Sun-drenched hills, winding roads, and the sight of trulli houses popping up between olive groves, that’s the magic of the Itria Valley. Sitting between Bari and Brindisi, this corner of Puglia is packed with whitewashed towns, bustling piazzas, and landscapes that make every road trip worth it. Add in hearty local food and tastings at family-run Puglia wineries, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect Italian escape. To visit Itria Valley is to dive into the real soul of southern Italy, where every stop feels authentic, tasty, and unforgettable.
Visit Itria Valley: Best things to see
1- Wander the fairytale streets of Alberobello
Alberobello is the star of the Itria Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its trulli, those iconic white stone huts with cone-shaped roofs. Wander through the Monti and Aia Piccola districts to see the largest clusters, then step inside the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo in town turned museum. Between artisan shops, small trattorias, and plenty of photo stops, this village is one of Puglia’s most unique experiences.
For the ultimate guide packed with top tips, dive into our list of the best things to do in Alberobello.
2- Stroll through the whitewashed wonders of Ostuni
Known as the White City, Ostuni glows on its hilltop with whitewashed houses shining against the blue Adriatic backdrop. The historic center is a maze of winding alleys leading to cozy wine bars, artisan boutiques, and the Gothic-style Duomo with its striking rose window. Every corner feels alive with southern Italian charm, making it one of the Itria Valley’s highlights. Want to explore it like a pro? Dive into our full guide to the best things to do in Ostuni for top tips and hidden spots.
3- Explore the elegance of Martina Franca
When it comes to the best things to do in Martina Franca Italy, start in the historic center where Baroque architecture steals the show. The Church of San Nicola and the Palazzo Ducale are standout landmarks that showcase the town’s aristocratic flair. Between stops, make sure to try Capocollo di Martina Franca, the local cured meat that’s as much a part of the town’s identity as its grand palaces and piazzas.
4- Relax under the olive trees in Cisternino
Cisternino, one of the Borghi Più Belli d’Italia, wins visitors over with its simple charm. The old town is lined with whitewashed houses, olive groves, and dry-stone walls that keep its authentic soul intact. For the best experience, look up our guide to the top things to do in Cisternino Italy, from wandering peaceful piazzas at sunset to sitting down in a butcher shop-turned-restaurant where your meat is grilled right in front of you.
5- Savor the local flavors in Ceglie Messapica
Ceglie Messapica is all about food and tradition. One of the oldest towns in Puglia, it’s famous for its olive oil, garden-fresh vegetables, and the beloved biscotti cegliese, a sweet almond-filled treat you’ll find in every bakery. Wander the narrow alleys of the old town and you’ll stumble upon cozy cafés, family-run restaurants, and shops that keep local recipes alive. If you’re chasing authentic flavors on your Puglia trip, this town deserves a spot on your list.
6- Discover Locorotondo’s panoramic beauty
A standout in the Itria Valley, Locorotondo charms with its ring-shaped old town, whitewashed houses, and flower-decked balconies. Panoramic viewpoints reveal sweeping olive groves and vineyards, making it a favorite stop for slow travelers. If you’re planning your trip, check out our full guide to the top things to do in Locorotondo Italy, from wandering its peaceful alleys to tasting the crisp Locorotondo DOC wine that put this village on the map.
7- Unearth history in Fasano
Fasano offers more than quaint streets—it’s also the gateway to the ancient Roman site of Egnazia and the nearby coast. The town center, with elegant palaces and churches, gives a different flavor of Apulia: a mix of inland culture and Adriatic seaspray. A stop here balances your valle d’Itria by car journey between hills and beach.
8- Catch a sunset in Noci
Fasano mixes history, coast, and culture in one stop. Beyond its elegant palaces and baroque churches, it’s the gateway to the ancient Roman ruins of Egnazia and just minutes from the Adriatic shoreline. Strolling the old town gives you a taste of inland Puglia, while a quick detour puts you right by the sea. If you’re driving through the Valle d’Itria, Fasano is that perfect balance between hills and beach.
