Castello di Ugento

Puglia is a favourite of holidaymakers, beloved for its sandy beaches, historic towns, unique cuisine, and its olive groves and vineyards. The region has its fair share of luxury hotels, however, what makes the best five-star hotels in Puglia especially appealing is that, compared to destinations such as Tuscany, the rates are very reasonable. Our hotel experts have compiled a list of their favourite five-star hotels in the area ranging from renovated masserias to converted 16th-century forts by the sea or palazzos in historic towns. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your trip?

For a coastal stay

Canne Bianche

  • Castello di Ugento is a stunning castle hotel in a sleepy village by the sea, where they have effortlessly combined Old-World elegance with contemporary sophistication — you'll find original period frescoes rubbing shoulders with modern art and artisanal pieces. The food is outstanding and there's a fabulous cookery school too. And you're only 10 minutes from a beautiful stretch of white sandy beach.
  • Canne Bianche is all about the beach life. The light-filled, contemporary rooms are primed for relaxation, furnished with antiques, and affording spellbinding views. But this 5-star hotel in Puglia has so much more: a hot tub, spa, swimming pool and Turkish bath - not to mention the hammocks swinging gently between the trees. Very chic.
  • Masseria San Domenico dates back to the 14th-century and was once home to the Knights of Malta. Set just a stroll from the beach, this is the perfect spot for a romantic seaside holiday. The thalassotherapy spa is obviously a highlight, but the gorgeous, airy rooms which all come with hot tubs, balconies and generous four-posters really make this feel indulgent. For some, though, the 18-hole golf course will make this the perfect choice.
  • Masseria Torre Coccaro is another beautifully renovated farmhouse and undoubtedly one of the finest five-stars in Puglia. It's a particularly romantic experience if you book your own secluded cave, complete with a swimming pool and an olive grove. The private beach club is a favourite of guests, while the Aveda spa and private yacht make this primed for romance.
  • Il Melograno is all courtyards blooming with flowers, whitewashed Moorish outbuildings and tiled rooms with breezy linens. Indeed, it was something of a trendsetter: the first ancient farmhouse in Puglia converted into a five-star luxury hotel. It has got a private beach club and a pampering spa, tennis courts and gorgeous grounds in which to roam - what's not to love?
  • Borgo Egnazia is a five-star modelled on an ancient Apulian village. Just a short walk from the beach and boasting an excellent kids club - making it one of the best five-star hotels in Puglia for families. The marbled, airy rooms are lovely, and while you indulge in the spa (using ancient Puglian rituals of healing) the kids can go kite surfing and snorkelling.
  • Masseria Torre Maizza is a gorgeous five-star romantic getaway. Rooms are spacious and airy, the olive oil massages at the spa (held in an ancient watchtower) are memorable, and it's just a stone's throw from the beach.

For Families

Masseria Le Mandorle

  • If you're looking for a family friendly five star hotel, we recommend booking Masseria Le Mandorle. It's a stunning little hotel in the depths of southern Puglia, in a sleepy village near the sea. Rooms and suites are finished in a chic contemporary style and guests of all ages can enjoy the superb on-site facilities including swimming pool, tennis court (coaching can be arranged), basketball court and gourmet restaurant.

For a country escape

Masseria Trapana

  • Masseria Trapana is chic yet traditional. Expect frescoed interiors alongside exposed stone walls, floor-to-ceiling windows and iron-cast beds. The garden is expansive and beautiful while the homegrown food gives the place a wholesome feel.
  • The ultimate back-to-nature five-star hotel in Puglia. Furnirussi Tenuta is solar-powered and set on the largest organic fig plantation in all of Europe! Incredibly family-friendly, with a huge lagoon-like swimming pool, spoiling spa and a delectable restaurant. A five-star with a relaxed, natural, touch.

For the spa

Borgobianco

  • Borgobianco Resort & Spa is one of the best five-star spa hotels in Puglia. The spa covers 1000-square meters, complete with numerous treatment rooms, Turkish bath, sauna, hot tub and a heated pool. Yoga classes are held on the lawn while the rooms themselves are also primed for unwinding: simple, chic, bright and breezy, opening out onto terraces and balconies.

