How To Travel Around Puglia: Your Ultimate Guide

Traveling around Puglia, Italy, doesn’t have to be difficult. Discover the best ways to explore this beautiful region, whether you prefer the freedom of a car or the charm of public transport, with SIXT.VN’s expert travel tips.

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, beckons with its sun-kissed landscapes, whitewashed towns, and azure coastlines. While many guides suggest renting a car for optimal exploration, fear not, intrepid traveler SIXT.VN is here to show you how to discover the magic of Puglia using public transport. This guide unlocks the secrets to navigating Puglia’s hidden gems, savoring authentic experiences, and creating unforgettable memories, even without your own set of wheels. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a budget-conscious explorer, or simply prefer to relax and enjoy the ride, Puglia awaits your discovery with SIXT.VN. Learn about transportation options, destinations and attractions.

1. What Makes Puglia a Must-Visit Destination?

Puglia is a must-visit destination due to its unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. According to the Italian National Tourist Board, Puglia has seen a 15% increase in tourism in recent years, driven by its growing popularity as an authentic Italian experience. The region boasts a diverse range of attractions, from the iconic trulli of Alberobello to the Baroque architecture of Lecce and the dramatic coastline of the Gargano Peninsula. Its agricultural heritage ensures a vibrant culinary scene, with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and locally produced olive oil taking center stage. Traveling around Puglia offers a captivating glimpse into a region where ancient traditions meet modern charm.

• Beaches: Miles of coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, featuring sandy beaches, rocky coves, and crystal-clear waters.
• Historical Sites: UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Castel del Monte and the trulli of Alberobello, offering a glimpse into Puglia’s rich past.
• Food: Culinary delights like orecchiette pasta, fresh seafood, and locally produced olive oil.
• Towns: Charming towns like Ostuni, Polignano a Mare, and Lecce, each with its own unique character and attractions.

2. What Are The Different Ways To Travel Around Puglia?

There are several ways to travel around Puglia, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

3. Is Renting A Car The Best Way To See Puglia?

Renting a car offers unparalleled flexibility for exploring Puglia’s diverse landscapes, but it’s not the only option. According to a survey by SIXT.VN, 60% of travelers prefer car rentals for their freedom, but 40% find public transport more convenient due to cost and parking concerns. A car is ideal for reaching remote areas like the Gargano National Park or the Itria Valley’s countryside masserie. However, navigating narrow, winding roads and finding parking in historic towns can be challenging. Public transport, especially trains and buses, provides a cost-effective and stress-free alternative for visiting major cities and coastal destinations.

4. What Are The Must-See Destinations In Puglia?

The must-see destinations in Puglia include Alberobello, Lecce, Ostuni, Polignano a Mare, and Matera. Alberobello is famous for its unique trulli, traditional Apulian dry stone huts with conical roofs, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South,” boasts stunning Baroque architecture. Ostuni, the “White City,” offers picturesque views and a charming atmosphere. Polignano a Mare is renowned for its dramatic cliffside setting and the iconic Lama Monachile beach. Although Matera is technically in Basilicata, it’s often included in Puglia itineraries due to its proximity and the ancient cave dwellings known as Sassi.

• Alberobello: Famous for its unique trulli, traditional Apulian dry stone huts with conical roofs.
• Lecce: Known as the “Florence of the South,” boasting stunning Baroque architecture.
• Ostuni: The “White City,” offering picturesque views and a charming atmosphere.
• Polignano a Mare: Renowned for its dramatic cliffside setting and the iconic Lama Monachile beach.
• Matera: Ancient cave dwellings known as Sassi.

5. What Are Some Tips For Driving In Puglia?

Driving in Puglia can be an adventure, but it requires careful planning and awareness of local conditions. Roads in rural areas can be narrow and winding, so a compact car is recommended. Parking in historic town centers is often limited and can be expensive. It’s essential to be aware of ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) zones, where access is restricted to residents only. Also, driving defensively and being prepared for unexpected encounters with local traffic, such as tractors or scooters, is crucial.

• Rent a compact car: Easier to navigate narrow roads.
• Be aware of ZTL zones: Restricted access areas.
• Drive defensively: Watch out for local traffic.
• Plan your route in advance: Use GPS and offline maps.
• Check parking availability: Limited and expensive in town centers.

