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Planning a trip to Puglia? You’re in the right place!
This sun-drenched region of southern Italy feels like it was made for slow travel. We loved wandering through whitewashed towns, tasting food so fresh it practically tells its own story, and discovering secret coves that look like something out of a dream. From the trulli houses in Alberobello to the dramatic cliffs of Polignano a Mare, every corner of Puglia surprised us with something new.
When we first visited, we quickly realized there was so much to see that it was hard to know where to start. So, to help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up the 10 best things to do in Puglia—from coastal bike rides and hands-on pasta-making to exploring ancient towns and relaxing by the sea.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Your Puglia journey starts here!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Puglia was this small-group boat tour from Polignano a Mare! Cruising past sea caves and swimming in turquoise coves made it the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation on the Adriatic.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Puglia, Italy
- 1. Taste your way around Bari
- 2. Explore the caves and the Polignano a Mare Coast by boat
- 3. Take a day trip to the UNESCO town of Alberobello
- 4. Discover Lecce’s history, architecture, and street food
- 5. Learn how Southern Italy’s famous cheese is made at a local farm
- 6. Explore Bari on a bicycle
- 7. Dip your toes into scuba diving in Polignano a Mare
- 8. Visit the Caves of Santa Maria di Leuca
- 9. Learn how to cook pasta and tiramisu
- 10. E-bike along the coast to Gallipoli
- Where to Stay in Puglia, Italy
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Italy
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Puglia, Italy
1. Taste your way around Bari
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 11:30 am and 6:30 pm
- Highlights: Taste your way through Bari’s buzzing food scene, visit the local spots tourists usually miss, join a small-group tour with a limit of 12 people, enjoy expert commentary from your guide
- Inclusions: Your local guide, all tastings, bottled water
- Rating: 5 stars (check 1,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We always say the best way to understand a place is through its food, and in Bari, that couldn’t be more true! This 3-hour street food tour takes you on a deep dive into the heart of Bari Vecchia to visit the very best local favorites.
You’ll start in a quiet piazza, where your local guide introduces the city’s culinary roots before leading you to hidden gems most visitors miss. From crispy panzerotti oozing with cheese to a perfectly salted slice of focaccia barese, every stop comes with a story. You’ll even have the chance to try panino col polpo—a local octopus sandwich that surprises many with just how good it is!
What makes this tour so special is how authentic it feels. Rather than weaving through tourist crowds or big-name restaurants, you’ll visit family-run bakeries and corner stalls where locals chat over espresso, sample fresh gelato, and debate the best olive oil. With a small group size—usually around 10 people—it’s a fun, relaxed way to experience Bari’s food culture up close.
Expect about three hours of walking, snacking, and storytelling, so bring your appetite and comfy shoes! If you’re a food lover, this is one tour you don’t want to miss!
Check out over 1,000 5-star reviews and book this food tour here!
2. Explore the caves and the Polignano a Mare Coast by boat
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am to 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Zip around by boat on a small-group tour, explore the scenic grottoes and caves along the Polignano a Mare coastline, stop to swim and snorkel, listen to the skipper talk about the area’s history and culture
- Inclusions: Your expert guide, beverages, snorkeling equipment
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s something magical about seeing Puglia’s coastline from the water, and this small-group boat trip gave us a front-row seat to one of the region’s most beautiful stretches. Cruising along the cliffs of Polignano a Mare, it was really hard to decide where to look first, the sunlit houses stacked high above or the secret caves tucked into the cliffs!
The boat was also just the right size, intimate enough to feel relaxed, but roomy enough for everyone to take in the views. Our skipper, Nicholas, doubled as our guide, pointing out landmarks and sharing stories about Polignano’s history, including how some of the caves were once used by fishermen and smugglers.
As we glided through the water, we dipped in and out of sea-carved grottoes, some so narrow we had to duck under the limestone arches!
The best part? We anchored in a calm cove and jumped straight into the clear, turquoise water. Snorkeling gear was available, but even just floating under the sun was pure bliss. It felt like the kind of spot you’d only find with a local.
Tours typically run about 90 minutes and depart from the Polignano harbor. It’s an easy train ride from Bari, and well worth the short trip. Just bring a towel, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.
If you’re up for a relaxed escape with incredible views, this one’s a must. But don’t just take our word for it, read hundreds of 5-star reviews here to see why this is a top-rated tour!
Grab your swimsuit and explore this beautiful stretch of Italian coastline, book here!
3. Take a day trip to the UNESCO town of Alberobello
- Duration: 8.5 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Explore three scenic locations, including Trulli di Alberobello (a world heritage site), enjoy easy transport to and from Bari, get expert tips from your local guide throughout the day, fill up your camera with stunning photos
- Inclusions: Round-trip transport from Bari, advice from your driver, free Wi-Fi in the car
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 160+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
One of the best ways to experience Puglia is by taking a day trip to explore its most beautiful towns—and this full-day tour makes it effortless. You’ll be picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned car and spend the day visiting three of the region’s most picturesque towns, all while your driver shares local insight and tips along the way.
