14 Best Towns in Puglia, Italy

Looking for the best towns in Puglia to visit on your next Italian adventure? You’re in the right place! Puglia is where olive groves roll into glittering sea views, whitewashed towns perch on sun-drenched hills, and every corner feels like a postcard.

Nestled in the heart of Alberobello, a village boasts white, conical-roofed houses, framed by lush trees with a palm tree standing prominently in the foreground. — Alberobello, Puglia

If you’re planning a trip to southern Italy, you’re in for a treat – here are 14 of the most beautiful towns to explore in Puglia, plus one bonus gem just over the border.

I’ve wandered solo through this region a few times now, and trust me, it’s a sun-kissed dream. Whether you’re after beach days, baroque beauty, trulli magic or seafood by the sea, Puglia has a town for you.

👉 Want to plan a full itinerary? Check out my 7-day Puglia Itinerary here. Need help picking the perfect base? Don’t miss my Where to Stay in Puglia guide.

1. Alberobello 🏠

Trulli iconic!

A row of traditional trulli houses in Alberobello, with their iconic conical roofs and white symbols, set against a backdrop of trees and blue sky.

Alberobello is one of the most famous towns in Puglia and is known for its quirky white stone huts with pointy roofs – the “trulli.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s every bit as photogenic in real life as it is on Instagram.

Wander through Rione Monti or Aia Piccola to see hundreds of trulli clustered together. Stay overnight in one for a magical experience, and don’t miss the Trullo Church of Sant’Antonio.

🏨 Check hotels in Alberobello.

2. Bari 🌊

Puglia’s capital has soul. Bari Vecchia (Old Town) is a maze of laundry-strewn alleyways, ladies hand-rolling orecchiette, and grand churches like the Basilica di San Nicola.

Boats docked at a harbour in a scenic lakeside city with a ferris wheel and modern architecture. — Bari

Then there’s the seaside promenade, the bustling port, and some surprisingly good nightlife. Grab some focaccia Barese and explore.

🏨 Check hotels in Bari.

3. Brindisi ⚓

A chilled-out port city with a long seafaring history.

At sunset, Brindisi's coastal cityscape dazzles as buildings front the calm body of water, beneath a sky awash in pink and blue hues. — Brindisi

There’s a relaxed vibe, plus a handful of lovely beaches and historical sites like the Aragonese Castle.

Perfect as a gateway if you’re flying in – or as a quieter seaside base in Puglia.

🏨 Check hotels in Brindisi.

4. Cisternino 🌸

Whitewashed alleys, flower-draped balconies and a dreamy hilltop location.

On a picturesque street in Cisternino, white buildings stand gracefully under vintage lamps, while people sit on benches enjoying the clear sky typical of Puglia. — Cisternino

Cisternino is tiny, but packed with charm – and unbeatable for al fresco dinners in the old town.

Try the local bombette (little meat rolls) grilled right in front of you.

🏨 Check hotels in Cisternino.

5. Gallipoli 🐟

Sun, seafood and baroque bling.

Colourful boats moored in a scenic marina with historic fortress walls and modern buildings in the background. — Gallipoli

Gallipoli (not to be confused with the WWI site in Turkey) is an island connected by bridge, with turquoise water on all sides.

Stroll the old fishing port, dine on sea urchin pasta, and take in the views from Gallipoli Castle. It’s one of the more vibrant coastal towns in Puglia.

🏨 Check hotels in Gallipoli.

6. Lecce 🎭

The “Florence of the South” is all honey-hued baroque buildings, Roman ruins, and piazzas buzzing with life.

Elegant historic church facade with classical architecture and intricate sculptures, captured in bright sunlight. — Lecce

Ornate historic church facade with classical architecture in south Italy featuring decorative stonework, angel sculptures, and elegant windows against a clear blue sky. — Lecce

Lecce is a must-see if you’re exploring historical towns in Puglia. Don’t miss Basilica di Santa Croce and the ancient amphitheatre.

🏨 Check hotels in Lecce.

7. Locorotondo 🍷

Say that three times fast!

Vineyard overlooking white-washed hillside village with historic architecture and terraced landscape in southern Italy. — Locorotondo

This hilltop town is as neat as a pin – think circular streets, tidy white houses, and views over the Itria Valley.

It’s also the home of Bianco Locorotondo DOC, a crisp white wine you’ll want to sample more than once.

🏨 Check hotels in Locorotondo.

8. Martina Franca 🎶

A stylish town known for its baroque old centre and summertime opera festival.

A historic Italian piazza with elegant white and beige buildings, open-air cafes with white umbrellas, and a bright blue sky. — Martina Franca

You’ll find elegant palazzi, shady courtyards, and a very local feel despite the grandeur. Perfect for a stroll and a posh gelato.

🏨 Check hotels in Martina Franca.

9. Monopoli 🏖️

Better than the board game!

Colourful boats docked in a historic harbour with ancient stone buildings showcasing Mediterranean seaside charm. Perfect for travel lovers exploring coastal destinations in Italy. — Monopoli

Monopoli is a coastal stunner – think turquoise water, sandy beaches, and a charming old town. It’s easily one of the most relaxing beach towns in Puglia.