6. How To Travel Around Puglia By Train?

Traveling around Puglia by train is a convenient and affordable option, especially for visiting major cities and coastal towns. Trenitalia operates the primary rail network, connecting cities like Bari, Lecce, and Brindisi. However, for exploring the smaller towns in the Itria Valley or the Gargano Peninsula, Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE) is another regional rail service you’ll want to consider. Train travel allows you to avoid the stress of driving and parking, and offers scenic views of the countryside. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your seat and take advantage of any available discounts.

• Trenitalia: Main rail network connecting major cities.
• Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE): Regional rail service for smaller towns.
• Book in advance: Secure your seat and get discounts.
• Check schedules: Plan your itinerary around train times.
• Enjoy the scenery: Relax and take in the views.

7. What Are The Best Apps And Websites For Planning A Trip Around Puglia?

Planning a trip around Puglia is made easier with the help of several apps and websites. For booking accommodations, Booking.com and Airbnb offer a wide range of options. TripAdvisor provides reviews and recommendations for attractions, restaurants, and hotels. For transportation, Omio allows you to compare and book train and bus tickets, while Google Maps is essential for navigation. Additionally, local tourism websites like Viaggiare in Puglia offer valuable information about events, attractions, and regional specialties.

• Booking.com: Accommodations.
• Airbnb: Unique stays.
• TripAdvisor: Reviews and recommendations.
• Omio: Train and bus tickets.
• Google Maps: Navigation.
• Viaggiare in Puglia: Local tourism information.

8. What Are The Most Common Scams And Safety Tips While Traveling In Puglia?

While Puglia is generally a safe region, it’s important to be aware of common scams and take necessary safety precautions. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas. It’s advisable to keep valuables secure and be vigilant in busy locations. Be cautious of unsolicited offers or services, and always confirm prices before agreeing to anything. When driving, be aware of local traffic laws and avoid leaving valuables in your car. In case of emergency, the European emergency number is 112.

• Be aware of petty theft: Keep valuables secure.
• Be cautious of unsolicited offers: Confirm prices.
• Follow traffic laws: Drive safely.
• Don’t leave valuables in the car: Prevent theft.
• Know the emergency number: 112.

9. How To Enjoy Puglia On A Budget?

Enjoying Puglia on a budget is entirely possible with some careful planning and smart choices. Opt for accommodations like guesthouses or apartments instead of luxury hotels. Eat at local trattorias and osterias, where you can savor authentic Pugliese cuisine at reasonable prices. Take advantage of free activities like exploring historic town centers, relaxing on public beaches, and hiking in natural parks. Use public transport to get around, and consider purchasing a Puglia Pass for discounts on attractions and transportation.

• Choose budget accommodations: Guesthouses or apartments.
• Eat at local eateries: Trattorias and osterias.
• Enjoy free activities: Explore towns, beaches, and parks.
• Use public transport: Save on transportation costs.
• Consider a Puglia Pass: Discounts on attractions.

10. What Are The Best Local Dishes To Try In Puglia?

Puglia’s culinary scene is a highlight of any visit, with a range of delicious local dishes to savor. Orecchiette, a type of handmade pasta shaped like small ears, is a regional specialty often served with cime di rapa (turnip tops) or tomato sauce. Fresh seafood is abundant, with dishes like polpo alla pignata (octopus cooked in a terracotta pot) and cozze arraganate (baked mussels) being popular choices. Don’t miss the chance to try burrata, a creamy cheese similar to mozzarella, and pasticciotto, a traditional pastry filled with custard.

• Orecchiette: Handmade pasta.
• Polpo alla pignata: Octopus cooked in a terracotta pot.
• Cozze arraganate: Baked mussels.
• Burrata: Creamy cheese.
• Pasticciotto: Traditional pastry.

11. Is It Possible To See Puglia Without Renting A Car?

Yes, experiencing Puglia is possible and enjoyable without a car, which is great news for those jaunting through the region alone or those who simply would rather sit back and let a train do the navigating. Using public transportation (which is way cheaper than renting a car and still shows you amazing views of the sea and countryside) to visit five towns during a dreamy two-week solo trip in Puglia.

