5 small towns in Puglia to visit on your next trip

From the Mediterranean Sea and up to the hills, Puglia is full of little borgos that will conquer your heart and provide unforgettable memories. Each of them is different from the others, but they will be able to charm and fascinate you unpredictably in their way. 

Every little corner, every window on the streets, every glimpse of the sea has a secret to tell you. Read along to find out about 5 small towns in Puglia you do not want to miss during your next trip!

Alberobello

Nestled in the Itria Valley, Alberobello is known worldwide for its Trulli, the typical house with the cone-shaped roof made of dark stones you can find in this area of Puglia and listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.

Traditionally, shepherds used to live in this area. As they had to move often to follow their sheep flocks, they built up non-permanent houses that they could tear down without leaving traces of their passage.

Today, along the streets of Alberobello, you can appreciate some of the gastronomic excellences of Puglia. Take your time to visit the old oil mills, where they still produce authentic Apulian olive oil, and stop by the traditional restaurants to discover the Apulian cuisine.

Last but not least, make your trip unforgettable with the utmost stay. You will find peace of mind in Trulli Terra di Puglia, a Trulli complex equipped with all comforts and a private and magnificent swimming pool. 

Gallipoli

Move to the Salento area and land in Paradise. The Gallipoli area is one of the most appreciated for its nature and its culture.

Here, the ancient Castle welcomes you to the old town. Gallipoli was a little fishermen’s village on the Ionic Sea - to this day, you can walk around the fish market, one of the most renowned markets in Puglia. First-quality seafood and fresh fish are the most appreciated products. Get the chance to taste them while enjoying your aperitif at sunset after an enchanting stroll in the city centre’s narrow, white and cobbled streets.

Gallipoli is very close to some of the most beautiful beaches of Puglia. From here, you can easily reach the Baia Verde beach, Punta della Suina beach and, with a short drive, Pesculose Beach, also known as “The Maldive of Salento” - it is up to you to find out why!

If you are planning to visit the area, the best advice we can give you is to book your stay at Villa Rosa, one of the most beautiful properties we have around Gallipoli. It is the ideal base for a relaxing holiday among some of the Salento area’s most stunning and wild beaches.

Ostuni

Ostuni is another precious gem of Puglia. Also known as the “White City” for its white buildings, its position will let you admire some of the most beautiful panoramas you will see in your life. The town is surrounded by the Apulian countryside, with olive trees and vineyards dotted with the traditional Masserie. 

Together with the city of Lecce, Ostuni is renowned for its Baroque architecture. Stroll around the city centre and let the wonders amaze you as you walk by!

From the town centre, you can enjoy one of the most breathtaking experiences of your life. You can see the sun rising from the sea and gently gilding the white houses. It is a one-in-a-lifetime moment you cannot miss. 

If you want to avoid the alarm getting off tremendously early, we suggest you book your stay in Ostuni at Trulli Le Sibille or Tenuta Salènde. These two accommodations consist of groups of traditional trulli and will welcome you with all comforts. They are both immersed in the tranquillity of the Apulian countryside and are the perfect place for a relaxing holiday. However, they are also a few steps from the most beautiful panoramic views of the area - they are definitely worth a chance!

Monopoli

Everybody knows the board game, but Monopoli is also one of the most picturesque small towns in Puglia. Located in between Bari and Brindisi, just a few steps from the famous Polignano a Mare, Monopoli will charm you with its characteristic corners, its picturesque harbour and its slow life.

In Monopoli, you can choose to spend your time among stunning beaches, walks in the Baroque architecture of the city centre and have gastronomical experiences. 

Monopoli is quite small, yet so beautiful to discover. Moreover, it is the perfect starting point for some daily excursions to Polignano a Mare, Bari and Alberobello.

If you are looking for the utmost stay in the Monopoli area, have a look at our Trulli Sorba holiday home, a stunning, intimate property surrounded by the colours of the Apulian countryside, just a few steps from the sea. 

Cisternino

We get towards Cisternino, in the heart of the Itria Valley. In this small town in Puglia, you will not find the Baroque buildings of Ostuni, nor the typical Trulli of Alberobello. However, Cisternino is acknowledged as one of the most charming little towns in Italy for the invaluable cultural heritage of the city.

Its city centre is worth a visit. It was built without a planned architecture - and even today it consists of a labyrinth of narrow streets that develops among white houses. Buildings seem to be one on top of the other, spaced out by stairs, arches and small squares. Get all the magic of Cisternino: forget about Google Maps and get lost in the maze of streets following your instinct. Lose yourself, and then find yourself again in another time, in another place, in another peace.

Every small corner will charm you - do not hesitate to take pictures of every glimpse of this small Apulian town! 

To discover Cisternino and the Itria Valley, take the chance to stay at Trulli Specchiaruzzo, a small trulli complex with a large outdoor area to enjoy your Apulian stay. 

Are you ready to live your Apulian dream?