Puglia, located in the sunny heel of Italy’s boot, is known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and baroque architecture. If you’re wondering about the best places to stay in Puglia, this guide has you covered.
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I’ve explored this region several times and can confidently say that choosing the right base makes a big difference to your trip.
👉 If you’re looking more for sightseeing tips, read my full guide to the 14 Best Towns in Puglia, which focuses more on what to see and do in each town. This post, by contrast, is all about where to base yourself and the best hotels in each area.
From coastal escapes and countryside charm to bustling cities and peaceful hilltops, here are the best places to stay in Puglia.
1. Bari – Best for a city break and transport hub 🚆
Bari is the capital of Puglia and your best bet for a lively city experience.
It’s a transport hub with an international airport and train links, making it ideal for exploring the region.
Explore the charming Bari Vecchia (Old Town), admire the Basilica di San Nicola, and stroll along the Lungomare promenade.
Pasta Alley is a must-visit where local women hand-roll orecchiette in the street!
👉 Read more: Things to Do in Bari | One Perfect Day in Bari.
Top hotel picks in Bari:
🏨 Grande Albergo delle Nazioni – Luxury with sea views.
🏨 Hotel Oriente – Boutique charm in the heart of town.
🏨 The Nicolaus Hotel – Modern amenities and spa.
2. Alberobello – Best for unique stays in trulli houses ✨
Alberobello is one of the most iconic towns in Puglia, famous for its fairytale trulli houses with their signature conical roofs.
Staying here feels like stepping into a storybook, especially in the Rione Monti district where dozens of trulli cluster along winding lanes.
You can explore local craft shops, visit Trullo Sovrano (the only two-storey trullo), and enjoy regional cuisine in charming restaurants.
It’s small and walkable, and while it gets busy during the day, it’s peaceful in the evenings.
👉 Related: Alberobello Guide | 9 Best Things to Do in Alberobello.
Top hotel picks in Alberobello:
🏨 Le Alcove Luxury Hotel Nei Trulli – Gorgeous trulli stay with a pool.
🏨 Hotel Sant’Antonio – Family-run comfort in a central spot.
🏨 Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso – Scattered authentic trulli homes.
3. Ostuni – Best for romantic vibes and hilltop views ⛰️
Known as “La Città Bianca” (The White City), Ostuni is a gleaming hilltop town that glows in the golden light of sunset.
Its whitewashed alleys and archways create a dreamy atmosphere that’s perfect for photographers.
You can wander up to the cathedral for sweeping views, relax in atmospheric piazzas with aperitivo, or venture out to nearby beaches and olive groves.
It’s got that effortlessly charming, slightly bohemian vibe – without feeling too touristy.
Top hotel picks for Ostuni:
🏨 Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & SPA – Stylish hotel with spa.
🏨 La Sommità Relais & Chateaux – Restored convent with rooftop views.
🏨 Masseria Il Frantoio – traditional farmhouse with olive groves.
4. Polignano a Mare – Best for dramatic coastlines and cave dining 🌊
Polignano a Mare might just be the most photogenic town in Puglia.
It’s ideal for seaside strolls, beach days, and unforgettable dinners in a cave (yes, really).
Swim at Lama Monachile, cliff jump (if you dare), wander the old town, or take a boat tour through the sea caves.
Top hotel picks for Polignano a Mare:
🏨 Grotta Palazzese Hotel – Famous cliffside hotel with an iconic cave restaurant.
🏨 Hotel Covo dei Saraceni – Beachfront hotel with rooftop terrace.
🏨 Borgobianco Resort & Spa MGallery – Peaceful resort with Mediterranean-inspired luxury.
5. Lecce – Best for architecture and culture lovers 🎭
Often called the “Florence of the South,” Lecce dazzles with its ornate Baroque architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural treasures.
Don’t miss the Roman amphitheatre, Basilica di Santa Croce, and the buzzing piazzas packed with wine bars and boutiques.
Top hotel picks for Lecce:
🏨 La Fiermontina Urban Resort – Stylish art design hotel.
🏨 Risorgimento Resort – Central location with rooftop pool.
🏨 Patria Palace Hotel – Elegant historic palace near Piazza Duomo.
6. Gallipoli – Best for sandy beaches and seafood 🐟
Gallipoli is a laid-back seaside town with an old town set on its own island, connected by a bridge.
Expect sunsets, seafood, and sandy stretches.
Explore the historic centre, relax at the beach, and feast on fresh fish straight from the Ionian.
Top hotel picks for Gallipoli:
🏨 Palazzo del Corso – Rooftop terrace and stylish interiors in a central location.
🏨 Hotel 33 Baroni – Affordable and friendly, near beaches and the old town
🏨 Victoria Palace Hotel – Modern hotel with wellness centre and sea views.
7. Martina Franca – Best for countryside charm and baroque beauty 🌿
Set in the Itria Valley, Martina Franca is a gem of ornate architecture and rolling countryside.
Martina Franca is quieter than its neighbours, making it ideal for a slow, local stay. You can wander through elegant streets and soak in the views over vineyards and olive groves.
Martina Franca is also famous for its summer opera festival, which is held in the atmospheric Palazzo Ducale.
Top hotel picks for Martina Franca:
🏨 Park Hotel San Michele – Comfortable hotel with gardens and pool.
