What's remarkable about Puglia is just how many of its masserias, beautifully fortified farmhouse estates, have been converted into hotels in the last 20 years, and what fantastic places to stay they are. Characterised by a tall, square, solid central block, surrounded by outbuildings, which range from quite aristocratic to traditional peasant trulli structures with their conical roofs, these are definitely some of the best places to stay in Puglia if you’re looking for a traditional, or historic base. Puglia is also known for its converted palazzos — more common in the towns and centres — and for its gorgeous beach resorts. As well as Puglia’s five star hotels, our Gurus have plenty of more affordable recommendations, and some great family friendly accommodation in Puglia too.
Some of our Puglia Collections
Puglia is the foot part of Italy’s famous boot, long and narrow, so wherever you stay you’re not far from a Mediterranean coastline. Its hinterland is known for atmospherically historic and whitewashed hill towns, and for its centuries old farmland. Bari is the region’s capital, and is a bustling port and university town, though Lecce is probably more famous for visitors, known for its Baroque beauty - and often referred to as the ‘Florence of the South’. Alberobello and Noci are known for their traditional trulli structures, while Gallipoli, Savelletri, Otranto, Nardò and Monopoli are on the coast. Puglia has numerous little towns dotted across its interior, and while many are charming, two our Gurus want you to give special consideration to when choosing the best places to stay in Puglia are Martina Franca and Fasano.
Puglia was once the less popular than Tuscany or Campania, but its art, architecture and cultural treasures are just as impressive. The beauty of its towns and cities was bought with the wealth created on its farms, and it’s this cornucopia of produce that makes Puglia another classic Italian foodie destination. The local wines are fantastic too. And it’s got a Mediterranean coastline far, far longer than Tuscany’s, so it’s perfect for an Italian beach break. The smaller visitor numbers make this a great choice for families too, and for romantics.