Puglia & Southern Italy

Puglia forms the "heel" of the Italian boot and is rapidly becoming a favorite for families seeking a slower, more authentic Italian experience. The landscape is defined by vast olive groves, whitewashed towns, and two different coastlines (Adriatic and Ionian). The iconic image of Puglia is the Trullo—a dry stone hut with a conical roof found mainly in the Itria Valley. In Alberobello, you can not only walk among thousands of these structures but actually stay in one. For kids, sleeping in a "gnome house" is an unforgettable memory.

The region is largely flat, which is a relief for parents pushing buggies. Lecce, known as the "Florence of the South," is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture but has a relaxed vibe. The central piazza is a great place for kids to run around while parents enjoy a caffè leccese (iced coffee with almond milk). Nearby, on the coast, you'll find some of Italy's best beaches. The area south of Lecce, known as the Salento, is often called the "Maldives of Italy" because of its shallow, transparent waters and white sand—ideal for safe swimming.

For nature lovers, the Gargano Peninsula in the north is a protected national park with dense forests and dramatic limestone cliffs. Near Bari, the Grotte di Castellana offers guided tours deep underground into massive caverns full of stalactites and stalagmites. Just across the regional border (but usually visited on a Puglia trip) is Matera, famous for its ancient cave dwellings (Sassi). Exploring its stone labyrinths feels like stepping onto a movie set.

Public transport is limited in Puglia, so renting a car is essential to reach the best beaches and masserie (fortified farmhouses, many of which are now family hotels). The summer heat is fierce, often exceeding 35°C (95°F), so plan sightseeing for early morning or late afternoon, embracing the long midday siesta.