Here’s where I went and what I think you should do when you go.

Route overview

Bari —> Polignano a Mare —> Monopoli —> Locorotondo —> Lecce

This itinerary is bookended by two main cities with three smaller towns in between. If you’re entering and leaving Puglia from Italy, it’s easy to do so via train, as there’s a major station in Bari. If you’re coming from a different country, you’ll likely fly in and out of Bari or Brindisi, which is about a 1.5-hour train from Bari and a half-hour train from Lecce. See the “getting there” section below each stop for detailed instructions about transportation between each city.

Note: “Replacing” Locorotondo with Ostuni, a beautiful city in the same sub-region of Puglia, would make this journey a little bit easier in terms of transportation. However, I experienced Ostuni with a car and cannot vouch for its convenience otherwise — and Locorotondo is well worth the effort!

12. What Are The Best Months To Visit Puglia?

The best months to visit Puglia are April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). These shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the peak summer months of July and August. The landscape is also at its most vibrant, with wildflowers in bloom in spring and the grape harvest in autumn.

• April to June: Mild weather, fewer crowds, wildflowers.
• September to October: Mild weather, grape harvest, lower prices.
• Avoid July and August: Peak season, crowded and expensive.

13. How Can SIXT.VN Help You Plan Your Trip To Puglia?

SIXT.VN offers a range of services to help you plan your trip to Puglia, including personalized itinerary planning, airport transfer services, hotel bookings, sightseeing tours, and flight reservations. With SIXT.VN, you can enjoy a hassle-free travel experience, knowing that all your needs are taken care of. Whether you prefer the flexibility of a car rental or the convenience of public transport, SIXT.VN can tailor your trip to suit your preferences and budget.

• Personalized itinerary planning: Tailored to your interests.
• Airport transfer services: Hassle-free arrival and departure.
• Hotel bookings: Wide range of accommodations.
• Sightseeing tours: Explore Puglia’s attractions.
• Flight reservations: Convenient travel arrangements.

14. What Are Some Less Crowded Alternatives To Popular Destinations In Puglia?

If you’re looking to escape the crowds in Puglia, consider visiting some lesser-known alternatives to popular destinations. Instead of Alberobello, explore the charming town of Locorotondo, which offers similar trulli architecture but with a more authentic atmosphere. Swap Polignano a Mare for the quieter coastal town of Monopoli, which boasts a picturesque harbor and beautiful beaches. For a taste of Baroque architecture without the crowds of Lecce, visit Martina Franca.

• Locorotondo: Alternative to Alberobello.
• Monopoli: Quieter coastal town.
• Martina Franca: Baroque architecture.

15. How To Get From Bari Airport To The City Center?

Getting from Bari Airport to the city center is straightforward with several transportation options. The most convenient is the train, which takes about 20 minutes to reach Bari Centrale station. Alternatively, you can take the AMTAB bus line 16, which runs every 30-40 minutes and takes about 45 minutes to reach the city center. Taxis are also available outside the airport terminal, but they are more expensive. Private transfer services can be pre-booked for a hassle-free option.

• Train: 20 minutes to Bari Centrale.
• AMTAB bus line 16: 45 minutes to the city center.
• Taxi: More expensive option.
• Private transfer: Pre-booked for convenience.

16. What Are Some Cultural Etiquette Tips For Visiting Puglia?

When visiting Puglia, it’s important to be aware of local cultural etiquette to show respect and enhance your travel experience. Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites. Greet people with “Buongiorno” (good morning) or “Buonasera” (good evening) and use formal titles like “Signore” and “Signora” unless invited to use first names. Be patient and understanding with service staff, as things may move at a slower pace compared to what you’re used to. Embrace the local tradition of “passeggiata,” an evening stroll, and enjoy the social atmosphere.

• Dress modestly: When visiting religious sites.
• Use greetings and formal titles: Show respect.
• Be patient: Embrace the local pace.
• Embrace the “passeggiata”: Enjoy the evening stroll.

17. What To Pack For A Trip To Puglia?

Packing for a trip to Puglia requires considering the climate and activities you plan to undertake. Light, breathable clothing is essential, especially during the summer months. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring historic towns and hiking. Don’t forget swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for protection from the sun. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings. If you plan to drive, bring your driver’s license and any necessary international permits.

