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The 27 best beaches in Italy and how to get there
Did you know that you can find in Italy some of the most exquisite beaches of the Mediterranean?
The best beaches in Italy, organized by region and plotted on a best Italian beaches map.
Italy is worldwide known for its history, monuments and culture, but did you know that Italian beaches are among he best of the Mediterranean sea? Whichever destination you chose for your vacation, there will likely be an amazing beach nearby, where to recover between two days of visit.
So here is my…
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Sestri Levante, your best place to stay in Cinque Terre and Portofino
Discover Sestri Levante, a perfect base to explore Cinque Terre and Portofino.
Five excellent reasons why Sestri Levante is the best place to stay in Cinque Terre and Portofino area and what to do and see in Sestri Levante.
Sestri Levante is a delightful small town, mid way between Cinque Terre and Portofino, the most well known destinations of the Italian Riviera.
In my view it’s the perfect place to stay when visiting Cinque Terre and Portofino.
Let me explain you why.
(…
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An easy and enjoyable Naples in one day walking itinerary, including a detailed Naples map. Picturesque markets, amazing artworks and great street food.
Why visit Naples? It’s a no-brainer: because Naples is one of the most fascinating, peculiar and beautiful towns you may find in Italy, and, in my opinion, in Europe.
It’s an underrated gem you just can’t skip.
I’m not the only one to think it: the number of foreign tourists visiting Naples have been growing double digit for almost ten years.
The reason is simple: savvy travelers will find tons of art, history, culture, local diversity, beauty, sights, great food, warm people… and you’ll need to pass through Naples in any case, on your way to Pompei and the Amalfi coast.
So why not taking a day or so and spend some time to discover this amazing town?
In this post I will answer to some of the most frequent questions about Naples and share a one day walking itinerary in Naples city center, a Unesco Heritage site.
How much time to spend in Naples?
Well… here I must contradict myself: attempting to visit Naples in one day it’s just not possible. There’s no way you can visit a town as rich and fascinating as Naples in less than two or three days!
However, one day is enough to visit Naples old city center, a Unesco Heritage site, taste some of its amazing street food and, of course, eat the original pizza! And you can easily do it on your way to the Amalfi coast and to Pompei.
It could also be your one day in Naples from Cruise ship.
You may supplement your Naples city center walking tour with the exploration of Maschio Angioino and Castel dell’Ovo castles, the royal palace, that Gallery and the Chiaia posh disctrict.
Other highlights are the national museum, where you can admire all the Roman masterpieces discovered in Pompei and Ercolano, and the Certosa di San Martino with its wonderful views.
These sights are marked on the enclosed Naples in One day Google map (click the image to open the map).
Is Naples safe for tourists?
Until the beginning of present century, Naple’s reputation resonated with images of violence, organized crime, dirt, danger: very little tourists, including Italians, would ever think of putting Naples on their bucket list.
But things have changed!
Today Naples is just as safe as any other large European city, and actually safer than many US big towns (based on Numbeo 2018 crime index).
Policeman and even soldiers are present and visible in all touristic sites, and the only annoyance you should really care about are pickpockets. So mind your belongings, don’t wear expensive jewels and watches, don’t put your wallet in your trousers rear pocket, don’t leave your belongings unattended.
There’s generally a lot of people around, even at night. Just stay on the main roads, avoiding small alleys unless you are with a guide, and you’ll be more than safe.
How to visit Naples in one day?
In my view, the best way to visit Naples is a walking tour. You can do your own by just following my suggested itinerary, or join an escorted tour.
An escorted tour is a good option if you still don’t feel 100% comfortable to explore Naples on your own, and if you are interested about detailed explanations about Naples history, culture and way of life. I personally recommend this 3 hours Get Your Guide Naples Tour, I found it very instructive and convenient. It covers also the Maschio Angioino and Royal Palace and gives you an introduction to the historical center, that you can then drill down on your own.
You could also consider a food tour, to discover Naples delicacies beyond Pizza. I can recommend this good food tour from Get your Guide. It will make you taste not only Piazza, but also Cuoppi (fried street food), he different pies, the pasta omelette, the true mozzarella and, of course, the famous Naples coffee and pastries. Click here to check availability and to reserve.
