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There are some places so beautiful that one visit just isn’t sufficient. Puglia is one of them. Located along Italy’s southern coastline, this sunny region is known for its rugged coastline, trulli architecture, and hilly, whitewashed towns. It offers the perfect mix of ancient Roman and Greek history, culture, good food, and that laid-back Mediterranean charm that keeps us coming back – again and again.
Sometimes known in English as Apulia, this region is pretty extensive, stretching across much of the southern peninsula bordering the Adriatic Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Strait of Otranto. So, what does this mean? Well, figuring out where to stay in Puglia can be challenging. Are you looking for a farm stay amongst ancient olive groves? Views from dramatic cliffs? Or maybe you’re more after a local atmosphere where food takes center stage?
Whatever you’re looking for, the five cities I’ll speak about in this article are well worth a visit:
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Puglia?
Looking for a quick-fix booking for your trip to Puglia? These are my top three recommendations for your Italy trip:
Hotel Delfino Taranto, Taranto
Waking up to sea views never gets old, and at Hotel Delfino, the Ionian Sea is just outside your window. The hotel is an elegant mix of modern comfort and old-world charm. The rooms are spacious, and every interior detail has been carefully thought out.
Whether sipping an aperitivo from your suite or exploring the ancient streets surrounding the property, this hotel is the perfect luxury spot in the historic city of Taranto.
Habari We Dorm, Bari
Habari We Dorm is undoubtedly the best place to stay in Puglia’s capital on a budget. Consider it your home-away-from-home in Bari, perfect for travellers who love meeting new people on their journeys. The vibe is warm and welcoming, with colourful decor and communal spaces that encourage conversation.
The dorms are simple, clean, and comfortable. And the best part? The hostel is located right in the city’s centre, meaning you won’t have to fork out extra cash to get around.
Salento Stone Trullo In The Olive Groves, Brindisi
There is nothing more magical than staying in a centuries-old trullo in the heart of the Italian countryside. But this one feels particularly like stepping into a different era. The thick limestone walls keep things cool in the summer, while the rustic shelving carved into the walls and antique details maintain a timelessly charming atmosphere throughout.
It’s the perfect place to unplug from reality, stroll through the olive groves, and drink coffee in the garden.
Puglia Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Puglia
Bari
Bari is the heart of Puglia. It’s the area’s capital city, offering an incredible blend of history, culture, and convenience. The Old Town (called Bari Vecchia) is a labyrinthine maze of cobblestone streets, balconies with laundry hanging in the wind
Foggia
Foggia may not be the most famous city in Puglia, but if an affordable getaway is on the cards, it’s a gateway into some of the region’s best-kept secrets. It’s inland, so instead of beachy towns and coastal ports, it’s known for its agricultural roots
Taranto
If you’re anything like me, you’ll love knowing that the ground you’re walking on was once explored by Roman gladiators and leaders of the Greek empire. Taranto is a must-visit spot for history fans.
Gallipoli
Puglia’s neighbourhood of Gallipolli is the area’s answer to the Italian Riviera. The town is perched on an island connected to mainland Puglia by a 16th-century bridge, and it’s full of winding streets, seafood restaurants, and chiming church bells.
Brindisi
Brindisi offers a laid-back coastal vibe with all the modern conveniences (and charming coffee shops) a digital nomad might need – a fast internet connection, a growing expat scene, and affordable apartments to rent.
Puglia isn’t just a region of Italy; it’s a whole mood. A sun-soaked, olive-tree dotted, whitewashed village scattered, kind of mood. Stretching along the iconic ‘boot heel’ of Italy, it’s a region where medieval towns tower over rugged cliffs that plunge into impossibly blue waters. Trust me, you need to add it to your next trip to Italy!
Bari is the capital of the region, and if it’s your first time here, this is where you’ll want to be. Think winding alleyways and fresh pasta, a seafront promenade, and a port that looks like something out of a Game of Thrones episode. There are plenty of hotels, hostels, and rentals on offer here.
Foggia doesn’t have the same coastal appeal as some of the other towns on this list, but if you’re on a budget, it’s an inland hidden gem. You could say it’s the best place to stay in Puglia when it comes to affordability. The food is cheap, the accommodations are affordable, and it’s a great base for exploring the Gargano Peninsula and National Park, with its dramatic cliffs and natural bridges.
Photo: Giuseppe Milo (Flickr)
Taranto is an ancient city founded by the Spartans (yes, those Spartans). It’s packed with archaeological sites and stories, from Greek ruins to medieval castles. If you’re a fan of history, this spot will keep you on your toes. Plus, with boutique hotels, B&Bs, and luxury rentals, it’s earned quite a name for itself on the accommodation scene.
Gallipoli quite literally translates into ‘beautiful city’ in Greek. And this little town on the western coast more than lives up to its name. It’s home to some of the best beaches in Puglia, famous for its beach clubs, public beaches, and Aperol spritzes on tap.