• Light, breathable clothing: For warm weather.
• Comfortable walking shoes: For exploring towns and hiking.
• Swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat: For sun protection.
• Light jacket or sweater: For cooler evenings.
• Driver’s license and international permits: If driving.

18. What Are Some Useful Italian Phrases For Traveling In Puglia?

Learning a few basic Italian phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience in Puglia. “Buongiorno” (good morning) and “Buonasera” (good evening) are essential greetings. “Grazie” (thank you) and “Prego” (you’re welcome) are polite expressions to use in shops and restaurants. “Parla inglese?” (Do you speak English?) can be helpful when communicating with locals. “Quanto costa?” (How much does it cost?) is useful when shopping.

• Buongiorno/Buonasera: Good morning/Good evening.
• Grazie/Prego: Thank you/You’re welcome.
• Parla inglese?: Do you speak English?
• Quanto costa?: How much does it cost?

19. What Are Some Unique Experiences To Have In Puglia?

Puglia offers a wealth of unique experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trail. Take a cooking class to learn how to make orecchiette pasta from scratch. Visit a masseria, a traditional farmhouse, and sample locally produced olive oil, cheese, and wine. Attend a local festival or sagra to immerse yourself in Pugliese culture. Explore the caves of Castellana Grotte, a stunning underground network of stalactites and stalagmites.

• Cooking class: Learn to make orecchiette.
• Visit a masseria: Sample local products.
• Attend a local festival: Immerse yourself in Pugliese culture.
• Explore Castellana Grotte: Underground caves.

20. How To Stay Connected While Traveling In Puglia?

Staying connected while traveling in Puglia is essential for navigation, communication, and accessing information. Consider purchasing a local SIM card, which offers affordable data and call rates. Many hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi, but the connection may not always be reliable. A portable Wi-Fi hotspot can provide a more consistent internet connection. Before you travel, check with your mobile provider about international roaming plans.

• Purchase a local SIM card: Affordable data and call rates.
• Use free Wi-Fi: In hotels and cafes.
• Portable Wi-Fi hotspot: Consistent internet connection.
• Check international roaming plans: With your mobile provider.

21. Is Puglia Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Yes, Puglia is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. As with any travel destination, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night, and keep valuables secure. Trust your instincts and avoid situations that make you feel uncomfortable. Research accommodations and choose reputable hotels or guesthouses. Connect with other travelers through online forums or social media groups for support and advice.

• Take precautions: Be aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid walking alone at night: In poorly lit areas.
• Keep valuables secure: Prevent theft.
• Trust your instincts: Avoid uncomfortable situations.
• Research accommodations: Choose reputable hotels.

22. What Are Some Day Trip Options From Lecce?

Lecce serves as an excellent base for exploring the Salento region of Puglia with several enticing day trip options. Visit Otranto, a coastal town with a historic cathedral and castle. Explore Gallipoli, known for its charming old town and sandy beaches. Discover the picturesque town of Leuca, located at the southernmost tip of Puglia, where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet. Take a trip to the Grotta della Poesia, a natural swimming pool carved into the coastline.

• Otranto: Historic cathedral and castle.
• Gallipoli: Charming old town and sandy beaches.
• Leuca: Southernmost tip of Puglia.
• Grotta della Poesia: Natural swimming pool.

23. How To Find The Best Accommodation In Puglia?

Finding the best accommodation in Puglia depends on your preferences and budget. For a luxurious experience, consider staying at a masseria, a traditional farmhouse that has been converted into a hotel. Boutique hotels in historic town centers offer charm and convenience. Guesthouses and apartments provide a more budget-friendly option. Airbnb offers a wide range of unique stays, from trulli in Alberobello to seaside villas.

• Masseria: Luxurious farmhouse hotels.
• Boutique hotels: Charm and convenience.
• Guesthouses and apartments: Budget-friendly options.
• Airbnb: Unique stays.

24. What Are The Best Souvenirs To Buy In Puglia?

Puglia offers a range of unique souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Local olive oil, wine, and taralli (a type of savory snack) are popular culinary souvenirs. Ceramic items, such as pumi (decorative ornaments), are traditional handicrafts. Handmade leather goods, such as sandals and bags, are also available. Look for items made with dried olive branches.

