Once known as Italy’s best-kept secret, Puglia, in southern Italy, has now become one of the most trending destinations to visit in summer – and for good reason. Golden hour seems to last all day long, the sea rivals the waters of the Caribbean and the food is so good you’ll never want to leave.
Recently, we sent model and influencer Janice Joostema to the fairytale region for a stay in our villa, Masseria Le Monache, equipped with our luxury guide to Italy’s boot complete with which towns to visit, which restaurants to dine in, which antique markets to shop at and even which islands to hop to next. Scroll for the need-to-knows, and for more information on booking your Italian getaway, please contact a member of our team.
Known as the Florence of the south, Lecce, a city in Puglia’s Salento region, comes top of our list as the must-visit destination for any traveller visiting southern Italy. Visit for the ornate churches and ancient ruins and stay for the authentic food, often made by rural families and always with seasonal produce. Our recommendation? Trattoria Nonna Tetti – ask the staff what’s good and you can’t go wrong.
If you’re catching a flight into Puglia, you can get to Lecce by train, bus or car (of which, we can arrange for you).
What to do
Like any good European hotspot, Puglia knows how to do luxury beach clubs well – plus wine tastings and cooking classes, naturally. For a day spent in the sun (or under an umbrella) we’d suggest heading to Coccaro Beach Club for its acclaimed fish restaurant and sushi bar or Bagno Marino Archi, set in the cliffs of Santa Cesarea Terme. And for wine tastings and cooking classes? Let us know what you’re into and leave the rest to us.
Where to shop
From fashion to antiques, ceramics and more, in Puglia you’ll find an impressive selection of lively markets and artisan shops. Head to Via Soprano in Bari for Italian fashion, shoes and accessories, plus the Corso Mazzini and Via Nicolai food markets if you want to bring home a taste of southern Italy.
Where to stay
Masseria Le Monache
Nestled in the heart of Puglia, amid ancient olive groves and enchanting landscapes, lies Masseria Le Monache—a historic treasure dating back to 1450, originally an old convent.
This sacred retreat, once home to nuns devoted to prayer, is now an idyllic escape where guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. Surrounded by centuries-old olive trees and a charming avenue, the Masseria offers a serene oasis. The lush grounds provide a picturesque setting for al fresco dinners, where guests can savour delicacies harvested directly from the estate’s rich orchard. For more information on this villa and the rest of our Puglia portfolio, get in touch with christina@obprivate.co.uk .
Where to head next
Though the Caribbean-like waters of Puglia make it hard to want to leave, an added benefit of this region is the ease of island hopping to equally as beautiful places nearby. Visit San Dominio for incredible beaches, San Nicola to awe at historical sites or the island of Capraia to swim between the rocky coves.
