Puglia Itinerary: 3 Relaxed 7-10 Day Routes with Just Two Bases (From Someone Who Knows It Well)

My relationship with Puglia is one that grows with time. The more summers I spend here, the more I discover flavors that exist nowhere else, the more faces become familiar, the harder it becomes to stay away.

In this post, I’m sharing 3 detailed itineraries to discover Puglia in 7 or 10 days depending on your pace.

Here’s what makes them different: each has a maximum of 2 fixed bases. Because let’s be honest, packing and unpacking every two days is exhausting, and spending half your vacation in the car isn’t exactly the height of relaxation.

Why 3 different Puglia itineraries?

Puglia is huge. At over 400 km long, thinking you can see everything in a week is unrealistic (and a bit masochistic, if I’m being honest). That’s why I’ve created three distinct routes covering different areas of the region, each with its own character.

These itineraries are designed so you can actually settle in, find a favorite café, discover that bakery the locals go to, maybe even recognize faces by day three. The way travel should be.

I’ve spent years exploring Puglia, returning summer after summer. I’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to (like that time I tried to do Lecce, Alberobello, the Gargano and the Tremiti Island in 7 days and ended up seeing nothing but highways). These itineraries reflect what actually works, not what looks good in a blog post.

So forget the checklist approach. Pick one itinerary, give yourself time to breathe, and you’ll understand why people fall in love with Puglia rather than just photographing it.

Before we start here’s something you should know: the best way to explore Puglia is to rent a car. The most beautiful spots, the authentic trulli, the masserie hidden in the countryside are always outside urban centers. Without a car, you’d miss half the magic.

First Puglia Itinerary: Deep Salento (7-10 days)

Base 1: Lecce (3-4 nights) | Base 2: Otranto or Santa Maria di Leuca (4-6 nights)

Why This Itinerary

If you love crystal-clear sea and historic towns, Salento is your destination. It’s the southernmost part of Puglia, the area everyone associates with postcard beaches and Lecce baroque.

Reference Airport: Brindisi (much more convenient than Bari for Salento)

Base 1: Lecce (3-4 nights)

Day 1: Arrival and first taste of Lecce

Arrive, settle into one of the historic palazzos in the center (I’ll talk about these later) and spend the afternoon getting lost in the old town. Lecce is pure baroque, papier-mâché everywhere, pasticciotti at every corner. Don’t make plans too rigid on the first day, let the streets guide you.

Where to stay: Palazzo Lecce, Pollicastro Boutique Hotel, or Palazzo BN are all in the heart of the historic center, each with its own story to tell.

Day 2: Lecce in Depth

Dedicate the entire day to Lecce. Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Duomo, the Roman Amphitheater. Then do what I prefer to do: sit in a café in Piazza Sant’Oronzo and watch life go by. In the evening, rustico and ice-cold beer. It’s a ritual.

I have a complete guide with 15 things to do in Lecce if you want the detailed version with specific restaurants, hidden spots, and all the practical info.

Day 3: Excursion to Roca Vecchia and Torre Sant’Andrea

Today you’re going to the sea. Leave early for the Grotta della Poesia at Roca Vecchia, one of the ten most beautiful natural pools in the world (and I’m not exaggerating). Stop here for a dive, then continue along the coast to Torre Sant’Andrea. It’s less known, so quieter, and maintains that authentic Salento essence that’s being lost elsewhere.

In the afternoon, return to Lecce to rest.

Day 4 (optional): Gallipoli

If you have an extra day or if you’re young and looking for entertainment, stop at Gallipoli. The old town is beautiful, full of history. But be warned: avoid weekends and holidays if you don’t love crowds. Gallipoli in high season is chaos. Preferably go in low season, when you can really appreciate it.

In the evening, if you want nightlife, Baia Verde is full of clubs and discos.

Base 2: Otranto or Santa Maria di Leuca (4-6 nights)

Here you have two options for your second base. Otranto if you prefer a lively town with all amenities, Santa Maria di Leuca if you’re looking for something more remote and quiet. I tend to prefer Otranto for practicality.

Day 5: Transfer and Otranto

Leave Lecce and move to Otranto (about 40 minutes by car).

Where to stay: Hotel Bellavista is a boutique hotel in the center. If you prefer an apartment near the beach, Porta Alfonsina and Casa Cannulo both have that perfect location where you can hear the sea from your window.

Settle in and spend the afternoon exploring the old town enclosed within the walls. The cathedral with its floor mosaic is unmissable.

