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Picture of Puglia, Italy

Travel Guide for
Puglia

Italy

Mediterranean; hot, dry summers, mild winters

Introduction

Puglia, Italy’s sun-drenched southeastern region, stretches along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Known for its whitewashed hill towns, ancient olive groves, and the unique trulli houses of Alberobello, Puglia is steeped in history and tradition.

September brings mild, pleasant weather—ideal for leisurely strolls through charming villages or relaxed coastal visits without summer crowds. Savor regional cuisine, explore Roman ruins in Lecce, or enjoy slow-paced vineyard tours. Puglia offers a tranquil, affordable escape with easy access and warm southern hospitality, perfect for senior travelers.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleSenior

Dates03-17 September 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationApartment or house, resort, hotel, villa

Interests and Activities:

gastronomynightlife and entertainmentfestivals and eventsarts and culturesightseeing and tours

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Picture of Puglia, Italy

Key Facts

Location

Southern Italy

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

4,000,000

Language

Italian, Apulian dialects

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type F/L plugs

Time zone

UTCCET/CEST (UTC+1)

Country code

+39

Internet access

Widespread 4G/5G, broadband, moderate cost

Climate

Mediterranean; hot, dry summers, mild winters

See More Italy Facts

Language:

Italian

  • hello

    ciao (chao)

  • goodbye

    arrivederci (ah-ree-veh-dehr-chee)

  • yes

    (see)

  • no

    no (noh)

  • how much

    quanto costa? (kwan-toh koh-sta)

  • please

    per favore (pehr fah-voh-reh)

  • thank you

    grazie (grah-tsee-eh)

  • excuse me

    mi scusi (mee skoo-zee)

Map

Logistics

Getting to Puglia is easy and comfortable for seniors. The region has two main airports—Bari and Brindisi—both of which offer direct flights from several major European cities. Train travel is also a pleasant option: Italy’s efficient rail network links Puglia to Rome, Milan, and other main cities with frequent, relaxing journeys.

For local travel within Puglia, regional trains and buses connect towns and coastal villages affordably. Ferries run from Greece and Croatia to Brindisi or Bari if you wish to arrive by sea. September is typically mild, making travel pleasant, though it’s wise to book accommodations and tickets in advance as the area is a popular late-summer destination.

Weather

Puglia enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Sun is abundant from late spring through early autumn, making this region especially enticing for beach lovers and outdoor activities. Rain is infrequent in summer, though brief thunderstorms can occasionally roll in starting in September.

From September 3 to September 17, expect pleasantly warm temperatures—generally 23–29°C (73–84°F) during the day and comfortably cool evenings. Humidity is moderate, and rain showers are possible but usually short-lived. Extreme weather like storms or heatwaves is uncommon, so it's an ideal time for sightseeing, savoring local gastronomy, or enjoying open-air events and nightlife.

Food & Drink

Puglia’s cuisine is rustic and fresh, with favorites like orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, fresh seafood, and taralli crackers. Local olive oil and robust Primitivo wines are a must-try. For dessert, sample pasticciotto or almond pastries with an espresso.

Great mid-range restaurants include Osteria del Tempo Perso in Ostuni and Trattoria Le Zie in Lecce, both offering local specialties with attentive service and accessible settings. For a leisurely afternoon, enjoy coffee or an aperitivo in Bari at Antico Caffè del Carmine.

Tipping isn’t obligatory—just rounding up the bill is enough. Menus often include vegetarian options, and autumn brings mushroom and truffle dishes. Many eateries close for a midday break, so plan your meals accordingly.

A picture of Pizza

Pizza

Pizza is one of Italy's most famous and beloved foods. It features a thin, crispy crust topped with...

A picture of Lasagna

Lasagna

Lasagna is a classic Italian pasta dish consisting of layers of wide flat pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy...

A picture of Risotto

Risotto

Risotto is a creamy and comforting Italian rice dish cooked with broth until it reaches a velvety consistency....

A picture of Tiramisu

Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a luscious and decadent Italian dessert made from layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and...

A picture of Ossobuco

Ossobuco

Ossobuco is a traditional Milanese dish featuring braised veal shanks cooked with white wine, broth, and aromatic vegetables....

Accommodation

In Puglia, charming towns like Alberobello, Ostuni, and Lecce offer beautiful apartments and historic villas, perfect for a relaxed senior trip. Resorts along the coast—such as those near Polignano a Mare or Otranto—provide great amenities and accessible comforts. Browse booking sites like Booking.com or Airbnb for apartments and villas in quiet neighborhoods.

Hotels in Bari and Matera make excellent bases, combining modern comforts with old-world atmosphere. For a local touch, “masseria” stays (country estates) near towns like Fasano and Monopoli can be both comfortable and unique. September is popular for late-summer travelers, so reserve early for more choices and better prices. Look for accommodation with elevators and minimal stairs.

