8 reviews)

Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Brindisi

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From $151 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)

Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Fasano

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From $173 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)

Cesarine: Small Group Market Tour & Cooking Class in Alberobello

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From $173 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)

Valley D'itria full day tour Cisternino Alberobello and Polignano a Mare

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Highlights - Explore fantastic Unesco World Heritage Site. - Step back in time and discover the history of this unique village with an insight into how the trulli were lived in 600 years ago. - Visit Polignano a Mare charming village on the Adriatic cliffs with outstanding views of the azure sea. - Breathtaking views of our wonderful region. Description Summary The Itria Valley is a magical place, teeming with ancient olive trees, villages full of history and colours, with delightful scenery and wonderful gastronomy.

From $303 USD

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FAQ

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How can a 75-year-old senior enjoy Puglia, Italy?

Puglia is ideal for senior travelers due to its gentle pace, accessible attractions, and welcoming atmosphere. Seniors can explore flat, walkable historic towns such as Bari Vecchia, Lecce, and Ostuni. Guided tours, including visits to the Trulli in Alberobello and local olive groves, are available. Activities such as market tastings, cooking classes, and arts & crafts workshops are popular and accessible. Museums and churches, like the Pinacoteca Provinciale di Bari and the Basilica di Santa Croce in Lecce, are accommodating and provide seating. Seniors can also enjoy local festivals, seafront cafes, and gentle strolls through scenic piazzas or olive groves. Accommodation in central locations, accessible transportation, and a relaxed itinerary will ensure a pleasant and memorable experience for senior visitors.

Where can I find information on hotel recommendations and prices in Puglia, Italy?

Hotel recommendations for Puglia—including advice for senior-friendly accommodations—are available in the guide's accommodations section, which describes options in towns such as Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, and coastal areas like Polignano a Mare. For current hotel prices, consult booking platforms such as Booking.com, Airbnb, Expedia, or Hotels.com. As of September, typical prices are:

Mid-range hotels: €85–€150 per night for a double room
Apartments or villas: €70–€130 per night depending on location and amenities
Resorts: €120–€220 per night for senior-friendly options with easy access Early booking is advised for better rates and to secure accessible rooms. Prices fluctuate by location, season, and comfort level.