Three Days in Puglia: discovering the Valle d'Itria

Puglia, with its unique landscapes and ancient traditions, is one of the most fascinating destinations in Italy. A weekend in the Valle d'Itria offers a perfect mix of history, sea, and authentic flavors. Here is a three-day itinerary that will take you through the gems of the area, including Alberobello, Locorotondo, Monopoli, Polignano a Mare, Ostuni, and Bari.

Day 1: Alberobello and Locorotondo

Morning - Alberobello

Start your weekend in Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its trulli, the characteristic white stone conical houses. Stroll through Rione Monti, where you will find over 1,500 trulli housing local craft shops, restaurants, and small museums. Visit the Trullo Church of Sant’Antonio, unique in its kind, and stop by the Trullo Sovrano, a two-story trullo that showcases the history and architecture of these buildings.

Before lunch, make sure to visit Aia Piccola, the oldest part of Alberobello. Unlike other tourist areas, Aia Piccola has remained faithful to its origins, with over 400 intact trulli and no commercial activities, offering visitors a genuine and timeless atmosphere. In this historical corner, you can visit some original trulli that preserve the furniture and tools of daily life from the past.

Lunch – Traditional cuisine at Coppino

After exploring the charming trulli, take a delicious break at Coppino, a small trullo restaurant located at the foot of Rione Monti. Coppino's menu features dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, such as the unmissable orecchiette with turnip tops and brasciola in tomato sauce. There are also vegetarian options featuring seasonal vegetables, all paired with an excellent local wine.

Whether you're a lover of genuine flavors or simply looking for a unique culinary experience, Coppino is the ideal choice for a lunch in Alberobello.

Visit website Coppino.it.

Afternoon - Locorotondo

With a full stomach, continue to Locorotondo, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, located in the heart of the Valle d'Itria. Famous for its circular historic center, this small town will enchant you with its white houses and alleys adorned with colorful flowers. Don't miss a walk along the Belvedere, also known as the “Lungomare”, from where you can admire a breathtaking view of the valley’s vineyards. Enjoy a glass of local wine and a typical platter of cold cuts and cheeses in one of the many bars overlooking the Belvedere.

Day 2: Monopoli and Polignano a Mare

Morning - Monopoli

Dedicate your morning to discovering Monopoli, a charming coastal town. Start with a walk through the historic center, exploring the narrow streets leading to Piazza Garibaldi. Visit Castello Carlo V, a fortress overlooking the sea, and the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria della Madia.

During your visit, check the official website of the Municipality of Monopoli to see if any special events are taking place during your stay. The city frequently hosts cultural events, concerts, theater performances, and traditional festivals that enhance the tourist experience and offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture.

Lunch - Seafood cuisine

For lunch, indulge in the many osterias and restaurants offering the best of Apulian cuisine, with a special focus on fresh seafood. Must-try dishes include grilled octopus, baked mussels, and seafood linguine. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine like Negroamaro or Susumaniello, and finish with a delicious local dessert, sporcamusi.

Afternoon - Polignano a Mare

In the afternoon, head to Polignano a Mare, famous for its dramatic cliffs and timeless charm. Enjoy the stunning view from Domenico Modugno Terrace, home to the famous statue of the singer. If the weather permits, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Lama Monachile Beach, the site of one of the world’s most famous sporting events: Red Bull Cliff Diving.

Day 3: Ostuni and Bari

Morning - Ostuni

Start your last day with a visit to Ostuni, known as the White City. Explore the historic center, characterized by labyrinthine alleys, whitewashed houses, and picturesque squares. Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a Gothic masterpiece dominating the town. For a typical Apulian aperitif, stop by Borgo Antico Bistrò, located in the heart of the historic center, and enjoy a breathtaking view of the olive groves stretching to the sea.

Lunch and afternoon - Bari

After leaving Ostuni, head to Bari, the vibrant and fascinating regional capital, the perfect place to end your weekend. For lunch, savor two must-try local specialties: focaccia barese and raw seafood.

Start with a slice of focaccia barese, made with fresh tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You can find it in historic bakeries in Bari Vecchia, where the smell of freshly baked bread will guide you to the best spot. Then, indulge in a truly Bari experience: raw seafood. At the port or in traditional eateries, you can taste sea urchins, mussels, octopus, and cuttlefish, all freshly caught. This local ritual allows you to savor the sea in its purest form.

Special tip: Try raw seafood at Molo San Nicola, where fishermen often sell their catch directly. It’s an opportunity to enjoy an authentic and genuine meal while soaking in the unique atmosphere of the city.

After lunch, take your time to explore Bari’s historic center, walk along the seafront promenade, or visit the Basilica of San Nicola before concluding your unforgettable weekend in Puglia.

Useful Tips

• Accommodations: Choose a trullo or a masseria for an authentic experience rooted in tradition.

• Transportation: Renting a car is the best way to travel between destinations, but many areas can also be reached by Ferrovia Sud Est buses.

• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are perfect for enjoying the mild climate and the peaceful atmosphere of the Itria Valley.

In just three days, this itinerary will immerse you in the beauty of Puglia, with breathtaking landscapes, enchanting villages, and unforgettable flavors. A true journey into the heart of tradition.