Top Beaches & Towns in South Puglia – Italy

When I talk about the dreamy Puglia to my friends, the most common perception is that Puglia is a city in Italy! What most people don’t know, Puglia is an actually a big region in Southern Italy, in specific, the heel of the boots, the length of this region is roughly around 400KM long! This means Puglia is a big region to consider when you decide to travel there and perhaps 1 week is not enough to cover the entire region, I am covering the Top Beaches and Towns in South Puglia here.

Top Beaches & Towns in South Puglia (Salento) – Italy

Top Town in South Puglia Number 1: Ceglie Messapica (The Gastronomy Capital of Puglia)

Ceglie Messapica is one of the most beautiful towns in Puglia, not far away from Ostuni the White City “Citta Bianca”, less than 20KM, you will arrive to the Gastronomy Capital of Puglia. Situated on a hill overlooking the Valle d’Itria, this small town is a must-visit whenever you are in Puglia for authentic gastronomy experiences.

The closest airport to Ceglie Messapica, is Brindisi airport, around 45km to the East, or Bari airport with around 80km distance to the North East of the town.

Staying in Trulli Accommodation – Authentic Accommodation in Puglia

Trullo Accommodation

If you read my other article about Best Towns to Visit in Puglia– Part 1, you will know that Puglia is the house of the famous Trulli houses (white cone houses that were built around 1000AD), those Trulli houses are the core of the inland beauty of Puglia. The Trulli architecture are protected areas and listed under the UNESCO world Heritage.

Trullo Santangelo

What if I can tell you that you can stay in one of the Trullo structures! It would be the ultimate and authentic Italian and Apulian dream! In 2019, I discovered one of the best accommodation and places to stay in Puglia, and ever since, I stayed over 5 times at this beautiful place!

I didn’t stay at Trullo Santangelo, just because the beautifully decorated Trulli rooms, but also, the family and cosy vibes, the charming land, the olive trees, the location, and for many more reasons, Trullo Santangelo has swept my heart from the first moment I landed there!

Trullo Santangelo accommodation has it all, a charming and white Trullo structure nestled between the endless olive tree groves, once the main gates are open and find your way to the car parking, you will be greeted by an old mulberry tree positioned at the heart of the main courtyard.

Trullo Santangelo is run by a young couple Maria Louisa and Danielle, who will be waiting passionately for you, to offer their warm greetings and show you around their beautiful land.

Your accommodation at Trullo Santangelo

Other amazing features of Trullo Santangelo are the carefully decorated rooms that blends in naturally with the surroundings, they offer different sizes of rooms suitable for families, friends, couples and solo travellers.

At the main courtyard, you will find an outdoor kitchen that is very aesthetically soft and gives you vintage and rustic vibes, where you are provided with everything you need to make your own meals or just sit and enjoy a glass of their own produced wine while watching the magical sun setting behind the olive groves!

Activities and Things to Do at Trullo Santangelo

1. Relaxing and Sunbathing by the Pool

At Trullo Santangelo, you will find a beautiful and refreshing fresh water swimming pool with sun loungers and hammocks, ideal for some social media photos. the colour of the pool water is very appealing to jump and escape the summer heat days.

2. Bike Rides

I strongly encourage you taking a bike and discovering the nearby farms, the routes are very scenic and very charming. At Trullo Santangelo, they offer both guided and non-guided bike tours.

3. Wine Tasting

Maria Louisa and Danielle alongside other family members have their own wine-making facility where they produce a fine and tasty red, rose, and white wines. They can arrange a nice wine tasting with an aperitif onsite the Trullo, or simply you could purchase a bottle and enjoy it by the pool!

4. Pasta Making & Cooking Classes

As Trullo Santangelo is all about cherishing and appreciating the family experience, therefore, Maria Louisa and Danielle’s mothers offer a chilled and fun sunset Orecchiette Pasta making, a traditional pasta shape that is made with flour and water. After the class, you will get to enjoy your fresh pasta meal while sitting underneath the gigantic mulberry tree.

5. Gastronomy Experiences

I am keeping the best experience for the last! I simply cannot leave the Trullo without indulging in their best experience! Since that Ceglie Messapica is well-known for its gastronomy scene, the owner, Danielle, happen to be a talented chef, who arranges unique dining experiences at Trullo Santangelo, he creates seasonal menus influenced by the Pugliese kitchen, just speak directly with Danielle and Maria Louisa to arrange the best dining experience, you don’t want to miss this experience out!

Tip: Danielle can make the best Aperol Spritz and Cocktails too! Shhh.. don’t spell the secret!

If you want to book your stay at Trullo Santangelo, click HERE.

Puglia Traditional Food – Your Ultimate Ceglie Messapica Food Guide

Ceglie Messpica unique location between the olive groves in the valley, makes it one of the towns that offers so many of fresh produce meats, cheeses, olives, olive oil, wines, vegetables and fruits.