🏨 Masseria Chiancone Torricella – Rustic-chic farmhouse hotel with countryside views..
🏨 Relais Villa San Martino – Luxury villa stay with spa and fine dining.
8. Monopoli – Best for a laid-back coastal escape ⚓
Monopoli’s blend of historic charm and relaxed seaside vibes makes it a favourite for couples and solo travellers alike.
It’s just the right amount of chilled out – think golden beaches and lively piazzas.
The old port, cathedral, and beach clubs make it easy to enjoy both culture and coast.
Top hotel picks for Monopoli:
🏨 Don Ferrante – Dimore di Charme – Boutique hotel in a fortress with sea views.
🏨 Cala Corvino Resort – Modern resort with beach access and wellness centre.
🏨 Torre Cintola Greenblu Sea Emotions – Family-friendly beachfront resort with pools.
9. Otranto – Best for coastal walks and medieval vibes 🏰
This picturesque port town blends beachy bliss with ancient architecture.
The cathedral’s mosaic floor is jaw-dropping, and the old town is a joy to explore.
Nearby coves like Baia dei Turchi and hikes to Punta Palascìa lighthouse seal the deal.
Top hotel picks for Otranto:
🏨 Hotel Palazzo Papaleo – Boutique hotel with rooftop terrace in the historic centre.
🏨 Masseria Montelauro – Restful retreat surrounded by olive groves.
🏨 Dimora San Giuseppe Hotel & SPA – Elegant rooms with spa and gourmet restaurant.
10. Vieste – Best for nature lovers and secret beaches 🏖️
Located in the Gargano Peninsula, Vieste is perfect if you want a wild, rugged vibe with dramatic coastlines and forested hills.
Hike in Gargano National Park, paddleboard around the iconic sea stacks, or just chill on Pizzomunno beach.
Vieste’s old town features narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses decorated with colourful flowers. The iconic Vieste Cathedral is a prominent landmark in the town.
Top hotel picks for Vieste :
🏨 Pizzomunno Vieste Palace Hotel – Beachfront hotel with pool and restaurant.
🏨 Hotel degli Aranci – Peaceful setting with garden and regional cuisine.
🏨 Hotel Sciali – Great value beachfront hotel with seafood specialities.
11. Trani – Best for relaxed harbourfront evenings ⚓
Trani is effortlessly romantic, with a serene marina and an iconic cathedral right on the sea. It’s slower-paced and ideal for unwinding.
The centro storico of Trani is full of narrow cobblestone streets lined with ancient stone buildings.
Sip a spritz by the harbour, visit the Romanesque cathedral, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Top hotel picks for Trani:
🏨 San Paolo al Convento – Tranquil boutique hotel in a former convent.
🏨 Hotel Regia Ristorante – Comfortable, central hotel with local cuisine.
🏨 Edward Rooms & Wellness B&B – Stylish rooms with wellness facilities.
12. Matera (just outside Puglia) – Best for cave dwellings and ancient history 🕯️
Just across the border in Basilicata, Matera is famous for its Sassi cave dwellings and cinematic views.
It’s UNESCO listed, hauntingly beautiful, and a must if you’re nearby. Matera is one of the oldest human-inhabited places in the world.
Wander through cave homes and rock churches, and stay in a boutique cave hotel for the full experience.
👉 Read more: Things to Do in Matera.
Top hotel picks for Matera:
🏨 Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita – Unique cave hotel with serene, minimalist style.
🏨 Palazzo Gattini – Upscale hotel with spa and panoramic views.
🏨 Hotel Sant’Angelo – Historic cave rooms with modern comforts.
Map of the Best Places to Stay in Puglia 🗺️
Here’s a map of all the best places to stay in Puglia mentioned in this post. Click the blue icons to see more info or hit the star to save to your Google Maps.
FAQs About the Best Places to Stay in Puglia 💡
Lecce is great for architecture and culture, while coastal towns like Polignano a Mare and Gallipoli are perfect for beach lovers. For a countryside base, try Ostuni or Alberobello. Check out my guide to the 14 best towns in Puglia.
You’ll find boutique hotels, luxury resorts, rustic agriturismi (farm stays), and even cave hotels or trulli houses.
Coastal towns offer beach access and sea views, while inland villages have more charm and quiet countryside surroundings.
Bari and Lecce are both ideal – well-connected, walkable, and lively, with lots to do.
For summer trips (June to September), book at least 3 months ahead, especially in popular towns.
Trains and buses connect major towns, but for flexibility and access to smaller villages, a rental car is recommended. I use Discover Cars for comparing car hire options.
Try sleeping in a trullo in Alberobello, a cave in Matera, or a masseria (fortified farmhouse) in the countryside.
Thanks for reading my guide to the best places to stay in Puglia. If you’ve got questions or need personalised tips, drop me a comment below or message me on Instagram!
Related Posts 📚
If you’re planning a trip to southern Italy, check out these helpful guides:
🇮🇹 Bari in One Day: The Perfect 1-Day Itinerary.
✨ 14 Wonderful Towns in Puglia.
🗓️ Puglia 7-Day Itinerary.
🏠 9 Best Things to Do in Alberobello.
🍝 Food and Drink from Puglia.
🏠 My Experience Staying in a Trullo.
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Tags: Europe, Hotels, Italy, Puglia