If you are not interested in walking and would like to see as many things as possible in one day, an Hop on – Hop off bus is a great option. You can purchase your Hop On – Hop Off tickets in advance here, so you won’t need to queue when you get to Naples.
What to see in a one day walking itinerary in Naples: the top 15 things to do and see in Naples historical center
Here are the main sights and activities I recommend, you’ll find them plotted on my Naples in one day walking tour map.
1 -Duomo di Napoli (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta)
Start your Naples in one day walking tour from Naples Cathedral, the Duomo. It’s an easy 20 minutes walk from the station.
This wonderful XIV century church is actually know by many names: the Duomo di Napoli, since it’s the most important church in town. The Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral, the official name.
Bust, most of all, it is known as the Duomo di San Gennaro, since it’s here that the saint’s blood is held, and that the saint’s blood liquefaction miracle takes place twice a year. In case it didn’t happen, tradition claims misfortune will hit the town!
Actually there is a second, lesser known, blood liquefaction miracle, Santa Patrizia’s blood, taking place at the San Gregorio Armeno church. More conveniently, the miracle happens every Tuesday…
2 – Caravaggio Painting in Pio Monte della Misericordia
A couple of hundred meters from the Duomo, in the piazzetta Riario Sforza, stays the small Pio Monte della Misericordia church. It’s a small church that shelters one of Caravaggio’s masterpieces, the famous painting “le sette opere della misericordia”. It’s an absolute must if you love classical paintings.
Entance is from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday – Saturday, 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM on Sundays. You’ll need to purchase a 7,00 € entry ticket.
3 -San Lorenzo Maggiore and its underground excavations
From the Pio Monte della Misericordia church continue walking along via dei Tribunali until Piazza San Gaetano. Many things to be seen here, the first one is San Lorenza Maggiore Church.
It’s a beautiful and imposing XIV century Gothic church, the first one to be build by King Charles I d’Angiò.
Under the church you can visit the remains of the Neapolis Roman Forum, and fascinating introduction to a Pompei visit.
Entry ticket 9 €.
4 – San Gregorio Armeno Nativity Scenes market
From Piazza san Gaetano starts Via Gregorio Armeno, Naples Nativity scenes market.
It’s a fascinating dive into one of Naples most ancient and important traditions. You can actually visit the workshops and admire the nativity scenes artists at work. It’s surely one of the highlights of your Naples Walking tour!
There is also a XVIII century huge nativity scene (as large as a room!) that you can admire for just 1 €.
To know more about Naples nativity scenes market read my post: Naples nativity scenes market: San Gregorio Armeno
5 – Napoli sotterranea – underground Naples
Getting back in San Gaetano square, on the left side of the church, you will notice the entrance to Naples underground tour.
It’s a fascinating itinerary that will bring you 40 meters underneath modern town, to discover the old Roman aqueducts and tanks. Just unbelievable. Actually these huge spaces have been forgotten for century and were rediscovered before WW II, in order to be used as shelters against the allied bombing.
They are now one of the most interesting and fascinating city center attractions. The visit take 1:15 hours and also includes a visit to the remains of the Roman arena. You can pre book your ticket here at no extra cost, skip the line and make sure you get the time slot you want.
Entry tickets cost 10 €, guided tours start at the hour:
Guided tours in Italian:
10:00 AM -11:00 AM -12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Guided tours in English
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM -2: 00 PM – 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
6 – Time for a Pizza?
You may start to be hungry by now, and willing to taste a true Napoli Pizza. There are many places where you can have one in this area, unfortunately most are touristic and crowded.
I suggest you get a little bit off the beaten path and get a pizza at the La figlia del Presidente. This is were the locals go, hardly any tourist here and the Pizza is delicious and cheap!
7 – Spaccanapoli street
The name is a popular usage and means, literally, “Naples splitter”. The name is derived from the fact that it is very long and from above it seems to divide the city in two.
This street is the southernmost of the three decumani, or east-west streets, of the grid of the original Greco-Roman city of Neapolis.
