Puglia
The heel of Italy's boot, Puglia offers sun-drenched landscapes, ancient olive groves, beautiful coastlines, and a cuisine centered around simple, high-quality ingredients.
Discover the Landscape
Puglia's landscape is characterized by endless olive groves (some with trees over 1,000 years old), vineyards, and fields of wheat that give way to pristine beaches along both the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The region is relatively flat compared to much of Italy, with the Murge plateau in the center providing gentle rolling hills covered with Mediterranean scrub.
Local Specialties
Puglia is famous for its distinctive flavors and culinary traditions. Here are some dishes you must try during your visit.
Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa
The region's signature pasta dish features small, ear-shaped pasta tossed with turnip tops, garlic, anchovies, and chili. The handmade orecchiette ('little ears') are traditionally made by skilled local women who shape them with their thumbs.
Burrata
This creamy cheese originated in Puglia and consists of an outer shell of solid mozzarella filled with soft stracciatella and cream. When cut open, the creamy interior spills out, creating a luxurious addition to salads and antipasti.
Focaccia Barese
Bari's version of focaccia is a regional specialty topped with fresh tomatoes, olives, and often potatoes. The dough is made with semolina flour and local olive oil, creating a crisp exterior and soft interior.
Suggested Sights
While your culinary journey focuses on local food and traditions, Puglia also offers stunning places worth discovering. Here are a few highlights to explore at your own pace.
Trulli of Alberobello
These distinctive conical-roofed limestone dwellings are unique to Puglia's Itria Valley. The UNESCO-protected town of Alberobello features over 1,500 trulli, creating a fairytale-like landscape that dates back to the 14th century.
Castel del Monte
This enigmatic octagonal castle was built in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II. A UNESCO World Heritage site, its perfect geometric design and astronomical alignments continue to intrigue visitors and scholars alike.
Polignano a Mare
This stunning coastal town perches on limestone cliffs above the Adriatic Sea. Its historic center features white-washed buildings, narrow streets, and a picturesque cove beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
Experience Puglia with Us
Join our culinary tour to taste authentic Puglia cuisine and explore its beautiful landscapes.
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