Travel Plan
15 Day Puglia
A journey crafted by a local, for curious travellers who want to discover the real Puglia.
15 days Road Trip
Bari -> Ostuni -> Lecce
Start your journey in Bari, a lively coastal city where old and new blend beautifully. Wander through Bari Vecchia’s narrow alleys, meet locals making fresh orecchiette on their doorsteps and enjoy the seaside promenade at sunset.
Continue to Ostuni, known as La Città Bianca for its dazzling white houses and views that stretch to the Adriatic Sea. It’s the perfect base to explore the charming countryside, nearby olive groves and hidden villages like Cisternino, Ceglie Messapica and Locorotondo.
End your trip in Lecce, the “Florence of the South” famous for its stunning baroque architecture, vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. From here, you’ll have easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in Puglia, from the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic coast to the Caribbean-like shores of the Ionian side. Lecce is the ideal place to slow down, enjoy an aperitivo in a sunlit piazza and experience the authentic soul of Salento.
First Part
5 days in Bari & Surroundings
Cities & villages to visit
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Polignano a Mare – famous for its cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Stroll through the old town, take photos from the scenic terraces and enjoy a swim below the cliffs.
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Monopoli – a lovely coastal town perfect for families, with sandy beaches, a lively port, and charming narrow streets full of restaurants and shops.
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Castellana Grotte – discover one of Italy’s most impressive cave systems with a guided underground tour, great fun for kids and adults.
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Conversano (optional) – a quiet local town with a beautiful castle, perfect for an afternoon visit off the tourist trail.
Suggested plan
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Day 1: Arrival in Bari – relax, explore Bari Vecchia, dinner by the sea.
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Day 2: Day trip to Polignano a Mare (boat tour to visit the hidden caves, walk through the old town, gelato stop).
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Day 3: Monopoli – explore the beaches and enjoy a family lunch by the sea. (suggested beaches and coves: here)
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Day 4: Half-day trip to Castellana Grotte + relax in Bari (evening stroll along the seafront).
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Day 5: Check-out and drive to Ostuni (you can stop in Conversano or a coastal spot on the way).
Where to Stay
Discover the best stay for you
based on your needs
Bari
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Second Part
5 days in Ostuni & Surroundings
Cities & villages to visit
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Ostuni – known as La Città Bianca for its dazzling whitewashed houses and sea views. Wander through the old town, discover small artisan shops, and enjoy an aperitivo at sunset on a panoramic terrace.
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Alberobello – the UNESCO-listed village of trulli, one of the most iconic places in Puglia and a magical stop for families.
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Locorotondo – a peaceful white village surrounded by vineyards, perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
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Ceglie Messapica – a hidden gem known for its genuine atmosphere, excellent cuisine, and historic center filled with local life.
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Cisternino – authentic and lively, known for its traditional grilled meat and local charm.
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Torre Guaceto – a natural reserve on the coast with clear waters and unspoiled beaches.
Suggested plan
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Day 1: Arrival in Ostuni – check in, explore the old town, and enjoy dinner in a local trattoria.
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Day 2: Alberobello & Locorotondo – visit the trulli, stroll through whitewashed streets, and enjoy a countryside lunch or wine tasting.
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Day 3: Ceglie Messapica – visit the historic center and join a pasta-making class or cooking experience in a masseria.
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Day 4: Cisternino & countryside – explore local farms or olive oil producers; optional e-bike ride through the Valle d’Itria.
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Day 5: Relax at the beach – spend the day at Torre Guaceto or Rosa Marina. Check-out and drive to Lecce, with the option to stop in Brindisi or at a seaside restaurant along the coast.
Where to Stay
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based on your needs
Ostuni
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Third Part
5 days in Lecce & Surroundings
Cities & villages to visit
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Lecce – the “Florence of the South,” a baroque gem full of charm, history, and local life. Enjoy its golden streets, artisan shops and lively piazzas.
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Otranto – a coastal treasure with turquoise waters, whitewashed alleys and a stunning cathedral famous for its mosaic floor.
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Gallipoli – a lively town on the Ionian coast, with a charming old town surrounded by sea and excellent seafood restaurants.
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Galatina – an elegant local town known for the magnificent Basilica di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria and delicious pasticciotto.
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Castro & Santa Cesarea Terme – small coastal villages with dramatic cliffs and crystal waters, ideal for scenic drives.
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Santa Maria al Bagno – a lovely seaside stop north of Gallipoli, perfect for a sunset aperitivo or dinner by the sea.
Suggested plan
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Day 1: Arrival in Lecce – check in, explore the historic center and enjoy dinner in one of the city’s traditional restaurants or trendy wine bars.
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Day 2: Otranto & the Adriatic Coast – stroll through Otranto’s old town and visit its cathedral. Stop at Porto Badisco for a swim and a light lunch or coffee at Bar da Carlo.
👉 [Link to the best beaches near Otranto] -
Day 3: Exploring inland or coastal trails – visit Galatina and its baroque churches, or if it’s too hot for sightseeing, enjoy a walk along the coast from Torre Sant’Andrea to Torre dell’Orso, or the scenic Cipolliane trail near Santa Maria di Leuca.
End the day with dinner in a countryside masseria, surrounded by olive trees and local flavors. -
Day 4: Gallipoli & the Ionian Coast – explore Gallipoli’s old town, visit Santa Maria al Bagno and enjoy dinner by the sea at one of its coastal restaurants.
👉 [Link to the best beaches near Gallipoli] -
Day 5: Relax & farewell – spend your last day at the beach in Torre Lapillo, either at Bahia Beach (fancy but worth it) or Le Dune Beach, both offering turquoise waters and comfort.
Afternoon drive to the airport for your departure.
Where to Stay
Discover the best stay for you
based on your needs