The first stop is Alberobello, home to the iconic trulli houses with their cone-shaped roofs that earned the town UNESCO World Heritage status. While the tour doesn’t include guided walks in each stop, Francisco provides plenty of background and suggestions before dropping you off, so you can explore at your own pace and make the most of your time.
Next, you’ll head to Monopoli—a charming seaside town where you can wander along the waterfront, peek into quiet alleyways, and enjoy lunch by the harbor. The pace is relaxed, giving you the flexibility to soak in the atmosphere however you like.
Finally, you’ll visit Polignano a Mare, where dramatic cliffs and sea caves create some of the most stunning views in southern Italy. Before you set off to explore, Francisco points out a few can’t-miss spots to help you capture the best photos.
This tour is ideal if you want to see more of Puglia without the stress of trains or car rentals. You can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy a seamless day exploring some of the region’s most iconic destinations.
Fill up your camera on this scenic day out and book this tour here!
4. Discover Lecce’s history, architecture, and street food
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 11 am or 5 pm (seasonal variations)
- Highlights: Stroll Lecce’s old town, admire baroque landmarks like Basilica of Santa Croce, visit Piazza Sant’Oronzo, enjoy freshly baked pastries with cheese, and sample a variety of local street food while learning the city’s history
- Inclusions: Your professional guide, all tastings
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 280+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re heading to Lecce, this 2.5-hour food tour is the perfect way to get your bearings while indulging in some seriously tasty bites. In just a couple of hours, you’ll see the city’s most stunning baroque landmarks, learn quirky stories from your guide, and sample local specialties that capture the flavors of southern Italy.
The walk moves at an easy pace, winding through Lecce’s charming old town with stops at the Basilica of Santa Croce and Piazza Sant’Oronzo. Your guide keeps things light and entertaining, sharing stories that make the city’s history feel fun and effortless to follow.
Each pause comes with something delicious—think freshly baked pastries oozing with cheese, crunchy local snacks, and other bites that show off the region’s incredible food scene. It’s less like a formal tour and more like being shown around by a local friend who knows all the best spots.
By the end, you’ll have a happy stomach, a better sense of the city, and plenty of new favorites to hunt down later. It’s a great pick for anyone who wants to combine sightseeing with great food—especially if you’re short on time.
Check availability and taste Lecce’s flavors here!
5. Learn how Southern Italy’s famous cheese is made at a local farm
- Duration: 1–3 hours (depending on option selected)
- Time: Multiple departure times available
- Highlights: Visit an authentic Apulian Masseria, see how mozzarella, burrata, and caciocavallo are made, taste freshly made and aged cheeses, enjoy cold cuts and local specialties, and learn about the history and craftsmanship of a family-run farm
- Inclusions: Expert guide, brunch, beverages, tour of the Masseria and dairy
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Nothing says Puglia quite like fresh mozzarella, and this popular tour takes you right to the source. At a family-run Masseria, you’ll step into the dairy to see how mozzarella, burrata, and caciocavallo are crafted with generations of skill. Then comes the best part, tasting everything in the very place it’s made.
We loved watching the cheesemakers at work, especially when burrata was tied up fresh before our eyes. It felt like a behind-the-scenes moment you’d normally only catch on a documentary, but here you get to taste it straight away.
Alongside the cheese, we were treated to cold cuts and homemade bites that turned the experience into a hearty farm brunch. Wandering the sunny courtyards and spotting the animals on the farm added even more charm to the day.
By the end, we had a whole new appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bite. This is more than just a tasting, it’s a chance to connect with local traditions in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Book your spot here and taste fresh mozzarella at the source!
6. Explore Bari on a bicycle
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 11:30 am and 3:30 pm
- Highlights: Cover more distance than a traditional walking tour, see local highlights like the San Sabino Cathedral and the Basilica di San Nicola, enjoy commentary from an expert guide, try some delicious local pizza and ice cream
- Inclusions: Your guide, bicycle, helmet, ice cream tasting, free Wi-Fi and luggage storage
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 260+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re short on time but still want to see a lot, this 2-hour bike tour is a fun and active way to experience the best of Puglia! You’ll join a friendly local guide who keeps the pace relaxed and easy, making it simple to cover more ground without feeling rushed.
The ride winds through both the modern parts of Bari and its historic old town, passing Romanesque churches, sunny piazzas, and breezy seaside views. Every turn brings another snapshot-worthy moment of this vibrant city.
You’ll stop at landmarks like the Basilica di San Nicola and the San Sabino Cathedral, where your guide shares interesting stories and local insights that bring Bari’s history to life. There’s even time for a quick break to enjoy a slice of pizza or a scoop of gelato—because sightseeing’s always better with snacks!