For a romantic escape

La Peschiera

  • La Peschiera is a gorgeous adults-only boutique set beside the sea. A tranquil and intimate choice that has long been a favourite of honeymooners. The airy, white-on-white rooms are beautiful and the alfresco dining, above the water, is the perfect way to spend an evening with a significant other.
  • Mantatelure is a secluded and intimate choice in the heart of Baroque Lecce. The contemporary rooms are full of light, with rustic flourishes like exposed stone walls. Surrounded by citrus trees and complete with a hot tub - this is a perfect choice for a low-key romantic break.
  • Don Ferrante is a beautiful five-star coastal boutique set in an ancient fort. Intimate and stunning, the rooms have vaulted ceilings, artisan furnishings, exposed stone walls and breezy white linens. The candlelit dinners on the rooftop are particularly appealing while the massages make this an indulgent choice.

For a luxury B&B

Palazzo Bozzi Corso

  • Palazzo Bozzi Corso is a B&B with a difference: it's all-out luxury and an absolutely world-beating stay. A neoclassical palazzo dating back to the 18th-century, in keeping with its former grandeur. The spacious rooms have plush linens, high ceilings, ornate fireplaces, French windows, and refreshingly simple decor. Relax in the lush garden or take a cooking class with a local chef. A stand out choice.

For great value

La Sommita Relais

  • Palazzo Ducale Venturi is perfectly placed for sightseeing, a fantastic five-star hotel in Puglia between the sea and historic towns. The beautifully renovated 15th-century palazzo comes with two pools, yoga, cooking classes, a pampering spa and beautifully appointed, breezy old stone rooms. With great rates too, this one is hard to beat.
  • Incredible value for money, Relais la Sommita has Michelin-star dining, a pampering (and extensive spa) and a plunge pool, all set in a 16th-century palazzo in the heart of Ostuni. Expect bare stone walls, minimalist white furnishings and vaulted ceilings - it's an airy delight, and one of the best value five-star hotels that Puglia has to offer.
  • Watch the sun go down at Palazzo del Corso, another value-chic five-star hotel in Puglia. Perched above the sea, this refined and sophisticated luxury hotel boasts airy rooms with four-posters and elegant decor. The rooftop terrace, and the bar, are good fun, the seafood is delectable and the spa is a pampering affair. A luxury stay that won't break the bank.
  • The best value five-star hotel in Puglia that's on this list, Relais Villa San Martino is surrounded by olive groves and parkland. Flower-filled terraces spill out towards the massive pool, with elegant pastel-hued suites furnished with antiques and balconies. Complete with a spa, this is superb value for money.
  • For a five-star city stay in Lecce, your best bet would be Risorgimento Resort. With its roof garden, laid-back bistro, fine dining restaurant and spacious, contemporary rooms, it's a real treat. But what makes it amazing value for money is the spa: multisensory showers, beauty centre and a Turkish bath.

Still not sure which to book?

The 20 Best Five-Star Hotels Puglia

Il Melograno

Monopoli

A five star family-run hotel with a delightful down-to-earth atmosphere. Renovated 16th century farmhouse with sprawling Moorish outbuildings and flower-filled courtyards, terraces, big pool and tennis courts. Charming rooms in florals, tiled floors and fireplaces. Excellent spa and beach club too.

  • Beach Life - This chic hotel offers access to their own private beach with white sands and blue waters and a seafood restaurant and bar.
  • Spa breaks - Refresh and revive with the spa's extensive therapy list, sauna, frigidarium, turkish bath and hammam.
  • Tennis - Enjoy the hotels two floodlit tennis courts and catch a game when the sun cools off.
  • Sights nearby - Make a trip to the UNESCO-protected Trulli of Alberobello.
from $189 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Masseria San Domenico

Savelletri

One of Puglia’s best hotels offering a luxurious spa and golf course. Rooms and fabulous suites decorated with romance - white washed walls and rich drapes, some have private gardens, hot tubs and balconies. Fantastic selection of restaurants and stunning salt water pool. A heavenly spot.

  • Honeymoons - A sophisticated honeymoon choice- ornate four-poster beds and panoramic views over Puglia, with fine dining and pampering spa.
  • Active Holiday - Lovely grounds and beaches for walking, bikes for rent, tennis courts, golf course, and both indoor and outdoor pools.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the nearby village of Alberobello with its fascinating domed trulli houses.
  • Great walks - Wander the fragrant gardens or take a stroll down to the coast.
from $515 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Relais Villa San Martino

Martina Franca

Five star country villa with great location for touring cultural sights and beaches. A peach-hued building surrounded by lovely gardens. Beautiful suites in elegant pastels with antique furniture. Excellent restaurant, spa and pool. A spoiling spot to explore Puglia from.

