The 20 Best Hotels in Puglia's Towns

Puglia is dotted with several beautiful and historic towns and villages. While some travellers prefer coming back to a rural spot after a day’s sightseeing, there’s a distinct advantage to staying in one of Puglia’s towns. As well as being in the thick of things, you can also stroll to a local bar or restaurant, rather than navigate the remote roads around your Masseria. Plus the region’s decent public transport means you may not even need a car. Puglia is long and relatively narrow, stretching more than 300km from north to south, with highlights that include the glorious Baroque Lecce (known as the 'Florence of the South'), Martina Franca, Ostuni, Locorotondo, Otranto, Gallipoli, Trani, Polignano a Mare and Galatina. With so many options to choose from our hotel experts have compiled a collection of the best hotels in Puglia's towns ranging from chic boutiques to all-out luxury stays. With something for most tastes and budgets, why not browse through our collection to start planning your next getaway?

For location, location, location

• The Patria Palace in Lecce is right in the heart of the old town, surrounded by lovely facades outside and lovely frescoes and stucco work inside. This is a grand traditional stay.
• Also in lovely Lecce, the Risorgimento Resort is a stylish contemporary five-star hotel with an elegant restaurant, a spa and a roof garden. The ideal choice for a luxury getaway.
• Elegant Santa Chiara offers a historic stay in the heart of Lecce. Traditional throughout, expect high ceilings and ornate antiques. A lovely roof terrace is ideal for a post sightseeing drink. With MUST museum next door and the Cathedral nearby this is a well-positioned stay.
• Relais Valle dell'Idro is an elegant hotel boasting a stunning rooftop solarium with panoramic views of the sea and smart, modern rooms, located just a five-minute walk from the centre of Otranto and offering easy access to local beaches. A chic, romantic choice.

For a boutique stay

• Palazzo Mosco Inn is a charming little boutique hotel with views of the Gallipoli's marina. Romantic rooms have mosaic floors, iron bedsteads, balconies, and some have four-poster beds. With a lovely rooftop terrace, bar and sitting room area — this property is oh-so-chic.
• Paragon 700 is the only red palazzo in the white city of Ostuni. This stunning newcomer to Puglia's boutique hotel scene offers a timeless place where elegance and history are found in each one of the beautifully finished rooms and suites. To top it off there's a gourmet restaurant and a pool.
• Don Ferrante is a seriously stylish conversion of an ancient fort overlooking the Adriatic in Monopoli. Individually designed rooms have travertine vaulted ceilings and elegant furnishings. There's a little rooftop plunge pool for cooling off and a myriad of terraces for sitting and soaking up the stunning views.

For a Trulli

• Trulli e Puglia is an enchanting and unique property in Alberobello. Each room is set in one of the historic conical stone houses (all UNESCO protected). Boasting a cafe and a wine bar — pick this property for traditional Italian charm.

For foodies

• The La Sommità Relais Culti is a ten room hotel in the ancient white town of Ostuni, with minimalist decor, a spa, and a plunge pool. Boasting a small Michelin starred restaurant and a superb wine list, this is a great option for foodies.

For contemporary chic

• Palazzo Calo is located in a historic building in the heart of Bari's Old Town, overlooking the coast. Studio B&B apartments are the height of contemporary cool. Minimalist yet maximizing space, each unit combines muted hues, modern furniture and exposed brick.

For self-catering

• Mercantile Suites is the place to live out fantasies of stylish Italian living. Made up of 2 two-bedroom self-catered apartments situated in Bari's Old Town, the prime location, traditional yet modern minimalist style and sparkling sea views from the terrace make this feel like a film-set.

For a beach break

• The Corte Palmieri in Gallipoli has 22 stylish and sun-drenched rooms, converted from a fascinating old building with plenty of charm and original features. With special rates at some of Gallipoli's best beach clubs and a shuttle to and fro, this offers the best of both worlds.
• Palazzo Del Corso is a five-star property on Gallipoli's peninsula. Enjoy elegant, traditional interiors with four-poster beds and balconies. Magnificent views from the rooftop terrace and an excellent seafood restaurant. Like the Corte Palmieri, the Palazzo del Corso also benefits from preferential rates and shuttle service to and from the best of the town's beach clubs.
• With a clifftop position in the picture-perfect fishing village of Polignano a Mare, the white-washed Casa Dorsi offers spectacular views. Rooms are simple and traditionally furnished; their cosiness reflected in the very reasonable price. Some have private balconies and there’s a barrel-vaulted breakfast room. There are several beaches a short walk away.
• Ostuni Palace Hotel is a refined hotel that features modern comforts and high-end service. Book this stay for the airy traditional rooms, wonderful restaurant, rooftop terrace and private beach located just a few kilometres away.

