Forget the overcrowded and overpriced Amalfi Coast. There's a secret slice of Italian paradise where the water is a startling shade of turquoise, the sand is powder-white, and the espresso costs less than €2. Welcome to Puglia, the sun-drenched heel of Italy's boot, which is fast becoming the savvy traveller's alternative for a stunning Mediterranean escape.
While tourists flock to well-trodden destinations, Puglia remains a haven of authenticity. Its crown jewel is the Salento peninsula, a breathtaking coastline lapped by the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Here, you'll find some of Italy's most spectacular beaches, like Pescoluse, often dubbed the 'Maldives of Salento' for its long stretches of dazzling white sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters.
More Than Just Sun, Sea, and Sand
A holiday in Puglia is a feast for all the senses. The region is a labyrinth of stunning whitewashed hilltop towns, ancient olive groves, and unique architectural wonders.
- Alberobello: Step into a fairytale in this UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its centuries-old trulli – unique limestone houses with conical roofs.
- Lecce: Dubbed the 'Florence of the South,' this Baroque masterpiece is built from locally quarried pietra leccese stone and comes alive in the evening with a vibrant passeggiata.
- The Food: This is the home of orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, and some of the world's finest olive oil. Prepare for a culinary journey unlike any other.
An Affordable Slice of La Dolce Vita
Perhaps the most compelling reason to visit Puglia is its incredible value. From flights to food, your pound stretches significantly further here than in northern Italy. You can enjoy a long lunch with wine for a fraction of the price and find charming masserias (converted farmhouses) offering luxurious stays without the luxury price tag.
With new and more frequent flight routes from major UK airports opening up, this hidden gem won't stay secret for long. Now is the time to discover Puglia's undiscovered coasts, rich culture, and breathtaking beauty before everyone else does.
