The Most Beautiful Villages in Puglia: Top 10 to Visit

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1. Alberobello, No. 1 among the most beautiful villages in Puglia

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Alberobello is unique for its trulli, houses built of dry stone with cone-shaped roofs. The village is a gem of rural architecture that is an absolute must if you come to the heel of Italy's boot.

What to see and do? 

• See the Rione Monti district, with its hundreds of trulli. A must if you are visiting Ostuni
• Also visit the Trullo Sovrano, the largest of these buildings, now turned into a museum. The Aia Piccola district offers a more authentic experience, away from the crowds

2. Ostuni

Perched on a hill in this magnificent region of Puglia, Ostuni is famous for its winding lanes, arches and staircases that snake between the whitewashed houses. In front of you, the sea is a dazzling blue. 

What to see and do? 

• Admire the Ostuni Cathedral, with its Gothic façade
• Explore the historic centre and enjoy the panoramas from the ramparts
• Enjoy the surrounding beaches, such as Costa Merlata, which are perfect for relaxing

3. Polignano a Mare

Known for its steep cliffs and spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea, Polignano is also famous for its high-diving festival. We love it for its charming white houses, sea caves and pebble beaches. 

What to see and do? 

• Go to Lama Monachile beach, nestled between two cliffs. This spot is a must
• Take a cruise on a boat to visit the sea caves, aperitivo included
• Visit the historic centre with its lanes and pretty flower-draped balconies
• See the statue of Domenico Modugno, singer of "Volare", who was born here
• Go stand-up paddleboarding from Polignano a Mare

4. Locorotondo

What makes it special? It is a circular village, hence its name! Locorotondo is located in the Itria Valley. Here, you will be surprised by the cleanliness of the streets and its whitewashed houses with sloping roofs called cummerse.

What to see and do? 

• Stroll through the historic centre to admire the flower-draped balconies
• Taste a glass of local DOC white wine
• Admire the breathtaking view from the panoramic promenade

5. Cisternino

This small medieval village is part of our top 10 most beautiful villages in Puglia. It is a maze of little lanes, pretty white houses and small squares typical of southern Italy. 

What to see and do? 

• Visit the Chiesa Madre of San Nicola and the Norman tower
• Taste grilled meats in the village's famous butcher-rosticcerie shops (its fornielli)

6. Monopoli

A charming port town, formerly a fishing village, combining a picturesque old town and the Mediterranean coast. We love its cobbled lanes and its always-lively harbour. You will be surprised by this mix of architectural styles, both Baroque and medieval.

What to see and do? 

• Go and see the Castello Carlo V, on the Adriatic seafront. It is a must if you visit Monopoli.  
• Admire the Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia, which impresses with its richly decorated interior. 
• Stroll along the harbour and taste fresh seafood

7. Gallipoli

Located on an island, Gallipoli combines historic charm and a seaside atmosphere. Did you know its name means "beautiful city" in ancient Greek?

What to see and do? 

• Explore the Castello Angioino (Angevin Castle), a medieval castle
• See the Cattedrale di Sant'Agata, a true Baroque masterpiece
• Recharge on the surrounding fine sandy beaches such as Baia Verde
• Swim in the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea

8. Castellana 

Renowned for its spectacular karst caves, Castellana is an ideal destination for nature and history lovers.

What to see and do? 

• Visit the Castellana Caves, 3 km long, for their breathtaking underground landscapes, such as the White Cave 
• See the church of Chiesa di San Leone Magno in the heart of the village

9. Savelletri

This coastal village is perfect for a relaxing getaway if you are planning a stay in Puglia. Its beaches and masserie (historic farms) make it a unique place.

What to see and do? 

• Stroll around the little fishing harbour
• Visit the archaeological remains of Egnazia, an ancient Roman city
• Enjoy beaches such as Torre Canne
• Stay in a masseria

10. Specchia

Last but not least in our top 10 most beautiful villages in southern Italy, this preserved medieval village offers a peaceful, authentic atmosphere, far from the tourist crowds.

What to see and do? 

• Go to the historic centre to admire its palaces and churches 
• See the Palazzo Risolo and the Chiesa Madre, two must-sees if you visit Specchia
• Enjoy summer evenings to discover the cultural events organised in the village

Other villages to see if you have more time: Martina Franca, Lucera with its duomo, Gravina in Puglia and the medieval town of Altamura.

That's it, our article on the most beautiful villages of Puglia ends here. We hope all this information helps you plan your stay in Italy, and more particularly in this magnificent region. All that's left is to wish you a great trip and plenty of good vibes 😎