Puglia, Italy

A gem of Italy, where golden beaches meet ancient charm.

Top 10 Villages in Puglia: Hidden Gems to Explore

Puglia, with its charming landscapes, historical architecture, and traditional way of life, is home to some of Italy's most picturesque and enchanting villages. From whitewashed hilltop towns to coastal gems, each village has its own unique charm.

1. Alberobello

Famed for its iconic trulli—traditional conical-roofed stone houses—Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most unique villages in Italy. Stroll through its narrow, cobblestone streets, and enjoy the sight of over a thousand trulli, some of which have been converted into charming shops, restaurants, and B&Bs. The town’s fairytale-like atmosphere will transport you to another time.

2. Ostuni (The White City)

Perched on a hilltop, Ostuni is known as "La Città Bianca" (The White City) due to its dazzling whitewashed buildings that shine brilliantly under the Italian sun. Wander through its maze of narrow alleys, picturesque squares, and churches, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic Sea. Ostuni's old town is a labyrinth of charm, with small cafes and boutique shops perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

3. Matera

While technically part of the Basilicata region, Matera is located close to Puglia and is one of the most remarkable villages in southern Italy. Famous for its ancient Sassi cave dwellings, Matera has been inhabited for thousands of years. Walk through the UNESCO-listed stone-carved homes, churches, and narrow streets, and discover a village steeped in history that was even featured in movies like The Passion of the Christ.

4. Polignano a Mare

Located along the Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare is known for its breathtaking cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The town is perched on a dramatic cliff face, with its charming old town offering narrow streets, stunning sea views, and historic architecture. Don’t miss the chance to swim in its iconic Lama Monachile beach, nestled between two cliffs. Polignano is also famous for its gelato and seafood!

5. Locorotondo

One of the prettiest villages in the Itria Valley, Locorotondo is known for its circular old town, with whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers. The village is often considered one of the most beautiful in Puglia due to its well-preserved historic architecture and panoramic views of the valley's vineyards and olive groves. Be sure to visit the stunning Chiesa Madre (Mother Church) for its beautiful interior.

6. Cisternino

Cisternino is a delightful town in the Itria Valley that is famous for its quaint streets, its tradition of grilling meat outdoors and architecture that reflects the region’s rich history and culture. The town's historic structures create a stunning blend of styles that transport visitors to another time.

7. Castellana Grotte

Famous for the Grotte di Castellana (Castellana Caves), one of the most impressive cave systems in Italy, this village is a must-visit for nature and adventure lovers. The caves are an incredible underground wonderland of stalactites, stalagmites, and other fascinating formations. After exploring the caves, take a stroll through the charming streets of Castellana Grotte and discover its lovely piazzas and historic buildings.

8. Martina Franca

Martina Franca is another beautiful village in the Itria Valley, known for its Baroque architecture and winding streets. The town is famous for the Festival della Valle d'Itria, a summer opera festival that attracts visitors from all over the world. Explore its historical centre, admire the stunning Piazza XX Settembre, and enjoy the many charming cafes and restaurants.

9. Manarola

A coastal gem and one the five picturesque villages that make up the Cinque Terre region on the Ligurian coast, Manarola is Located in northern Italy. Manarola is known for its stunning cliffside views, colorful buildings, and narrow, winding streets.

10. Trani

Located along the Adriatic coast, Trani is a historic village known for its stunning cathedral, Cattedrale di San Nicola Pellegrino, which sits directly on the seafront. The town also boasts a beautiful harbour, where visitors can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Trani’s old town is filled with winding streets, charming cafes, and a vibrant nightlife scene, making it a fantastic place to explore.

Puglia is a treasure trove of hidden gems, and these 10 villages are just the beginning of what this beautiful region has to offer. Whether you're looking for history, culture, stunning landscapes, or simply a place to relax, these villages will leave you captivated by their charm and authenticity. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the timeless beauty of Puglia's top villages!

Contact us to learn more and plan your next stay in one of these incredible villages, nestled in the heart of stunning Puglia!

Recipe For Puglia’s Traditional Dish - Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa

Transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched hills of Puglia with this sensational dish, Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa. Featuring the region's signature ear-shaped pasta paired with vibrant, slightly bitter turnip greens, this rustic yet flavourful recipe is a perfect example of simple, Mediterranean cooking at its best. With a touch of garlic, anchovies, and chili, it’s a comforting dish that brings the authentic flavours of Italy right to your table.

Ingredients:

320g orecchiette pasta

500g cime di rapa (or broccoli rabe if cime di rapa is unavailable)

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 garlic cloves (sliced)

1-2 anchovy fillets (optional, but traditional)

1 red chili (optional, for heat)

Salt (to taste)

Black pepper (to taste)

Grated Pecorino Romano (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Prep the Cime di Rapa:

Rinse the cime di rapa thoroughly and trim off the tough stems. Cut them into smaller pieces, about 3-4 inches long.

Blanch the Cime di Rapa:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cime di rapa and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Save the boiling water for the pasta.

Cook the Orecchiette:

In the same pot of water, cook the orecchiette according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of the cooking water.

Prepare the Sauce:

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the garlic and sauté until golden, about 1-2 minutes.

Add the anchovies and chili (if using) and stir until the anchovies dissolve into the oil.

Combine Pasta and Cime di Rapa:

Add the cooked cime di rapa to the skillet and stir to combine. Let it cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Add the drained orecchiette to the skillet with the cime di rapa. Toss everything together, adding a little bit of reserved pasta water to help combine and create a silky sauce.

Season and Serve:

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve with a generous sprinkle of grated Pecorino Romano, if desired.

Enjoy your Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa! It's a wonderfully simple yet flavourful dish that's a true taste of Puglia.