Charming towns. Valle d’Itria’s wide expanses of olive trees, cherry trees, almond trees, and wines punctuated by trulli and masseria. Beautiful beaches with shallow waters, and the cliffs of Polignano. Archaeological remains, cave dwellings, and ancient churches. There’s all this and much more – including an incredible traditional gastronomy with a wealth of amazing local specialities – in central Puglia. If you decide to spend your holiday in this part of Puglia, you’ll be spoilt with places to visit and new experiences to enjoy.
Central Puglia welcomes you, starting from Bari’s vibrant town centre, and then taking you by the hand to picture-postcard towns and villages that make this area unique. Either head to the coast to Polignano a Mare or Monopoli, or make your way inland where you can find treasures like Locorotondo, Cisternino, Alberobello and Putignano to name just a few. Get to know all of them and organise your holiday to discover Central Puglia’s highlights.
Discover a few of the interesting attractions and curiosities in Central Puglia and the Valle d’Itria and make sure you include them in your itinerary for a fascinating and fun holiday.
Found near Bari, this series of caves caused by an underground river are some of the most beautiful in the whole of Italy. Many events are organised here – both for adults and children – making it a great choice for a unique adventure.
Explore the unique panorama in inland Puglia. The gorges were created by erosion and are over 100 meters deep, forged by the flow of water. It’s like being in an American Canyon.
A true symbol of Bari, and a place to go to feel like a local. During the day the fishermen rule, but in the evening, it becomes a great place to enjoy a seafront aperitivo with panzerotti and Peroni.
Enjoy unforgettable culinary experiences in Central Puglia, an area that’s rich in quality products and traditional shops like the grill shops in Cisternino. From fresh fish to cured meats, there are so many foodie options in this area that will tempt even the most demanding tastebuds.
Discover the remarkable beaches follow on from each other along the Adriatic coast. You’ll find fine sand, or rocky bays. It’s impossible to resist the crystal-clear waters that are waiting for you.
A small jewel just three kilometres from Polignano a Mare. It’s a mix of sand, pebbles and rocks, with a fantastic natural open-air swimming pool with very shallow waters making it ideal for families with children.
Bari’s famous beach, just a few steps from the town centre, is the perfect place to stretch out after a nice stroll along the seafront. There’s everything: sand, rocks, gardens, wooden platforms, pebbly areas, and great facilities like bars and lidos.
This beach with fine golden sand is a few kilometres from Monopoli. Without a doubt it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Puglia. Also take a trip to the Il Capitolo bay, with reefs that make the water incredibly clear and turquoise.
The first impression of this beach is incredible. Clear, fine sand creates dunes of incomparable beauty that are covered in Mediterranean vegetation. It’s also perfect for kids thanks to its sandy sea bed and shallow waters.
Central Puglia is an area that’s rich in history and culture, from the remote past to present times. Her are a few of the attractions that you shouldn’t miss during your holiday in Puglia.
If you want to get to know the real spirit of Puglia, don’t miss that chance to take part on one of these events, both traditional and contemporary.
Hell in the Cave has become a performance of great success that is organized in the Grotte di Castellana caves. Inspired by Dante’s Inferno this performance brings together dance, vocals, music and lights in an extraordinary natural setting.
From Bari to Alberobello, during the Christmas festivities you can enjoy many events with live music, and artistic installations throughout the towns’ streets.
Take part in a patron saint celebration and throw yourself into Puglia’s characteristic folklore. The towns are decorated beautifully, with coloured lights and festoons that celebrate the bond between the townspeople and their saint.
We want to offer you the best experience whilst you plan your holiday in Puglia. Our map will help you easily find the various places and attractions in Puglia.