If you’re visiting Puglia for the first time, you’re probably wondering where to start. This region in southern Italy is rich in contrasts: whitewashed towns, dramatic coastline, centuries-old traditions, and some of the best food in the country. The good news? You don’t need to see everything to fall in love with Puglia. A well-balanced first trip mixes iconic sights with authentic local experiences. Below, you’ll find the top 5 places to visit in Puglia for first-time visitors—destinations that help you discover, explore, and truly experience the essence of the region, without rushing or overplanning.
1. Alberobello – The Trulli Capital (UNESCO Site)
If there’s one place that instantly answers “What makes Puglia unique?”, it’s Alberobello. This small town is famous for its trulli, cone-roofed limestone houses found nowhere else in the world.
Why first-time visitors love it
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Easy to visit in half a day
- Highly photogenic, especially in the morning
Best months: April–June, September–October
Comparison: More iconic than nearby trullo towns like Locorotondo, but also busier
2. Ostuni – The White City of Puglia
Ostuni, often listed among the best places to visit in Puglia, rises on a hill overlooking olive groves and the Adriatic Sea, glowing white under the southern sun. Wandering its old town feels like stepping into a Mediterranean dream.
What makes Ostuni special
- Maze-like historic center
- Stunning views at sunset
- Great base for exploring nearby beaches and countryside
Best months: May, June, September
Comparison: More dramatic than Martina Franca, less formal than Lecce
3. Polignano a Mare – Iconic Coastline & Sea Views
Polignano a Mare is Puglia’s postcard destination. Cliffs plunge into turquoise water, and the Lama Monachile beach, one of the most famous beaches in Puglia, sits right in the town center.
Why it’s a must-see
- One of southern Italy’s most photographed beaches
- Cliffside viewpoints and coastal walks
- Lively atmosphere, especially in summer
Best months: June and September
Comparison: More dramatic than Monopoli, but less relaxed
4. Valle d’Itria – Countryside, Trulli & Slow Living
Beyond the towns, the Valle d’Itria is where many travelers truly experience Puglia. Rolling hills, dry-stone walls, ancient olive trees, and scattered trulli define the landscape.
Why first-timers should explore it
- Authentic rural atmosphere
- Perfect for slow travel and longer stays
- Ideal base to explore Alberobello, Ostuni, Locorotondo, and beaches
Best months: May, June, September, October
Comparison: More peaceful than the coast, more authentic than cities
This is also where staying in a traditional masseria makes all the difference. If you’re imagining countryside mornings and quiet evenings, you may want to discover Masseria Pezze d’Arena—a refined yet authentic base for exploring the region.
5. Monopoli – Authentic Seaside Town
Often overlooked by first-time visitors, Monopoli is one of the best hidden gems for first-time visitors to Puglia and offers a perfect balance of history, sea, and local life.
Why Monopoli deserves a spot
- Charming old port and historic center
- Easy access to beaches
- Less crowded than Polignano a Mare
Best months: June, early July, September
Comparison: More local and relaxed than Polignano, livelier than small fishing villages
Puglia isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about experiences. First-time visitors fall in love through simple moments: a quiet piazza, fresh focaccia, olive trees at sunset, and the feeling of space. Start with these five destinations as the best introduction to Puglia for first-time visitors, travel slowly, and let Puglia reveal itself naturally.
Once you do, you’ll already be planning your return.