Today, the street officially starts at Piazza Gesù Nuovo and is named Via Benedetto Croce. Moving east, the street changes name to Via S. Biagio dei Librai and then crosses Via Duomo (named for the Cathedral of Naples) and moves beyond the confines of the old center of town.
Spaccanapoli is the main promenade for tourists as it provides access to a number of important sights of the city.
On top of the main sights you can find along this unique street, however the main attraction in my view is to just look around and observe the local life, especially the small details. You will surely enjoy!
And if you are superstitious, don’t get away without “corno” (horn), the traditional Naples lucky charm, the perfect remedy against bad luck!
8 – Edicola di San Domenico Maggiore
Walking along spacca Napoli you will get to the San Domenico Maggiore square and its Edicola, kind of Baroque obelisk. This is one of the most lively places in this area, especially at night. A perfect place to take some rest and to taste Naples traditional pastry: the Babà!
9 – Cappella Sansevero e Cristo velato – veiled Christ museum
This is another highlight of your Naples tour.
The amazing San Severo chapel host one of the most amazing and probably the best known work of art in Naples and one of the greatest sculptures of all times: the Veiled Christ.
That said, all the chapel is impressive, as well as the story about his owner, the Di Sangro Prince. You can get a preview of what you’ll discover by watching this video.
The San Severo chapel is open every day: 9.00 am – 7.00 pm (closed on Tuesdays). Last entry 30 mins before closing, entry ticket 7:00.
Since the chapel is rather small, queues can be long, better to reserveyour tickets in advance on their web site.
10 – Chiesa del Gesu Nuovo
Your next stop is the Gesù Nuovo church, one of the most famous in Naples.
The original and sober facade, actually the converted 15th-century facade of Palazzo Sanseverino, hides the extraordinary baroque extravaganza of the interior.
The church flanks the beautiful Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, a favorite late-night hang-out for students and locals. At its center soars the lavish Guglia dell’Immacolata, an obelisk built between 1747 and 1750.
11 – Santa Chiara church and cloister
A few steps away, Santa Chiara and its wonderful cloister are your next stop.
The monumental complex of Santa Chiara is one of the most important buildings commissioned by Carlo I d’Angiò for the Franciscan order. Built in 1340, it is a rare example of Medieval architecture in Naples.
The fine cloister outside the church is richly decorated with majolica tiles and it is a pure gem of the eighteenth century. Pillars are nicely decorated by vine shoots, flowers, lemons while the seats are decorated with scenes of the city and country life in the eighteenth century.
A lovely place miles away from the bustling old city.
Access to Santa Chiara is free, opening hours every day 7:30 AM 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM- 20:00 PM
You need to purchase a 6 € ticket for the cloister, opening hours 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM from Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM on Sunday.
12 – Street Food at Cicol’e Ricott
Time for food break! Proceeding straight after Piazza del Gesu nuovo, in Via Domenico Capitelli, 5, you will find the amazing Cicol’ e Ricott’ delicacies store.
This is one of the best places I found to taste local foods. You point your finger, chose what you want, pay and either bring it home or eat it on the tables just outside. In this case, you can also ask for a glass of excellent local wine!
13 – Quartieri Spagnoli – the Spanish quarter
Passing Toledo road, you will get to the Spanish Quarter.
This is a neighborhood of dark and small alleys, laid out in the 1600s when the Spanish ruled the Kingdom of Naples.
Today is still a jam-packed quarter of humanity, bustling with noises, smells, colors, scooters and in general Mediterranean happy confusion. In short, the stereotype of Naples as you would expect it.
The Spanish quarter is probably the most characteristic and chaotic part of Naples and it’s definitely worth seeing. It is also the potentially less safe area to visit, so keep an eye on your purse and belongings and don’t wander around there at night.
14 – Toledo Metro Station
Toledo Metro station is part of Naples Metro stations Art Stations program, which involved major artists such as Anish Kapoor, Gae Aulenti and Sol LeWitt.
Toledo Station is themed around water and light and is probably the most amazing of all Naples Metro Stations. TheTelegraph included it in its Europe’s Most Impressive Underground Railway Stations list.
From here you can take the underground back to Napoli Station, just a few stops away, if you want to stop your walking tour at this stage.
