Best Towns in Puglia: Discover the Prettiest Towns & Beach Havens

Think sun-bleached houses in Ostuni, cliff dives in Polignano a Mare, and long lazy evenings in piazzas where the spritz never stops flowing, the best towns in Puglia are all about mixing culture with coast. This southern region between the Adriatic and Ionian seas is road-trip heaven, packed with fishing villages, hilltop hamlets, and beaches that glow turquoise in the sun. And because it’s Puglia, every stop comes with incredible food and a glass of local wine, from trattoria lunches to tastings at countryside Puglia wineries. Pick your base, grab a car, and you’re set for the kind of trip that makes you want to stay longer.

What are the best towns in Puglia?

Wander the whitewashed magic of Ostuni

Nicknamed the “White City,” Ostuni is one of Puglia’s most iconic towns. Sitting high above endless olive groves with views that roll all the way to the sea, it’s a place made for wandering. The whitewashed alleys twist past baroque churches, little cafés, and balconies that turn into perfect viewpoints. The town’s sunlit piazzas and winding streets make it one of the highlights of Puglia.

Ready to plan your visit? Check out our full guide to the best things to do in Ostuni.

Stay among trulli in Alberobello

Alberobello is one of the most distinctive towns in Puglia, famous for its UNESCO-listed trulli, white limestone houses with cone-shaped roofs. Exploring the Rione Monti and Aia Piccola districts takes you past rows of these unique dwellings, along with shops and trattorias tucked inside them. It’s a must-see stop for anyone traveling through southern Puglia.

Want the full rundown? Dive into our guide to the best things to do in Alberobello.

Explore the Baroque elegance of Lecce

Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is packed with some of Italy’s finest baroque architecture, from the grand Lecce Cathedral to the intricate Basilica di Santa Croce. Beyond the facades, the city keeps you busy with Pugliese food specialties, bustling piazzas, and wines from the Salento area (book a wine tasting in Lecce).

It’s a must-stop on any southern Italy trip, and if you’re building your itinerary, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Lecce.

Marvel at the cliffs of Polignano a Mare

Clinging to the Adriatic cliffs, Polignano a Mare is home to the stunning Lama Monachile beach, dramatic sea caves, and cliff-jumping spots that draw thrill-seekers from all over. Add in seaside restaurants, winding old town streets, and some of the best gelato breaks in Puglia, and you’ve got a town that’s impossible to skip.

Here’s our guide to the top things to do in Polignano a Mare!

Bask on the sandy beaches of Monopoli

Monopoli, set on the Adriatic Sea, is a lively mix of golden beaches, whitewashed houses, and a buzzing fishing port. Wander its old town, step into ornate basilicas, or just relax in sunlit piazzas with a coffee in hand. Beyond the sea views, the town is packed with culture, making it easy to fill your list of the best things to do in Monopoli Italy. It also works perfectly as a base for day trips to Alberobello, Locorotondo, or Bari.

Step back in time in Matera

Technically in Basilicata but often paired with a Puglia trip, Matera is unlike anywhere else in Italy. Its ancient Sassi cave dwellings and maze of stone alleys make it one of the most striking towns to explore, with a history that stretches back thousands of years. Just a short trip from Brindisi or other Puglian bases, Matera is a stop you won’t want to skip.

Stroll the floral balconies in Locorotondo

Locorotondo earns its spot among Italy’s most beautiful small towns thanks to its perfectly round old town layout. Stroll through narrow whitewashed streets, admire balconies draped in flowers, and take in sweeping views of the Itria Valley. It’s a postcard setting with plenty of charm, and if you’re into wine, the local DOC whites are a must-try.

From wine to winding alleys, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Locorotondo Italy.

Visit the cultural charm of Martina Franca

In the heart of the Itria Valley, Martina Franca blends baroque elegance with the charm of winding alleys and grand palazzos. The Piazza Plebiscito is the lively center of it all, surrounded by cafés and ornate facades, while the weekly market brings the streets to life with local food and crafts. It’s one of those towns where every turn shows off another piece of Puglia’s character.

Discover the best things to do in Martina Franca Italy and enjoy our latest tips!

See the sea caves in Santa Maria di Leuca

At Puglia’s southern tip, Santa Maria di Leuca marks the meeting point of the Ionian and Adriatic seas. The town is all about turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and a touch of legend tied to its ancient churches. Hop on a boat tour to explore the sea caves, it’s the best way to see the coastline up close and one of the top things to do here.

Unwind by the coast in Otranto

On the Adriatic coast of Salento, Otranto mixes seaside charm with serious history. The old port sets the scene, but the star is the 11th-century cathedral, famous for its massive mosaic floor packed with strange and fascinating details. Add in nearby beaches, and Otranto gives you culture and coastline all in one stop and you’ll have all the best things to do in Otranto.

Embrace the fishing spirit of Gallipoli

On the Ionian coast, Gallipoli is all about beaches, seafood, and a lively old town. The historic center sits on an island linked to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge, with narrow lanes, churches, and plenty of spots for an evening aperitivo. Spend the day swimming in clear water, then dig into the catch of the day at a seafood trattoria. For more ideas, check out our guide to the best things to do in Gallipoli Italy.

Enjoy a day in Bari

Bari is the beating heart of Puglia, mixing rich history with a buzzing urban vibe. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, linked to the legends of Santa Claus, then wander the old town where women still hand-roll orecchiette pasta in the streets. Add in lively piazzas, a busy seafront, and great food markets, and you’ll see why Bari deserves more than just a quick stop. For a deeper look, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do Bari Italy.

Swim in the Maldives of Italy at Pescoluse

Nicknamed the “Maldives of Italy,” the beaches of Punta Prosciutto and Pescoluse in Salento are among the country’s most stunning. Think clear, shallow water and soft white sand that stretches for miles. It’s the kind of place where you spend the whole day swimming, sunbathing, and just soaking up southern Italy at its best.

Good to know before visiting Puglia