The Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide
Everything You Need to Know Before Booking Your Puglia Holiday
Golden beaches, whitewashed towns, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, spectacular coastline and some of Italy's finest food - Puglia has quietly become one of Europe's most desirable holiday destinations. Located in the heel of Italy's famous boot, this beautiful region offers a more authentic and relaxed alternative to Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast, with charming fishing villages, centuries-old olive groves and some of the country's most picturesque coastal roads.
Whether you're dreaming of wandering through the iconic trulli houses of Alberobello, discovering the breathtaking clifftop town of Polignano a Mare, exploring the white city of Ostuni or venturing across to the ancient cave city of Matera, a Puglia self-drive holiday allows you to experience the region at your own pace.
At THG Holidays, we've created two carefully planned self-drive itineraries that showcase the very best of southern Italy, taking care of the flights, accommodation and car hire while giving you the freedom to explore.
Why Visit Puglia?
Puglia is one of Italy's most diverse regions. Unlike destinations where attractions are concentrated in one area, every day brings something different.
You'll discover:
- Beautiful Adriatic beaches
- Whitewashed hill towns
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Medieval villages
- Traditional masserias
- Vineyards and olive groves
- Fresh seafood
- Authentic Italian cuisine
- Historic castles and cathedrals
- Incredible coastal drives
The region stretches for hundreds of kilometres along both the Adriatic and Ionian coasts, making it perfect for a road trip where every day reveals another unforgettable destination.
Where is Puglia?
Puglia (also known as Apulia) occupies the south-eastern corner of Italy and forms the famous "heel" of the Italian boot.
The region is easily reached from the UK with direct flights into Bari and Brindisi, making it an excellent choice for a week-long fly-drive holiday.
Why a Self-Drive Holiday is the Best Way to Explore Puglia
One of the biggest questions travellers ask is whether they really need a car in Puglia.
The simple answer is yes.
While Bari and Lecce are connected by train, many of Puglia's most beautiful towns - including Alberobello, Locorotondo, Cisternino and numerous countryside masserias - are much easier to reach by car. A self-drive holiday also lets you discover hidden beaches, scenic coastal viewpoints and authentic villages that many visitors miss.
Driving is generally straightforward, with modern roads connecting the region's main attractions and relatively short journey times between towns.
Best Places to Visit in Puglia
Bari
The lively regional capital combines a historic old town with a beautiful waterfront promenade. Explore Bari Vecchia, watch locals making fresh orecchiette pasta by hand, visit the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and enjoy one of Italy's best food scenes.
Alberobello
No holiday to Puglia is complete without visiting Alberobello, famous for its distinctive whitewashed trulli houses. This UNESCO World Heritage Site feels like stepping into a fairy tale and is one of Italy's most photographed destinations.
Polignano a Mare
Perched dramatically above the Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare is renowned for its spectacular limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters and charming old town. It's the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch while taking in breathtaking coastal views.
Monopoli
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbour, Monopoli offers picturesque fishing harbours, narrow streets, excellent seafood restaurants and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere.
Ostuni
Known as the "White City", Ostuni dazzles visitors with its maze of whitewashed streets, panoramic viewpoints and beautiful piazzas overlooking the olive-covered countryside.
Locorotondo & Cisternino
These charming hill towns are among Puglia's hidden gems, offering authentic Italian life away from the larger tourist centres.
Lecce
Often called the "Florence of the South", Lecce is celebrated for its magnificent Baroque architecture, elegant squares and impressive Roman remains.
Matera
Although technically located in the neighbouring region of Basilicata, Matera is easily reached from Puglia and is one of southern Italy's absolute highlights. The ancient Sassi cave dwellings, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, create one of Europe's most extraordinary cityscapes.
What is Puglia Famous For?
Puglia is famous for:
* Trulli houses
* Olive oil
* Burrata cheese
* Orecchiette pasta
* Whitewashed towns
* Crystal-clear beaches
* Historic masserias
* UNESCO World Heritage Sites
* Vineyards producing Primitivo wines
* Spectacular coastal scenery
Best Time to Visit Puglia
Spring (April-June)
One of the best times to visit, with pleasant temperatures, colourful countryside and fewer crowds.
Summer (July-August)
Ideal for beach lovers, although coastal resorts become much busier.
Autumn (September-October)
Arguably the perfect season for a self-drive holiday, with warm weather, quieter attractions and harvest season bringing fantastic food and wine experiences.
How Many Days Do You Need in Puglia?
A week gives you enough time to explore the region's highlights without feeling rushed.
With 7-9 days, you can comfortably visit Bari, Alberobello, Ostuni, Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Lecce and the surrounding countryside while still having time to relax by the coast.
Adding Matera makes for an even more memorable itinerary.
What Food Should You Try?
Food is one of the highlights of any Puglia holiday.
Don't miss:
* Burrata
* Orecchiette pasta
* Fresh seafood
* Focaccia Barese
* Taralli
* Primitivo wine
* Local olive oil
* Gelato
Our Recommended Puglia Self-Drive Holidays
Puglia Self-Drive Holiday
Perfect for travellers wanting to experience Puglia's beautiful coastline, charming villages and outstanding cuisine.
Highlights include:
* Bari
* Polignano a Mare
* Monopoli
* Ostuni
* Alberobello
* Scenic coastal drives
* Traditional masserias
Puglia & Matera Self-Drive Holiday
If you want to experience everything above while adding one of Italy's most remarkable UNESCO sites, this itinerary is the perfect choice.
Alongside Puglia's highlights, you'll also explore:
* Matera
* The famous Sassi cave dwellings
* Historic cave churches
* Stunning panoramic viewpoints
Why Book Your Puglia Holiday with THG Holidays?
Our expertly designed self-drive holidays take the stress out of planning while giving you complete freedom to explore. Return flights, carefully selected accommodation and car hire are all included, allowing you to enjoy the perfect balance of independence and convenience.
Whether you choose our classic Puglia Self-Drive Holiday or extend your adventure with our Puglia & Matera Self-Drive Holiday, you'll experience the very best that southern Italy has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Puglia worth visiting?
Absolutely. Puglia offers beautiful beaches, historic towns, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, exceptional food and wine, and a more authentic Italian experience than many of the country's busier destinations.
Do I need a car in Puglia?
Yes. A self-drive holiday is the easiest and most flexible way to explore the region's smaller towns, countryside and coastline.
Which airport should I fly into?
Most visitors arrive in Bari, although Brindisi is also an excellent gateway to southern Puglia.
Is Matera in Puglia?
No. Matera is in the neighbouring region of Basilicata but is only a short drive from Puglia, making it a popular addition to any itinerary.
What is the best month to visit Puglia?
May, June, September and October are generally considered the best months, offering warm weather, fewer crowds and ideal sightseeing conditions.
How long should I spend in Puglia?
We recommend at least seven nights to experience the region properly, especially if you're exploring by car.