For great value

• For a great value beach break try the Palazzo de Mori in Otranto, a stylishly spartan B&B with ten rooms just above the old port it boasts spectacular views. A romantic little spot to enjoy the beach and be close to all the major sights.
• Casa Litara is situated in Cutrofiano, a historic town halfway between Gallipoli and Otranto. This charming B&B offers four stylish rooms in a beautifully restored period house. Plus there's a lovely little courtyard garden and a pool.
• Relais il Mignano is a 16th-century palace situated in the heart of Nardò. Stunningly renovated rooms keep their original charm while the simple design throughout gives a contemporary air. A rooftop terrace and hot tub are ideal for unwinding with a drink. A luxury stay, offered at exceptionally good rates.

For families

• L'Orangerie d'Epoque in Puglia has just three pretty rooms and a gorgeous garden. The two rooms that have kitchenettes and direct garden access plus the largest suite that sleeps four are all good options for a family break.
• La Riviera in Gallipoli also has suites sleeping up to four, along with private balconies overlooking the sea and a beautiful collection of art and antiques.

Still not sure which to book?

• Consider rural Puglia’s and our Guru's recommendations for 12 of the Best Hotels in Rural Puglia.
• Refine your search to the best places to stay in Lecce, or the best places to stay in Savelletri di Fasano, or the best places to stay in Gallipoli.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Puglia.
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • Patria Palace Lecce 63 rooms from £88

    
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    Local exploring  -  Boasting an enviable location infront of the Santa Croce Church, with most of the major attractions a stroll away

    City Style  -  Fantastic service, elegant rooms and historic charm in the heart of Lecce

    Great walks  -  Take a stroll through the pretty Sant’Oronzo square

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby Santa Croce Basilica

    

    Traditional comforts and great hospitality in the heart of town. Behind the lovely Lecce stone facade the bedrooms contain frescoes, stucco work, cherry wood furniture and rich fabrics. A lovely little restaurant, small spa and gorgeous roof top terrace with views of Lecce. See More

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  • Risorgimento Resort Lecce 47 rooms from £135

    
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    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

    

    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    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. See More

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  • Casa Litara Cutrofiano, Puglia 4 rooms from £61

    
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    Local exploring  -  Casa Litara is well placed for both enjoying the beaches and exploring the historic towns of Puglia

    Value chic  -  Smart accommodation at an excellent price

    Sights nearby  -  Gallipoli and Otranto are both easily accessible (about half an hour's drive).

    Swimming Pool  -  Seasonal outdoor pool

    

    A charming little B&B in the Salento. Four stylishly done rooms sit within a meticulously restored period house on the outskirts of a village famous for its ceramics. Plus there's a pretty courtyard garden and swimming pool for a relaxing break from sight-seeing. Great value too! See More

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  • La Sommità Relais Ostuni 15 rooms from £167

    
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    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.

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet

    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. See More

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  • Corte Palmieri Gallipoli, Puglia 21 rooms from £190

    
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    Local exploring  -  Located in the alleyways of Gallipoli with many historical sights nearby

    Value chic  -  Great value hotel with modern, stylish accommodation

    Great walks  -  Many local walking and hiking routes

    Restaurant  -  DolceVita Restaurant on the rooftop

    

    Stylish rooms with sun-drenched terraces in a fascinating old building in the seaside town of Gallipoli. Arched passageways and courtyards lead to cool bedrooms with white washed walls, wooden beams and stone floors. Dine on the large roof terrace with stunning sea views. A relaxed beach style. See More

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  • Palazzo de Mori Otranto 10 rooms from £113

    
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    Beach Life  -  Located right in the heart of the old town but just a short stroll from the beach

    City Style  -  Quaint, stylish interiors in the heart of town

    Sights nearby  -  Cathedral of Otranto

    Restrictions on children  -  Children over 12

    

    An old family home, steeped in history overlooking the charming port. Elegant white interiors with lovely sea views. A pleasant terrace with comfortable seating and shady umbrellas. A romantic little spot to enjoy the beach and close to all the major sights. See More

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  • Hotel Palazzo del Corso Gallipoli Lecce, Puglia 16 rooms from £121

    
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    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

    

    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. See More

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  • Casa Dorsi Polignano a Mare (BA) Apulia 8 rooms from £52

    
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    Local exploring  -  Situated in the heart of Puglia and within walking distance of many of the main tourist attractions.