  • Local exploring - An elegant Villa, just outside Martina Franca and surrounded by protected areas, UNESCO sites and unique Baroque architecture.
  • Total relaxation - Comfortable suites, with flower filled terraces, swimming pool, pampering spa and beautiful parklands.
  • Great walks - Wander the expansive parklands that surround the villa, or head further afield and explore the olive groves.
  • Spa - With an "Aqua Zone" for regenerative treatments, "Aria Zone" for massages and Spa lounge for relaxation.
from $125 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Masseria Torre Coccaro

Savelletri

An elegantly restored historic fortified farmhouse, minutes from the sea. Wonderful rooms and suites with rough white washed walls, fine linens and silks - one suite occupies a cave and has its own olive grove and pool. Fabulous regional cuisine, Aveda spa and its very own private beach club.

  • Active Holiday - Explore the rugged countryside on the hotel mountain bikes, head down to the beach, or grab a round of golf.
  • Sights nearby - Head to the nearby Mozzarella Palace for a cheese tasting then down to the local fishing village of Savelletri for seafood.
  • Spa - Fabulous subterranean Aveda Spa with indoor pool, relaxation area and wide range of treatments on offer.
  • Romantic
from $240 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Masseria Torre Maizza

Fasano

Sophisticated, contemporary hotel with a young, hip vibe. Smart contemporary bedrooms, some with open fires and private pools. Wonderful courtyard bar with Balinese sofas and excellent restaurant overlooking the pool. Irene Forte spa, golf course and private beach clubs.

  • Country Escape - Surrounded by ancient olive groves and fruit orchards, with fantastic walking, produce straight from the farm, and beach club.
  • Romantic Break - A grown up choice with luxurious rooms, wonderful food, and picturesque scenery.
  • Great walks - Explore trulli country on foot or by bike- discover it's ancient olive groves, fruit trees and miles of scrub.
  • Cooking classes - Pick fresh olives and vegetables from the olive groves and use them in yummy Apulian dishes.
from $610 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Risorgimento Resort

Lecce

High-tech luxury and stylish contemporary design in a lovely old building. The five-star hotel combines earthy hues and local materials with sleek modernism. Elegant roof top restaurant serves local dishes, and has great city views. Spa and meeting facilities. City style for the mainstream.

  • City Style - A chic hotel with panoramic rooftop views of Lecce’s Baroque historic centre.
  • Spa - Featuring a hammam calidarium with Turkish bath, multisensory showers plus beauty center for a range of body and face treatments
  • Great walks - The Botanical Garden on Via Provinciale Lecce
  • Local markets - Visit local craftsmen on Via Palmieri
from $164 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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La Sommità Relais

Ostuni

Minimalist luxury in an ancient white town. Stunning views from the terraces and a lovely restaurant serving fantastic food with immaculate presentation. Large comfortable beds in airy bedrooms. A small plunge pool perfect for cooling off. A gem of a hotel.

  • Foodies - A fantastic little Michelin starred restaurant and great wine list.
  • Spa - Massages, Turkish baths and excellent range of treatments using SPA Gerard's methods and products
  • Sights nearby - Nearby towns of Cisternino and Martina Franca
  • Restaurant - Cielo Restaurant holds one Michelin Star.
from $203 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Borgo Egnazia

Savelletri (Fasano Brindisi)

A luxurious and stunning village-style resort in Puglia. Rooms and suites, the ultimate in opulence, have creams, marbles and chic accessories, all with enormous bathrooms. Gourmet Pugliese cuisine, pools, spa, beach club, tennis and gardens. Luxury, gourmet and romantic.