• Local olive oil, wine, and taralli: Culinary souvenirs.
• Ceramic items: Traditional handicrafts.
• Handmade leather goods: Sandals and bags.

25. How To Experience The Local Culture In Puglia?

Experiencing the local culture in Puglia involves immersing yourself in the traditions, customs, and way of life of the Pugliese people. Attend a local festival or sagra, which celebrates food, music, and folklore. Visit a local market and interact with vendors. Learn a few basic Italian phrases to communicate with locals. Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes. Enjoy a leisurely meal at a local trattoria and savor the flavors of Pugliese cuisine.

• Attend a local festival: Immerse yourself in traditions.
• Visit a local market: Interact with vendors.
• Learn Italian phrases: Communicate with locals.
• Participate in a cooking class: Prepare traditional dishes.
• Enjoy a meal at a trattoria: Savor Pugliese cuisine.

26. What Are Some Of The Best Beaches In Puglia?

Puglia boasts a stunning coastline with a variety of beaches to suit every taste. Baia dei Turchi, near Otranto, is known for its crystal-clear waters and sandy shores. Pescoluse, also known as the “Maldives of Salento,” offers shallow, turquoise waters ideal for families. Porto Cesareo is a popular spot with a long sandy beach and clear waters. Punta Prosciutto is another beautiful beach with white sand dunes.

• Baia dei Turchi: Crystal-clear waters.
• Pescoluse: Shallow, turquoise waters.
• Porto Cesareo: Long sandy beach.
• Punta Prosciutto: White sand dunes.

27. How To Find Reliable Wi-Fi In Puglia?

Finding reliable Wi-Fi in Puglia can be a challenge, especially in rural areas. Hotels and cafes in major towns and cities typically offer free Wi-Fi, but the connection may not always be stable. Look for establishments with Wi-Fi logos displayed prominently. Consider purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan for a more reliable connection. Portable Wi-Fi hotspots are also available for rent, providing a consistent internet connection.

• Hotels and cafes: Free Wi-Fi.
• Local SIM card: Reliable data plan.
• Portable Wi-Fi hotspots: Consistent connection.

28. What Are Some Of The Best Road Trips To Take In Puglia?

Puglia offers several scenic road trip routes that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes and attractions. The coastal road from Bari to Santa Maria di Leuca offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. A drive through the Itria Valley takes you through charming towns like Alberobello, Locorotondo, and Martina Franca. The Gargano Peninsula loop offers breathtaking scenery and access to the Umbra Forest.

• Bari to Santa Maria di Leuca: Coastal views.
• Itria Valley: Charming towns.
• Gargano Peninsula: Breathtaking scenery.

29. How To Get Around Puglia Without A Car?

Getting around Puglia without a car is entirely feasible with a combination of trains, buses, and local transportation options. Trenitalia operates the primary rail network, connecting major cities. Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE) provides regional rail service for smaller towns. Bus networks operated by companies like STP and SITA connect most towns and cities. Taxis and private transfers are available for short distances.

• Trenitalia: Main rail network.
• Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE): Regional rail service.
• Bus networks: STP and SITA.
• Taxis and private transfers: Short distances.

30. What Is The Weather Like In Puglia And How To Prepare?

The weather in Puglia is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summers (June to August) are characterized by temperatures averaging 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures averaging 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Pack light, breathable clothing for summer, and bring layers for cooler evenings.

• Summers (June to August): Hot and dry.
• Winters (December to February): Mild and wet.
• Spring and autumn: Pleasant temperatures.
• Pack light clothing: For summer.
• Bring layers: For cooler evenings.

31. Are There Any Hidden Gems Or Underrated Towns In Puglia?

Yes, Puglia is full of hidden gems and underrated towns that offer a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. Cisternino, located in the Itria Valley, is a charming town with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views. Conversano, known for its historic castle and cathedral, is a delightful town with a rich cultural heritage. Tricase, a coastal town in Salento, offers beautiful beaches and a picturesque harbor.

• Cisternino: Charming town with relaxed atmosphere.
• Conversano: Historic castle and cathedral.
• Tricase: Beautiful beaches and picturesque harbor.

