Coastal Towns of Puglia
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Latest page update: 20 February 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The coastal towns of Puglia rank among the best that Italy has to offer. The region is blessed with some dazzling coastline with two areas in particular that offer a cluster of beautiful coastal resorts.
Puglia's south-eastern corner, the heel of the Italian boot if you like, is an area of outstanding natural beauty known as the Salento. It's characterised by jagged rocks which are regularly interrupted by sandy beaches touched with the brightest aquamarine water. If that wasn't enough, Puglia has a national park area, the Gargano Peninsula which rivals the Salento's beaches and seaside towns. |
Arguably the most famous of Puglia's seaside towns, Polignano a Mare doesn't belong to either of the coastal areas mentioned above, and instead faces out on to the Adriatic to the south west of Bari, the regional capital. Polignano a Mare provides one of the most iconic scenes in the Italian Peninsula with its little shingle beach known as Lama Monachile, enclosed around a bay of emerald green sea.
Unique as that scene is, there's still a huge amount to rival it in Puglia and perhaps nowhere more so than the town of Vieste, the main resort of the Gargano Peninsula. Vieste is flanked by two enormous sandy beaches but its historic centre captures the most imagination: a thin promontory stretching out into the water where a pretty church greets passing ships.
Otranto is a town that's steeped in history, and another that benefits from that dazzling water that surrounds the Salento. Both Otranto and Gallipoli which lies on the opposite side of the Salento facing the Ionian Sea, offer a combination of historical architecture including medieval fortresses, and a selection of wonderful beaches.
Unique as that scene is, there's still a huge amount to rival it in Puglia and perhaps nowhere more so than the town of Vieste, the main resort of the Gargano Peninsula. Vieste is flanked by two enormous sandy beaches but its historic centre captures the most imagination: a thin promontory stretching out into the water where a pretty church greets passing ships.
Otranto is a town that's steeped in history, and another that benefits from that dazzling water that surrounds the Salento. Both Otranto and Gallipoli which lies on the opposite side of the Salento facing the Ionian Sea, offer a combination of historical architecture including medieval fortresses, and a selection of wonderful beaches.
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Polignano a Mare is a picturesque coastal town in the region of Puglia, located along the Adriatic Sea. The town is famous for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, with many buildings perched above the sea, offering stunning views.
Key attractions include the historic old town with its narrow streets, the beautiful Lama Monachile beach, and the impressive Roman bridge. Visitors can also explore the caves and grottos along the coast, accessible by boat. Nearby, the city of Bari offers cultural experiences, while the famous cave-dwelling town of Matera is within reach. Polignano a Mare is known for its beautiful scenery and unique architecture. |
Polignano a Mare
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Vieste is a charming town located on the Gargano Peninsula in Puglia, overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Its medieval old town is characterized by narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings, and quaint squares. Key attractions include the imposing Vieste Castle, the beautiful Pizzomunno Beach, and the nearby dramatic sea caves.
The historic cathedral, dedicated to the Santa Maria Assunta, is also a highlight. Vieste is part of the Gargano National Park, offering stunning natural landscapes and hiking trails. Nearby, the picturesque town of Monte Sant’Angelo features ancient sites, while the Umbra Forest provides a serene escape with lush greenery and diverse wildlife. |
Vieste
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Otranto is a historic town located on the southeastern tip of Puglia, along the Ionian Sea. Known for its stunning coastline, the town features beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Key attractions include the Otranto Cathedral, famous for its intricate mosaic floor, and the impressive Aragonese Castle. The town's old town is a maze of narrow streets, offering a glimpse into its past as a medieval stronghold. Nearby, the Alimini Lakes are popular for their natural beauty, and the rugged coastline of the Cape of Otranto provides breathtaking views. The town is also close to the charming town of Santa Cesarea Terme, known for its thermal baths. |
Otranto
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Gallipoli is a historic town located on the Ionian Sea in the southern part of Puglia. The town is divided into two areas: the old town, situated on a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge, and the newer part, which stretches along the coast.
Major attractions include the impressive Gallipoli Castle, the beautiful beaches, and the Cathedral of Sant'Agata. The town's old centre is filled with narrow, winding streets and charming squares. Close by, the natural reserve of Litorale di Punta Pizzo offers a peaceful retreat with its untouched coastline, while Nardò is just a short drive away, known for its Baroque architecture. |
Gallipoli
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Santa Maria al Bagno is a coastal village located in the Salento region of Puglia, along the Ionian Sea. Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, the area is a popular destination for sunbathing and swimming.
Key attractions include the charming seafront promenade, the historic Torre Santa Maria, and the nearby marine reserve of Porto Selvaggio, which offers hiking paths and scenic views. The village has a relaxed, small-town atmosphere with a selection of local eateries and cafes. Nearby, the town of Nardò is famous for its Baroque architecture, while the vibrant city of Gallipoli is a short drive away, offering cultural and historical experiences. |
Santa Maria al Bagno
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Peschici is a picturesque town located on the Gargano Peninsula in northern Puglia, perched on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Known for its whitewashed buildings and narrow, winding streets, the town offers a glimpse into its medieval past. Major attractions include the 13th-century Peschici Castle, which provides panoramic views of the coastline, and the charming old town with its cobblestone streets. The nearby beaches, such as Baia San Nicola, are famous for their clear waters and scenic surroundings. |
Peschici
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Santa Caterina is a small seaside village located in the southern part of Puglia, near the town of Nardò, on the Ionian coast.
