After three unforgettable days in Positano, we made our way east across Italy to the sun-drenched region of Puglia. What brought us to this lesser-known corner of the country was something incredibly special. One of Ally’s best friends was getting married, and we were lucky enough to be part of the celebration. Of course, while the wedding was the reason we came to Italy, we also made sure to carve out plenty of time to explore on our own.
This trip combined everything we love about travel: breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, incredible food, and meaningful moments with the people we care about. Over the course of a week, we explored the seaside town of Monopoli, and visited the UNESCO heritage sites of Alberobello and Matera. We relaxed at a countryside masseria and experienced one of the most beautiful weddings that we’ve ever attended. This post breaks down our 7-day itinerary through Puglia, Italy, highlighting the scenic towns, hidden gems, and personal memories that made this trip so unforgettable.
Day 1: Arriving in Monopoli and First Impressions of Puglia, Italy
After beginning our trip in Positano, we made our way to Monopoli to kick off the next leg of our Italian adventure. Here, we checked into Hotel Palazzo Indelli, a four-star boutique hotel in the heart of the Old Town. The location was ideal, just steps from the sea and surrounded by winding cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and local boutiques. Monopoli felt relaxed, authentic, and wonderfully untouristed compared to some of Italy’s more famous destinations. Its relaxed pace, walkable streets, and welcoming atmosphere made it an ideal place to start exploring Puglia, Italy.
That evening, we met up with friends who were also in town for the wedding and grabbed drinks at Atipico. Sitting outdoors with a view of the sea, we toasted the start of our Puglian adventure. The wine was great, the breeze off the water was refreshing, and the atmosphere was buzzing with energy. Ally and I were also relieved to find that the prices in Monopoli were a fraction of what we had paid in Positano.
For dinner, our group headed to La Locanda sul Porto. Unfortunately, the food and service were underwhelming, but the patio seating and good company made up for it. After dinner, we met the soon-to-be bride and groom at Vini e Panini for another round of drinks. Not quite ready to call it a night, we capped things off at Alchemico Bar e Cose, one of the few late-night spots open in Monopoli. It was the perfect first night: low key, joyful, and full of good people.
Day 2: Beach Club Bliss and Exploring Monopoli’s Old Town
After a late night out, Ally and I had a slow start to the day. We left Palazzo Indelli in the late morning and grabbed a quick sandwich and pastry from a local shop in town. Later that morning, we reconnected with our friends and decided to check out the nearby Lido Cala Paradiso, a relaxed beach club that was walkable from our hotel. We spent the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and recharging under beach umbrellas. For lunch, we grabbed pizza and caprese salads from the club’s beachside bar and cooled off with cold drinks. It was exactly the kind of easygoing summer day that makes Italian vacations so memorable.
Later in the afternoon, we walked back to our hotel, stopping at Il Capriccio for gelato on the way. After a hot day in the sun, it was exactly what we needed. Later that evening, after freshening up, Ally and I headed out again to explore Monopoli’s Old Town. We wandered the city’s winding alleys in the golden hour light, admiring the beautiful stone architecture of the historic buildings. The Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia was particularly striking. As the sun set, we strolled along the seafront past the Castello di Carlo V and Monopoli’s Old Port.
Dinner that night was at Antica Posta, a unique restaurant located inside a historic stone building that once served as a traveler’s post station. The atmosphere was intimate, and the service was a big step up from the night before. Ally and I tried a variety of dishes: lobster linguine, spaghetti all’assassina, and a perfectly cooked filet. The food was delicious and the espresso martini was also a 10/10, the best we had in Italy.
Just as our meal was ending, the server brought out fresh plates and a whole sea bass to carve tableside. After a few moments of confusion, one of our friends confessed that he had accidentally ordered fish for the table instead of just for himself. Luckily, the mix-up turned out to be a happy one. The fish was buttery and fresh, and was probably the best we had on our entire Italy trip. As the laughter from dinner lingered, someone suggested a second round of gelato to close out the night. We made our way to Bella Blu Gelateria, because when in Italy, two gelatos a day is always a good idea.
Day 3: Alberobello’s Trullis and Wedding Welcome Party
On our third day in Puglia, we checked out of Hotel Palazzo Indelli and headed out to explore. First, we browsed Monopoli’s shops, picking up some taralli crackers, our favorite Italian snack. We also bought a ceramic pumo di fiore, a traditional Puglian symbol of luck and prosperity, as a souvenir. Next, we made the 30-minute drive inland to the town of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Alberobello is famous for its trulli, whitewashed stone homes with cone-shaped roofs that look like something from a fairytale. Here, we grabbed lunch at Bagià Alberobello, a casual café in the town center. Ally ordered a caprese salad, I had avocado toast, and we both cooled off with iced cappuccinos.