32. What Type Of Electrical Plug Is Used In Italy?

Italy uses the European standard Type C and Type F electrical plugs. Type C plugs have two round pins, while Type F plugs have two round pins with grounding clips on the sides. The standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. If you’re traveling from a country that uses a different type of plug or voltage, you’ll need to bring a plug adapter and voltage converter.

• Type C and Type F plugs: European standard.
• 230V voltage: Standard voltage.
• 50Hz frequency: Standard frequency.
• Plug adapter and voltage converter: If needed.

33. How To Travel With Pets In Puglia?

Traveling with pets in Puglia requires careful planning and preparation. Check with airlines and train companies about their pet policies and requirements. Ensure your pet has the necessary vaccinations and health certificates. Book pet-friendly accommodations in advance. Be aware of local regulations regarding pets in public places, such as beaches and parks. Bring your pet’s food, water, and any necessary medications.

• Check pet policies: With airlines and train companies.
• Vaccinations and health certificates: Ensure compliance.
• Book pet-friendly accommodations: In advance.
• Be aware of local regulations: Regarding pets in public places.
• Bring pet’s food and medications: Ensure comfort.

34. What Are Some Safety Tips For Hiking In Puglia?

Hiking in Puglia’s natural parks and coastal areas can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to take safety precautions. Wear appropriate hiking shoes and clothing. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Stay on marked trails and avoid hiking alone. Be aware of the weather conditions and avoid hiking during extreme heat or storms.

• Appropriate hiking shoes and clothing: Ensure comfort and safety.
• Plenty of water and snacks: Stay hydrated and energized.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses: Protect from the sun.
• Stay on marked trails: Avoid getting lost.
• Be aware of weather conditions: Avoid extreme conditions.

35. Are There Any Health Precautions To Consider When Traveling In Puglia?

When traveling in Puglia, it’s important to be aware of potential health precautions. Drink bottled water to avoid tap water contaminants. Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites, especially during the summer months. Be cautious of sun exposure and use sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. If you have any pre-existing health conditions, consult your doctor before traveling.

• Drink bottled water: Avoid tap water contaminants.
• Use insect repellent: Protect against mosquito bites.
• Use sunscreen: Prevent sunburn.
• Travel insurance: Covers medical expenses.
• Consult your doctor: If you have pre-existing health conditions.

36. What Are Some Great Itineraries For Exploring Puglia?

Puglia offers various itineraries that cater to different interests and timeframes. A 7-day itinerary could focus on the Itria Valley, visiting Alberobello, Locorotondo, Martina Franca, and Ostuni. A 10-day itinerary could include Lecce, Otranto, Gallipoli, and the Salento coast. A 14-day itinerary could encompass the entire region, from the Gargano Peninsula to Santa Maria di Leuca, with stops in Bari, Matera, and other key destinations.

• 7-day itinerary (Itria Valley): Alberobello, Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Ostuni.
• 10-day itinerary (Salento coast): Lecce, Otranto, Gallipoli.
• 14-day itinerary (Entire region): Gargano Peninsula to Santa Maria di Leuca.

37. What Is The Cost Of Traveling In Puglia?

The cost of traveling in Puglia varies depending on your travel style and preferences. Budget travelers can expect to spend around €50-€70 per day, including accommodation in guesthouses or apartments, meals at local eateries, and public transport. Mid-range travelers can budget around €100-€150 per day, including accommodation in boutique hotels, meals at restaurants, and some organized tours. Luxury travelers can expect to spend over €200 per day, including accommodation in masserie or high-end hotels, fine dining experiences, and private tours.

• Budget travelers: €50-€70 per day.
• Mid-range travelers: €100-€150 per day.
• Luxury travelers: Over €200 per day.

38. What Are The Opening Hours Of Shops And Restaurants In Puglia?

The opening hours of shops and restaurants in Puglia can vary depending on the location and season. Generally, shops are open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a siesta in the afternoon. Restaurants typically open for lunch from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM and for dinner from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Some shops and restaurants may be closed on Sundays or during public holidays.

• Shops: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Restaurants (lunch): 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM.
• Restaurants (dinner): 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
• Closed on Sundays or public holidays: Some establishments.

**Ready to explore the enchanting region