Itinerary

Ease into the rhythms of southern Italy, acclimating to the region's warm hospitality and lively ambiance.

Stroll through Bari Vecchia

Wander the labyrinthine streets of Bari Vecchia, the atmospheric old town, to soak up its lively ambiance and centuries-old history. Pause for a gelato in a shady square and watch locals chat and play cards.

Evening Aperitivo by the Seafront

Enjoy a traditional Pugliese aperitivo at one of Bari’s seaside cafés. Savor local wines and small bites while you take in the Adriatic views and the gentle pace of life.

Visit the Basilica di San Nicola

Marvel at the Romanesque architecture and rich history of the Basilica di San Nicola, one of Bari's most important landmarks. It's a peaceful spot to reflect and appreciate the region’s spiritual heritage.

Puglia Cooking class "Le orecchiette, che pasta!"

Puglia Cooking class "Le orecchiette, che pasta!"

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

An experience to live our traditions and know the origins of our cuisine in the typical Apulia buildings: i trulli surrounded by a peaceful nature. The art of making the orecchiette (our traditional pasta) is part of a ritual made also of soil and wind, a time in the countryside, slowly spent for preparing our lunch collecting wild herbs, fruits, tomatoes, melons and all that our organic garden seasonaly produce.The same slow time lived by our grandmothers to prepare the daily lunch for all the family. At home, a pastry board, the flour and the wind will be the simple ingredients to make our Orecchiette. We will learn to do this particular pasta, its variations and many other secrets will be revealed. We will then partecipate to prepare meat sauce, vegetables and cheese and all necessary for lunch. We will taste all our preparations.

4.8 (227 reviews)

From $78 USD

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Attractions

4.8 (227 reviews)
Puglia Cooking class "Le orecchiette, che pasta!"

Puglia Cooking class "Le orecchiette, che pasta!"

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

An experience to live our traditions and know the origins of our cuisine in the typical Apulia buildings: i trulli surrounded by a peaceful nature. The art of making the orecchiette (our traditional pasta) is part of a ritual made also of soil and wind, a time in the countryside, slowly spent for preparing our lunch collecting wild herbs, fruits, tomatoes, melons and all that our organic garden seasonaly produce.The same slow time lived by our grandmothers to prepare the daily lunch for all the family. At home, a pastry board, the flour and the wind will be the simple ingredients to make our Orecchiette. We will learn to do this particular pasta, its variations and many other secrets will be revealed. We will then partecipate to prepare meat sauce, vegetables and cheese and all necessary for lunch. We will taste all our preparations.

From $78 USD

View Details
4.9 (20 reviews)
 Ebike Tour Alberobello and Villages Puglia

Ebike Tour Alberobello and Villages Puglia

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The tour takes place in the marvelous landscapes of the Itria Valley immersed in the countryside between Alberobello Locorotondo Cisternino and Martina Franca We will start from Martina Franca on comfortable bicycles with assisted pedaling and through the ancient streets hidden by traffic we will stop in Alberobello where we will visit its historic center. Once we leave Alberobello we will stop in Locorotondo, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, we will take some photos together, we will visit its suggestive historical center, After the visit of Alberobello we will head to an ancient Apulian farmhouse located in Locorotondo where the final lunch is planned. Other things to keep in mind: The tour schedule is customizable The tour price includes bike rental, equipment and helmet. On request it is possible to request the transfer service rate 1,5 euro for km minimum rate 30 euro.

From $86 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Cooking class in Masseria - Cooking class - Puglia - Lecce

Cooking class in Masseria - Cooking class - Puglia - Lecce

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

The cooking class will take place in an ancient 19th century farmhouse, completely immersed in nature! We will only use water and durum wheat flour to prepare the dough. At the end of the preparation, you will enjoy the dish of orecchiette that you have made with your own hands!

From $74 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Puglia Dinner in Lecce at La Strada del Vino

Puglia Dinner in Lecce at La Strada del Vino

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a quiet experience away from Lecce's tourist crowds. In a cozy wine bar located in the old town with an inspiring deco, taste Puglia foods and wine with the locals. A special dinner in Lecce with a local sommelier!

From $72 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
TRANI Wine Tours: Flavors of Puglia

TRANI Wine Tours: Flavors of Puglia

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the flavors and aromas of Puglia with the Wine Tour in Trani—a unique journey blending nature, tradition, and fine wine. Begin with a scenic walk through sun-kissed vineyards, followed by a visit to the cellar, where expert staff reveal the secrets of winemaking. The experience culminates in a tasting of four exceptional wines—Rosato, Bianco, Rosso, and the signature Moscato di Trani DOP—each paired with local specialties like bruschette, taralli, cheeses, cured meats, and almond cantucci. Enjoy the tasting in an elegant showroom or on a panoramic patio overlooking the vineyard. Ideal for couples, families, friends, or corporate groups, this tour offers warmth, authenticity, and unforgettable memories. Book now and savor the essence of Trani!