Day 6: Otranto’s Beaches

Otranto has beaches, each more beautiful than the last. Baia dei Turchi is probably the most famous, but Baia dell’Orte is also worth it. If you’re looking for something different, the Laghi Alimini are perfect for happy hours and entertainment. The beaches there have more of an organized lido atmosphere.

Day 7: Santa Cesarea Terme, Castro and Grotta Zinzulusa

Today explore the Adriatic coast heading south. Santa Cesarea Terme and Castro are rocky coastlines where you can dive into crystal-clear waters. Then stop at the Grotta della Zinzulusa, one of the major karst phenomena in Salento. It’s impressive, even if a bit touristy.

Day 8: Santa Maria di Leuca

Go down to the tip of Italy’s heel. Santa Maria di Leuca is that place where you arrive and think “it was worth it.” Dive from the Ciolo (if you’re brave), visit the grotto, take a boat tour to explore the other caves in the area. The sea colors here are unreal.

Days 9-10: Porto Selvaggio and Porto Cesareo

If you have extra days, head back up to Porto Selvaggio (Torre Uluzzo). Much quieter than other areas, with a bit of searching you’ll find secluded rocks that are almost deserted. We managed it even on Ferragosto. Stop at the “Il Fico d’India” kiosk for an ice-cold drink.

Porto Cesareo is one of my favorite places. Torre Lapillo marked the summers of my teenage years. In recent years it’s become much more crowded, so here too I recommend going in low season if possible. At Punta Prosciutto you’ll always find a spot among the rocks, less popular but much cleaner.

Second Puglia Itinerary: Valle d’Itria and a taste of Salento (7-10 days)

Base 1: Ostuni – Locorotondo – Martina Franca (4-5 nights) | Base 2: Lecce (3-5 nights)

Why This Itinerary

For those who want a more comprehensive taste of Puglia without focusing on just one area. Trulli, masserie, baroque and a bit of sea. It’s the most varied itinerary.

Reference Airport: Bari or Brindisi (both work fine)

Base 1: Choose one of the Valle d’Itria town (4-5 nights)

Day 1: Arrival in Bari and Transfer

If you’re arriving from Bari, don’t run away from the city immediately. Dedicate at least half a day to walking along the waterfront and through the old town. Bari has its own charm, made of narrow alleys, fresh pasta made by ladies in the street, focaccia barese at every corner.

Then transfer to Valle d’Itria. Sleeping in a trullo is an experience to have at least once, so find a trullo or masseria in the Alberobello, Locorotondo or Ostuni area.

Here are a few favorites:

If you’re dreaming of that fairytale trulli magic, you’ll fall in love with Masseria Cervarolo near Ostuni. It’s the perfect blend of serene countryside and luxurious comfort.

If you prefer to be in the heart of the action, Sotto le Cummerse in charming Locorotondo puts you right in the middle of it all, with adorable stone suites tucked under those iconic cone-shaped roofs.

And if rustic beauty with gorgeous valley views is more your style, Masseria Aprile just outside Locorotondo strikes that perfect balance.

Or for a more intimate, budget-friendly option, Dimora San Nicola is a lovely apartment right in Locorotondo’s historic center, set in a beautiful 18th-century building with all the character and charm you could want.

Day 2: Alberobello

Alberobello is unmissable. A unique landscape in the world dominated by trulli. Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, in high season it’s full of people. But it remains a spectacle you can’t skip. Visit both the monumental zone and the Rione Aia Piccola, the latter less crowded and more authentic.

Want to make the most of your time here? I’ve put together a complete guide to the 12 best things to do in Alberobello to help you explore beyond the main sights.

Day 3: Locorotondo and Cisternino

I’m madly in love with Valle d’Itria. It’s a timeless area, surrounded by rural landscape, dry stone walls, centuries-old olive trees. Locorotondo is a jewel box with its white houses and flowered balconies. Cisternino is livelier, famous for its butcher shops with stoves where they cook meat on the spot.

If you have time, also add Martina Franca (elegant baroque) and Ceglie Messapica (cradle of Pugliese food).

Day 4: Ostuni and Surroundings

Ostuni, the white city. It’s a gem not to be missed, all painted in white lime, perched on three hills. The old town is a maze of stairs and alleys. Ideally, arrive at sunset, when the light is perfect.

From Ostuni you can also easily reach the coast beaches (Rosa Marina, Pilone, Costa Merlata).

Day 5: Polignano and Monopoli

Before leaving the area, dedicate a day to the Bari coast. Polignano a Mare is for me one of the most beautiful places in Puglia. Terraces overlooking the sea, poems painted on walls, views that look like postcards. According to the 2023 Traveller Review Awards, it was the most welcoming destination in the world.

