1 Explore the caves (marine and otherwise) and the beaches
Puglia is rich in sea caves, true works of art sculpted by nature.
You can rent a boat and admire the evocative caves of Polignano a Mare or those of Santa Maria di Leuca.
The beaches of Porto Cesareo, Gallipoli, Otranto, and Santa Maria di Leuca are famous for their crystal-clear waters and fine sand. Don't miss the stunning Baia dei Turchi and Punta Prosciutto beach.
Finally, don't miss the Castellana Caves, a fascinating complex of underground karst caves that offers a unique and evocative experience.
2 Taste the typical products
Apulian cuisine is a true journey for the palate. Taste the extra virgin olive oil , Primitivo wine, Altamura bread, orecchiette with turnip tops , the freshest seafood, focaccia from Bari , and traditional desserts like pasticciotti from Lecce.
3 Attend a local festival or celebration
During the summer, festivals dedicated to local products take place throughout Puglia. Sample culinary delights and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
Summer is full of events and festivals celebrating traditions, food, and music. The Notte della Taranta in Melpignano is one of the most famous.
- Immaginaria Festival : the Conversano event that has acquired international renown and is part of a wave of profound local cultural innovation.
-
Apulia Dance Experience : in Conversano from August 29th to September 1st 2024, 4 days dedicated to the study and improvement of classical and contemporary dance.
The final evening will conclude with a gala performance, as well as interviews and book presentations by leading figures from the world of dance.
4 Visit an oil mill
Discover the secrets of extra virgin olive oil production and taste the green gold directly from the source.
At Frantoio D'Orazio, you can choose from four experiences dedicated to olive oil and exploring the beautiful Apulian landscape:
- Oliveto Vibes: Picnic among the Olive Trees
- Pugliagram: Tasting Among the Trulli
- The Faces of D'Orazio Oil: Tasting at the Mill
- Sails in the Wind: Aperitif on the Boat
5 Take a bike or horseback tour
Hike along nature trails, admiring breathtaking landscapes and picturesque villages.
You could take advantage of this opportunity to hike through Gargano National Park : this park offers a combination of mountains, forests, and spectacular coastlines. It's ideal for hiking and relaxing on the beaches, such as those in Vieste and Peschici.
6 Relax in a spa
Treat yourself to a moment of pure relaxation in one of Puglia's many spas, and let yourself be pampered with treatments using local products.
7 Take a cooking class
Learn to prepare typical Apulian dishes and take home an unforgettable memory of your holiday.
8 Visit a museum
Puglia is rich in history and culture. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Taranto, the Swabian Castle of Bari, or the Diocesan Museum of Lecce.
The splendid exhibition dedicated to Chagall, Chagall. Dream of Love - Exhibition of works of art by Marc Chagall, is underway at the Polo Museale – Castello Conti Acquaviva D'Aragona in Conversano until October 27, 2024.
9 Be amazed by one of the many trekking routes
Discover the Apulian countryside in a unique way, a unique natural setting amid olive groves and trulli.
Original idea: discover the firefly forest! The Sant'Antuono forest in the province of Taranto offers a variety of landscapes and environments: from oak forests (holm oak, holm oak, and downy oak) to small ravines and areas of Aleppo pine.
In particular, we recommend walking at sunset to admire the wonderful fireflies.
10 Visit the cities
- Ostuni: the "White City": the whitewashed houses and narrow streets create a magical atmosphere. Don't forget to visit Ostuni Cathedral.
- The trulli of Alberobello : these iconic conical buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a must-see. Strolling among the trulli is like taking a trip back in time.
- Lecce , the "Florence of the South": admire the Baroque architecture, the Basilica of Santa Croce and the Roman Amphitheatre.
- Stroll through Polignano a Mare : This picturesque village perched on a cliff offers breathtaking views and a charming historic center.
- Explore the medieval town of Trani: Famous for its seaside cathedral and Swabian castle, Trani is a charming city with a lively port and many restaurants.
Don't miss the chance to admire a breathtaking sunset over the sea, perhaps sipping a glass of local wine.
Additional tips:
- Rent a car: To move around with complete freedom and discover hidden corners.
- Book early: Especially in July and August, it is advisable to book hotels, restaurants, and activities well in advance.
- Respect the environment: Recycling, reducing plastic use, and respecting nature are essential.
Puglia is an Italian region rich in natural, historical, and cultural beauty. In summer, it offers many interesting activities for visitors.
Every corner of Puglia offers something special and unique, making it a perfect destination for a summer trip.
