EXPLORE

Where to stay/explore

Puglia offers a multitude of options for towns to explore and stay in, so you can take your pick of visiting inland or coastal. Each of the options below are accessible within a

1 hour drive from the venue, with the exception of Rome (3.5 hour train or ~1 hour flight).

Rome

Lively / Bustling

Rome is the metropolitan capital of Italy - we all know her, we all love her! It is home to some of the most unique historic sites and rich with Italian culture. Immerse yourself with fantastic restaurants, captivating museums, luxurious shopping, 0r sight-seeing in the vast network of Roman neighbourhoods. With so much to see and do, Rome makes a great central starting point for your travels before heading into the more relaxed Italian countryside.

Goody 1976 (Great little patio for breakfast and/or lunch)
Marzapane (Cafe with incredible breakfast & amazing coffee)
Bar San Calisto (Cafe in the Trastevere neighbourhood; Stanley Tucci's favourite cafe in Rome)
Suppli Roma (Hole in the wall serving Suppli, a Roman treat)
Enoteca Buccone (Relaxed rustic wine bar; perfect for a glass before dinner)
SUD (Small family-run restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere & great service)
Trattoria de Teo (Classic, boisterous Italian eatery in the Trastevere neighbourhood)
Ristrorante Puntarella (Intimate restaurant serving some of our favourite dishes we've had in Italy)
SantoPalato Roma (Restaurant serving classic Roman dishes with a modern twist)
Nannarella/Tonnarello/Da Enzo (If you know, you know - these live up to the hype)

Monopoli

Charming / Coastal

Monopoli is a gorgeous beach town known for its vibrant, historic city centre and delicious seafood. You may choose to relax on the many nearby beaches (Cala Porta Vecchia) or stroll through the Old Town, finding your way to the scenic outer walls and picturesque inner harbour with the renowned blue fishing boats.

Sulameria Gustavo (Hole in the wall lunch spot serving authentic grab-and-go sandwhiches)
Premiato Caffé Venezia (Lunch spot in the heart of the Old Town serving up some great pasta and wine)
Lido Cala Paradiso (Beach club just outside of the city)

Ostuni

Authentic / Quaint

Ostuni, often referred to as the "White City," was the first city we ever visited in Puglia; and it remains one of our all time favourites. Perched on a hilltop, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic Sea. It's narrow, charming streets offer endless opportunities to immerse yourself in true Apulian culture; Whether it's dining at an intimate family-run restaurant or grabbing a cocktail overlooking the Adriatic, we highly recommend that you visit Ostuni during your time in Puglia.

Ristorante Taverna Della Gelosia (Higher end dinner spot in a garden-like setting)
Osteria Piazzetta Cattedrale (Super intimate family run spot; Michelin Bib Gourmand)
Casa San Giacomo (Another local family run spot; our personal favourite)
Forno 31 (Oldest bakery in Ostuni; absolutely must try the cornettos)
La Guilda (Small cafe serving light breakfast)
Bellavista Pizzeria Bistrot (Authentic pizza; ask for outdoor seating for the best view)
Bar Perso (Cocktail spot nestled in an alleyway with scenic views)

Bari

Upbeat / Historic

This charming old town invites endless nooks to explore, while the bustling waterfront offers beautiful views and a lively atmosphere of bars, restaurants, and shops. Bari is famous for its fresh seafood (you'll notice a themee with all of these spots) and traditional Apulian pasta dishes (make sure to visit the Strada Delle Orriechette). With a blend of cultural heritage and more modern Italian living, Bari is a wonderful place to explore when you arrive in Puglia. *Note: There are flights available from Toronto to Bari, often with a short layover if you don't plan on stopping in major hubs (This is the route we are flying)*

Antica Caffetteria dell'Angolo (Local cafe; great for a quick cappucinno and cornetto)
Voglia Pane e Vino (Lunch spot serving up great sandwhiches and spritzes)
Le Nichie (Bustling seafood eatery with great service; would recommend going for dinner)
Antica gelateria Gentile (The best authentic gelato we have had in Italy)

Polignano a Mare

Scenic / Vibrant

Polignano a Mare is a stunning coastal town, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. You may choose to explore sea caves, relax on the beautiful Polignano a Mare beach (The most famous beach in Puglia), or enjoy delectable fresh-caught seafood and local cuisine. Although we have not personally been yet, we have heard nothing but great things so if you have time for even a short day trip, definitely do it! You'll have to give US your reccs for this one!