Its high point was the Counter-Reformation, when the Catholic Church was trying harder and harder to impress, its voice ever more shrill, as it threw everything at these façades. Behind closed doors of the town, of which young and passionate archaeological staff hold the keys, old watermills and ancient underground wine cellars hide.

Things To Do in Puglia: Places to Visit, Attractions 20 Best Things To Do in Puglia: Places to Visit, Attractions

Oh, and you should know that 'Puglia' - pronounced poo-lee-yah - is the Italian name for the region, whilst ‘Apulia’ is the historical Latin and English-speaking version. Stroll around its atmospheric lanes and piazzas, visit the Castello Ducale (Ducal Palace), admire the artwork in ancient churches (such as Chiesa di Sant’Anna), sit at the Piazza Plebiscito (with its beautiful clock tower) and have a meal at one of the many excellent restaurants (the town is well-known for its gastronomy). If you’re in the planning stages of your Puglia holiday, then you should know that the southern region of Italy - it’s the ‘heel of the boot’ if you look at the map - is perfect for a week, or even better if done in two. These days, the town is popular amongst tourists who come to visit its historic centre, perched precariously on the cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea, and enjoy its beaches. As travellers who have spent many an hour (or day) on buses, we're strong believers that you can reach most places with public transport.Our first visit to Puglia took place in late September, and we were amazed at just how wonderful the weather was. These days, Bari is one of the most important economic centres in southern Italy and, due to its international airport and port, an important gateway to the region.

places to visit in Puglia on a self-drive Guide to the best places to visit in Puglia on a self-drive

The Adriatic coast is characterised by clifftop towns, rocky coves, sandy beaches and a string of ancient watchtowers.A train connects Polignano a Mare to Bari Airport, which also makes it one of the most accessible towns to visit on your Puglia trip. It has a LDPE 04 logo on it, which means that it can be recycled with other soft plastic (such as carrier bags). and the good news for keen chefs travelling to Puglia is that there are an abundance of cooking classes available across most popular tourists spots in the region, including Bari, Lecce, Otranto and Alberobello. Central Puglia is also home to Valle d’Itria or Itria Valley, an area famous for its ‘trulli’ (whitewashed, cone-roofed houses), charming towns and agricultural products. Many of these are set amongst ancient Olive Trees and with swimming pools to escape the summer heat.