7 reasons to visit Puglia region in Italy

There are many reasons to visit Puglia and it should be your next holiday destination in Italy. The heel of Italy, Puglia, also known as Apulia, is often overlooked by many and unfairly so as it has so much to offer.

1. Fascinating historical sites

Lecce is known as the ‘Florence of the South’ due to its Roman ruins and beautiful baroque architecture, characterised by the white and gold colour of the famous Lecce stone. Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique conical-shaped Trulli constructions stretching 15km along the Alberobello-Martina Franca road.

2. Amazing food

Puglia has also produced many unique Italian foods, such as orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese and the Italian version of paella - tiella. Stuzzichini is the word for the small snacks that are often served with an ‘aperitivo’ in Puglia. They might include plump, juicy olives, bites of local cheese, sun dried tomatoes, or Tarallini. These crispy little rings of baked dough, made with extra virgin olive oil and aromatic fennel seeds are lovely with a glass of wine, and are a feature of the ‘treats cupboard’ in every Puglian household!

3. It has the longest coastline on mainland Italy

You’re guaranteed to find a stunning beach with crystal clear waters on Puglia’s Adriatic and Ionian Coasts. 

4. It produces a lot of olive oil for Italy

With over 50 million olive trees in the Puglia region, it’s no wonder it makes up to 60% of the olive oil produced in Italy. 

5. Bari is a fascinating city

Bari, the capital of Apulia region is more than a transport hub. You will find many architectural and historical gems like Basilica di San Nicola, an 11th century church where the bones of Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Father Christmas, used to lay before being stolen by Bari sailors from Myra.  

6. Fantastic weather

Lying between the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea, Puglia enjoys a Mediterranean climate. The summers are hot and dry while spring and autumn enjoy fresh, warm breezes and cooler nights.

7. Amazing wine

Puglia makes more wine than any other region in Italy. Need we say more? Saluti!

Take a trip to Undiscovered Italy - Highlights of Puglia