On the eastern coastline, Brindisi is my personal favourite Puglian village. It’s a laid-back port city on the Adriatic with fast internet connection and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for the freelance folk looking to settle into one place for a while. It’s got all of the beach with very little of the tourist crowds, and is well connected to the rest of Italy. Hidden gem vibes for sure!
Puglia’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Puglia stretches over 7469 square miles, with four million permanent residents. It’s big, so it only makes sense that the vibes change from town to town. Let’s break down the best cities, towns, and places to stay in Puglia:
1. Bari – Where to Stay in Puglia for Your First Time
Bari is the heart of Puglia. It’s the area’s capital city, offering an incredible blend of history, culture, and convenience. The Old Town (called Bari Vecchia) is a labyrinthine maze of cobblestone streets, balconies with laundry hanging in the wind, and friendly locals rolling out fresh pasta.
It’s a port city, which means it welcomes a mix of students, fishermen, and travellers. Accommodations range from boutique hotels in century-old buildings to backpacker hostels and apartment rentals. It’s also super close to Polignano e Mare and Alberobello, two highlight towns that aren’t mentioned on this particular list.
Porta Piccola | Luxury Hotel in Bari
Porto Piccola feels like a secret hideaway in the busy streets of Bari. The interiors are effortlessly stylish, with exposed stone walls, warm lighting, and a touch of modern minimalism that really lets the building’s history shine.
It’s intimate, refined, and just steps from Bari’s bustling centre, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the city.
Habari We Dorm | Best Hostel in Bari
If you’re wondering where to stay in Puglia’s capital without breaking the bank, look no further. While it’s not one of the most famous hostels in Italy, Habari We Dorm is still an experience in itself. It’s got that rare mix of a social scene and laid-back atmosphere, where you might chat with fellow travellers over breakfast or plan your next adventure with new friends.
The dorms are clean and comfortable, with brightly coloured walls creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
1-Bed Apartment with Sunny Roof Terrace | Affordable Rental in Bari
There is something about having your own private space in a foreign city. And this one-bedroom apartment, with a rooftop terrace where you can sip your morning espresso as the sun comes up, is a spectacular option.
The cute Italian Airbnb condo is small yet charming, with all the necessities you might need to prepare a meal. It’s the perfect home base for a budget-conscious couple or solo traveller. It feels totally private from the busy streets, yet is right in the heart of the Old Town of Bari.
Things to See and Do in Bari
- Take a day trip to see the Trulli houses in Alberobello and Matera
- Hop on a boat trip to dive and snorkel around the Polignano a Mare caves
- Taste your way through the city on a walking street food tour
- Learn how to make fresh pasta and tiramisu with a local cooking class
- Go cycling through the winding alleyways of the Old Town
- Cruise along the city coastline in a vintage gozzo boat
- Learn about the archaeology and prehistory of the area at the Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica
- Watch an opera performance at the Teatro Patruzzelli
2. Foggia – Best Place to Stay in Puglia on a Budget
Foggia may not be the most famous city in Puglia, but if an affordable Italian stay is on the cards, it’s a gateway into some of the region’s best-kept secrets. It’s inland, so instead of beachy towns and coastal ports, it’s known for its agricultural roots, primarily for producing some of Italy’s best wheat, watermelons, and tomatoes.
The city itself has plenty of affordable accommodations, from simple B&Bs to apartment rentals and low-cost hotels. The pace of life is slower around here, and because there aren’t as many tourists passing through, it feels more authentic and local than many other towns.
Masseria Pietrafitta | Hotel in Foggia
Masseria Pietrafitta is a beautiful place to stay in Puglia’s countryside. It’s located on a stretch of gardens and olive groves just west of Foggia, yet still close enough to explore the city. It’s a restored Masseria (in other words, an Italian farmhouse or estate) and is all about understated elegance.
You’ll find vaulted ceilings, old stone walls, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes you feel relaxed from the moment you arrive.
Stylish Condo with Balcony | Great Apartment in Foggia
With one bedroom and a balcony, this condo is effortlessly stylish. It’s modern yet warm and feels new and minimalistic without trying too hard. The open-plan layout allows the space to fill with natural light, and the balcony is the perfect spot for your morning cappuccino and evening aperitivo.
Foggia’s best restaurants and attractions are just a short stroll away, giving you the best of both worlds: a private place to call home and easy access to the city.
B&B La Casa Pugliese | Best B&B in Foggia
Some places feel like a big, warm hug, and this is one of them. This gorgeous B&B combines rustic farm-style charm with modern touches, resulting in some of the most comfortable and beautifully designed suites in the area.
The breakfast spread is something of a legend, and the hosts will go above and beyond to make sure you know the best spots to visit in this Puglia neighbourhood.