Tip: during weekends, bank holidays and summer high season, it is advised to book in advance for all activities and dining experiences in Puglia, as they get booked very quickly.

Fresh Cheese Making (Mozzarella, Ricotta, Burratta, Caciocavallo & more)

One of the best experiences I had whenever I am in Ceglie Messapica, is a visit to the Masseria Fragnite (Masseria is a Pugliese term means a farm where they produce food, this can be animal/ plant products, and the Masseria is passed from one generation to another, it is quiet common to find Masseria in Puglia nowadays turned into authentic accommodations for the tourists).

At Masseria Fragnite you will have the chance to experience the fresh production of the Mozzarella, Ricotta, Caciocavallo and many other cows cheese products, and let me say this, you will taste the best fresh cheeses you ever had in your life! In this tour, you will experience the process of making the fresh cow cheeses from meeting the spolit cows to the end process of making the cheese!

After the tour, you will sit and relax in the main farm courtyard and indulge in tasting a variety of freshly made cheeses while watching the unobstructed views of the olive groves. In the tour, they also serve a fresh glass of rose wine, that will tingle your taste buds.  To book your experience, click on this link.

Authentic Restaurants & Unique Dining Experiences

In this Guide, I will list the top restaurants to try when you are staying in Ceglie Messapica and its surrounding towns:

• Cibus – Traditional Pugliese Cuisine
• Da Franco Relax and More for Lunch, Aperitifs, Cocktails and light dinners
• Enococus – High quality steak house
• Osteria Da Giuseppe – Traditional Cuisine
• Da Gino – Historical and vintage style restaurant
• Osteria Del Capitolo Da Santino
• DivinGustare – Traditional Pugliese Cuisine
• Terra Di Juso – Steakhouse and Traditional Aperitif
• Osteria La Sparacima – Traditional Pugliese Cuisine
• Al Vecchio Frantoio – Traditional Pugliese Cuisine, order the fried Ricotta Cheese Antipasti, you will never regret it! (This restaurant is located 20 minutes’ drive from the Trullo, it is a high hit local restaurant, you can park in front of the restaurant)

Top Town in South Puglia 2: Lecce – Baroque City in Puglia

In the southeast of Italy and located in Puglia region, you will find the city of Lecce, famous for its Baroque building architecture, that is often called “Florence of the South”.

Lecce nearest Airport is Brindisi Airport which is around 30 minutes drive to the North of the city. Lecce is accessible by train from Brindisi and well connected to other regions via the motorways.

Tip: When in Puglia, although it is connected to a good public transportation network, they run on limited times, therefore, my recommendation would is to rent a car and enjoy a roaming-free experience. For car parking, in almost every city in Puglia, there is lots of private and public car parking spaces and hourly rates starts at one Euro. During off-peak seasons car parking can be free at some places.

Reasons to Visit Lecce

Lecce is a very beautiful and dramatic city, to me, it is the city of my dreams to live. So, what makes Lecce a must visit city when you are in Puglia?

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Lecce

Reason number 1: The Historical City Centre – Lecce Vecchia “Old Lecce”

A walk around the historical city centre of Lecce offers a lot to see and experience, from traditional Leccese foods & Desserts, Roman ruins, cathedrals, to Piazzas (main squares), and much more to explore. While you are roaming the city, make sure you stop by the following main attractions:

• Basilica di Santa Croce – A Baroque-style church that was completed in the year 1695.
• Piazza Del Duomo – Another main Piazza that is located within a short distance from Piazza Sr. Oronzo, which is a host to another Cathedral named Cattedrale Metropolitana di Maria Santissima Assunta.
• Roman Theatre – Located at the heart of the main Piazza in Lecce, Piazza St. Oronzo.
• Triumphal Arch – Probably when you hear about Triumphal Arch, your mind will take you to the famous one in Paris, however, in Lecce, another Arch was built during the Baroque architectural era between 1500s-1700s
• Porta Rudiae

Reason number 2: Central location to many nearby Sandy Beaches (Adriatic & Ionian Seas)

When you look at Italy’s map to spot where Lecce’s is located, you will find that Lecce is located at the heart of the South Puglia region, the province of Salento, which means, that Lecce is located in a very close proximity to all the amazing beaches in South Puglia from the East and West sides.

In the East of Lecce, you will find the Adriatic Sea, and from the West side, there is the Ionian Sea. Its proximity to both sea sides makes Lecce ideal as a base for daily beach trips during the summer season.

Top Beaches in South Puglia

Top Adriatic Sea Beaches

In this section, I will take you to explore the top beaches and hidden gems that only locals are aware of!

