Puglia, Italy Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Puglia is a charming region in southern Italy known for its beautiful beaches, quaint villages, and delicious cuisine. Located on the Adriatic coast, Puglia boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, with influences from Greek, Roman, and Norman civilizations. Its picturesque landscape of rolling hills, olive groves, and whitewashed buildings makes it a popular destination for tourists seeking a peaceful and authentic Italian experience. From the stunning baroque city of Lecce to the charming seaside towns of Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, Puglia offers something for every traveler. Come and discover the beauty and charm of Puglia for yourself.

Why Puglia, Italy?

  • Puglia is the birthplace of the 'trulli' cone-shaped houses with white-washed walls.
  • The region is one of the most popular destinations for visitors to Italy, with its beautiful coastline, stunning medieval villages and delicious food.
  • Puglia is home to one of the oldest olive trees in the world, which is estimated to be over 2000 years old.
  • The region is known for its production of wines, olive oils, and cheeses.
  • Puglia is home to the largest castle in the world, Castel del Monte, which was built in the 13th century by Frederick II.

Puglia, Italy Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
54° F
° F
February
55° F
° F
March
59° F
° F
April
64° F
° F
May
73° F
° F
June
79° F
° F
July
84° F
° F
August
84° F
° F
September
79° F
° F
October
70° F
° F
November
63° F
° F
December
55° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.1 inches
February
2.3 inches
March
2.2 inches
April
1.6 inches
May
1.5 inches
June
1.3 inches
July
1.1 inches
August
1.3 inches
September
2.2 inches
October
2.5 inches
November
2.4 inches
December
2.6 inches

History

Puglia, is a beautiful region located in the “heel” of Italy’s boot-shaped peninsula. Its history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. Throughout the centuries, Puglia has been shaped by various civilizations, each leaving their own mark on the region.

The ancient Greeks were the first to leave a lasting influence on Puglia. They established colonies along the coast, introducing new agricultural techniques and building impressive structures such as the Temple of Hera in the town of Metaponto. The Romans also left their mark on Puglia, building roads, aqueducts, and amphitheaters, including the famous Amphitheater of Lecce.

In the Middle Ages, Puglia was ruled by different empires and kingdoms, including the Byzantine, Norman, and Swabian dynasties. Each brought their own culture and architecture to the region, resulting in a unique blend of styles. The Normans, in particular, left behind stunning examples of Romanesque architecture, such as the famous cathedral of Trani.

During the Renaissance, Puglia was under Spanish rule and experienced a period of economic and cultural growth. The town of Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South,” flourished during this time with the construction of many Baroque-style buildings, including the Basilica of Santa Croce.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Puglia saw a wave of emigration, with many people leaving the region for America and other parts of Europe. This led to a decline in population and economic struggles for the region. However, in recent years, Puglia has undergone a renaissance, with a renewed focus on tourism and agriculture.

Today, Puglia is known for its stunning coastline, picturesque towns, and delicious cuisine. The region is also famous for its unique trulli, traditional stone houses with conical roofs, found mainly in the town of Alberobello. Puglia’s rich history can be seen in its architecture, art, and traditions, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the authentic culture of Italy.

Transportation on Puglia, Italy

Getting to Puglia, Italy and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are generally well-maintained but can be narrow in rural areas and villages. Be cautious of local drivers who may navigate tight spaces quickly.
  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Parking can be challenging in historic centers like Ostuni and Lecce. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Puglia’s countryside, coastal towns, and vineyards.

Local Transportation

Puglia, offers a variety of transport options to explore its charming villages, stunning coastline, and historic landmarks. Renting a car is one of the best ways to discover the region’s hidden gems, from the famous trulli houses of Alberobello to the beautiful beaches of the Gargano Peninsula. Public buses are an affordable way to travel between larger towns like Bari, Lecce, and Brindisi, although they may not always be the fastest option. For those seeking a more scenic experience, regional trains connect major cities and towns, offering picturesque views of the countryside. Taxis are available but can be more expensive, especially for longer trips.

Know Before You Go...® - Puglia, Italy Travel Tips

Before making their way to Puglia, Italy , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Puglia, Italy even more relaxing.

Capital: Bari
Population: 4,077,166 (estimated)
Size: 7,458 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: The official language spoken in Puglia is Italian. However, the secondary language spoken in Puglia is the local dialect, known as Apulian, which is a variation of Italian. This dialect is primarily spoken in rural areas.
Currency:
  • Puglia uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.
  • In Puglia, cash is widely accepted and is the preferred method of payment for most transactions. However, major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are also widely accepted in most establishments, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Some smaller shops and restaurants may only accept cash, so it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
  • ATMs, known as Bancomat in Italy, are readily available in Puglia and can be found in most towns and cities. They dispense Euros and usually have an English language option. However, it is always advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with using your card abroad.
  • Traveler's checks are not commonly used in Puglia, and it may be challenging to find a place that accepts them. It is advisable to exchange them for cash at a bank or currency exchange office before your trip.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of 10% of the total bill. However, some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so it is best to check before leaving an additional tip.
  • Tipping is not expected in cafes or bars, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.
  • For taxi rides, rounding up the fare is sufficient as a tip.
  • Tipping for tour guides and drivers is at your discretion, but 5-10% of the total cost is considered a generous gesture.
  • Value Added Tax (VAT) in Puglia is 22%, which is included in the price of goods and services.
  • Non-EU citizens can claim a VAT refund on purchases made in Italy. You can ask for a tax-free form from the store and get it stamped at the airport before leaving the country.
Dress Code: The dress code in Puglia is typically casual and comfortable, with a focus on light, airy clothing suitable for warm weather.
Topography: Puglia is a region in southern Italy known for its flat and fertile landscape, dotted with olive groves, vineyards, and coastal cliffs.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +39 * Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the region, including rural and coastal areas. * Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi for guests.

Puglia, Italy Weddings and Honeymoons

In Puglia, Italy getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Apply for a marriage license at the local Comune (Town Hall) in the chosen municipality in Puglia.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Birth certificates (translated into Italian and certified with an Apostille).
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage (Nulla Osta) issued by your country’s embassy in Italy.
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
  • Application form provided by the Comune.

Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in Italian by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak Italian.

Costs: Marriage fees vary by municipality but typically range from €200 to €500 for non-residents. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Puglia offers enchanting venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including historic masserias (traditional farmhouses), olive groves, and coastal villas. Popular locations include the trulli of Alberobello, the cliffs of Polignano a Mare, and Baroque churches in Lecce. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.