15 -Savor Naples street food
Naples has some really amazing street food, so don’t lose the opportunity to try whatever stimulates you: you won’t be disappointed!
If you still have time or if you are staying one more day in Naples, you can continue to the Maschio Angioino castle and to the Palazzo Reale area (yellow pins on my map) or visit the Certosa di San Martino and the Museo Archeologico (red pins on my map).
If you are spending some days in the area you may also be interested to have a look at my posts: Amazing Amalfi coast: best itinerary to discover Amalfi, Positano, Ravello and Capri walking itinerary: breathtaking Faraglioni and Natural Arch.
Enjoy your Naples in one day walking itinerary!
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Delightfullyitaly.com: Italy top destinations and travel itineraries, off the beaten path
Delightfullyitaly.com is the blog for all the ones in love with Italian culture, Italian sights, Italian monuments .. and with Italian food! If you wish to visit Italy for the first time, or if you already discovered Venice, Rome, Florence, the Amalfi coast, but still want more, delightfullyitaly.com is here to disclose to you Italian Must See as well as Italian hidden treasures. And if you like what you read, why not follow delightfullyitaly.com and get free updates?
Naples is one of the most fascinating cities of the Mediterranean. Here is how to visit it in one day.
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My Rome food walking tour: how to experience Roman food like a local
I tried a walking food tour in Rome. That was a great experience, discover why...
Amazing off the beaten path Rome food walking tour in Testaccio, one of Rome most food rich neighborhoods, with Savor Italy Tours. How it went and why I strongly suggest it.
As an Italy travel blogger, I recently got in touch with the owner of Savor Italy tours. She invited me to join their Rome food walking tour so that I could write about it.
Savor Italy tour have been providing food tours,…
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How to visit Castel Sant'Angelo, Rome, and why you shouldn't miss it
Don't forget to visit Castel Sant'Angelo when in Rome!
Castel Sant’Angelo is a not to be missed sight. His 20 centuries of history are intimately linked to Rome, views from the top are great and child love it!
A visit to Castel Sant’angelo is usually not in the bucket list of rushy Roman travellers. That’s surprising, because few monuments can give the same sense of the Roman history along the centuries.
Castel Sant’Angelo, formerly Adrian Emperor…
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How to visit the Dolomites, Italy and its Top 20 unmissable destinations
Dolomites are arguably among the most beautiful mountains in the world, here is how to visit them
A complete itinerary about how to visit the Dolomites, Italy, in summer time: top 20 destinations, how to drive there, interactive map and travel tips. Why should you visit the Dolomites?
Well, imagine long, deep mountain valleys, dense forests, bubbling rivers. Add still, cold lakes spread across the landscape, guarded everywhere by the dramatic pink-grey walls of stunning mountains.
Dolomites…
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The ultimate guide to Italian Pasta dishes: know what to order by region
Are you a Pasta lover? Then you shouldn't miss this post!
Top 25 delicious Italian pasta dishes you should taste, beyond Spaghetti Bolognese, described by by region with pictures and map
What is the most popular and famous Italian pasta dish? What are the traditional Italian pasta dishes one must absolutely try? What is the name of the traditional pasta dish I want to order?
These are very common questions, and this post is aimed at giving an answer…
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How to travel safely in Italy: 10 easy tips to avoid risks and inconveniences
Have a safe trip in Italy with these 10 golden rules!
Ten safe travel tips and rules to travel safely in Italy, to stay away from scams and to fully enjoy your memorable Italian trip How safe is it to travel in Italy?
Italy is a wonderful country, and Italians are helpful and friendly people.
While Italy is generally one of the safest nations in the world, there are certain issues that travelers should be aware of at all times.
In order to travel…
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Everything you need to know before visiting St Peter's Basilica in Rome
Everything you need to know before visiting St Peter's Basilica in Rome!
The 10 + 1 key things you need to know before visiting St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Tickets, opening hours, dressing code, when to visit and much more.
Visiting St Peter’s Basilica is a highlight of any trip to Rome. That said, St Peter is is a holy place, the center of Christianity, with massive security procedure, and it’s normal for first comers to have many questions about their visit.
