Over the past couple of years, Puglia has become one of Italy‘s trending destinations—but there is more to the region than just photo-worthy locations. Puglia is home to numerous folkloric traditions, ancient histories and diverse landscapes, from the dramatic coastline along the Parco Nazionale del Gargano to the scattered trulli in the Valle d’Itria and the crystalline beaches of Salento. It’s truly difficult to narrow down the best things to do in Puglia, but the following 11 are the most spectacular experiences you need to consider on your next trip.
Swim in waters that rival the Caribbean
The region is characterized by an extensive and diverse coastline (nearly 600 miles long) between the Adriatic and Ionian seas. From dramatic cliffs to the long swath of sandy beaches passing through crescent-shaped rocky coves, finding the best beach can be daunting. But the formula is simple: catch the early morning sun along the east coast and golden sunsets in the south and west. One of the most enchanting beaches is Punta della Suina, in Gallipoli. Fringed by a dense pine forest, its rugged coastline descends into crystal clear, shallow turquoise waters. However, a true, hidden gem is Cala dell’Acquaviva—a small rocky cove among staggering rocks on the eastern coast between Santa Cesarea Terme, and Tricase. The water, fed by both salt and spring water, is strikingly fresh, and there’s a small kiosk on site to stock up on cold drinks and snacks.
Go island hopping
Legend states that the Greek King Diomedes threw three rocks from the Gargano upon his return from the Trojan War, and these rocks created the Tremiti islands—one of the most fascinating archipelagos in Italy. The largest and greenest of the isles, San Dominio, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, including the secret sandy patches of Cala Matano and the rocky coves of Cala del Pigno. From San Dominio, you can take a motorboat to explore San Nicola, best known for its historical sites such as the monastery Santa Maria a Mare and the 13th-century Badiali Castle, and the island of Capraia, where you can swim in the beautiful inlets amidst the rocks. Cretaccio, the smallest of the islands, and Pianosa, a protected Marine Reserve, are also stunning places to visit if you have time.
