Puglia is one of Italy’s least visited regions, but let me tell you, it deserves all the love. With its white-washed towns, crystal-clear waters, and dreamy countryside, this area feels like Italy before it got crowded.
Good news for us UK travellers: Direct flights from London to Bari make it super easy to reach. You get sunshine, incredible food, and authentic Italian charm, all without fighting through tourist crowds.
I’ve put together the perfect Puglia 7-day itinerary, starting in Bari and covering all those postcard-worthy towns and hidden beaches you’ve been eyeing on Instagram. So, pack your linen dresses and sunnies because Puglia’s calling!
Day One: Arrival and Exploring Bari
Land in Bari, grab your rental car, and settle in. This underrated port city is full of surprises, and it’s the perfect place to ease into Puglia life.
Things to do in Bari
- Wander the Bari Vecchia (Old Town)
- Watch the nonnas making orecchiette pasta on Pasta Street
- Visit Basilica di San Nicola (don’t miss the crypt)
- Check out Bari Cathedral and its quiet courtyards
- Indulge in focaccia at Panificio Fiore, trust me, you’ll crave more
Stay overnight in Bari at a location like HiHotel Bari so you are outside the city centre, ready to get on your way tomorrow.
Day Two: Polignano a Mare & Monopoli Coastal Charm
After breakfast, head to Polignano a Mare, only 30 minutes away. This cliffside town is famous for its dramatic coastline and, of course, that song “Volare.”
Top spots in Polignano a Mare
- Snap photos at Lama Monachile beach
- Stroll through the old town with its poetry-lined streets
- Grab a coffee overlooking the sea at Balconata sul Mare
Next, drive 15 minutes down the coast to Monopoli, a working fishing town with serious charm.
Explore Monopoli
- Wander the harbour lined with colourful boats
- Visit the historic Castle of Charles V
- Chill in one of the many seaside cafés
Stay overnight in Monopoli or nearby if you prefer countryside vibes.
Day Three: Trulli Dreams in Alberobello
It’s time to head inland to Alberobello, famous for its fairytale-like Trulli houses.
Don’t miss Alberobello
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Rione Monti district
- Stay in a real Trullo for the full experience (there are lovely boutique options)
- Grab dinner at a local osteria, the rustic Puglian dishes here are a must
Tip: Alberobello gets quieter in the evening when day-trippers leave, so staying overnight is magical.
Day Four: Locorotondo, Martina Franca & Ostuni
Today is all about dreamy hill towns and countryside views.
Stop one: Locorotondo
- Known as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages
- Wander through the circular old town and the pretty balconies
- Sip local white wine; this area produces some lovely bottles
Stop two: Martina Franca
Just 15 minutes away, this baroque town is packed with charm.
- Visit Basilica di San Martino
- Grab lunch in one of the shady piazzas
- Wander the picture-perfect cobbled streets
Stop three: Ostuni, also known as The White City
Arrive in Ostuni, famous for its dazzling whitewashed old town perched on a hill.
- Sunset views from the city walls? Absolute magic
- Explore the winding alleys and boutique shops
- Dine at a rooftop restaurant with Adriatic views
Stay overnight in Ostuni or nearby for a peaceful evening.
Day Five: Brindisi & Lecce
Drive down the coast to Brindisi, a lesser-visited port city with history and charm.
What to do and see in Brindisi
- Stroll along the palm-lined Lungomare Regina Margherita
- Visit Santa Maria del Casale Church
- Grab coffee by the port, watching boats come and go
Next, make your way to Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South.”
Lecce Must-Sees
- Marvel at the baroque Basilica di Santa Croce
- Wander Piazza del Duomo
- Shop for handmade ceramics and olive oil
- Aperitivo in a lively piazza: yes, please!
Spend the night in Lecce, enjoy the city buzzing with life and authenticity.
Day Six: Beaches & Bauxite, Torre dell'Orso & Otranto
It’s beach day! Start with a short drive to Torre dell’Orso, known for its wide sandy beach and the famous Le Due Sorelle sea stacks.
Watch the Sunset at Torre dell'Orso
- Stay for sunset; the light on the limestone cliffs? Unforgettable
- Swim in the clear, turquoise sea
Next, drive to Otranto, a coastal gem packed with history and natural wonders.
Otranto Highlights
- Explore the charming old town and Cathedral with its mosaic floor
- Don’t miss Laghetto Cave di Bauxite, a surreal red-earth and turquoise-lake spot just outside town
- Have dinner by the seafront, having fresh fish is a must
Stay overnight in Otranto or nearby for peaceful coastal vibes.
Day Seven: More Otranto & Farewell
Enjoy a lazy breakfast in Otranto, soak up the last sea views, and start your journey back to Bari Airport.
Optional Stops on the Way Back
- Take the scenic coastal route if you have time
- Or explore inland villages along the way
It’s around a 2-hour drive, so it’s manageable even with an afternoon flight.
Loved this itinerary, but still curious about the hidden corners of Puglia? You can always head north of Bari for even more secret spots, coastal towns, and peaceful adventures. I explored the quieter, less touristy side of the region and shared all the details in my Puglia Hidden Gems Itinerary: 7-Day Adventure North of Bari. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with the lesser-known side of Puglia too!
Final Thoughts on Your Southern Puglia 7-Day Itinerary
Southern Puglia offers a dreamy, authentic Italian escape. You get history, beaches, foodie moments, and towns full of charm, but all without the crowds you’ll find in other parts of Italy.
If you want an adventure that’s easy to reach, thanks to those handy direct flights from London, but still feels like a hidden gem, this is it.
Puglia 7-Day Itinerary FAQs
Do I need a car to visit Puglia?
Yes! Public transport is limited, and the best spots are easiest to reach by car.
When’s the best time to visit?
Late spring and autumn offer sunshine, fewer crowds, and perfect temperatures.
Is it family-friendly?
Definitely. Puglia has beaches, quiet towns, and loads of space for kids to run around.
Where can I stay in a Trullo?
Alberobello is your best bet as there are gorgeous boutique Trullo stays.
Are beaches easy to access?
Yes, especially spots like Torre dell’Orso and Polignano a Mare.
Is Puglia expensive?
It’s more affordable than northern Italy, with great food and accommodation at reasonable prices.