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the mosaic floor of the 'tree of life' at the 12th century Cathedral, Otranto.

    Cooking classes  -  Learn to cook Apulian dishes at the hotel's cookery school.

    Sailing  -  Rent a boat and explore the picturesque coastline.

    

    A charming bed and breakfast boasting an enviable central location and epic vantage from its cliff top position. Small but perfectly formed rooms are traditional in style with exposed stone walls and antique furniture. Ideally located for exploring the city's sights and reasonably priced too. See More

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  • L'Orangerie d'Epoque Lecce 3 rooms from £78

    
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    Families  -  The suite sleeps four plus there are self-catering facilities

    Value chic  -  Stylish, relaxed accommodation at a great price

    Local markets  -  Visit charming local craft markets

    Great walks  -  Guided tours available

    

    Three pretty bedrooms and a gorgeous garden in a family palazzo. Antique furniture, stone fireplaces and period vaulted ceilings - two bedrooms have kitchenettes and access to the garden. Plus there is a larger suite ideal for families. A great value choice. See More

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  • La Riviera Gallipoli 6 rooms from £104

    
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    Families  -  Some of the suites sleep upto four, making this a great choice for those travelling with young children

    Local exploring  -  There's plenty to do nearby from viewing historical sights to adrenaline fuelled watersports

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Farmacia Provenzana, a beautiful 18th Century pharmacy

    Great walks  -  Take a stroll with the Gallipoli Guided Walking Tours

    

    Waterfront location and historic setting with good value rates. A great choice for families or groups on a budget. Beautiful townhouse with private balconies overlooking the seafront and small beach. Public spaces are decorated with beautiful murals, painted ceilings, chandeliers and antiques. See More

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  • Mercantile Suites Bari (Puglia) 2 rooms from £130

    
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    Outstanding location  -  Located on a main square in the Old Town, the flats are walking distance to the broadwalk and look out over a piazza and the sea

    City Style  -  From a stylish base, the Old Town's lively bars, shops, restaurants surround you. Stay here to soak up local life

    Sights nearby  -  Mercantile Square, Bari Cathedral, Basilica San Nicola, Castello Svevo and Teatro Margherita are within 500 metres

    Tennis  -  There is an off-site tennis court that guests have access to at an additional charge

    

    This is the place to live out fantasies of stylish Italian living. Made up of 2 two-bedroom self-catered apartments situated in the same building in Bari's Old Town, the prime location, traditional yet modern minimalist style and sparkling sea views from the terrace make this feel like a film-set. See More

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  • Don Ferrante Monopoli 10 rooms from £243

    
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    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

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    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! See More

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  • Ostuni Palace Hotel Ostuni, Puglia 34 rooms from £104

    
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    Romantic Break  -  A romantic boutique in the White City of Ostuni, boasting chic piano bar, spa, hot tub, Hammam and elegant Italian cuisine.

    Spa  -  Featuring sauna, Chromotherapy shower, Turkish bath, hot tub, wide range of massages and relaxation area.

    Great walks  -  A 15 minute drive brings you to the beautiful sandy beaches of Pugila.

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby cathedral, built in late gothic style.

    

    A romantic, stylish and refined hotel that features modern comforts and excellent personal service. Beautiful airy bedrooms in whites and pastels with ethereal drapes. Wonderful restaurant, roof top terrace and private beach just a few kilometeres away. The perfect romantic getaway. See More

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  • Paragon 700 Ostuni 11 rooms from £260

    
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    Local exploring  -  The white cities and Valle d’Itria Golf are 30 minutes away.

    Short break  -  It's easy to reach Puglia, fly to Bari or Brindisi.

    Honeymoons  -  Luxurious, quiet and private.

    Sights nearby  -  The white cities and Valle d’Itria Golf are jut 30 minutes away.