  • Families - Range of child friendly fun: complimentary kid's club, tennis, kite-surfing, swimming, beaches, games room, zoo safari nearby
  • Romantic Break - Indulgent spa, architecture reminiscent of a Apulian village, pools, gardens, beaches and gourmet Italian cuisine
  • Foodies - Foodies should not miss the Due Camini restaurant which has been awarded one Michelin Star
  • Swimming Pool - Indoor and Outdoor Pools, plus private pools with the Egnazia Suite and some of the Villas
from $283 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Palazzo del Corso

Puglia

A fabulous five-star hotel on Gallipoli's peninsula. Stunning sea views from the rooftop terrace, lively bar, excellent seafood restaurant, and a top of the range wellness centre. Rooms and suites filled with romance have four-poster beds, creamy furnishings, and balconies. Luxurious on all fronts.

  • Spa breaks - Indulge in the wellness centre complete with a rooftop hydrotherapy pool and good range of massages and treatments
  • Local exploring - Perfectly placed in the old town, just a few km from the historical sights and within easy reach of Lecce
  • Foodies - Dine in the fabulous seafood restaurant La Dolce Vita
  • Sights nearby - The Greek Fountain of Gallipoli, Gallipoli Port, Greek Fountain and Gallipoli Castle are all nearby
from $146 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Mantatelure

Lecce (Le Palmeraie S.r.l. )

Refined sixteenth century mansion in a quiet corner of stunning Baroque Lecce with six modern, elegant rooms. Guests can enjoy a freshly baked Italian breakfast or sip glasses of prosecco in the exclusive garden terrace beneath the citrus trees, or relax in the hot tub. The perfect romantic getaway.

  • Romantic Break - Featuring romantic rooms, a courtyard hot tub (where prosecco is served) and a grown-up feel, this is perfect for couples
  • Local exploring - Well located near the iconic Baroque Basilica Santa Croce yet in a quiet untouristy neighbourhood
  • Sights nearby - Visit the beautiful Basilica di Santa Croce on Via Umberto
  • Local markets - Explore local coffee shops and street markets
from $174 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Borgobianco Resort & Spa

Puglia (Poignano a Mare)

Situated amid beautiful countryside, this resort is perfect for a relaxing getaway. Rooms are decorated in traditional style: creams and whites with splashes of colour, most with a furnished balcony to soak up the views. Traditional and delicious Puglian cuisine. Romantic, luxurious and spoiling.

  • Spa breaks - The 1,000-m2 spa complete with heated swimming pool and hot tub, sauna, Turkish bath and gym plus a wide range of treatments
  • Beach Life - Well placed to explore the Adriatic coast and its lovely beaches
  • Restaurant - Serves prestigious wines and local cuisine, using produce from their own gardens
  • Views - Expansive verdant vineyards in the Apulian countryside
from $185 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Don Ferrante

Monopoli

A seriously stylish conversion of an ancient fort overlooking the Adriatic. Individually designed rooms have travertine vaulted ceilings, and elegant furnishings. There's a little rooftop plunge pool for cooling off & a myriad of terraces for sitting and soaking up the stunning views. Total bliss!

  • Sights nearby - You're right in the centre of historic Monopoli, but most of Puglia's attractions can be easily reached by car
  • Restaurant - Serving Puglian specialities, Locanda Don Ferrante is an outdoor restaurant overlooking the sea.
  • Views - Stunning views over the Adriatic Sea
  • Swimming Pool - Small outdoor pool
from $295 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Canne Bianche

Puglia (Fasano)

A beautiful relaxing hotel on the beach offers rooms with private balconies and spectacular views of the Adriatic. Interiors are simple and stylish in neutral colours and antiques. Timo, the in-house restaurant serves Puglian dishes including fresh seafood. A truly Mediterranean feel.

  • Local exploring - Located a 10 minute drive away from Fasano and 20 minute drive away from Alberobello
  • Total relaxation - There is a spa, pool, hot tub, Turkish baths and sauna on site - divine!
  • Beach Life - A seafront hotel with a private sandy beach
  • Local markets - Explore the fishing town of Savelletri with many restaurants close by
from $136 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Furnirussi Tenuta

Puglia

The stunning Furnirussi Tenuta is set in an organic fig orchard in sleepy Carpignano Salentino. Expect chic, contemporary rooms and suites as well as a superb outdoor pool-perfect for a refreshing dip! Great cocktails and fab food at 'Il Ficheto' restaurant. A luxury country retreat.

