Puglia

Italy

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Martina De Pascali for Lonely Planet

Beach and sea life in "Riviera degli Haethei" beach. This beach is called by the locals Spiaggia della Madonna dell'Alto Mare, taking its name from the small church that is located on top of the beach dedicated to Madonna dell'Alto Mare, one of the protectors of the city. This beach is characterized by crystal clear water and shallow water where you can walk for a long time before reaching the high water. For this reason it is the favorite destination of families with small children, who can swim and play on the shore freely. On the other side you can see the pier and the port as well as the center of Otranto and its old town. August 2024: Lecce, Puglia, Italy

Why visit Puglia

In Puglia, everything the Italophile craves is here in abundance: ancient towns, extravagant churches, seas of olives, olive-green seas and food to equal of anywhere else in Italy.

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Top places to visit in Puglia

Discover the best attractions in Puglia from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

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Travel Guides

Puglia travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

Puglia exemplifies the seductive allure of Southern Italy – plot your sojourn to pristine beaches, woodland trails, local feasts and other top highlights.

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Best Time to Visit

Whether you're into summer festivals or nativity scenes at Christmas, here is a guide to help you pick the perfect time for your visit to Puglia.

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Things to Know

Follow these travel tips to plan your visit to Puglia in southern Italy and embrace the rhythm of local life.

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Transportation

What’s the best way to get around Italy’s “boot heel”? Read our guide to find out.

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Best Road Trips

The best way to get around Puglia is definitely by renting your own set of wheels – here are five of the best drives in Italy's boot heel.

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Money and Costs

While on the rise in recent years, Puglia is still a relatively undiscovered destination for foreign visitors. Italians, though, have known for a very long…

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Traveling with Kids

Puglia is an Italian vacation destination that can satisfy the whole family. Here are the region's best things to do with kids.

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Best Places to Visit

These beguiling places merit inclusion on any itinerary for this fabulous region.

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