Monopoli is less known but equally beautiful. The old town is delightful, the hidden coves perfect for a quick dip.

Base 2: Lecce (3-5 nights)

Day 6: Transfer and Lecce

Leave Valle d’Itria and move to Lecce (about an hour’s drive). Settle in and dedicate the rest of the day to exploring. Lecce deserves at least a full day, so take your time.

Where to stay: If you want to stay in the heart of the historic center And So is a charming choice with a rooftop terrace that’s perfect for sunset aperitivos.

For something with a touch more elegance, Pollicastro Boutique Hotel brings old-world glamour and beautifully styled rooms just steps from the main piazza.

And if you’re ready for some peaceful countryside vibes after all that city energy, Masseria & Spa Luciagiovanni just outside town will wrap you in tranquil gardens and spa bliss.

Day 7: Lecce

Full day dedicated to Lecce. Baroque, pasticciotti, papier-mâché. I talked about it in the first itinerary, so I won’t repeat myself too much. The important thing is not to rush.

Days 8-10: Porto Cesareo and Surroundings

Dedicate the last days to the sea. Porto Cesareo is one of the first beach resorts in Salento, with Torre Lapillo and Punta Prosciutto as main beaches. On extra days you can also explore beaches towards Gallipoli or head back towards Otranto if you haven’t seen it.

Alternative Option: Grottaglie and Taranto

If you have a full 10 days and want something different, insert a detour to Grottaglie for the ceramics quarter (tradition mixing with street art) and maybe a mini itinerary towards Taranto and Manduria.

Third Puglia Itinerary: North Bari Coast, Murgia and Gargano (7-10 days)

Base 1: Bari or Trani (3-4 nights) | Base 2: Vieste or Peschici (4-6 nights)

Why This Itinerary

For those who want to discover Puglia’s hidden treasures, go off the usual paths. Or for those who already know Salento and Valle d’Itria and want to explore something new.

Reference Airport: Bari

Base 1: Bari or Trani (3-4 nights)

Day 1: Bari

Again don’t run away immediately. Bari deserves at least a day. Walk along the waterfront, get lost in the old town, taste the focaccia barese, watch the ladies making orecchiette in the street on Via Arco Basso. It’s a city you savor slowly.

Stay somewhere that lets you feel it: if you’re traveling on a budget, Casa dei Ruscelli keeps you close to both the sea and the center without stretching your wallet.

For something a little more charming, Palazzo Nicolaus in Bari Vecchia is pure magic, think stone arches, candlelight, and all the character of those winding old streets right outside your door.

And if you want to kick off your trip with a little extra pampering, The Nicolaus Hotel gives you sleek, modern comfort complete with a spa, the perfect way to unwind and slip into vacation mode after your journey.

Day 2: North Bari Coast

Head up the coast northward. Stop in Giovinazzo for a drink on the characteristic waterfront, then continue to Trani. Trani is wonderful, full of fish restaurants, with a harbor full of boats and fishermen in the morning. It has that special charm that only seaside cities have.

From here you can make an excursion to Castel del Monte, one of the symbols of Puglia, wrapped in the charm of esotericism. It’s a bit out of the way but worth it.

Day 3: Alta Murgia National Park

A less beaten area but worthy of inclusion. Alta Murgia is a unique landscape, made of plateaus, fennel, particular vegetation. If you love nature and unusual landscapes, dedicate at least half a day to it.

Day 4 (optional): Laterza and Ginosa

For lovers of characteristic villages and unspoiled nature, Laterza is an ideal detour. The gravina of Laterza is one of the deepest and most spectacular in Europe. I recommend dedicating at least half a day to it. Ginosa is also worth it, with the gravinas of Rivolta and Casale.

Base 2: Peschici or Vieste (4-6 nights)

Now head north to the splendid Gargano. It’s an area that requires more time because the distances are greater, so it’s convenient to establish yourself in one base (Vieste or Peschici are the most convenient) and make daily excursions.

Where to stay: If Vieste steals your heart (and honestly, it probably will), Viesthouse B&B is a wonderful mid-range choice right in the center of town, complete with a breezy terrace and the kind of warm, welcoming hosts that make you feel right at home.

For something a touch more elegant, Rais Luxury Rooms gives you beautifully designed, peaceful spaces just steps from the cathedral, the perfect blend of comfort and authentic character.

Or if you’re ready to really treat yourself, Primopiano Luxury Accommodations takes things up a notch with gorgeous interiors and dreamy jacuzzis that’ll make you forget you had any sightseeing plans at all.