From the homemade bread and hand-rolled burrata to the delicate decorative details, everything at this B&B has been carefully curated with love and care.
Things to See and Do in Foggia
- Trek through the forests of the Gargano National Park
- Take a boat trip to see the sea caves and natural bridges in Vieste
- Experience regional food and wine with a curated wine tasting
- Explore the Gargano coastline by boat
- Visit the commune town of Monte Sant’Angelo, a UNESCO-listed pilgrimage site
- Walk the hallowed halls of the Cattedral di Foggia, a mix of Baroque and Romanesque architecture
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View on Osprey3. Taranto – Best Area in Puglia for History Seekers
If you’re anything like me, you’ll love knowing that the ground you’re walking on was once explored by Roman gladiators and leaders of the Greek empire. Taranto is one of the best places to visit in Italy for history fans. The city, which was founded by the Spartans in the 8th century BC, is steeped in archaeological digs and interesting finds.
The port is still a working area, which means plenty of locals, students, and expats are drawn to the beach-meets-history vibe Taranto has on offer. And accommodations? They range from boutique hotels to apartment and villa rentals.
Hotel Delfino Taranto | Best Hotel in Taranto
If waking up to endless blue waters sounds like your kind of place, Hotel Delfino will deliver. Overlooking the Ionian Sea, this hotel is a modern masterpiece in one of the most iconic waterfront locations.
The rooms are spacious and bright, with streaming sunlight illuminating each inch of this beautifully designed space. Plus? The pool will make you want to spend entire afternoons lounging with a cocktail in hand.
Palazzo Mata Boutique Hotel | Boutique Hotel in Taranto
If you’re wondering where to stay in Puglia for a luxurious experience, Palazzo Malta will quickly transport you into a world where historic walls meet modern interiors. With its high ceilings, grand archways, and carefully curated interiors that make sure no one room is the same, this boutique hotel really manages to capture the essence of old Taranto.
It feels lavish and elegant, perfect for travelers with an eye for the smaller details and high-end personalized service. I mean, who isn’t up for that?
1-Bed Suite with Garden | Beautiful Apartment in Taranto
This one-bedroom suite is a little slice of tranquillity in the heart of Taranto. It’s got as much outdoor space as it does indoor, meaning you’ll want to enjoy all your meals al fresco in the private garden (as long as the weather allows).
The interiors are simple yet effective, taking advantage of the original fittings like terrazzo tiling. It’s a good option for couples or solo travellers looking for a private yet central place.
Things to See and Do in Taranto
- Hop on a sunset boat cruise around the Taranto coastline with aperitif drinks
- Learn about locally made ceramics in the nearby town of Grottaglie
- Learn about the history of the area at the MArTa Archaeological Museum
- Do a hands-on mozzarella and burrata-making course
- Take a day trip to explore the Trulli houses in Alberobello and Locorotondo
- Learn to make the regional pasta speciality of orecchiette
- Uncover the history behind the Stola Palace
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Grab an eSIM!4. Gallipoli – Best Area in Puglia for a Beach Trip
If you’re craving a beach experience for your Italy itinerary, Puglia’s neighbourhood of Gallipolli is the area’s answer to the Italian Riviera. The town is perched on an island connected to mainland Puglia by a 16th-century bridge, and it’s full of winding streets, seafood restaurants, and chiming church bells.
But the real draw here? The beach. The surrounding coastline is home to some of Puglia’s most beautiful sandy stretches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and even snorkelling. As you might expect in an area with such stunning beaches, Gallipoli is scattered with luxury hotels and accommodations and is slightly more expensive than other towns.
Palazzo Zaca | Boutique Hotel in Gallipoli
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like Italian royalty, staying at Palazzo Zaca is like stepping into a different era—one where grand archways, intricate frescoes, and antique interiors set the scene.
This boutique hotel in the heart of Puglia’s favourite beach town has just the right balance of historical grandeur and comfort. And when I say grandeur, I mean double-height ceilings that make even a king-sized bed look modest. The quiet courtyards and sun-drenched terraces make it feel more like a private residence than a hotel.
Relais Corte Palmieri & Il Chiostro – Residenza d’epoca | Hotel in Gallipoli
Tucked away within this town’s maze of historic streets sits one of the most gorgeous places to stay in Puglia. In fact, the hotel itself is a maze of courtyards and rooftop terraces, some leading to breakfast terraces and others to a gorgeous white-bottom pool.
The whitewashed walls, floating bougainvillaea, and terraces are so beautiful that your only issue will be that you won’t want to leave the confines of the hotel. Luckily, it’s right in the heart of the Old Town, not far from the beach.
