Puglia is the kind of place that rewards curiosity. Historic towns, secluded beaches, endless olive groves, and food that tastes exactly as it should—simple, generous, and deeply local.

If you have some extra time before, around, or after the wedding, we highly recommend wandering. Below are a few places we love and keep returning to.

(1) Bari (2) Polignano a Mare (3) Monopoli (4) Alberobello (5) Locorotondo (6) Martina Franca (7) Ostuni (8) Lecce (9) Otranto (10) Gallipoli (11) Taranto (12) Matera

Polignano a Mare

Dramatically perched above the turquoise Adriatic, Polignano is known for its sea caves and clifftop paths. Swim at Lama Monachile, walk the historic center, and follow the coastal viewpoints as they open onto the sea. The seafood here is excellent, and the light at sunset is unforgettable.

Bari

Puglia’s capital is raw and energetic. Wander through Bari Vecchia, where women still make orecchiette by hand in the narrow streets. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, stop for focaccia or a panzerotto, then walk along the Lungomare. It’s busy, a little chaotic, and very much alive.

Monopoli

Less polished than some of its neighbors, Monopoli feels relaxed and lived-in. The baroque Cathedral, where we’ll gather for the wedding, anchors the old town. A working harbor, lively piazzas, and small city beaches create the perfect balance of local life and seaside charm.

Alberobello

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Alberobello is famous for its trulli—stone houses with cone-shaped roofs that feel straight out of a fairytale. Wander through the Rione Monti district, explore the quieter Rione Aia Piccola, and step inside the Trullo Church of Sant’Antonio.

Martina Franca

Set in the Valle d’Itria, Martina Franca is known for its elegant baroque architecture. Visit the 18th-century Basilica di San Martino and the Palazzo Ducale on Piazza Roma, before heading out to explore the surrounding countryside filled with trulli and masserias.

Locorotondo

Known for its white houses and flower-lined balconies, Locorotondo is a circular hill town in the Valle d’Itria and one of the most peaceful places in Puglia. Wander its historic center, pause at the Villa Comunale for views over the vineyards, and enjoy a glass of local white wine.

Ostuni

High on a hill, Ostuni’s old town is a maze of narrow alleys and archways. Visit the 15th-century Cathedral, then pause in Piazza della Libertà for an aperitivo. Views stretch over centuries-old olive groves toward the sea, making it one of Puglia’s most memorable stops.

Lecce

The Florence of the South, Lecce is known for baroque churches, grand piazzas, and honey-colored stone. Visit Piazza del Duomo and the Basilica di Santa Croce, then wander Piazza Sant’Oronzo and its Roman amphitheatre. A cultural urban hub with excellent food.

Gallipoli

An island town on the Ionian Sea, Gallipoli is known for sandy beaches and seafood markets. Wander the walled historic center, visit Castello Angioino and the Cathedral of Sant’Agata, then head out by boat to explore the coastal caves and Isola di Sant’Andrea.

Otranto

On the southern Adriatic, Otranto combines medieval walls, cobblestone streets, and sea views. Visit the 12th-century Cathedral, known for its vast mosaic floor and Chapel of Martyrs, then explore Castello Aragonese before a swim at Baia dei Turchi.

Taranto

Situated between the Mar Grande and Mar Piccolo, Taranto offers layered Greek, Roman, and medieval history. Visit the 11th-century Cattedrale di San Cataldo and the Aragonese Castle, then wander the old town’s alleys and watch the ponte girevole swing open across the canal.

Matera

Just outside Puglia and absolutely worth the trip. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Matera is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, the Sassi, carved in cliffs. Many scenes from James Bond: No Time to Die were filmed here. Especially atmospheric after sunset when the city is lit.