More drawn to Peschici? Then Fico d’India is your ideal pick for a relaxed, stylish stay close to both the beach and town center, or go ahead and spoil yourself at Marina Bay Suites, where the terraces open up to those incredible Adriatic views that’ll have you lingering over your morning coffee just a little bit longer.

Day 5: Transfer and Monte Sant’Angelo

Leave Bari/Trani and head towards Gargano. First stop: Monte Sant’Angelo, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and pilgrimage destination for the Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo. From here continue to the coast and settle in Vieste or Peschici.

Day 6: Vico del Gargano and Surroundings

Vico del Gargano is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. It’s characteristic, full of narrow alleys and white houses. Nearby, the Foresta Umbra is perfect for a nature excursion.

Day 7: Gargano Beaches

Gargano has some of the most beautiful beaches in Puglia. I recommend Baia della Zaiana, Spiaggia di Vignanotica and the famous Baia delle Zagare. Enjoy the sunset from a trabucco (there are several along the coast) and, if you’re lucky, you can witness fishing with the ancient trabocco system.

Day 8: Tremiti Islands

From Rodi Garganico or Peschici, ferries depart for the Tremiti Islands. Dedicate a full day to this excursion. The Tremiti are a small archipelago with crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and for those seeking some peace.

Days 9-10: Monti Dauni and Return

If you have extra days, descend towards the Monti Dauni. It’s a non-touristy area where nature mixes with the charm of the past. Troia and Orsara are two villages worth a visit. Then head back towards Bari for your return flight.

Practical tips for all Puglia Itineraries

Where to stay in Puglia?

The most special experience in Puglia is sleeping in a trullo or a masseria. If possible, do both. Trulli are found mainly in Valle d’Itria (Alberobello, Locorotondo and Cisternino), masserie a bit everywhere in the Pugliese countryside.

For historic centers (Lecce, Bari, Ostuni), look for renovated historic palazzos. They’re often more characteristic than modern hotels.

Book in advance. In recent years Puglia has become increasingly popular and finding accommodation in summer, especially in the most requested areas, is increasingly difficult.

When is the best time to go to Puglia?

June and September are the ideal months. Sea still beautiful, more bearable temperatures, fewer crowds. July and August are very hot and very crowded (Ferragosto is the worst time of all).

If you can afford to travel off-season, May and October are wonderful months. The sea is still swimmable in October in many areas.

Car Rental in Puglia

It’s essential. The distances are long and public transport, honestly, isn’t great. Rent your car directly at the airport and keep it for the entire trip.

Food in Puglia

Don’t make plans too rigid for meals. Some of the best places you’ll discover by chance. But I’ll give you some general tips: pasticciotto in Lecce is mandatory. Focaccia barese in Bari (the best is from Panificio Fiore). Bombette in Martina Franca or Cisternino (meat cooked on the spot in butcher shops with stoves). Orecchiette everywhere, but especially the handmade ones sold by ladies in Bari’s old town.

I hope this guide will be useful for organizing your holidays in Puglia. I’m available for questions and additional advice. Follow me on Instagram where I’m more active and send me a direct message if you need more specific information.

Puglia is big, varied, full of surprises. These itineraries are just a starting point, feel free to modify them based on your interests. The important thing is not to rush and enjoy the journey.

FAQ: The Questions Everyone Asks

My Final Thoughts (From the Heart)

After years of exploring Puglia and seeing it through the eyes of countless visitors, I’ve learned something important: the best trips aren’t about seeing everything – they’re about feeling everything.

Choose the itinerary that speaks to your heart, not your checklist. Take time to sit in a piazza with an Aperol Spritz and watch Italian life unfold. Learn to make orecchiette from a nonna who doesn’t speak English but teaches with love. Fall asleep in a trullo and wake up feeling like you’re in a fairytale.

Puglia isn’t going anywhere, but this magical window – before it becomes the next Tuscany – won’t last forever. Come with an open heart, a flexible schedule, and comfortable shoes for all those stone streets.

Benvenuti in Puglia! Welcome to the paradise heel of Italy’s boot. I promise it will steal your heart just like it stole mine.

Want more insider tips? Drop me a message – I love helping fellow travelers discover the real Puglia! And if you do visit, tag me in your photos – nothing makes me happier than seeing people fall in love with my country.

Buon viaggio!

P.S. – Don’t forget to pack light! Moving luggage between trulli, masserie, and historic palazzos with heavy bags is no fun. Trust me on this one!