The villages of Puglia offer the luxury of go-slow living

Imagine a place where you can disconnect from daily life, totally rejuvenate mind and body and experience a whole new sense of time and space. That place is Puglia.

In the heart of the Mediterranean, in the ‘heel’ of Italy, this land of sunshine and warm hospitality evokes summer holidays with its white beaches, sparkling seas, activities and delicious food. But Puglia is also a treasure trove of art, history and nature, making it an excellent destination to explore off-season too.

Far from the crowds and the noise, here you can get off the beaten track and immerse yourself in local culture and tradition. Discover ancient crafts, authentic food and the intriguing histories of this unique place: the region will enchant you.

You can take the tratturi – trails of earth and grass – through the villages and into the countryside, on foot or by bike. Or embark on a sunset sailing to admire the region from a whole new perspective. Just embrace the gentler pace and you’ll soon rediscover your own rhythm.

There are dozens of historic villages, each with its own distinct history, architecture and traditions. From north to south, on the coast and inland, we’ve handpicked six of the best. You’ll want to return to this paradise again and again to explore them all.

Galatina

At the heart of the Salento, in an area rich in natural beauty, Galatina dazzles with its ancient architecture, churches and winding streets. Among its treasures is the breathtaking Gothic basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria – completed in 1391, it’s been a crossroads of faith, art and culture ever since. The village pulsates with the drum beat of the Taranta and is renowned for its wine and culinary heritage. It’s also the birthplace of the famed pasticciotto, a delectable crumbly pastry.

Trani

Not far from the iconic Unesco World Heritage fortress of Castel del Monte is Trani, a coastal gem on the Adriatic Sea. The town boasts an elegant harbor (a preferred destination for luxury yachts) and distinctive buildings of pale stone. Must-visit landmarks include the Romanesque cathedral of San Nicola Pellegrino and the Castello Svevo. You can also wander the narrow alleys of the Jewish quarter of Giudecca, home to ancient synagogues and thriving artisan workshops. Trani has a vibrant nightlife, and is the perfect backdrop for romantic dinners of fresh seafood and Moscato wine.

Martina Franca

Amid the lush hills of the Murgia, just an hour’s drive from Bari Airport, Martina Franca is a captivating blend of quaint white houses and centuries-old olive trees. Here, opulent Baroque palaces contrast with rolling fields framed by dry-stone walls. Explore the charming streets within the medieval city walls, or head out to the surrounding countryside, where you can still find trulli, the famous whitewashed dwellings with their distinctive cone-shaped roofs.

Ostuni

Known as the White City, perched atop a picturesque hill and surrounded by olive groves that extend to the sea, Ostuni is a village of immaculate stuccoed buildings and cobblestone alleys with a medieval heart. Full of shops and museums, stately palaces and charming trattorias, notable features include its Aragonese walls and the majestic cathedral. The city truly comes to life at aperitivo time, as the sun begins to set.

Monte Sant’Angelo

In a breathtaking position on the Gargano peninsula, Monte Sant’Angelo is a pilgrimage site due to its sacred grotto, believed to be where the Archangel Michael appeared. Nearby Santuario di San Michele, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is a precious testament to Lombard art. From the bakerie, the aromas of the local speciality, ostia ripiena – a honey and almond-stuffed wafer – fills the air.

Locorotondo

Considered one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, Locorotondo is built on a circular plan on the Murge plateau. The historic centre, which dates from the 11th century, is rich with Renaissance and Baroque churches and bell towers. But perhaps most distinctive are the cummerse, 800-year-old white homes with pitched roofs, many of which have been converted to guesthouses. White is also the style of the renowned local wine, best enjoyed chilled alongside a delicious bowl of orecchiette alle cime di rapa, the region’s signature pasta dish.

Discover all of Puglia’s villages here.