Puglia Road Trip in 5 Days

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One of the most popular regions in Italy is undoubtedly Puglia, which, thanks to its vast territory dominated by spectacular coastlines, welcomes millions of tourists every year.

The busiest months for Puglia are certainly July and August, but with our 5-day Road Trip, you can explore these beautiful cities without any problem.

Puglia Road Trip in 5 Days

• Day 1 – Arrival in Bari

• Day 2 – Visit to Ostuni

• Day 3 – Visit to the Maldives of Salento and the village of Specchia

• Day 4 – Discovering Lecce and Monopoli

• Day 5 – The magnificent trulli of Alberobello

Day 1: Setting off from Bari to discover Puglia

Bari is the capital of the Puglia region and, not by chance, this is where our tour begins.

The historic center of Bari is one of the city’s most fascinating areas, rich in ancient history and architectural beauty. Located south of the port, it hosts some of Bari’s main attractions, including the Swabian Castle, the Petruzzelli Theatre, and the Cathedral of San Sabino.

In the heart of the old town, you can admire buildings of great historical and artistic value, such as Palazzo della Provincia and Palazzo del Governo. The area is lively and dynamic, filled with shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues.

Where to stay?

Bari Vecchia

B&B Bella Bari: Located in the heart of the historic center, this B&B offers cozy rooms with traditional furnishings. Breakfast is included and served in a common room overlooking the picturesque alleys of Bari Vecchia. Perfect for those who want to soak in the city’s authentic atmosphere.

Murat District

The Nicolaus Hotel: This luxury hotel is situated in the modern Murat district. It features spacious, well-furnished rooms, an indoor pool, a wellness center, and a gourmet restaurant. Ideal for travelers seeking comfort and high-quality service. Its central position makes it easy to reach the city’s main attractions.

Seafront Area

Grande Albergo delle Nazioni: This elegant hotel overlooks the Bari seafront and offers panoramic sea views. The rooms are modern and fully equipped. The hotel also features an outdoor pool, fitness center, and a restaurant serving local cuisine — perfect for a relaxing stay with a sea view.

Day 2: Discovering Ostuni, the White City

Ostuni, an enchanting gem of Puglia located in the province of Brindisi, is affectionately nicknamed the “White City” due to its characteristic whitewashed houses. Perched on three hills about 218 meters above sea level and just a few kilometers from the Adriatic coast, it offers stunning views and a magical atmosphere.

Its historic center, known as La Terra, is a maze of narrow alleys, stairways, and small squares that provide picturesque glimpses and breathtaking panoramas. Among its main landmarks are the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, in Romanesque-Gothic style, and the Obelisk of Sant’Oronzo, over 20 meters high. Ostuni is also famous for its masserie—ancient fortified farmhouses now converted into elegant agriturismi and luxury resorts.

Where to stay in Ostuni?

Dimore del Tempo Perso: Located in the historic center, ideal for couples, with stunning sea views and refined interiors.

Caterina’s Suites: Perfect for those who prefer a room instead of an apartment; some suites even feature a Jacuzzi.

L’Angolo di Ostuni: A two-bedroom apartment ideal for families, with a fully equipped kitchen and dining area.

Masseria Cervarolo: A few kilometers from Ostuni, offering a rural experience with a pool and exclusive rooms.

Hotel Monte Sarago: Conveniently located, offering air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV and free Wi-Fi for a comfortable stay.

Ostuni offers a wide range of accommodations, from masserie surrounded by olive groves to B&Bs in the heart of the White City, ensuring an unforgettable stay for every traveler.

Day 3: Discovering the Marvelous Maldives of Salento and the Village of Specchia

The Maldives of Salento, located between Torre Pali and Torre Vado in Marina di Pescoluse, are among the most enchanting seaside destinations in Puglia. This five-kilometer stretch of coastline features fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters that recall the Indian Ocean islands.

The area offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and excellent facilities. Beach clubs behind the dunes preserve the landscape while providing umbrellas, sunbeds, bars, and restaurants. In summer, the area comes alive with festivals, local fairs, and traditional Salento entertainment.

After enjoying the beaches, head inland to the charming village of Specchia, considered one of Italy’s most beautiful towns. With its cobbled streets and white stone houses, Specchia offers a unique atmosphere. Its old town boasts noble palaces, ancient churches, and picturesque squares.

Highlights include Risolo Castle, a medieval fortress, and the Church of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, renowned for its artistic frescoes. Specchia is also celebrated for its traditional cuisine, with restaurants serving authentic Salento dishes made from fresh local ingredients.

Together, the Maldives of Salento and Specchia are two jewels of southern Puglia, offering visitors a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and tradition.

Where to stay in Specchia

Palazzo Rollo: A refined historic palace turned into an elegant B&B with antique furnishings and modern comforts.

Masseria Le Stanzie: A rustic farmhouse surrounded by countryside, offering traditional rooms and a restaurant with local cuisine.

B&B Borgo Antico: A cozy option in the heart of Specchia’s old town, with tastefully furnished rooms and fresh local breakfast.

Day 4: Baroque Lecce and the City of Monopoli

Divide the day into two parts to visit Lecce in the morning and Monopoli in the afternoon.

Start your morning in Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South” for its stunning Baroque architecture. Begin in Piazza del Duomo, where you’ll admire the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and its bell tower. Walking through the historic center, don’t miss the Basilica of Santa Croce, famous for its richly decorated façade. Along Via Vittorio Emanuele II, you’ll find artisan shops and charming cafés.

After lunch, drive to Monopoli, a delightful coastal town about an hour and a half from Lecce. Start from its Old Town, with narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and ancient churches. Visit the Castle of Charles V overlooking the sea, then the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, known for its crypt and mosaics.

End your day with a seaside dinner enjoying fresh fish and local specialties.

Where to stay in Monopoli

Hotel Don Ferrante: Set in an ancient fortress overlooking the cliffs, with luxury rooms and a small pool with hydromassage.

Masseria Torrepietra: About 3 km from the center, offering an outdoor pool and a peaceful countryside setting.

Torre Cintola Greenblu Sea Emotions: A beachfront hotel with private beach and two outdoor pools, perfect for a relaxing stay.

Day 5: Visiting the Trulli of Alberobello – the Grand Finale of Your Puglia Road Trip

In the picturesque Puglia region lies Alberobello, a fairy-tale town famous for its trulli — traditional limestone dwellings with conical roofs. These unique buildings date back centuries and earned Alberobello a UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1996.

The trulli are an extraordinary example of dry-stone construction, a prehistoric technique still used in the region. Their origin dates back to the 15th century, when the Counts of Conversano ordered farmers to build homes without mortar so they could be dismantled quickly to avoid paying taxes.

Beyond its iconic architecture, Alberobello offers rich cultural and culinary experiences. Visitors can explore the Trullo Sovrano, the town’s largest trullo, or stroll through the Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola, where the buildings are more authentic and less commercialized. Local restaurants serve delicious Puglian cuisine, and artisanal gelaterias offer exceptional ice cream.

Alberobello is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Puglia, offering a fascinating journey into the region’s history and culture.

We’ve now reached the end of this wonderful 5-day road trip through Puglia.

All that’s left is to set off and tag us in your stories!

What to eat in Puglia? We’ll tell you!