After lunch, we wandered Alberobello’s cobbled streets and visited the Museo del Territorio to learn about the town’s unique history. The origins of the trulli are fascinating. The earliest residents of Alberobello built their homes without mortar so they could be quickly dismantled. This was done to avoid property taxes imposed by the Kingdom of Naples. Today, the preserved trulli make this one of the most distinctive towns in all of Italy.
By late afternoon, we made our way to Masseria Borgo Ritella, the countryside estate where the wedding would take place and our home for the next few nights. Tucked into the hills near Fasano, the Masseria is a dreamlike retreat surrounded by olive groves and rolling countryside. This restored farmhouse blends rustic charm with understated luxury. It features whitewashed walls, arched stone passageways, and a pool that looks like it belongs in a postcard.
We spent the rest of the afternoon lounging by the Masseria’s stunning pool. As the afternoon went on, more and more of our friends arrived, and excitement continued to build for the wedding festivities ahead. That evening, the entire group boarded a shuttle to La Perla Nera, a local beach club, for a welcome party. There, we enjoyed an open bar, a delicious spread of small plates and charcuterie, and panoramic views of the sun setting over the Adriatic. It was a beautiful and joyful way to kick off the wedding celebrations.
Day 4: Handmade Pastas and Heartfelt Toasts
After the party the night prior, Ally and I woke up late, barely making it to the hotel restaurant in time for breakfast. The breakfast spread at Masseria Borgo Ritella was incredible, with fresh pastries, fruit, and made-to-order eggs and bacon. Ally still hasn’t stopped talking about the cherries. After breakfast, we headed back to the pool for a few hours of R&R.
In the afternoon, we took a cooking class at the hotel restaurant and learned to make orecchiette, the pasta shape most associated with the Puglia region. After shaping the pasta by hand, we relaxed by the pool while our hosts prepared it for us. Once the pastas were ready, we sat down for a casual feast at a beautifully decorated table. We enjoyed our homemade orecchiette prepared three ways: one with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella, one with a rich meat sauce, and a vegetarian version with fresh rapini. A couple bottles of orange wine completed the meal and made for the perfect toast to our culinary efforts.
That evening, the bride and groom hosted a rehearsal dinner at Masseria Borgo Ritella. The rehearsal dinner was a laid-back pizza party complete with an open bar and a surprise gelato cart. As we ate, we listened to heartfelt speeches from the bride and groom’s family and closest friends. After dinner, we called it an early night and headed back to the room to rest up for the big day ahead.
Day 5: A Perfect Puglian Wedding
Ally and I ate breakfast together at Masseria Borgo Ritella, before going our separate ways for most of the day. As a bridesmaid, she spent the morning getting her hair and makeup done and taking wedding photos around the venue. Meanwhile, I had a massage scheduled at the Masseria’s incredible spa. I spent the rest of the morning laying low, relaxing, and editing photos from earlier in the trip.
Later that afternoon, all of the wedding guests gathered at Masseria Borgo Ritella’s picturesque outdoor chapel for an intimate ceremony. Framed by olive trees and decorated with white roses and hydrangeas, the setting was romantic and serene. About 100 of the couple’s closest friends and family looked on as they exchanged vows. Since the bride and groom first met in Italian class back in high school, seeing them marry in Italy felt like a truly full-circle moment.
Following the ceremony, cocktail hour took place on the Masseria’s terrace, perched above the hills with a view stretching to the Adriatic Sea. A ten-piece band played as the newlyweds made their grand entrance and continued entertaining guests throughout the hour. Several food stations were set up around the terrace, including one where a chef crafted fresh mozzarella knots to order. The setting, music, and food came together beautifully, with every detail planned to perfection.
For the reception, we moved into a glowing white courtyard adorned with minimalist, all-white decor. Centerpieces made of mounds of sea salt paid tribute to the rustic traditions of the Puglia region. A saxophonist provided bursts of energy between dinner courses, filling the courtyard with live music. After dinner, the bride and groom assembled their traditional Italian wedding cake, Millefoglie, in front of their guests. The cake was light, flaky, and absolutely delicious. We spent the rest of the evening dancing under the stars with friends we’ve known for over 25 years. It was a joyful, unforgettable night.
Day 6: Beach Recovery and One Night in Matera
After one last breakfast, we checked out of Masseria Borgo Ritella and headed to Lido Santo Stefano, a scenic beach club just outside of Monopoli. This was the favorite beach club of the wedding couple, and they had invited their guests to join them there the morning after the wedding. We spent the morning lounging in the sun, sipping cold drinks, and trading stories from the night before. Here, we also discovered caffè crema, a delicious espresso drink that had the consistency of soft serve ice cream.
