🏛️ Valle d'Itria — Best for First-Timers
Staying in or near Alberobello, Locorotondo or Ostuni puts you at the heart of the region's icons — a converted trullo or masseria here is one of the most memorable ways to experience Apulia. This area is central enough to reach both Bari and the coast within an hour's drive.
⚓ Bari — Best for a City Base
Apulia's capital has the best transport links (its own airport, plus the regional rail network) and a genuinely lively old town. A good choice if you want city energy alongside easy day trips to the rest of the region.
🏖️ Polignano a Mare & the Coast — Best for Beach Access
Staying directly on the Adriatic coast puts you close to Apulia's dramatic cliffside towns and sea caves. Polignano a Mare itself is compact and popular — book well ahead for summer, or consider nearby Monopoli for a quieter, similarly beautiful alternative.
⛪ Lecce — Best for Baroque Architecture & Salento Access
Basing yourself in Lecce puts you close to the Salento peninsula's best beaches, with the bonus of the city's extravagant Baroque architecture right outside your door in the evenings.
💶 Hotels by Budget
Budget (€40–60/night): B&Bs and guesthouses in Bari and the smaller inland towns.
Mid-range (€90–140/night): Converted trulli and masserie in the Valle d'Itria — the sweet spot for a genuinely unique stay.
Luxury (€200+/night): Restored masserie estates with pools and spas, several set among centuries-old olive groves.
✈️ Near the Airports
Staying near Bari or Brindisi airports is rarely necessary beyond a first or last night — both cities are close enough to the region's highlights that a central base makes more sense for the bulk of your trip.
❓ FAQs
What is the best area to stay in Apulia for first-timers?
The Valle d'Itria (around Alberobello, Locorotondo or Ostuni) — it's the most central base for exploring the region's icons and offers the most distinctive accommodation options.
Is Apulia expensive for accommodation?
No — it's one of Italy's best-value regions, with even luxury masserie stays costing less than comparable countryside accommodation in Tuscany.
Should I split my stay across multiple towns?
Yes, if time allows — most visitors combine a few nights in the Valle d'Itria with time on the coast (Polignano a Mare or Lecce/Salento) for a well-rounded trip.