Puglia is not just a region; it’s a mosaic of landscapes, traditions, and experiences that vary deeply from one area to another.
To help you plan your next trip (or dream trip!) to Puglia, I’ve divided the region into 8 geographical areas, each with a popularity/tourism index (⭐ = less touristy, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ = highly visited).
This mini guide includes:
✅ Top towns & must-see UNESCO sites
✅ Hidden gems and lesser-known villages
✅ What type of traveler each area is perfect for
1. Gargano ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Top towns: Vieste, Peschici, Monte Sant’Angelo (UNESCO site), Manfredonia, Rodi Garganico
Hidden gems: Foresta Umbra (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve), Tremiti Islands, Mattinata, San Giovanni Rotondo (spiritual tourism), San Marco in Lamis & San Matteo Sanctuary, Abbazia di Pulsano
Why visit: For dramatic cliffs, turquoise sea, ancient forests, spiritual pilgrimage routes, and authentic fishing villages.
Perfect for: Nature lovers, hikers, photographers, spiritual travelers, sea explorers
2. Monti Dauni ⭐
Top towns: Troia, Lucera
Hidden gems: Pietramontecorvino, Biccari, Candela, Orsara di Puglia, Faeto
Why visit: A peaceful escape in the Apulian Apennines with medieval villages, truffle woods, and cool mountain air.
Perfect for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers, slow travelers, fall foliage seekers, history lovers
3. Puglia Imperiale ⭐⭐
Top towns: Trani, Barletta, Andria, Margherita di Savoia
Hidden gems: Castel del Monte (UNESCO), Canosa di Puglia, Bisceglie
Why visit: A mix of coastal elegance and medieval mystery, famous for Frederick II’s octagonal castle.
Perfect for: History buffs, UNESCO lovers, slow food explorers, romantic getaways
4. Bari e la Costa ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Top towns: Bari, Polignano a Mare, Monopoli
Hidden gems: Mola di bari, Molfetta, Rutigliano (famous for terracotta whistles), Conversano, Putignano (with its carnival), Grotte di Castellana
Why visit: From lively Bari to picture-perfect coastlines and underground wonders.
Perfect for: Urban explorers, beach lovers, families, foodies
5. Magna Grecia / Tarantino ⭐⭐
Top towns: Taranto, Manduria
Hidden gems: Grottaglie (ceramics heaven), Avetrana, Lizzano, Pulsano
Why visit: Greek and Roman ruins, historic towns, wine (Primitivo!), and world-renowned ceramics.
Perfect for: Artisans, archaeology fans, wine lovers, authentic experiences seekers
6. Valle d’Itria ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Top towns: Alberobello (UNESCO), Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Cisternino, Ostuni
Hidden gems: Carovigno, Torre Guaceto Natural Reserve, Fasano, Egnazia Archaeological Park
Why visit: Trulli villages, whitewashed towns, olive groves, and Mediterranean vibes.
Perfect for: First-time visitors, couples, families, Instagrammers, slow living lovers
7. Salento ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Top towns: Lecce, Otranto, Gallipoli, Porto Cesareo, Nardò
Hidden gems: Galatina (Baroque gem), Oria, Santa Maria al Bagno, Specchia, Castro
Why visit: Breathtaking beaches (Ionian & Adriatic), vibrant culture, pizzica dance, baroque architecture.
Perfect for: Beach lovers, music and culture seekers, nightlife fans, road trippers
8. Murgia e Gravine ⭐⭐
Top towns: Altamura (famous bread), Gravina in Puglia, Laterza
Hidden gems: Massafra, Ginosa, Santeramo in Colle
Why visit: Ancient cave dwellings, ravines, and prehistoric routes. A wilder, more rugged side of Puglia.
Perfect for: History lovers, geologists, adventure seekers, photographers