10 Must-Visit Towns for Your Next Puglian Adventure

They say Puglia is the locals' hidden gem – off the beaten path, serene, and authentically Italian. With some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the country, Puglia is perfect for those who like the idea of melding beautiful beaches, small towns and good food into one holiday. This region sits along the Adriatic Sea, hosting a plethora of towns rich with culture and immersive Italian experiences – you can hop from town to town, exploring small historic centers, trying Italian foods native to the region, wine tasting, and of course, sampling only the best olive oil and pasta. Each town provides a distinct taste of Puglia’s diverse cultural and natural beauty, whether it’s the Trulli houses of Alberobello, the Baroque architecture of Martina Franca, or the stunning coastal views of Polignano a Mare. To help plan your itinerary, we've compiled a list of must-visit towns throughout Puglia, all within reasonable driving distance of Villa Torre Bianca.

Alberobello (25-minute drive from Villa Torre Bianca) - Alberobello is a captivating town in Puglia, renowned for its unique trulli houses—traditional stone dwellings with conical roofs that have earned the town UNESCO World Heritage status. Strolling through Alberobello’s picturesque streets feels like stepping back in time, with its well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere. The town also offers local shops, cultural experiences, and a wide selection of restaurants such as Ristorante Trullo D'Oro, EVO Ristorante, and Il Guercio di Puglia.

Savelletri (30-minute drive from Villa Torre Bianca) - Savelletri is a charming coastal village, known for its beautiful Adriatic beaches and traditional fishing harbor. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, explore nearby ancient ruins like Egnazia, and take scenic walks along the picturesque shoreline with shallow turquoise blue waters and a wide choice of beach clubs and lidos such as Pettolecchia il Lido and Coccaro Beach Club, and Mare Mosso.

Fasano (25-minute drive from Villa Torre Bianca) - Fasano is known for its historic center, impressive Baroque architecture, and the nearby Zoosafari Fasanolandia. A notable attraction for families is the Garden Pistola, a serene and well-maintained garden perfect for a peaceful stroll amidst 2 hectares of landscaped terraces full of flowers, herbs and climber covered pergolas - children can enjoy playing in the shallow waters of the canal, and small concerts are held at the grass amphitheater during the weekends. Another popular activity is paragliding in the hills of Fasano.

Locorotondo (30-minute drive from Villa Torre Bianca) - This circular, whitewashed hill town has a unique ‘round’ street plan, with great views over the trulli-peppered Valle d'Itria towards Martina Franca. Out of all the picturesque towns in the area, we think Locorotondo has the prettiest centro storico with fiercely proud locals and remarkably few tourists. The town’s narrow, winding streets are lined with beautiful architecture and offer stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. Locorotondo is also known for its local wine production and traditional Puglian cuisine, making it a delightful spot for exploring and savoring regional flavors. A few hidden dining gems include Restaurant U Curdunn, GOODO Ristorante, and Sirose – Aziendia Agricola di Bufano Domenico – a farmhouse and winery with panoramic views of the Apulian countryside.

Castellana Grotte (10-minute drive from Villa Torre Bianca) – Castellana Grotte, often called “Castellana”, is a small town about 40 km from Bari, on the Murgia dei Trulli, at an altitude of about 300 meters above sea level. Renowned for its impressive network of limestone caves, the Grotte di Castellana. Discovered in 1938, these caves feature a spectacular array of stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique formations. Visitors can explore the caves on guided tours that delve into the subterranean world, revealing stunning natural sculptures and expansive chambers. Castellana Grotte also offers charming local streets and traditional Puglian hospitality, adding to its appeal as a must-visit destination.

Martina Franca (30-minute drive from Villa Torre Bianca) - If you can’t get to Lecce, Martina Franca is a mini, startlingly white version of the Baroque city located further down the heel. Make your way along the narrow, seriously charming Corso Vittorio Emanuele flanked by little Baroque and Rococo palaces replete with ornate ironwork balustrades and lovely facades to Piazza Maria Immacolata. The town is also renowned for its local festivals and peaceful atmosphere, set against the backdrop of the Itria Valley's rolling hills and olive groves.

Monopoli (20-minute drive from Villa Torre Bianca) - A well-preserved old town with narrow, winding streets, whitewashed buildings, and a bustling harbor. Key attractions include the impressive Monopoli Cathedral, the scenic coastal fortifications, and the lively Piazza Vittorio Emanuele. We recommend walking along “lungo mare” for a coffee or a cocktail at cafe’ Carlo Quinto near Castello Carlo V – home to one of the best views of the city and the port of Monopoli.

Polignano a Mare (20-minute drive from Villa Torre Bianca) – Known as “the Pearl of the Adriatic,” Polignano is the oldest town along the Adriatic coastline and an ideal place to plunge into uncontaminated waters and explore a picturesque historic center by the sea. Key highlights include the picturesque Lama Monachile beach, nestled between cliffs, and the famous sea grottoes that can be explored by boat – you can easily rent yachts and speedboats for daytrips along the coast. The town also features charming squares, such as Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, vibrant local markets, and a rich culinary scene. Polignano is also known as the birthplace of the renowned gelato brand "Dove Conviene.” Our favorite restaurants in the town are L’Osteria di Chichibio, Meraviglioso Osteria Moderna, and Da Tuccino.

Noci (25-minute drive from Villa Torre Bianca) – Surrounded by Walnut, Oak, and Ash trees, the town is famous for its local cuisine, particularly its “nocino,” a walnut liqueur, and its proximity to beautiful countryside and trulli houses. While you’re there, pay a visit to the Barsento Cantine wine cellars, formed of two large rooms carved out of the limestone rock, one used for aging and the other for maturing of the wines.

Conversano (10-minute drive from Villa Torre Bianca) – Conversano is a picturesque town rich in history and medieval architecture. Key attractions include the well-preserved Castello di Conversano, offering panoramic views of the countryside, as well as the town's charming historic center and vibrant local culture. Visit the Norman castle, Castello di Conversano, which offers panoramic views of the town’s charming narrow streets and historic buildings. Other key attractions include the impressive Conversano Cathedral and the picturesque Piazza Castello. At just 10-minutes driving away from Villa Torre Bianca, it’s an ideal spot for dining out – consider trying Vita Pugliese or Rampavilla.

That concludes our guide to (some of) the best towns throughout the region of Puglia – we wish you safe travels and look forward to hearing about your adventures.

Looking to arrange private transfers or a guided tour for your exploration? Our Guest Services would be pleased to assist.