I…
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The Sacra di San Michele: legends and mysteries in Piedmont
One of the most amazing Northern Italy monument...with a bit of Mystery!
History and mysteries of the sacra di San Michele, one of the most important Northern Italy monumnets, and how to get there from Turin and from Milan
Sacra di San Michele: location and history
The Sacra di San Michele is a very famous abbey and a symbol of Piedmont. It’s a religious monument of incomparable beauty and value, and one of the most mysterious in Italy.
(more…)
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How Italians drink coffee: the ultimate guide
A perfect and unmissable guide about how to order and to drink coffee in Italy, the way locals do it!
The ultimate infographic guide about how to order and to drink coffee the way Italians do! Have your coffee like a local…
Coffee is the national drink of Italians, the unmissable daily ritual. Wherever you go in Italy, you can be 100% sure to find a church… and a bar serving coffee!
On average, Italians drink about four coffees a day, usually two at home, one at the bar and one at the office,…
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Best aperitivo in Bologna: enjoy happy hour where locals do
In Bologna Aperitivo is a serious thing! These are my favorite places, which are yours?
Aperitivo in Bologna is taken very seriously. Here is a selection of Aperitivo bars popular with locals: enjoy appetizing drink, snack and perfect time out
After a whole day around the city it’s time to relax a little … and to taste one of the specialties Bologna is known for: the Aperitivo.
Aperitivo time starts around 6:00 PM, when the Bolognese finish their work and study activities, and can…
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Discover the Bellano ravine, one of the most mysterious and fascinating places that lake of Como can offer, just a foot step away from Varenna and Bellagio
The Bellano ravine (orrido di Bellano) is a breathtaking natural wonder, just a footstep away from Varenna. Surprisingly, very few travelers visit it, which is another good reason to visit it. Starting from Varenna Station, you won’t need more than a couple of hours to complete your visit.
What is the Bellano ravine
The Bellano ravine is a natural canyon, formed in 15 million years by the waters of the Pioverana stream, which due to erosion, has dug a deep gorge between Taceno, Valsassina and Bellano. The peculiarity of the Bellano Ravine consists in the possibility of traversing a stretch inside the gorge, walking on catwalks fixed in the rock, in deafening meanders that overlook dizzying precipices.
The route is very impressive, between waterfalls and natural caves, breathtaking views and rich vegetation, the sun is reflected in the ravines, creating incredible light effects. This makes the Orrodo di Bellano a natural wonder you shouldn’t miss when visiting Como lake.
The legend tells of a warrior named Taino, who local imagination wants buried right in the depths of the Orrido di Bellano, along with his immense treasure, guarded by a huge stone that covers the burial.
The power of the waters in the past centuries was used for the processing of iron and leather tanning. Today the power of the waterfall is used to power two hydroelectric power plants.
To guard the Bellano Ravine, on a rock of the Pioverana river, rises the Casa del Diavol. It’s a curious tower whose origin or function is unknown, the irregular hexagon tower rises on four floors connected by a spiral staircase. It is said that inside there were licentious festivals accompanied by satanic rites and evocation of the evil one. His name is linked to mythological figures, including a satyr, which decorate the facade of the last floor of the tower.
Here is the complete photo gallery:
How to get to Bellano ravine
Getting to Orrido di Bellano is really easy: you just take the local train to Tirano and get down at the first stop after Varenna. Getting out of the station, walk right and cross the bridge over the Pioverana river. After a few minutes you will get to the church of the Santissimi Nazaro e Celso (a building built around 1300) and a cobblestone path on your right will get you to the entrance gate of the Orrido di Bellano, where the ticket office is located.
If you are coming by car, the Orrido di Bellano can be reached along the road that leads to the church Santissimi Nazaro e Celso. Here you leave your car in a parking area (paying) and then proceed to the ticket office.