Torre Del’Orso – Sandy Beach

This is absolutely my favourite beach, 30 minute drive to the East of Lecce, all flat and easy roads, you will find this beautiful hidden sandy and crystal clear water beach that stretch to miles and miles and there is always enough space for everyone to enjoy this beach.

You can find beach clubs selling proper beds and umbrellas for 15 Euros to public stretches where you can take your own beach picnic and inflatables. At this beach, you will find many amenities available from fresh pizzas, bars, public toilets (you may need to pay small amount to use them, always bring cash with you). This beach is very well serviced but you could always bring your own cooling box and snacks.

Tips (applicable to all the beached listed below)

1. Make sure you set-off to the beach of choice, before 9:00 am during high season summertime to ensure you can find car parking spaces, you can pay by cash and/or card.
2. Always carry cash with you when you are visiting local beaches including coins.
3. The peak of summer season in Italy is August, as most Italians start their summer holidays and they spend it by the beach, therefore, make sure you book for restaurants and accommodation well in advance during this month and during public holidays.

Baia Dei Turchi – Sandy Beaches

Baia Dei Turchi is another beautiful long sandy and crystal-clear beach, a host for many beach clubs with colourful sunbeds and umbrellas. At Baia Dei Turchi you could either rent a sunbed or you could bring your own towel and snacks.

This beach is very popular among the locals, and you would rarely spot tourists! It is an absolute hidden gem, with sand banks in the middle of the sea and very vibrant beach vibes, parties, and just an atypical Italian beach!

My favourite beach club, you can make bookings, is Balnearea Beach Club.

Faraglioni di Sant’Andrea (Rocks of Sant’Andrea) – Rocky Beaches

This is a nice and easy trekking place where you could walk by the rocky beaches and walk over the rocky bridge to spot the famous rocks of Sant’Andrea.

Faraglioni di Sant’Andrea is only 5 minutes drive from Torre Del’Orso and is well-serviced with many cafes and services.

Grotta Della Poesia (Cave of Poetry) – Rocky Beaches

This is a wonderful place where you could park your car nearby and walk to discover one of the brilliant open-roof caves with very turquoise and sparkling waters.

It is a rocky beach, but many locals during summertime jump into the crystal waters! Just be cautious as it is a very steep rocky beach.

Santa Cesarea di Terme – Rocky and Sandy Beaches

This place is a host to a small and tiny hidden sandy beach, the beach is accessible from a restaurant facing the waterfront. The water colours in this beach are so unreal! Very green and emerald waters that are irresistible!

On the other side of this hidden beach, you will find few small natural rocky seawater pools with a very picturesque backdrop, the path to those pools are paved and easy walk to get to them.

Car parking is available and the beach is well serviced by bars and restaurants. The heart of this town is only 10 minutes walk, and all outlets face the waterfront.

Other Beaches on the Adriatic Coast – Sandy & Rocky

There are many other hidden gems along the Adriatic coast! Just grab Google Maps and explore the path! It is very scenic, and you will find many small and picturesque towns and some medieval towers on the top of the hills! It is a definitely great place to drive and enjoy a nice backdrop of music and make frequent stops to admire this side of Italy!

Top Ionian Sea Beaches

Porto Cesareo – Sandy Beaches (Public Beaches)

This little town is unreal! The sea there stretches for miles with very shallow waters that cover soft and sandy white beaches! For those who cannot swim, I would say this is your dream destination! You could walk and walk for miles and the water will only reach your ankle.

No wonder the locals calls it the Maldives of Italy! This town is well serviced with many car parking spots available at very affordable prices. The beaches at Porto Cesareo are mostly public, so you would need to bring your own towels and umbrella.

Gallipoli – Sandy Beaches

Gallipoli is another small town at the Ionian Sea, slightly bigger than Porto Cesareo with a city centre that has some cathedrals and a Piazza.

Gallipoli has sandy white beaches and is famous for its beach parties and night parties for those who want lively summer evenings!

Maldive di Salento – Sandy Beaches

Yes, you read it right! Maldive di Salento! The Maldives of Salento, from its name, the beaches are very similar to what you find in the Maldives but without the price tag of travelling and staying at the 5 stars resorts of the Maldives!

Other Beaches and Places to visit in South Puglia – Ionian Sea

In Salento areas, you will find a lot of other beaches and small towns that are famous for their food and beach scenes, some others are Tricase, Santa Maria Di Leuca (the most Southern part of Puglia), and many others. If you wish to visit other beaches and you want to check whether it is a serviced one, just type Lido or Spiaggia (which means a beach club or a beach in Italian) and you could find many suggestions with ratings and reviews and photos of the desired location.

Reason number 3: Authentic & Best Restaurants in Lecce

After a well spent day by the amazing crystal-clear beaches of Salento and followed by a late afternoon nap, it is time to explore some of the best places to eat in Lecce, please make sure you book well in advance for your evening meals during the peak season!

