Puglia & Basilicata Luxury Holidays

Located in southeastern Italy, Puglia is known for its sweeping coastlines and warm climate. It boasts some of the country’s most enviable beaches and beautiful landscapes. You’ll also get to taste some of Italy’s finest food and wine when staying in this captivating region.

There’s plenty to see and do on luxury holidays in Puglia. Bari and Lecce are the main towns and are well worth visiting for their historic architecture. Many of the villages in the area feature whitewashed buildings reminiscent of Greece, but with their own unique Italian identity.

Historic buildings

There are many notable buildings in the Puglia area. Head to the town of Alberobello, which has around 1,500 beehive-shaped houses made from local limestone, many dating back to the 19th century. Another must-see sight is the Castel del Monte. Perched on a hill, the castle is unique in that it has no strategic purpose - there’s no moat, drawbridge, arrow slits or other signs that it fulfilled a military role. Some theories suggest that this 13th-century structure has a religious significance, but the ongoing mystery only adds to its charm and intrigue. The Basilica di Santa Croce in Lecce, complete with the strange creatures carved into its outside stonework and baroque interior, is also a highlight. The Basilica was built in the 16th and 17th centuries by a team of artists under Giuseppe Zimbalo.

Natural Puglia

Puglia has some of Italy’s finest sandy beaches, blue waters and hidden coves, which are perfect for bathing, snorkelling, fishing and boat trips.

Further inland, the rolling Arcadian Hills grow tasty crops including tomatoes, artichokes and aubergines. There are also nature reserves, olive groves, green meadows and wetlands to explore.

Luxury hotels in Puglia make the most of these landscapes, offering spectacular views and easy access to the area’s natural attractions.

Food and wine

Nowhere in Puglia is far from the sea, so it’s not surprising that seafood features on many of the restaurant menus. Pasta made with fresh local ingredients is also a favourite regional dish. The specialist pasta is orecchiette, sometimes called ‘little ears’ because of its shape. Mussels, aged ricotta cheese and locally reared lamb are also popular, and it’s common to see wood-fired grills on the street where vendors cook meat to order.

Puglia is known for its wine made from the negroamaro or minutolo grape, so don’t miss the chance to try a glass or two.

Why go to Puglia?

If you're looking for a calm and relaxing holiday away from the crowds, Puglia could be the ideal choice for you. Part of the area’s appeal is that it’s still largely untouched by tourism compared to many of Italy’s other regions. The natural beauty of the landscapes and the small seaside villages can be explored by car, and there are plenty of beautiful places to walk or simply unwind on the beach.

Our 5 star hotels in Puglia offer stylish accommodation in some of the area’s most scenic settings. Get in touch with our experienced team by phone or live chat to find out more.