When to visit Bellano ravine
Orrido di Bellano opening Hours:
January, February, December and November: opened only holidays and days before from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
March: opened only holidays and days before from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
April and May: opened only holidays and days before from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm; weekdays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
June and September: Open every day from 10:00 to 19:00
July and August: opened every day from 10.00 to 22.00
October: opened holidays and days before 10:00 am to 7:00 pm and weekdays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Entrance fees:
Full admission: € 4.00
Boys (up to 12 years): € 3.50
Groups over 25 components: Euro 3.00 each
Children up to 5 years: free admission
When you are done with your Bellano Ravine exploration, you can continue your visit Bellagio and to Como lake, read my post: day trip to Como and Bellagio from Milan.
By the way, don’t forget to recharge your batteries by enjoying a portion of Pizzoccheri, the Valtellina traditional pasta. You can only find it here!
If you are looking for a place to stay in Varenna, which is an ideal location to explore Bellagio and Como Lake, I would recommend the Hotel Olivedo. It’s right on the lake shore, and offers delightful rooms with amazing lake views. It’s just opposite the ferry pier and a very close to both the station and the old town.
Enjoy your visit to the Bellano ravine!
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Delightfullyitaly.com is the insider’s Italy travel guide for independent travelers. Here you will find city guides, travel itineraries, Italian experiences and much more.
Are you planning to visit Italy for the first time? You already discovered Venice, Rome, Florence, the Amalfi coast, but still want more? Either way, delightfullyitaly.com is here to disclose to you Italian Must See as well as Italian hidden treasures.
And if you like what you read, why not follow delightfullyitaly.com and get free updates?
If you plan to visit Bellagio and Varenna, don't miss the Bellano ravine! Discover the Bellano ravine, one of the most mysterious and fascinating places that lake of Como can offer, just a foot step away from Varenna and Bellagio…
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Driving in Italy: the ultimate 15 + 1 things you need to know
Planning to drive in Italy? Here are the answers to all the questions you may have...
The top 15 answers to the most common questions about driving in Italy, to drive safely and make the most out of your Italy driving experience.
Many travelers are concerned about driving in Italy and eventually give up renting a car. This is unfortunate, since the “true” Italy is often found in small villages, rural areas and secluded landscapes.
Is that your case? Then no worries! Here are the…
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Top 25 amazing things to do in Milan
Top 25 amazing things to do in Milan
Best things to do in Milan 1: Visit the Duomo with a guide
1: Climb on top of Duomo roof
2: Visit the Castello Sforzesco and its museums
3: Tour Parco Sempione by Segway
4: Dine or take an aperitivo on top of Triennale building
5: Experience Milan gourmet food
6: Visit the Cimitero monumentale
7: Indulge at Peck, the most sophisticated Italian gourmet shop
8: Assist to an opera at La Scala
9:…
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A fascinating Puglia in one week itinerary, to discover the best of Salento and of the Trulli district in just seven days, including top beaches.
Puglia is the heel of Italy’s boot, and Salento the southernmost part of it. It’s a magical region, still partially off the beaten path. Spending one week in Puglia is an experience you shouldn’t miss.
Seven day in Puglia will give you the opportunity to enjoy:
25 centuries of history, starting from the Greeks. Actually local dialects still reflects Greek roots, and the Salento central area is called “Grecìa Salentina”
Amazing architectures: the Trulli country houses and their unique cones, secluded fortified country houses, the “masserie”, fascinating Barocco churches
Breathtaking landscapes, featuring endless century old olive trees plantations under the Mediterranean cobalto blue sky
Arguably some of the best beaches and cliffs of the Mediterranean.
Is that enough to motivate you? If yes, then hurry up.
So far mainstream tourist flows have mysteriously ignored Puglia. However, things are changing and this fantastic region is rapidly becoming a top Italian and European destination.
Your Puglia itinerary can be a self standing one week fly and drive vacation or the continuation of a “classical” Italian trip. Either way, you will be delighted!
What to see in one week in Puglia?
This tour combines the three main highlights of the region:
The Trulli district and Ostuni, the “white town”
The Salento, the southernmost part of the “heel”
The Adriatic and Ionian bays, cliffs and beaches
Here is what my Puglia in one week itinerary looks like (click on the image to open Google Maps):
When to visit Puglia?
Best seasons to visit Puglia are late spring / beginning of Summer and Automn, until end of October. The weather is perfect, not too hot, and the sea is warm enough to swim.
