Puglia Italy Itinerary 10 Days: A Journey Through Baroque Cities and Trulli Towns
This 10-day itinerary takes you through the heart of Puglia, starting in the vibrant city of Bari, moving south to the coastal charm of Monopoli, and concluding in the Baroque splendor of Lecce. You'll explore unique trulli houses and whitewashed hilltop towns, all connected by convenient train and bus routes.
- 1Bari
- 2Monopoli
- 3Lecce
Day 1: Arrive in Bari
Settle into Bari, Puglia's vibrant capital, and begin your exploration with its historic heart and iconic landmarks.
Highlights
- Wander through Bari Vecchia, the atmospheric old town with narrow lanes and churches.
- Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, a major pilgrimage site with remarkable Romanesque architecture.
- Arrive at Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and connect to Bari Centrale Train Station.
Day 2: Discover Bari's Historic and Modern Sides
Dedicate a full day to uncovering Bari's rich history, from its ancient fortress to its elegant seafront promenade.
Highlights
- Explore the Castello Normanno-Svevo, a Norman-Swabian fortress by the old port.
- Stroll along the Lungomare Nazario Sauro, a monumental seaside promenade.
- Experience the lively Piazza del Ferrarese, a broad seafront square perfect for people-watching.
Day 3: Travel to Monopoli and Explore the Old Port
Journey south along the coast to the charming town of Monopoli, known for its picturesque old port and historic center.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Bari Centrale to Monopoli, with tickets starting from €3.
- Settle in and explore Monopoli's postcard-perfect Porto Antico, lined with blue fishing boats.
- Wander through the Centro Storico, a maze of whitewashed lanes and courtyards.
Day 4: Monopoli's Coastal Charms and Baroque Beauty
Spend the day delving deeper into Monopoli's coastal defenses, grand cathedral, and scenic promenades.
Highlights
- Visit Castello Carlo V, a 16th-century coastal fortress offering sea views and historical exhibitions.
- Admire the Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia, a Baroque cathedral central to the city's identity.
- Enjoy a walk along Lungomare Santa Maria, a seafront promenade with breezy views.
Day 5: Day Trip to Alberobello's Trulli Houses
Take a day trip to the UNESCO-listed town of Alberobello, famous for its unique conical-roofed trulli dwellings.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Monopoli to Alberobello, with tickets starting from €5.
- Explore Rione Monti, the most famous trulli district, packed with iconic houses.
- Discover Aia Piccola, a quieter trulli quarter offering an authentic residential atmosphere. Earliest outbound train is 04:41, latest return is 22:05.
Day 6: Relocate to Lecce and Discover Roman History
Travel to Lecce, the "Florence of the South," and begin your exploration with its ancient Roman heritage and main square.
Highlights
- Journey by train from Monopoli to Lecce, with tickets starting from €9.
- Start your visit at Piazza Sant'Oronzo, Lecce's main square featuring the Roman Amphitheatre.
- Explore the partly excavated Anfiteatro Romano, a key reminder of ancient Lupiae.
Day 7: Lecce's Baroque Masterpieces
Immerse yourself in Lecce's stunning Baroque architecture, from its grand basilica to its theatrical cathedral square.
Highlights
- Marvel at the Basilica di Santa Croce, famed for its sculpted facade and ornate interior.
- Visit Piazza del Duomo, an enclosed square framed by the duomo, bell tower, and seminary.
- Discover the Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Assunta, Lecce's Baroque cathedral.
Day 8: Art, Archaeology, and Artisan Crafts in Lecce
Delve into Lecce's cultural offerings, from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, and wander its historic artisan streets.
Highlights
- Explore Museo Castromediano, a major museum of Apulian archaeology.
- Wander through the Centro Storico di Lecce, rich in Baroque churches and artisan workshops.
- Consider visiting the Museo del Teatro Romano for more insights into Lecce's ancient past.
Day 9: Day Trip to Ostuni, the White City
Embark on a day trip to Ostuni, known as the "White City," to explore its dazzling historic center and panoramic views.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Lecce to Ostuni, with tickets starting from €7.
- Wander through the Centro Storico di Ostuni, a whitewashed old quarter of alleys and arches.
- Visit the Concattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, Ostuni’s hilltop cathedral with a striking rose window. Earliest outbound train is 00:01, latest return bus is 23:30.
Day 10: Depart from Lecce
Enjoy a final morning in Lecce before heading to your departure gateway.
Highlights
- Take a last stroll through Lecce's charming streets, perhaps revisiting a favorite piazza.
- Depart from Lecce Railway Station.
- Fly from Brindisi Airport (BDS), the nearest international airport, accessible by shuttle bus or train. Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) is an alternative.
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