Tips for Exploring the South of Italy 

Southern Italy: The ultimate romantic destination.

The south of Italy epitomizes the quintessence of romance with its enchanting landscapes, sun-drenched coastlines, and ancient ruins steeped in history. Here, the rustic charm of Puglia’s trulli houses, the rugged beauty of the Amalfi Coast cliffs, and the tranquil azure waters of the Sicilian beaches create a backdrop so mesmerizing it seems conjured from a dream. The region’s cuisine adds to its allure, offering a feast of fresh seafood, rich olive oils, and the robust flavors of locally-grown produce. This quintessential romantic destination could even inspire wedding ideas for the bold, offering lavish settings for an unforgettable day.

recent years, the region of Puglia has attracted more and more couples in search of authenticity and experiences. The South of Italy is indeed an ideal destination for lovers of relaxation and traditions.

Whether for a weekend or an extended stay, the splendid natural landscapes walks by the sea, historic towns and villages with typical architecture guarantee a change of scenery full of discoveries … Puglia was named the most beautiful region in the world for the second time by National Geographic, Lonely Planet and the New York Times.

So what are you waiting for to put your feet in the heel of the boot?

Our wedding planners in Italy offer you a 5-day travel diary to discover the region’s essentials.

Day 1: The village of Alberobello

Alberobello is a unique place classified as World Heritage by Unesco. Discovering Alberobello is like taking a trip to a timeless village. It is unlike any other city. Visiting and discovering the famous trulli, typical and unusual small white houses with conical roofs, is an unmissable experience in Puglia. The magical atmosphere of the trulli hosts events and festivals throughout the year. You can also admire the beauty of these emblematic constructions of Puglia by driving through the Itria Valley and going to the villages of Cisternino or Locorotondo.

Day 2: The romantic Polignano a Mare

Nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ because of its houses built into the sides of cliffs by the sea, this balcony on the sea offers all the ingredients for a perfect day. The small town centre accessible via the Porta Vecchia combines charming whitewashed streets with beautiful old churches such as the Chiesa Matrice. The rocky promontories of the city offer a spectacular view of the infinite blue of the horizon, thus giving a little air of the end of the world. Polignano a mare beach is certainly one of the most popular with bathers, its green waters contrasting with the rock that surrounds it at the foot of the town.

Day 3: Lecce, the Florence of the South

Lecce is one of the most beautiful cities in southern Italy, characterized by  decorative extravagances of Baroque architecture. This little gem full of elegance and style is a museum in the sky, take the time to observe every detail of its buildings dating from the 17th century! 

The historical monuments, palazzi, castelli and churches were built with Lecce stone, a very soft limestone, which gives a charming harmony to the old town. The overall picture is a breathtaking historic centre full of beauty and colours.

Day 4: Otranto, the eastern city

It is hard to resist the charm of the most eastern city in Italy: located in the province of Lecce, Otranto is both a tourist hub and a place full of history. First Greek and then Roman, in Byzantine times Otranto was one of the most busy ports in the entire Adriatic Sea. The medieval old town with its holiday atmosphere is full of architectural richness with ramparts surrounding the city. 

Enjoy getting lost in its cobbled white streets and explore the historic center, until you reach one of its panoramic terraces that offers a breathtaking view of the Adriatic Sea.

Day 5: Ostuni, the white city

The white city owes its name to the color of its buildings tinted by limestone which, under the rays of the sun, illuminates the alleys of this picturesque little town. Located on a hill, the sparkling Ostuni offers an impressive panorama of centuries-old olive groves and of the Adriatic Sea. 

Many masserie, agricultural farms in the past, are located in this area. The pretty old town, of Greek-Arab influence, is marked by Mediterranean atmosphere and distinctive alleys. You will discover a city with personality and full of history!

Take advantage of the wonderful coastline for a swim break in the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic or the Ionian Sea. Check out our article about the most attractive beaches in Apulia to know more.