Where to stay in Puglia?
Here are the best areas to stay in Puglia:
1.Gargano
In the province of Foggia, on a rocky promontory, there is the Gargano National Park (also called the "spur" of Italy) which includes forests, lakes and of course magnificent beaches.
The Gargano National Park offers a variety of hiking trails, perfect for nature lovers and those who wish to explore breathtaking views.
The best choice is to select a town to stay in to use as a base, such as Vieste, Peschici and Rodi Garganico and then move during the day to discover the National Park or other nearby locations.
The hotel accommodation on the Gargano is excellent, made up of numerous hotels, some of which are of an excellent standard, alongside residences, apartments, holiday homes and bed and breakfasts.
Furthermore, for those who prefer excursions, boats and ferries depart from here every day to the Tremiti Islands.
2. Bari and surroundings
Moving from the north to the center of the region, the area that characterizes the central coast of Puglia is home to splendid towns with ancient history and famous seaside resorts.
Bari is the main urban center in the area and boasts many facilities, excellent services and various activities to do.
Its historic center and beating heart of the city is represented by the Bari Vecchia district, a set of alleys and streets that recall an Arab medina. Visit the basilica of San Nicola, the city's patron saint, and buy handmade orecchiette from the ladies who sell them directly from the doors of their homes.
Furthermore, Bari cuisine is renowned for traditional dishes such as orecchiette with turnip greens and other culinary delights that make Puglia famous throughout the world.
Lovers of history and architecture can visit nearby locations such as Castel del Monte, one of the symbols of Puglia, a UNESCO heritage site since 1996 and depicted on the back of Italian 1 coins cent of Euro.
While those who want to relax under the sun can reach Polignano a Mare and admire the view from its cliffs.
3.Valle d’Itria
The Itria Valley is a genuine land rich in history. Here you will find small villages surrounded by the greenery of olive groves and vineyards and cities with a rich historical heritage such as Alberobello, Ostuni and Martina Franca.
In addition to having numerous accommodation facilities in the centers of the main towns, this area of Puglia also boasts the presence of alternative accommodation such as farms.
To fully experience the hospitality and welcome of this area, the advice is to stay in a farmhouse or a trullo, given that many of these ancient homes have now been converted into luxury accommodation facilities and are equipped with all comforts.
Not too far away is Castellana Grotte, known for its splendid underground cavities of karst origin, while in the province of Brindisi it is worth sleeping in Ostuni, known as "the white city".
4. Salento
It is undoubtedly Salento that attracts the majority of tourists during a holiday to discover Puglia.
Overlooking the Adriatic Sea on one side and the Ionian Sea on the other, Salento is famous for the beauty of its beaches and its crystal clear sea, for its typical villages and for its local gastronomic delights.
On the Adriatic coast there is the city of Otranto, with the beautiful towns of Baia dei Turchi and the marinas of Melendugno such as San Foca and Torre dell'Orso. Going south, however, you find Castro Marina and Santa Maria di Leuca. The Ionian side is also full of tourist locations where you can stay such as Porto Cesareo, Porto Selvaggio and Gallipoli.
Depending on the type of holiday you want to have, you may prefer some areas to sleep rather than others: for example choose Gallipoli and its surroundings if you are looking for nightlife, or seaside resorts such as Porto Cesareo, Santa Maria di Leuca and Otranto if you prefer to dedicate yourself to relaxing on the beach.
In the province of Lecce it is worth sleeping in Otranto, with its historic center declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, where you can admire the Aragonese castle and go around the medieval walls.
Now I have drawn up a list of villas,hotels and resorts suitable for every budget and need. Obviously they are the ones with the most positive reviews and the most recommended!
Budget Accomodation
(Up to 80€ per night)
Mid Range Accomodation
(Up to 120€ per night)
High-End Accomodation
(Up to 150€ per night)
Luxury Accomodation
(From 150€ per night)
Glamping ✨
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