In the early afternoon, Ally and I drove to Matera, where we would spend our final night in Italy. There, we checked into Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa, a property carved into the ancient cave dwellings that Matera is famous for. Despite the rugged exterior, our room had modern touches throughout, and the best shower of our entire trip. Once settled in, we set out to explore the city.
We walked the streets of Matera admiring the stunning views around every corner. Near our hotel, Ally was thrilled to discover a cat colony, with the sweetest cats and tiny kittens. After stopping to pet the cats, we continued exploring Matera’s Old Town and made our way to the Church of Santa Maria de Idris, an iconic stone church built into the cliffside. Next, we grabbed a drink at Zipa Cafè, a cocktail bar with panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
As the sun began to set, we stopped at a casual restaurant with outdoor seating and enjoyed a bruschetta and an Aperol Spritz. From there, we headed to the Michelin-starred Vitantonio Lombardo Ristorante, where we enjoyed a five-course tasting menu for our final dinner in Italy. What made the experience at Vitantonio Lombardo Ristorante unique was its choose-your-own-adventure format. Instead of a fixed tasting, we selected our five courses from a list of thirty or so creative dishes. It was a memorable and delicious finale to an unforgettable trip through Puglia.
Day 7: Farewell to Matera and Departure
The next morning, we woke early to walk the quiet streets of Matera one last time, taking in the golden light and quiet charm of the city. After a final breakfast at Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa, we packed up our things and drove back to the Naples airport to catch our flight home. We were sad to leave, but felt incredibly grateful for the memories we made and the people we shared them with.
Final Thoughts on our Puglia, Italy Itinerary
Puglia surprised us in the best way. It had all the charm and beauty of more well-known Italian destinations, but with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace. From the winding alleys of Monopoli to the ancient caves of Matera, every stop on our itinerary offered something unique and memorable. Whether we were lounging by the pool at the masseria, rolling pasta by hand, or dancing under the stars at a wedding, the region’s warmth, in both spirit and sunshine, left a lasting impression.
If you’re planning a trip to Italy and want something a little different from the usual Venice-Florence-Rome route, we can’t recommend Puglia enough. And if you need help planning, we’d love to help! As travel specialists, we can create a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests, style, and budget, so you can spend less time stressing and more time exploring. Reach out to start planning your dream trip today!
Know Before You Go: Puglia, Italy
What to Pack: Bring light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and plenty of sunscreen. If you plan to visit churches or attend a formal event (like a wedding), pack something modest and dressy. A swimsuit and sandals are essential for beach clubs.
Dining Tips: Mealtimes in Puglia tend to be later than you might be used to. Lunch is usually from 1:00–3:00 PM, and dinner often begins after 8:00 PM. Make restaurant reservations when possible, especially at popular spots or if you’re dining with a group.
Cultural Etiquette: Puglia is known for its hospitality. Learn a few basic Italian phrases, greet shop owners when entering, and dress modestly in churches or smaller villages. Tipping is appreciated, but not expected. Rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros is sufficient.
Beach Clubs: Many of Puglia’s best beaches are managed as “lidos,” or beach clubs, with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and on-site restaurants. Arrive early in summer, especially on weekends, and bring cash just in case credit cards aren’t accepted.
Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and many restaurants. If you’re road-tripping or staying in rural areas, consider getting an Italian SIM card or checking your carrier’s international data plan.
Consider travel insurance: Things don’t always go according to plan, especially when traveling overseas. For peace of mind, we recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Puglia, Italy
When is the best time to visit Puglia, Italy?
Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) offer ideal weather with fewer tourists. July and August are great for beaches but can be very hot and crowded.
How do you get to Puglia, Italy?
Puglia is best reached via Bari or Brindisi, the region’s two main airports. Both offer flights from major Italian cities and select international hubs. You can also take a high-speed train from Rome or Naples to Bari, and then rent a car to explore the region more freely.
Is Puglia, Italy expensive?
Puglia is more affordable than regions like Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast. Dining, accommodations, and activities often come at a better value, especially outside peak summer months.
Do I need a car in Puglia, Italy?
Renting a car is the best way to explore the region. While some towns are connected by train, a car gives you the flexibility to explore smaller villages, coastal drives, and rural areas that aren’t easily accessible otherwise.
How many days do you need in Puglia, Italy?
We recommend spending at least 5 to 7 days in Puglia to experience the region at a comfortable pace. This allows time for beach days, cultural experiences, and exploration of Puglia’s historic towns.
Is English widely spoken?
In major tourist areas and hotels, yes. In smaller towns and local establishments, having a few basic Italian phrases will go a long way.