The route is mostly flat and beginner-friendly, so even if you haven’t been on a bike in a while, you’ll feel comfortable in no time. Helmets and bikes are included, and everything’s organized so you can just show up and ride.
This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to combine sightseeing, fresh air, and a taste of Bari’s laid-back lifestyle. With hundreds of glowing five-star reviews, it’s an easy favorite among travelers looking for a fun, effortless way to explore the city.
Book this fantastic biking tour of Bari here in advance!
Related Read: Want to spend a few days exploring Bari? Check out our three-day Bari itinerary here for the perfect mix of culture, food, and coastal charm.
7. Dip your toes into scuba diving in Polignano a Mare
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 10 am, 12:30 pm, and 3 pm
- Highlights: A scuba diving experience designed for beginners, learn at your own pace, explore the gorgeous waters off the Polignano a Mare coast, all the equipment and instruction you’ll need
- Inclusions: All scuba diving equipment, your certified instructors, snacks, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’ve ever wanted to try scuba diving but felt a little nervous about taking the plunge, this beginner-friendly experience in Polignano a Mare is the perfect way to ease into it. You’ll join a small group led by certified instructors who focus on making you feel calm, safe, and confident from start to finish.
Before getting in the water, the instructors walk you through the gear and everything you need to know—no pressure and no rushing. They explain each step clearly and make sure you’re comfortable before moving on. Once you’re ready, you’ll enter the water gradually, practice a few breathing techniques, and then head out on a short guided dive.
The sea here is famously clear, offering an incredible view of colorful fish and sea plants as you glide beneath the surface. The instructors stay right by your side the whole time, creating a relaxed, supportive atmosphere so you can fully enjoy the experience.
All equipment is included, and the tour is designed specifically for first-timers, so you don’t need any prior diving experience. The entire activity lasts about 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time in the water.
If you’re looking to add a little adventure to your time in Puglia and experience the underwater world for the first time, this is a fantastic way to do it.
Book this unforgettable scuba diving experience here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
8. Visit the Caves of Santa Maria di Leuca
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am, 2 pm, or 5 pm
- Highlights: Cruise along the coast of Santa Maria di Leuca, see both the Adriatic and Ionian seas, admire caves and hidden coves from the boat, hear stories about the area’s history and geography, and enjoy the chance to meet and socialize with fellow travelers onboard
- Inclusions: Professional guide, snorkeling equipment
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 470+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Santa Maria di Leuca is where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet, and exploring its coastline by boat is pure magic! This three-hour cruise gives you front-row views of dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and the caves that make this corner of Salento so special. With a guide onboard to share stories about the history and geography of the area, it’s the kind of outing that blends sightseeing with relaxation.
We loved how the boat hugged the shoreline, letting us see the caves up close while still staying at a safe distance. From hidden grottoes sparkling in the sunlight to stretches of wild coastline, every turn seemed to reveal something new. What made it even better was the friendly atmosphere—chatting with fellow travelers as the sea breeze kicked up and snapping photos of views that looked straight out of a postcard.
There’s something unforgettable about being out on the water here, seeing where two seas collide and hearing local tales that bring the landscape to life. It’s a laid-back adventure, easy to join and rewarding whether you’re a first-time visitor or coming back to Puglia for more.
Sail the coast and discover Leuca’s caves here!
9. Learn how to cook pasta and tiramisu
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple starting times between 10 am and 6 pm
- Highlights: Take a hands-on cooking class at a family-owned restaurant near Bari Vecchia, learn to make authentic tiramisu and fresh pasta from scratch
- Inclusions: Expert instruction, full meal’s worth of tastings, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s no better souvenir from Puglia than learning how to make two of Italy’s most beloved dishes—fresh pasta and tiramisu. This hands-on class takes place at a family-owned restaurant just steps from Bari Vecchia, where the welcome feels as warm as the kitchen. With a drink in hand, you’ll roll, stir, and whip your way through an afternoon that’s equal parts delicious and fun.
We had such a good time diving into the tiramisu first, layering coffee-soaked biscuits, rich mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa that instantly had us licking the spoon. Then came the pasta-making, which was even more satisfying than we expected. Kneading the dough, shaping it by hand, and learning the little tricks that make it authentically Pugliese felt like being let in on a family secret.
The best part, of course, was sitting down afterward to enjoy everything we’d made, with a few extra drinks to toast our creations.
It’s not just about the food, though; it’s the setting. Cooking alongside locals in a cozy spot right in Bari made us feel like part of the family. You’ll leave with recipes, full stomachs, and plenty of confidence to recreate the dishes back home.
Join the class and cook pasta and tiramisu in Puglia!
