Luxury Villas in Puglia

Trulli and masserie – Stay among the cone-roofed trulli of the Valle d’Itria, centuries-old masserie and whitewashed towns such as Ostuni and Locorotondo.

Two coastlines – Swim beneath Adriatic cliffs around Polignano a Mare or head south to the softer sands and clear Ionian water of Salento.

Food and drink – Try hand-shaped orecchiette, fresh burrata from Andria, local olive oil and simple dishes built around seasonal vegetables.

A slower southern pace – Browse morning markets, stop for an aperitivo in a village piazza and experience traditions that still form part of everyday life.

Outdoor adventures – Cycle between olive groves, walk coastal trails and swim from rocky coves along the Adriatic.

Relaxed family escapes – Space to spread out, private pools and easy days split between the beach, nearby towns and time back at the villa.

Surrounded by water, Puglia has developed a cuisine that’s understandably seafood-focused. It’s also great for vegetarians – due to the region’s history and its location close to the shores of north Africa, vegetables form the basis of much Puglian cooking.

Purea di fave con cicoria (fava bean puree with greens) is a local staple, while aubergine parmigiana and courgette scapece are two favourites that you have to try. It’s also famous for its cheeses – the burrata or caciocavallo are unmissable.

Puglia packs a lot into a relatively small corner of southern Italy. Bari, Lecce and Brindisi bring history, markets and lively street life, while Gallipoli and the Salento coast are better suited to beach days and slower afternoons by the sea.

Explore Lecce – Often called the ‘Florence of the South’, Lecce is known for its ornate Baroque architecture, honey-coloured stone and lively historic centre. Look out for the city’s traditional papier-mâché workshops too, where you can see local craftspeople at work or join a class.

Eat your way around Bari – Bari is one of the best places in Puglia for street food. Join a walking tour through the old town and try local favourites such as focaccia barese, panzerotti and fresh pasta made in doorways along Strada delle Orecchiette.

Hike in Terra delle Gravine – Inland from Taranto, this protected landscape is cut through with deep limestone ravines, caves and walking trails. You can explore independently or join a guide to learn more about the area’s wildlife and rock-cut settlements.

Go dolphin spotting from Taranto – Join a research-led boat trip with the Ionian Dolphin Conservation team and head into the Gulf of Taranto in search of dolphins. Trips also offer an insight into the conservation work taking place in the Ionian Sea.

Catch a performance in Lecce – Check what’s on at Lecce’s historic theatres and open-air venues during your stay. Summer in particular brings concerts, theatre and cultural events across the city.

Head out on the water – Fishing trips operate from several points along the Puglian coast, giving you the chance to spend a few hours offshore with a local skipper and see a quieter side of the Adriatic or Ionian Sea.

The Ancient Greek influence on Puglia’s architecture, cuisine and language can be felt throughout the region. You can spot it in Bari, Lecce, Brindisi and Ostuni.