  • Foodies - Fantastic food- with a most of the veggies coming straight from the farm and a focus on fresh and seasonal produce.
  • Total relaxation - A spa, gorgeous cuisine and beautiful countryside; the perfect mix for completely unwinding.
  • Families - With plenty of space for the kids to run around, and a pampering spa for mum and dad!
  • Great walks - Wander through the picturesque fig farm admiring the views and sampling the produce!
from $331 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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La Peschiera

Savelletri

A stunning five-star hotel, set right on the Adriatic Sea. The luxury design and magnificent location combine to create a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxing seaside break. Enjoy sumptuous seafood and staggering sea vistas at the hotel's restaurant. The embodiment of serenity.

  • Honeymoons - The majestic seaside setting and superb suites make it perfect for honeymooners.
  • Beach Life - Right on the sea with exclusive access to a beach and a relaxed seaside vibe.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the stunning historic UNESCO protected Trulli of Alberobello.
  • Restrictions on children - Adult only.
from $421 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Masseria Trapana

Puglia

An immaculately converted Masseria providing the ultimate in laid-back luxury. Airy rooms and suites feature large floor to ceiling windows, exposed stone walls and delicate cast iron beds. Sample the best of Puglian cuisine with much of the produce coming from the kitchen garden. Total bliss.

  • Romantic Break - Privacy, tranquility and al fresco baths designed for two.
  • Total relaxation - A secluded abode ideal for lazy days under the sun.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the trulli houses in the UNESCO heritage Alberobello. The towns of Ostuni, Gallipoli & Martina Franca are nearby.
  • Cooking classes - Offered in spring & autumn, specialising in Cucina Povera. Enquire for dates of cooking weeks.
from $316 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Castello di Ugento

Puglia (73059 Ugento LE )

A magnificent castle hotel in a lovely sleepy town by the sea, combining old-world elegance with contemporary sophistication. Expect restored frescoes rubbing shoulders with modern art and artisanal pieces. The food is outstanding and guests can learn some tricks at the in-house cookery school.

  • Romantic Break - This charming palazzo is ideal for couples on a romantic getaway
  • Sights nearby - The cathedral towers over an elegant square and Byzantine and Baroque churches can be seen down tiny alleyways
  • Restrictions on children - Children over the age of 10 can be accommodated in extra beds in two of the rooms
  • Restaurant - The superb Il Tempo Nuovo serves contemporary, gourmet Pugliese cuisine.
from $389 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Palazzo Bozzi Corso

Lecce

This 18th-century palazzo has retained its original grandeur. The elegant rooms feature high ceilings, fireplaces and simple modern furniture with french windows overlooking the palazzo courtyard. The contemporary artworks are a nice touch. Historically rich and very central.

  • Local exploring - Lecce is steeped in rich Puglian culture, step out the door and explore the city by foot
  • Foodies - There is no shortage of fine foods and wines to be sampled in Lecce
  • Sights nearby - There is an abundance of Renaissance architecture to see in Lecce, particularly the Santa Croce church and Lecce Cathedral
  • Cooking classes - Your hosts offer to arrange cooking classes with a private local chef
from $463 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Masseria Le Mandorle

Puglia (Puglia)

A stunning little hotel in the depths of southern Puglia. Its rooms and suites have been done in a contemporary chic style, plus you'll find a sleek pool and superb sports facilities on site. There's an excellent restaurant championing seasonal local cuisine and sister property for fine dining.

  • Local exploring - A chic little base for exploring the southern region of Puglia from its beaches and markets to its historical sights.
  • Families - With its superb facilities including tennis court and pool, and great location, it's ideal for a family break.
  • Cooking classes - Pop down the road to sister property Castello di Ugento for its top notch cookery school
  • Sights nearby - Ugento is home to a world class archaeological museum and Gallipoli is very close by.
from $263 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Palazzo Ducale Venturi

Puglia

Charming hotel located in a thoughtfully-converted 15th-century palazzo. As well as lots to do in the area, the hotel has an outdoor pool situated amongst beautiful gardens, heated indoor pool, spa and wellness centre, as well as comfortable and atmospheric shared seating areas in which to relax.

  • Local exploring - Well-located between the sea and Puglia's charming towns and villages, guests can explore natural, cultural and historic sites
  • Sights nearby - UNESCO World Heritage Site the cave dwellings of Matera can be visited as a day trip
  • Cooking classes
  • Local markets
from $176 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Written by Edmund Wise

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