Why do you love this travel destination?
Puglia so full of history, it’s endlessly fascinating and utterly picturesque. The towns are full of traditional architecture and the food is incredible. Always authentic and compared to everywhere else is Europe at the moment - it’s soooo cheap.
Favourite things to do there?
There’s so many spots to visit in Puglia, it’s ideal to base yourself somewhere central so you can visit them all. We stayed in a darling little Airbnb in Old Town which was perfect for restaurants and access to the region. I’d recommend getting a car, being public transport savvy or you’ll need to pay a bit extra for day trips.
Recommendations
- Bari Old Town
- Polignano a mare
- Monopoli
- Ostuni
- Alberello
- Matera
Best place to eat and drink?
The city of Bari is full of delicious and affordable options!
Brunch: Voglia Di Pane E Vino, delightful coffee and bruschetta varieties.
Pasta: La Locando Dell’Elfo, Matiti, and Catina Dello Zio - delicious! From classic carbonara and bolognese, to fresh, flavourful seafood.
Pizza: L’antica Pizzeria De Michele. They cost between 6-12€ and are double the size of the plate. Fresh and doughy based so lots of variety.
Seafood: Cran Caffe, the best octopus we’ve ever had. Located on the boardwalk with a gorgeous breeze.
Cocktails: Caffe Barucchelli. The longest cocktail list I’ve ever seen - and they’re amazing! Overlooking a square with local stalls full of trinkets and gorgeous fairy lights in the evenings.
Wine: Eno Mezcla, a modern wine bar overlooking to water.
Coffee: They also have fresh vegan, almond, plain and chocolate croissants, safe to say I went back multiple times.
Any packing tips?
Cities hold more heat than the seaside locations during the Italian summer. I’d recommend a single trusted bikini for a beach trips but focus on flowy, lightweight pieces. You’ll want to be covered from the sun but won’t feel much of a breeze in the towns. Oversized shirts, maxi skirts and throw on mini dresses will be your best friend.
What’s on your travel playlist?
The sounds of the street buzz and delightful chatter are all you need. There’s often street performers that are perfect to sit close too for some authentic, local talent and a touring reset.
What are you reading/watching?
Any beach days or long coffee stops calls for the perfect book. I’ve read the Thursday Murder Club for some light humour, and Bitter Lemons of Cyrus for an interesting taste of European reading.
I’ve also caught up on some Netflix to wind down after a hot summers day, the new Lincoln Lawyer series is a humorous and captivating watch.