What To See And Do For A Perfect Summer in Apulia, Italy

In the heel of Italy’s boot, Apulia, or Puglia, is a treasure trove of cultural richness, natural attractions, and culinary delights.

Summer in Apulia is a feast for the senses. Whether you seek relaxation by the sea or immersion in local culture, this region offers whatever you prefer.

What to do during a summer trip to Apulia

As the summer sun warms the Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, Apulia beckons travelers with its whitewashed towns, lovely beaches, and vibrant festivals. Let’s take a closer look to some of the best things to see and do during your stay.

The Gorgeous Beaches of Apulia

Apulia boasts some of Italy’s most picturesque beaches, each offering its own unique charm.

Along the Adriatic coast, the Gargano Peninsula enchants visitors with its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and azure waters. Vieste, with its dramatic sea stacks and sandy shores, is a paradise for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts alike.

Further south, the Ionian coast invites travelers to explore its pristine beaches and quaint fishing villages. Gallipoli‘s sandy stretches and crystalline waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet, offers panoramic views and unparalleled natural beauty.

Charming Towns and Historic Villages

Apulia’s towns and villages are steeped in history and tradition, each telling its own story through ancient architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant culture.

Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South,” captivates visitors with its baroque masterpieces, including the intricate façade of the Basilica di Santa Croce and the majestic Piazza del Duomo.

Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enchants travelers with its unique trulli houses, cylindrical stone dwellings with conical roofs that dot the landscape like something out of a fairytale. Wander through the narrow streets of the Rione Monti district and immerse yourself in this enchanting labyrinth of whitewashed buildings.

Ostuni, the “White City,” perched atop a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea, dazzles visitors with its gleaming whitewashed walls and panoramic views. Lose yourself in the maze of alleys and staircases, discovering hidden courtyards, cozy cafes, and artisan workshops along the way.

Culinary Delights and Local Flavors

No visit to Apulia is complete without indulging in its culinary delights, where fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and centuries-old traditions converge to create a culinary paradise.

You can sample freshly caught seafood in coastal towns like Bari and Polignano a Mare, where fishermen bring in the day’s catch to be transformed into delectable dishes bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Savor the region’s famous olive oil in Ostuni, known for its olive groves that stretch as far as the eye can see.

To better explore Apulia’s rich culinary heritage we suggest you to a local market, where vendors display an abundance of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade pastas.

If you prefer to go to a restaurant or taverna, try orecchiette con cime di rapa, a traditional dish made with ear-shaped pasta and bitter greens. Finally, for a snack choose taralli, savory small, ring-shaped biscuits made from a simple dough of flour, water, olive oil, and sometimes white wine or dry white vermouth. They are often flavored with various ingredients such as fennel seeds, black pepper, chili flakes, or even just salt. These snacks are perfect for munching on while exploring the region.

Vibrant Festivals and Cultural Events

Summer in Apulia is a time of celebration, with festivals and cultural events that showcase the region’s rich heritage and vibrant spirit.

If you are in Italy in August, immerse yourself in the music and dance of the Notte della Taranta in Salento, a celebration of traditional folk music. Let yourself be carried away by the enchanting rhythms of the tamburello. Join locals and visitors alike as they dance the night away under the starry skies, swept up in the energy of the pizzica, a traditional dance said to cure the bite of the tarantula spider.

If you are looking for something more thrilling, Polignano a Mare is home to one of the stages of the Red Bull Cliff Diving Series.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Escapes

For outdoor enthusiasts, Apulia offers a wealth of opportunities to explore its diverse landscapes and natural wonders.

Do you like hiking? Lace up your hiking boots and follow the trails of the Gargano National Park, home to lush forests, hidden grottoes, and breathtaking coastal vistas.

Are you into cycling? Cycle along the Via Verde, a scenic cycling route that winds its way through the countryside, vineyards, and olive groves of the Valle d’Itria. Stop along the way to sample local wines, visit historic trulli villages, and soak in the tranquil beauty of the Apulian countryside.

Do you love the sea? Embark on a boat tour of the Tremiti Islands, a picturesque archipelago off the coast of Gargano, where rugged cliffs give way to secluded coves and pristine beaches. Here, you can dive into the crystal-clear waters to discover underwater caves, colorful marine life, and ancient shipwrecks waiting to be explored.

Whatever you prefer, pack your bags, embrace the warmth of the Mediterranean sun, and discover the magic of Italy’s enchanting region of Apulia.