Summer time is nice to visit: weather is hot but windy, so still enjoyable. On the other end, beaches and coastal towns get really crowded wit hlocals, prices are high and traffic jams not uncommon.
How to get there and to travel around Puglia?
Brindisi international airport is your convenient landing point to visit the Southern part of Puglia. Many low cost airlines have direct flights to Brindisi.
The best way to go around is to hire a car: Puglia is a perfect region for fly and drive vacation, so that you can enjoy it in full freedom. Public buses could be an option as well, even though less convenient.
If you have more time, you could easily dedicate one additional week to visit incredible Matera, the area around Bari with the amazing Castel del Monte and the fascinating Tremiti islands.
Would you like some help on your Italian trip planning? Then click here and I’ll gladly support you!
Puglia in one week day one: land in Brindisi, and move on to Ostuni
Get out of the airoprt, get your rented car and head to your first destination: Ostuni.
Ostuni, the “white city”, is one of Puglia most remarkable jewels.
The Aragonese walls, all around, protect the art jewels that shine inside.
The most remarkable is the cathedral that rises in the highest part of Ostuni. Built in the 15th century in “docile stone”, it’s a perfect example XV century flourishing Gothic. Its magnificent rosette is among the largest in the world.
The majestic church of S. Giacomo in Compostela, the convent of the Benedictines, with the annexed church of S. Pietro, and the churches of S. Francesco and S. Vito Martire shouldn’t be missed.
But it’s mostly the narrow winding streets, dazzling in their white walls, that are worth a visit, as well as the fascinating views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. best way to enjoy them is at sunset, wile sipping a chilled glass of local wine.
Where to stay in Ostuni:
The Relais Sant’Egidio, just outside the city walls, offers great accomodations in an ancient palace, with great views over Ostuni city center.
Want more choice? Click here to find the best hotel deals in Ostuni
Puglia in one week day 2: Ostuni – Alberobello – Cisternino – Ostuni
Alberobello, the capital of the Trulli region, is one of the most famous destinations in Puglia. Although very touristy, it remains a pleasant destination to visit. Better to arrive early in the morning, before escorted tours arrive.
Locorotondo and Cisternino are two small jewels, that mass tourism wrongly neglect. In particular, Locorotondo a delightful white hamlet built on a small hill, was recently named among the most beautiful villages in Italy. It offers beautiful views over the olive trees and wine yards country side all around.
Cisternino, is similar to Locorotondo, and a key destination to enjoy a really original dinner. In the evening Cisternino butchers prepare countless outdoor tables where they serve delicious local grilled meat dishes.
It can also be interesting to visit Cerrate Abbey (FAI), a Romanesque gem on the provincial road that connects Squinzano to Casalabate (open from 9:30 to 13:00 and from 15:30 to 19:30).
Last but not least, the nearby Grotte di Castellana, more than 60 meters deep, offer an amazing scenario made of stalactites, stalagmites and incredible concretions.
Puglia in one week day 3: Ostuni – Otranto
Otranto, founded by the Greeks, is simply wonderful.
From the square of the Aragonese castle branches out the labyrinth of narrow streets and stairs, which make up the ancient village, the oldest and most characteristic part of the city. Each corner offers a little wonder: a church, a view of the sea, a detail to discover.
The highlight of the visit is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata. The cathedral dates back to the eleventh century and is Otranto masterpiece. The most notable element is the incredible mosaic which covers the entire floor of the church. It represents the Tree of Life and is considered by many experts as a true encyclopedia of Christianity (7-12, 15-19.15).
The church also preserves in the chapel of the martyrs the remains of the massacre of 800 Christian believers. They lost their lives during the invasion of the Turks in 1480 because of they didn’t accept to convert to Islam.
Where to stay in Otranto:
The Relais Valle Dell’Idro is conveniently located 5minutes walking from the city center. It offers beautiful sea views and recently renovated rooms, in a charming setting.
