How to Spend 2 Days in Alberobello and Locorotondo

Not only are Alberobello and Locorotondo two of the most beautiful villages in Puglia’s Itria Valley, they are also two of the most conveniently located. Set at the top of the Salento Peninsula, the towns are a practical base for exploring to the north and south. Here are a few ways to see the valley and peninsula in two days.

Day 1: The Itria Valley

Morning: Avoid the crowds that will clog the narrow lanes at midday by beginning your morning with a walking tour of Alberobello’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit some of the more than 1,000 historic trulli, the valley’s traditional, small, round cottages topped with conical roofs, as well as the trullo-style Sant’Antonio Church and unique 2-story Trullo Sovrano.

Afternoon: Sleepy Locorotondo has an understated charm and relaxed pace that is a welcome respite from the streets of Alberobello, often packed with tourists. This afternoon, take a tour on foot through Locorotondo’s historic center, or join a bike or Vespa tour that includes a stop in town as well as a turn through the pretty surrounding countryside.

Night: Set out just past the confines of the Itria Valley to tour the Castel del Monte fortress or the Gnatia archaeological ruins. Gourmands can opt instead for an olive oil tour or a stop in Martina Franca to learn about capocollo salami production. Alternatively, end the day with an excursion to the scenic village of Polignano a Mare or inland Conversano.

Day 2: North or South

Morning: Architecture enthusiasts can head south into the Salento Peninsula to tour the sumptuous town of Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South” for the ornate baroque architecture of its churches and palaces. Learn about the history of this elegant small city, and visit its historic artisan workshops during a walking tour of the center.

Afternoon: Alternatively, set your sights north to the bustling port of Bari, the most important city in Puglia. Take a walking tour through its historic heart, Bari Vecchia, to visit its soaring churches, vibrant squares, and quiet backstreets, where local women hand-roll pasta on tables set up outside.

Night: Whether you’ve struck out to the north or south, the only way to end the day in Puglia is on the beach. Stop in one of the many coastal villages for a waterfront dinner of fresh fish or seafood, or relax on a deck chair at the water’s edge as the sun goes down.