Puglia has some gorgeous little towns: centres of whitewashed Baroque or Renaissance facades, lining cobbled lanes that wind charmingly around piazzas bright with geraniums brimming from wrought iron balconies. Martina Franca is one of these, and regarded by many as one of the prettiest. Still hemmed in by the remnants of its medieval ramparts, Martina Franca’s builders have managed to fit in 15 churches, as well as clusters of cafes, bars, boutiques and restaurants, and some beautiful villas and palazzos, now converted into some of the best places to stay in Martina Franca. Though some of our Gurus’ picks can be found just outside town.

Part of Martina Franca’s charm comes from its hilltop position, overlooking the Val D’Itria, a lush valley known for its olive oil production and traditional trulli dwellings. Come the evening, this is a picturesque spot for watching the sun set, ideally from one of Martina Franca’s excellent local wine bars, with something nice and local in your glass, and olives on your table. More of the town's charm comes from the historic centre of town remaining a lively residential neighbourhood, so when you stroll amongst the Baroque churches and grand palazzos you’ll hear family life ticking by, and smell cooking. While your kids may not appreciate the wine bars, they will appreciate the many gelataria, so the best places to stay in Martina Franca work for families too! The pedestrianised centre makes it very pleasant to explore, though watch out for the little three wheeled trucks, which seem to be allowed.

Our Gurus are quick to recommend Martina Franca to fans of ornate architecture, Baroque stonework, marble cherubs and wrought iron, but even if those words mean nothing to you, there’s a good chance you’ll still find the historic centre magical and romantic. It also makes an ideal base for exploring the whole historic trulli region, as you’re an easy drive from Alberobello, Ostuni, Noci and Locorotondo.

However, don't forget to book well ahead. The best places to stay in Martina Franca get very busy during the peak summer season.

The Best Places to Stay in Martina Franca

For Romantics

• Relais Villa San Martino is a gorgeously peach-coloured Baroque property, just outside Martina Franca. It is surrounded by graceful gardens with palm trees, olives and manicured lawns, and a beautiful pool and terrace. Inside are 23 elegant rooms and suites, decorated with a touch of classical Italian style, and an excellent eye for antiques. The spa is luxurious, and the superb restaurant spills out onto sunlit lawns when possible. The wine list is pretty good too!

For a private apartment or villa

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Martina Franca’s nearest international airport is Brindisi Airport, which is about an hour away by car, or close to four hours away by train. Bari Airport is a close second: about ten minutes further by car, but about five hours away by public transport, primarily on bus routes.
• If you plan to hire a car, which we would advise if you want to get out and explore further afield, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Martina Franca is landlocked within beautiful Puglia, which means it has a Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and mild winters, but without the actual cooling sea breezes. So in the hottest months of July and August, Martina Franca anticipates temperatures of 30+°C. That doesn’t stop this from being the most popular time for visitors, with Italians in the know arriving in time to enjoy the San Martino dell’Aia e Santa Comasia around the beginning of July. This four day festival offers street performances, light displays, and plenty of festive music, food and drink. If you don’t like the sound of the heat, our Gurus recommend spring and autumn. In spring the flowers are a wonder, and you’ll have the gradually warming centres to yourself. Autumn is usually rainier, but there are some great harvest events, and many days are still mild enough to eat outdoors.

Still not sure where to stay?

• You could expand your search to include the best places to stay in Puglia
• Include some of the best places to stay in nearby Nardò, Noci or the best places to stay in Bari
• Refine your search by the kind of accommodation you’re looking for — consider the the best beach hotels in Puglia, the most romantic hotels in Puglia or the best hotels in Puglia with a private beach
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.