Related Read: For an easy way to piece together our favorite activities, our 3-day Puglia itinerary is an easy-to-follow guide!
10. E-bike along the coast to Gallipoli
- Duration: 6 hours
- Time: 8:30 am
- Highlights: Cycle through vineyards, olive groves, and countryside roads, stop in Nardò for a classic caffè leccese and a visit to the Church of San Domenico, swim in Santa Maria al Bagno, ride along the Ionian coast to Gallipoli, explore the historic old town
- Inclusions: Professional guide, helmet, phone holder, bottled water, private return taxi
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Puglia by e-bike is such a refreshing way to see the countryside, and this full-day ride to Gallipoli is packed with moments we’ll never forget. Starting in Lecce’s old town, you pedal through quiet lanes lined with vineyards, olive groves, and historic Masserias before reaching the charming town of Nardò.
A coffee break here is a must—try the famous caffè leccese (espresso over ice with almond syrup) and a warm pasticciotto pastry for the perfect mid-ride boost. There’s also time to visit the Church of San Domenico, a beautiful 16th-century gem in the heart of town.
From there, the landscape opens up to the Ionian coast, and arriving in Santa Maria al Bagno feels like stumbling upon a hidden paradise. You’ll have the chance to take a swim in the crystal-clear water before continuing along the coastline toward Gallipoli. The ride is stunning, with sparkling sea views on one side and dramatic cliffs on the other.
The adventure wraps up in Gallipoli’s historic old town, perched on its own little island and connected to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge. With e-bikes making the ride smooth and easy, and a private taxi to bring you back to Lecce, it’s an effortless and unforgettable way to experience southern Puglia.
Cycle Puglia’s coast in style and explore Gallipoli here!
Where to Stay in Puglia, Italy
When it comes to picking your base in Puglia, it really comes down to Bari or Lecce, and honestly, you can’t go wrong with either. Bari buzzes with life along the Adriatic, with winding old town streets and easy transport links, while Lecce feels like stepping into a baroque daydream down in the Salento.
Between the two, you’ll have the perfect launchpad for exploring beaches, countryside, and everything in between.
Bari
Luxury – $$$
Set along Bari’s sparkling seafront, JR Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni is the city’s only five-star hotel, and it shows. With sweeping Adriatic views, an ocean-facing rooftop pool, and elegant rooms styled in soft marine tones, this urban retreat blends luxury with coastal charm.
Rates typically range from €250 to over €1,000+ per night. Book your luxury stay now on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Residence Hotel Moderno is a solid mid-range option in Bari, just a 10-minute walk from the central train station and close to Quintino Sella metro. Rooms and suites are spacious, clean, and air-conditioned, with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Some even feature kitchenettes and balconies!
Rates typically range from €100–€180 per night. Check availability and prices on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a stylish and affordable stay in Bari, Habari We Dorm hits the mark! Located just a short walk from the train station and Bari’s historic center, this cozy hostel offers air-conditioned dorms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a chill communal vibe.
Beds start around €45 per night. Book your budget stay now on Booking.com.
Related Read: Want more help choosing the perfect base? Don’t miss our full guide on the best areas and hotels in Bari for every type of traveler.
Lecce
Luxury – $$$
Palazzo Sant’Anna Lecce blends historic charm with modern comfort right in the city’s baroque heart. Rooms come with balconies or terraces, wellness extras like yoga classes, and a standout breakfast featuring local specialties and fresh pastries. Just steps from Lecce Cathedral, it’s a serene yet central stay.
Rates average €300–€500 per night. Book your luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Hotel Delle Palme offers comfort and convenience just a 10-minute walk from Lecce’s historic center. Spacious, air-conditioned rooms include Wi-Fi, TVs, and private bathrooms, while the on-site restaurant serves both Salento specialties and Italian classics. A generous daily breakfast adds to the value!
Rates average around €150 per night. Check availability here on Booking.com!
Budget – $
Arryvo Hotel combines a central Lecce location with a youthful, social vibe. Rooms are modern and comfortable with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and minibars, while the restaurant and bar serve everything from brunch to drinks. A sun terrace, games room, and live music nights make it more than just a place to sleep.
Rates average €100–€150 per night. Book your budget stay here!
Renting a Car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
- Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
- Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
- Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
- Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Puglia truly won us over with its laid-back pace, sun-soaked landscapes, and incredible mix of coastlines and culture. From trulli villages to cliffside towns, every stop feels like discovering a new side of southern Italy, and we hope this guide has helped you plan your own adventure through this unforgettable region.
If you’re exploring more of the region, you’ll find plenty of inspiration in our other Italy blogs here—from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the colorful coasts of Sicily and beyond. We’ve shared our favorite tours, food experiences, and hidden corners across the country to help make your travels even more memorable. Or check out some of our favorites below!
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Naples, Italy – Best 3-Day Itinerary