Swim at Cala Porta Vecchia, wander the fishing harbour, and pop into the cathedral. With stunning architecture and beautiful beaches, what more could you want?

🏨 Check hotels in Monopoli.

10. Monte Sant’Angelo ⛪

Set high on a hill in the Gargano National Park, this town is steeped in mysticism.

A hillside town with clusters of white and gray buildings, featuring red-tiled roofs, under a clear blue sky.

Visit the Sanctuary of San Michele Archangel (a UNESCO site) and explore its moody, medieval charm. The views from the castle are well worth the climb. Guided tours are also available.

🏨 Check hotels in Monte Sant’Angelo.

Stone building facade with arches, religious statues, and a cross on the roof. The sky is clear and blue. — Famous Archangel Michael pilgrimage church

Not sure where to base yourself? Check out my full guide on the best places to stay in Puglia with top hotel picks and area-by-area tips.

11. Ostuni 🤍

The “White City” rises above the olive groves like a sugar-dusted wedding cake.

White hillside townscape of Ostuni, Puglia, Italy under a partly cloudy sky, featuring historic architecture, cobbled streets, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. — Ostuni

Ostuni is romantic, dramatic, and best seen at sunset.

Climb to the cathedral, explore the winding lanes, then grab a spritz with a view.

🏨 Check hotels in Ostuni.

12. Otranto 🌅

Otranto blends beach days with history.

Coastal town view in Otranto with a curved stone pier, clear blue water, and several people enjoying a sunny day along the shoreline. Houses and buildings are visible in the background. — Otranto

Explore the cathedral’s mosaic floor (it has elephants!), walk along the old town walls, then swim at nearby Baia dei Turchi.

Also, it’s the easternmost point of Italy – so be the first to see the sunrise!

🏨 Check hotels in Otranto.

13. Polignano a Mare 🌊

Cliff diving, anyone?

Seaside cliffside with white buildings overlooking a deep blue swimming cove in a Mediterranean coastal town. — Polignano

This dramatic seaside town has Insta-famous views, natural caves, and beach coves tucked between the cliffs.

Don’t miss the statue of local legend Domenico Modugno (“Volare… oh oh!”) or the poetry written on the walls.

🏨 Check hotels in Polignano a Mare.

14. Trani ⛵

Trani is quietly elegant, with a beautiful waterfront and a stunning Romanesque cathedral practically touching the sea.

Vibrant marina with sailboats and yachts docked under a partly cloudy sky, showcasing a picturesque coastal town — Trani

It’s also a great stop if you’re heading north to Bari or coming from the Gargano Peninsula.

🏨 Check hotels in Trani.

BONUS: Matera (not in Puglia… but close!) ⛰️

OK, it’s technically in Basilicata, but Matera is too magical to skip.

Panoramic view of Matera, Italy, one of the best places to stay in Puglia; its stone buildings and a prominent church tower stand majestically under a partly cloudy sky.

Famous for its ancient cave dwellings (the Sassi), this city looks like a movie set – because it is. 007 fans, this one’s for you.

Stay in a cave hotel, and feel like you’ve time-travelled.

🏨 Check hotels in Matera.

👉 Read more: Things to Do in Matera.

Map of Towns in Puglia 🗺️

Click the blue icons on this map to see all of the towns in Puglia mentioned above, and start planning your adventure!

Helpful Tips for Visiting Puglia 📝

🏨 Book stays early in summer. Puglia is getting popular!

🍷 Try the local wine! Especially Primitivo and Negroamaro.

🚗 Hire a car if you want to get off the beaten path. I use Discover Cars.

☀️ Bring sunscreen and comfy shoes. Those cobbled streets don’t mess around.

FAQs about Towns in Puglia 💡

Planning your Puglia trip? Here are some quick answers:

Where should I base myself in Puglia?

That depends on what you want! Lecce or Bari for city life, Monopoli or Polignano for beaches, Alberobello or Ostuni for postcard charm. Read my post the best places to stay in Puglia for detailed advice and curated accommodation picks.

Can I get around Puglia without a car?

It’s doable, but slow. Trains and buses connect major towns in Puglia, but a rental car is ideal for freedom and hidden gems. Discover Cars is a good car comparison website.

When is the best time to visit Puglia?

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are perfect for weather and fewer crowds. Read more about the seasons in Puglia.

What local food should I try in Puglia?

Start with orecchiette pasta, tiella (baked rice, potatoes and mussels), and any seafood you can get your hands on. Plus there’s loads of amazing snacks and streetfood.

Is Puglia good for solo travellers?

The Puglia region is welcoming, safe, and easy to navigate for solo travellers. Smaller towns are friendly, and larger cities like Lecce and Bari have a lively vibe that’s great for meeting other travellers.

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Thanks for reading! Let me know your favourite towns in Puglia in the comments.

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Tags: Alberobello, Apulia, Bari, Brindisi, Cisternino, Europe, Gallipoli, Italy, Lecce, Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Matera, Monopoli, Ostuni, Otranto, Polignano, Puglia, Trani

14 Wonderful Towns in Puglia, South Italy (+1 Bonus!) 🌟