• Malafemmena Pizzeria – for authentic Italian pizza and atmosphere, it is located outside old Lecce but within less than 10 minutes walking distance. You really don’t want to miss on this Pizzeria!
• Tabisca “Il Vico dei Tagliati” – located in Lecce Vecchia (old Lecce), you are guaranteed to eat the best steak in your life!
• Red Restaurant – best for Pugliese food
• Bar Moro – Authentic vibes for authentic meals
• Duo Ristorante – typical cuisine and mentioned in the Michelin guide
• La Bocca Bistrot – Authentic Pugliese food
• Negroamaro Restaurant – Authentic Pugliese Food
• Malcandrino Cibo ed Eventi – very authentic vibes for authentic foods
• Pasticceria Natale – Best Bakery for Leccese dolici “sweets and desserts”
• Quanto Basta Lecce – Best Cocktail Bar in Lecce

Best Places to Stay in Lecce – Authentic Accommodation in Lecce

When I go to Lecce, which is almost every year since 2019! I always choose authentic accommodations to experience its local vibes and discover Salento from local point of view, my favourite stays were:

Dimora Storica Torre Del Parco

With less than 10 minutes walking to the centre of Lecce, this hotel is an incredible stay. It allows you to stay in a historical medieval tower that is not far away from Lecce Vecchia “old Lecce”. It is a 4 stars accommodation that offers a very authentic accommodation experience and a romantic historical stay.

It has car parking which makes it perfect to park your car securely, you can book your stay HERE.

La Dimora di Vesta Apartment – Bed and Breakfast (B&B)

Where should I start! This apartment is the best B&B I ever stayed at any place in this world.

This apartment offers either renting ensuite rooms or the whole apartment for a fraction of money! At La Dimora di Vesta apartment, the host provides daily freshly homemade breakfast, that is authentic from Puglia and Leccese yumminess foods! The taste is so fresh that no other bakery in town could offer similar homemade tastes!

This vintage style B&B is not far away from the centre, only 7 minute’s walk, and offers on-street car parking. To book your stay, click HERE.

Top Town in South Puglia Number 3: Otranto – The Adriatic Coast hidden gem in Salento

Under 25 minutes drive from central Lecce towards the East Coast on the Adriatic Sea, you will arrive at the most scenic town in Salento, Otranto.

Otranto is a coastal and port town in Southern Puglia with soft and white sandy beaches and an amazing historical city centre “Centre Storico” that offers nice bistros and bars and bustles during the summer season.

Things to do in Otranto

• Basking under the sun and swimming in the sandy beaches.
• Wandering around the historic city centre and sipping a cocktail or having an aperitivo time by the waterfront.
• Visiting the Cattedrale di Otranto.
• Take a boat tour from Port of Otranto and visit the most Southern point of Puglia, the caves and have a dip in the sea. Book your boat tour HERE.
• A day hiking trip to the Cava di Bauxite.

Best Accommodation in Otranto

Hotel Palazzo Papaleo – Otranto City Centre

Probably the most romantic hotel in Otranto located at the city centre within walking distance to the main port, beaches, and nice cafes and restaurants.

It offers a personalised romantic dining experience and an amazing rooftop Jacuzzi that overlooks the amazing pristine sea of Otranto.

When you are in Otranto, make sure to stay at least 1 night at this majestic and historic hotel, the service is excellent, and they offer you with endless services as your comfort comes first. To book your stay, click HERE.

Places to Eat in Otranto

• Il Diavolicchio Goloso – it is a mix of agritourism and a seafood restaurant.
• Ristorante FronteMare – in the city centre of Otranto offers fresh seafood.
• Icon Restaurant – Innovative seafood restaurant

Other Top Towns & Beaches to Visit in Puglia Region (North & South)

Some other of the most beautiful towns to visit in Puglia and worth exploring are:

Galatina

less than 15 minutes drive from Lecce, Galatina is an impressive little town with Barouqe-style architecture that is a host to the Basilica di Santa Catarina d’Alessandria. The interior of the Basilica is something outside this world and it is a breath-taking place that gives you so much serenity once you are inside.

Vieste – Gargano National Park

Vieste is coastal town located inside the Gargano National Park, at the very North of Puglia Region. It offers amazing nature with pristine beaches and emerald-green sea colour. You could either do trekking trips in the National Park or take boat tours to explore the hidden beaches and rocky formations of this park, you could book your boat trip HERE.

Grottaglie

This small town, Grottaglie, is 20 minutes drive from Ceglie Messapica and is the city of Ceramiche Quartiere “Ceramic Quarter”, where you will find amazing ceramics factories and shops that provide entire Puglia with its famous ceramic ornaments.

If you want to explore more of the most beautiful towns in Puglia, make sure you visit my other article on this Link.

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