9-Explore the wine region of Puglia
The wine region of Puglia is one of Italy’s most exciting for travelers, stretching from the Itria Valley to Salento. Known for bold reds like Primitivo and Negroamaro, as well as crisp whites and sparkling rosés, Puglia’s vineyards deliver both quality and authenticity. Visiting local Puglia wineries means sipping wines where they’re made, often in rustic masserie surrounded by olive groves. Pair tastings with traditional dishes, meet winemakers who keep centuries-old traditions alive, and enjoy landscapes that make every glass taste even better.
Good to Know before visiting Itria Valley
What is the Itria Valley and why is it worth visiting?
The Itria Valley, or Valle d’Itria, is a scenic region in the heart of Puglia, Southern Italy, known for its iconic trulli houses, whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs, rolling olive groves, charming historic towns, and rich culinary traditions. It’s a perfect destination for travelers seeking authentic Italian culture, picturesque countryside, and delicious regional cuisine away from the typical tourist routes.
What is the best time of year to visit the Itria Valley?
The ideal time to visit the Itria Valley is from May to October. The months of May, June, and September offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful landscapes. July and August are warmer and busier, especially in nearby coastal towns, but also vibrant with festivals and cultural events.
What are the best towns to visit in the Itria Valley?
Some of the must-visit towns in the Itria Valley include:
- Alberobello – UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its trulli houses.Locorotondo – A charming circular town with whitewashed houses and panoramic views.Martina Franca – Known for its baroque architecture and vibrant central piazzas.Cisternino – Cozy town with great views and open-fire meat grills known as “fornelli.”Ceglie Messapica – A historic town acclaimed for its gastronomy and craftsmanship.
What are the best hotels to stay in the Itria Valley?
Itria Valley offers a variety of accommodations, from trulli lodgings to stylish boutique hotels. Top places to stay include:
- Relais Villa Cenci – A luxury countryside hotel near Cisternino offering pools and olive groves.
- Borgo Canonica – A refined boutique resort housed in restored trulli near Ceglie Messapica.
- Masseria Cervarolo – A historic farmhouse with trulli accommodations near Ostuni.
- Lamia del Riccio – A peaceful, modern villa retreat ideal for couples and small families.
- Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso – Offers authentic trulli homes to rent in the heart of Alberobello.
What are the best restaurants in the Itria Valley?
Dining in Itria Valley is a treat for food lovers. Try these standout restaurants:
- Ristorante Cibus – Located in Ceglie Messapica, renowned for traditional Puglian dishes with gourmet twists.
- Osteria del Tempo Perso – Carved into the walls of Ostuni’s historic center, offering rustic cuisine and ambiance.
- Il Cucco – A charming trattoria in Locorotondo serving exceptional local wines and handmade pastas.
- Trattoria Bere Vecchie – Family-run and beloved for its mixed antipasti and grilled meats in Cisternino.
- Gaonas Officine del Gusto – A contemporary eatery in Martina Franca offering creative takes on Puglia’s heritage dishes.
How do I get to Itria Valley?
The Itria Valley is accessible via two nearby airports: Bari (Karol Wojtyła Airport) and Brindisi (Salento Airport), both about a 1–1.5 hour drive. Renting a car is highly recommended, as public transportation between small towns is limited and having a vehicle allows you to explore rural areas and country roads at your own pace.
What is a trullo, and can I stay in one?
A trullo (plural: trulli) is a traditional Apulian dry stone hut with a conical roof, unique to the Itria Valley. Originally used as rural farm homes, many have been restored into luxurious or rustic vacation rentals. Staying in a trullo is a must for an authentic and memorable experience, with many offering modern comforts blended with historical charm.
What are the best activities to do in the Itria Valley?
Top activities in Itria Valley include:
- Exploring the whitewashed historical towns like Locorotondo and Alberobello.
- Staying in a traditional trullo.
- Visiting local markets and tasting Puglian cheeses, olives, and wines.
- Touring olive oil farms and participating in tastings.
- Taking cooking classes to learn how to make orecchiette and other Apulian dishes.
- Cycling or walking along the countryside and scenic trails.
Do I need to speak Italian to travel in the Itria Valley?
While speaking Italian is helpful, especially in smaller towns, many locals in the hospitality industry speak basic English. It’s always appreciated when travelers learn a few Italian phrases, and using a translation app can bridge language gaps. Overall, visitors find local people to be friendly and welcoming.
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