Want more choice? Click here to find the best hotel deals in Otranto
Puglia in one week day 4: Otranto – Torre Sant’Andrea, Grotta della poesia, Roca Vecchia
Day four is dedicated to the Adriatic sea beaches and coves. Here you find mostly rocky coastline with intermittent sandy beach coves, fjords and cliffs. It could make sense to rent a small motor boat to fully enjoy the sights and to find your own private cove to enjoy on your own.
Here are the most notable sights:
Torre sant’Andrea: spectacular white cliffs and sea stacks, surrounded by turquoise sea. Very small beaches nearby, often overcrowded.
Roca Vecchia: just North of Torre Sant’Andrea, Roca Vecchia is actually an archeological site, that you can access for a small ticket. Here the cliff has been used for ages as a stone quarry, with impressive results. Easy access to the sea for a swim.
Grotta della poesia (Cave of Poetry) is an impressive 100 foot wide sinkhole at the edge of the sea. It is said it once inspired pets, hence the name. You can dive from its high cliffs into the clear waters and get out of the sinkhole from an underground tunnel (if you dare to do so!). Small boats can be rented nearby.
Puglia in one week day 5: Otranto – Porto Badisco – Santa Cesarea Terme – Gallipoli
We start day five by visiting in the morning other great beaches close to Otranto.
Porto Badisco is a deep fjord, that local fisherman have been using for centuries a natural harbor. You can swim in the crystal clear water and have a good fish lunch at the restaurant on the small beach at the end of the fjord.
Santa Cesarea terme coast is mostly rocky, with a number of lovely secluded coves. It also hides the beautiful and impressive Grotta Zinzulusa. You can visit it by foot (entry ticket), but I rather suggest to rent a boat or to join a guided tour, so that you can enjoy all the coast.
In the afternoon, you can proceed to Gallipoli, check in, have a shower and get ready for the visit.
The main attraction of Gallipoli, the “beautiful city”, is the historic center, built on an island and surrounded by massive walls.
The old town, full of old palaces and baroque churches, was built by the Greeks as a kind of labyrinth where all the streets intersect, between the houses with white walls and dark blue cornices.
The Sant’Agata Cathedral, one of the highest expression of Puglia Baroque architecture, is absolutely worth seeing. Remarkable are also the “Greek fountain” – dating from the 16th century – located at the beginning of the masonry bridge connecting the new village with the ancient village.
A must-see, the tower walls offer the possibility to stop at the tables placed above the old towers for a coffee or an aperitif.
Do not miss lunch at the fish restaurant “La Puritate” – it is advisable to book.
To get more info on Gallipoli, have a look at my post: “Gallipoli, the “beautiful town” of Salento.
Where to stay in Gallipoli:
The Maison D’Enrì, located 3 km from Gallipoli, offers charming accommodation in a park with a pool and all what you need to relax.
Want more choice? Click here to find the best hotel deals in Gallipoli
Puglia in one week day 6: Gallipoli – Punta Prosciutto – Porto Cesareo – Gallipoli
From Gallipoli to Punta Prosciutto you will find very long beaches with fine white sand and clear water.
You could easily pretend you are on the Caribbean sea rather than in Italy! This area is called “the Maldives of Salento”, and I can witness that this is not an exaggeration!
Beaches are beautiful and long, some still unspoiled. It’s easier to find a place to lay on the sand here than on the Adriatic coast.
Puglia in one week day 7: Gallipoli – Lecce – Brindisi
Last day of your week in Puglia. On your way to Brindisi airoport, stop to visit Lecce and its amazing Barocco churches and palaces. You can leave your car in an underground, video protected parking.
Lecce is a fascinating city, a shrine of works of art from the Roman, Medieval and Renaissance periods. That said, it is mainly a baroque city, which explodes here in a very specific declination, so peculiar that it is called “Barocco of Lecce”.
The main highlights to visit are the Roman amphitheater, the castle of Charles V, the cathedral and its square, and the Basilica of Santa Croce.
But it’s all the historical center, with refined palaces and interesting craft shops manufacturing and selling papier maché and Lecce stone objects, which deserves to be discovered.
From Lecce, a quick drive will lead you to the airport and back home.
Ready to visit Puglia? Don’t hesitate to contact me for dedicated tips and suggestions, and to help you organizing a memorable tour.
Enjoy Puglia!
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