Explore Puglia
Monopoli
With its beautiful beaches and historic center overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Monopoli perfectly blends coastal charm, history and vibrant local life. Dating back to the High Middle Ages, the town is known for its picturesque harbor, winding old streets, Baroque churches and bustling piazzas filled with cafés and restaurants. Whether you're strolling along the waterfront promenade, exploring centuries-old landmarks or enjoying an evening by the sea, Monopoli offers a little something for everyone. For more inspiration, we recommend Along Dusty Roads' guide to Monopoli.
Ostuni
Perched atop a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Ostuni is one of Puglia's most picturesque towns. Known as La Città Bianca (the White City), its whitewashed homes, buildings and ancient walls create a striking skyline visible for miles. Wander through a maze of winding alleys, stone staircases and hidden piazzas, where getting pleasantly lost is part of the experience. With its vibrant atmosphere, charming boutiques, exceptional restaurants, lively wine bars and artisanal gelaterias, Ostuni is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening exploring. For more inspiration, we recommend Along Dusty Roads' guide to Ostuni.
Polignano a Mare
Southern Italy's Puglia region is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and picturesque countryside dotted with ancient olive groves, iconic trulli and historic masserie. Add in its rich cultural heritage and exceptional cuisine, and it's easy to see why we fell in love with it. For more inspiration, explore Condé Nast's guide to Puglia or Italy Segreta, or browse a few of our favorite spots below.
Unlike many of Puglia's inland towns, Polignano a Mare sits dramatically on the Adriatic coast. Its whitewashed buildings perch atop towering limestone cliffs, creating one of the region's most iconic and breathtaking views. Spend time wandering the historic center, enjoying an aperitivo in one of the charming piazzas or at a cliffside restaurant overlooking the crystal-clear turquoise water. If you head down to Cala Monachile, the town's famous beach nestled between the cliffs, keep an eye out for local cliff divers plunging into the sea below. For more inspiration, we recommend Along Dusty Roads' guide to Polignano a Mare.
Alberobello
Alberobello is one of Puglia's most iconic destinations and home to one of Italy's most distinctive landscapes. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town is famous for its centuries-old trulli, whitewashed stone homes topped with whimsical conical roofs found nowhere else in the world. Wander through its charming pedestrian streets lined with artisan shops, local food purveyors and family-run cafés and trattorias, where you can enjoy a leisurely meal surrounded by this truly one-of-a-kind setting. For more inspiration, we recommend Along Dusty Roads' guide to Alberobello.
Matera
If you love history, Matera is an absolute must-visit. One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements, this extraordinary city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where thousands of years of history are etched into every street and stone. Famous for its ancient Sassi cave dwellings carved directly into the limestone cliffs, Matera offers a dramatic landscape unlike anywhere else in Italy. Beyond its remarkable history and architecture, you'll find exceptional restaurants, breathtaking viewpoints and the city's renowned oven-baked bread. For more inspiration, we recommend Along Dusty Roads' guide to Matera.
ActivitiesSAILING IN THE ADRIATIC SEA
Experience Puglia from the water aboard a private sailing yacht or catamaran. Charter a 42-foot sailboat for up to 12 guests or a catamaran accommodating up to 10 guests, and spend the day cruising the stunning Adriatic coastline between Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. It's one of the most memorable ways to discover hidden coves, dramatic limestone cliffs and picturesque seaside villages. Pricing is available upon request through our concierge at concierge@ottoneweddings.com
RENT AND DRIVE AN ITALIAN CLASSIC CAR
Experience Puglia from behind the wheel of a beautifully restored Italian classic—an icon of the country's automotive heritage from the 1960s or '70s. Cruising through the countryside in a vintage car feels like stepping into a classic Italian film, with winding roads lined by ancient stone walls, centuries-old olive groves and historic masserie. It's an unforgettable way to explore the region at your own pace. Pricing is available upon request through our concierge at concierge@ottoneweddings.com
APULIAN COOKING CLASSES
Immerse yourself in an authentic Puglian cooking experience that celebrates the region's rich traditions, culture and flavors. Guided by local experts, you'll learn the techniques and stories behind beloved Italian staples as you prepare fresh pasta, focaccia or taralli just as generations of nonnas have done. After cooking, gather around the table to enjoy your creations together over local wine, ending the experience with a traditional Italian aperitivo. It's one of the best ways to experience Puglian hospitality—through food, conversation and family-style dining. Pricing is available upon request through our concierge at concierge@ottoneweddings.com