From $58 USD

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4.0 (7 reviews)
Dinner in Monopoli with the authentic Flavours of Puglia

Dinner in Monopoli with the authentic Flavours of Puglia

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

In the host dialect, "u prisc" indicates the joy in doing something, the same joy Mauro and you will feel in sharing this journey to discover the ancient traditional flavors from Apulia. The food is cooked in an old stone oven of the wood-fired farmhouse dating back to 1700 so the food that will taste originate from the most ancient peasant traditions of Apulia. All the dishes will be cooked in traditional terracotta pans following ancient family recipes. The dinner will take place in the most beautiful and oldest area of ​​the farm: the stables, with the authentic mangers and the original stone flooring.

From $150 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Discover Puglia by Vespa: Polignano a Mare, Conversano, Monopoli

Discover Puglia by Vespa: Polignano a Mare, Conversano, Monopoli

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

We start our journey from Polignano a Mare, famous for its breathtaking cliffs, and continue along the coast to the Abbey of San Vito, an architectural jewel overlooking the sea. We continue along the suggestive Costa Ripagnola, characterized by isolated trulli and uncontaminated beauty. We arrive in Conversano, where we visit the Aragonese Castle and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Here, we stop at a historic bakery to taste the local focaccia, immersing ourselves in Apulian gastronomy. We continue towards Monopoli and visit a farm, where we live a sensory experience at the artisan dairy, discovering the processing of milk and the production of typical cheeses. In Monopoli, we explore the old town and the picturesque old port. We conclude our tour with a visit to the workshop of Peppino Campanella, famous for his glass sculptures inspired by the sea. A unique experience between culture, gastronomy and Apulian art awaits us!

From $156 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
Castles of Puglia Day Trip from Bari

Castles of Puglia Day Trip from Bari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Visit castles built by King Frederick II (known as 'The Norman') during the XII century and explore the famous Castel del Monte, UNESCO site and roman PUGLIESE architectural style cathedrals and tower

From $197 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Private guided tour of Otranto - Puglia

Private guided tour of Otranto - Puglia

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Private guided tour of the beautiful village of Otranto with an expert guide who will accompany you to discover the most fascinating places and the history of this important town of Salento

From $156 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
3 Days Puglia Tour with Accommodation

3 Days Puglia Tour with Accommodation

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

this tour includes: accomodation for 3 nights with breakfast in a small apartment with kitchen, wash machine, air conditioned and all the comforts, just 15 min walking to historical center and center of Bari! 3 days of tour included transportation with ac vehicle; 1 day) visit of the full BARI old town 2 day) visit of the full POLIGNANO a MARE and MONOPOLI!! 3 day) visit of the wonders of MATERA (Sassi di Matera)

From $587 USD

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5.0 (35 reviews)
Town of Puglia Private Day Tour

Town of Puglia Private Day Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

On this prívate tour you can visit walking and by car the beaches and the historic center of Polignano a Mare, the trulli of Alberobello, the historic center of Ostuni, the beaches and the historic center of Monopoli. During the tour there will be some wonderful surprises and beautiful views . Enjoy Beppe's tour! A sensational and magic experience and taste excellent local products. Possibility to celebrate birthdays, honeymoons, anniversaries and much more. This tour will be organized exclusively for you, your family or your friends without any other unknown people! Enjoy your private tour!

From $162 USD

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4.8 (18 reviews)
4-Day Puglia Sightseeing Tour Including Cooking Class

4-Day Puglia Sightseeing Tour Including Cooking Class

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Are you ready for a fantastic trip in Puglia? Join this amazing tour which includes 3 nights of accommodation, (one of our typical B&Bs in Bari), transportation, a cooking class, and tour guide services. Visit all the best places in Puglia and discover the traditional culinary art of this wonderful region. Hotel will be assigned after the booking. departure time each day 9,30 am ending 4 pm about NOTE: first day tour pick up customers from their established point (hotel, accomodation, airports etc./ first day tour time of departing TOUR can be customized by the customers)

From $1199 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
Small-Group Kiteboarding Lesson in Puglia

Small-Group Kiteboarding Lesson in Puglia

INSTANT

Enjoy a kite-boarding lesson and get into the kite-boarding world! With a professional IKO experienced instructor, learn more about kite-boarding in one of the most beautiful beach of Puglia. In this lesson you will be introduce to kiteboarding practicing kite flying control 

From $191 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
from BARI or OSTUNI to central Puglia wonders tour !

from BARI or OSTUNI to central Puglia wonders tour !

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy the best of central Puglia on this full-day tour around the Valle d'Itria. From the countryside to the coastline of Puglia, Ostuni area Savelletri, Martina franca, Cisternino beautiful COUNTRYSIDE and No ordinary roads to Selva di FASANO etc. you'll see all the best Puglia has to offer with an expert local guide. dream tour!! enjoy P U G L I A !!

From $203 USD

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