    

    The only red palazzo in the white city of Ostuni, Paragon 700 is an absolutely stunning addition to the boutique hotel scene in Puglia. A timeless place where elegance and history are found in each one of the beautifully finished rooms and suites. Plus a gourmet restaurant & pool. Open year-round. See More

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  • Relais valle dell'Idro Otranto 27 rooms from £82

    
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    Romantic Break  -  With a rooftop hot tub and a spoiling spa, this is the perfect romantic escape

    Local exploring  -  Well placed to enjoy the Otranto old town and the Adriatic Sea

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the piscturesque Cathedral of Otranto

    Great walks  -  Walk the many stunning beaches of Otranto

    

    Elegant luxury hotel, which boasts a stunning roof top solarium with panoramic views of the sea, and hot tub. Contemporary rooms feature wooden floors, crisp linen, and striking lamps. Just a five minute walk from the centre of town and easy access to local beaches. A chic, romantic choice. See More

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  • Palazzo Calo Bari (Puglia) 12 rooms from £126

    
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    City Style  -  Combine the modern with the traditional as you soak in views of the old town from the sleek roof-terrace

    Families  -  The Family Studio is perfect and kids will love the mezzanine set-up

    Sights nearby  -  Due to the Old Town location Bari cathedral, Teatro Margherita, Basilica San Nicola and Castello Svevo are all nearby

    Great walks  -  The sea-facing broadwalk stretches the length of the city and is perfect for a sunset stroll

    

    Although located in a historic building in the beating heart of Bari's Old Town, these studio B&B apartments are the height of contemporary cool. Minimalist yet maximizing space, each unit combines muted hues, modern furniture and exposed brick. Guests will love the roof-terrace and vertical garden. See More

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  • Palazzo Mosco Inn Gallipoli Lecce, Puglia 10 rooms from £77

    
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    Local exploring  -  Set in the heart of the old town of Gallipoli with most of the main attractions just a stroll away

    Views  -  Stunning views over the marina from the roof top terrace

    Romantic Break  -  Understated romance in chic accommodation

    Sights nearby  -  Gallipoli Port, Gallipoli Castle and Greek Fountain are all nearby

    

    A charming little boutique hotel with views of the marina. Romantic rooms and suites have mosaic floors, iron bedsteads, some four-poster beds, fresh creamy cottons, and private balconies. Lovely rooftop terrace, bar and sitting room area. Understated charm but oh-so-chic. See More

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  • Santa Chiara Lecce 21 rooms from £100

    
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    Local exploring  -  Situated opposite Must gallery and close to the Cathedral, hotel has a romantic roof terrace bar to enjoy an apertif and views

    Sights nearby  -  Roman Amphitheatre; Cathedral of Lecce

    Cooking classes  -  In town- hotel can advise

    Opulent

    

    Elegant hotel in city centre. Rooms feature wooden floors, creamy fabrics and big marble bathrooms. Roof terrace, gym and bar. Minutes from historical city sights; ideal for exploring as a city break. See More

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  • Trulli e Puglia Alberobello 12 rooms from £82

    
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    Families  -  Flexible accommodation means that rooms can be configured to sleep up to eight, perfect for families

    Sights nearby  -  There's a number of stunning beaches nearby

    Full of character

    Traditional

    

    Trulli e Puglia offers enchantingly unique accommodation, with suites and bedrooms set in charming conical stone houses (all UNESCO protected.) A cafe and wine bar are open to guests, as well as a small shop selling Puglia products. Traditional Italian charm. See More

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  • Relais Il Mignano Nardò 7 rooms from £67

    
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    Local exploring  -  Set within the heart of the historic centre with many of the city's attractions within walking distance

    Value chic  -  A luxury property with exceptionally good rates

    Great walks  -  Just a 10 minute drive from the Portoselvaggio Nature Park where one can set out on gorgeous coastal walks

    Sights nearby  -  Make a trip to the historical town of Lecce 30 minutes from the property

    

    A 16th century palace situated in the heart of Nardò. Stunningly renovated rooms keep their original charm with exposed stone, beamed ceilings and antique furniture. The simple design throughout gives a contemporary air. A rooftop terrace and hot tub are ideal for unwinding with a drink. City chic. See More

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Written by Nicky Swallow

posted Monday, 30th August 2021