B&B Corte Kampanes | B&B in Gallipoli
B&B Corte Kampanes combines traditional historic architecture with Italian hospitality. It’s the perfect spot for a weekend in Italy. It’s hidden away in a dense labyrinth of streets in the Old Town, in a restored building with exposed walls and high ceilings.
Every detail here has been carefully thought through, from the breakfast spread to the rooftop terrace to the mismatched antique furniture. From the breakfast terrace, you can almost see your favourite spot on the beach.
Things to See and Do in Gallipoli
- Paddle around the Old Town on a stand-up paddleboard
- Sail around Sant’Andrea on a sailing boat
- Watch a cooking demonstration and enjoy a meal in a locals home
- Take a tour through the Old Town to learn about the Medieval landmarks that date back to the 3rd century BC
- Take a boat tour north to explore the clear water around Porto Selvaggio Park, famous for its dramatic cliffs
- Visit the nearby towns of Otranto and Galatina
- Marvel at the intricate architecture at the Basilica Cattedrale di Sant’Agata
- Find some peace and quiet inside the Chiesa Rettoria Santa Maria Della Purita, a Catholic Church from the 1600s
5. Brindisi – Best Area in Puglia for Digital Nomads
Brindisi offers a laid-back coastal vibe with all the modern conveniences (and charming coffee shops) a digital nomad in Italy might need – a fast internet connection, a growing expat scene, and affordable apartments to rent.
It’s another historic Puglia neighbourhood (aren’t they all…), once upon a time being one of the Mediterranean’s’ greatest maritime cities and the centre of the Roman empire’s navy. Today, its waterfront remains one of the most beautiful in the region. It’s quieter than Bari but still offers easy access to the stunning islands in the area. And when it comes to accommodation, you’ll have your pick of historic homes and traditional trellis.
Ostello della Gioventu Brindisi – Best Hostel in Brindisi
If you’re wondering where to stay in Puglia without breaking the bank, this hostel has you covered. Designed with the budget-conscious backpacker or solo traveller in mind, Ostello della Gioventu is a low-key hostel in the heart of Brindisi with the perfect amount of ‘social’.
The vibe is relaxed, the staff are welcoming, and the open-concept communal areas make it easy to make new friends. The dorms max out at four or eight beds, and there are options for female-only dorms.
Two Bed Trullo with Private Jacuzzi | Beautiful Trullo in Brindisi
If you’ve done your Italy vacation rental research, you’ll be very familiar with the Trulli houses in this part of the country. What’s better than visiting a trullo? Staying in one!
With its iconic whitewashed walls and conical roof, this two-bedroom home is overflowing with character. The interiors are classic trullo – small spaces filled with just the necessities.
And honestly, with an outdoor terrace and a four-person hot tub, you’ll be spending a lot of your time outside.
Salento Stone Trullo In The Olive Groves | Historic Home in Brindisi
Staying in this charming trullo is like stepping into your favourite storybook. It ticks all the boxes: comfort, history, and tradition. The interior is as picture-perfect as the exterior, with small nooks carved into the stone walls as shelving, arched doorways, and eclectically thought-out furnishings.
Other than the trullo itself, the olive groves and gardens are a big draw. With plenty of places to sit, BBQ, and explore, you could consider this a Puglian countryside paradise.
Things to See and Do in Brindisi
- Explore the Castello Alfonsino di Brindisi, a stone building on a small island in the harbour
- Cycle to a winery and olive oil mill in the nearby town of Cisternino
- Kayak around the Brindisi harbour and Sant’Andrea Island
- Learn how to cook Puglian food in a historic home in the Old Town
- Stroll through the Mediterranean botanical gardens of Pozzo Faceto
- Learn to make fresh pasta and local Italian desserts in a cooking class
- Drink local wine and dine on traditional food al fresco in a vineyard
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Puglia
Stay tuned in if you’re got any more questions about staying in this glorious region of Italy.
What To Pack For Puglia
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me: packing for Italy is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Italy
Unfortunately, things can go wrong wherever you travel. This is why good travel insurance is essential before your trip to Italy.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Puglia
Puglia is a pretty large area in Italy. So, it makes sense that figuring out where to stay can be tricky. For first-time visitors, Bari offers a good mix of lively culture and history and is conveniently located to explore the rest of the region.
Budget travellers will love Foggia’s affordability for quality accommodations like this Stylish Condo, while history buffs will never be bored in a city with as storied a past as Taranto. If beaches are your priority, Gallipoli’s turquoise water and surrounding beaches are the best places to stay in Puglia.
And for digital nomads or long-term visitors, Brindisi has that Mediterranean charm and laid-back vibe that keeps us coming back for more. Plus, it’s got a fair share of Stone Trullo houses for a traditional accommodation experience.
One thing is for sure: This peninsula has something special for every type of traveller.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Italy.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Italy.
- Planning out an itinerary for Italy is a great way to maximise your time.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Italy to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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