Known for its tranquil beaches and crystal-clear waters, the area is perfect for swimming and relaxation. The village features a few charming restaurants and cafes, offering fresh seafood and local dishes. One of the main attractions is the beautiful cove of the same name, surrounded by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation. Nearby, the Porto Selvaggio Nature Reserve provides a peaceful escape with its walking trails and stunning views. |
Santa Caterina
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Rodi Garganico is a small coastal town located on the northern tip of the Gargano Peninsula in Puglia.
Positioned along the Adriatic Sea, it offers stunning views of the water and is known for its scenic harbour and charming old town. Major attractions include the 13th-century Church of San Nicola di Mira, which overlooks the sea, and the town's bustling waterfront with its promenade. Nearby, the lush forests of the Gargano National Park provide hiking opportunities, while the beaches of Lido del Sole offer beautiful spots for swimming. The town is also a gateway to the beautiful caves and coastline of the Vieste area. |
Rodi Garganico
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Castro is a historic village located on the Adriatic coast of southern Puglia, within the province of Lecce.
Situated in the Salento region, it boasts stunning views of the sea and a charming old town with narrow streets. Key attractions include the ancient Castro Castle, which overlooks the harbor, and the Church of Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, known for its distinctive architecture. The nearby Zinzulusa Cave is a famous natural site, offering impressive stalactites and stalagmites. |
Castro
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Manfredonia is a coastal town located in the northern part of Puglia, along the Gulf of Manfredonia on the Adriatic Sea.
The town is known for its historic landmarks, including the impressive Castle of Manfredonia, built in the 13th century, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, a fine example of Baroque architecture. Visitors can explore the local beaches, such as the sandy stretches at Siponto, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Nearby, the Monte Gargano offers scenic hiking routes and the Monte Sant’Angelo, with its famous Sanctuary of San Michele, is just a short drive away. |
Manfredonia
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Torre dell'Orso is a popular coastal village located along the Adriatic coast in Puglia, near the town of Melendugno. Known for its stunning sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters, it’s a favorite destination for swimming and sunbathing.
The area is home to the iconic "Le Due Sorelle" (The Two Sisters), twin sea stacks rising from the water, creating a dramatic backdrop for the beach. Visitors can explore the nearby Grotta della Poesia, a beautiful natural cave with a crystal-clear pool, perfect for a swim. The town also offers charming coastal paths. |
Torre dell'Orso
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Santa Maria di Leuca is a picturesque town located at the southern tip of Puglia, where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet.
The town is famous for its beautiful coastline, with pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs. A key attraction is the Basilica di Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae, an important religious site overlooking the sea. The historic lighthouse, one of the tallest in Italy, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Nearby, the Grotta del Soffio is a stunning sea cave accessible by boat. The town is also close to the Ciolo Gorge nature reserve. |
Santa Maria di Leuca
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Campomarino is a coastal town located in the province of Taranto, in the region of Puglia. Situated along the Ionian Sea, it is known for its long sandy beaches and clear, shallow waters, making it an ideal destination for swimming and sunbathing.
The town is home to the beautiful Torre di Campomarino, an old coastal watchtower that offers stunning views of the sea. Visitors can enjoy the nearby nature reserves and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Just a short drive away, the historic town of Maruggio offers charming streets and cultural landmarks, while the nearby is the coastal area of Porto Cesareo. |
Campomarino
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Mattinata is a small town located on the Gargano Peninsula along the Adriatic coast.
Surrounded by rugged mountains and olive groves, it offers stunning views of the sea. Major attractions include the Church of Santa Maria della Luce, a beautiful historic church, and the nearby pristine beaches, such as Baia di Mattinata, known for their crystal-clear waters. The town is also close to the Foresta Umbra, a lush forest in the Gargano National Park, ideal for hiking and nature walks. |
Mattinata
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Santa Cesarea Terme is a small spa town located on the southern coast of Puglia, along the Ionian Sea.
It is known for its thermal springs, which have been used since Roman times for their therapeutic properties. The town features a mix of 19th-century architecture and natural beauty, with landmarks such as the ancient thermal baths and the striking Villa Sticchi. Visitors can enjoy the nearby secluded beaches and rocky coves, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Close by, the historic town of Otranto offers cultural attractions. |
Santa Cesarea Terme
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Porto Cesareo is a coastal town located in the Salento region of Puglia, along the Ionian Sea. Famous for its pristine beaches it attracts visitors for sunbathing and water sports.
The town is home to the Porto Cesareo Marine Protected Area, which offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Notable attractions include the Torre Cesarea, a historic coastal tower, and the nearby Punta Prosciutto beach, known for its natural beauty. Just a short drive away, the charming town of Leverano offers local culture and history, while the coastal area of Sant'Isidoro provides more secluded beaches and natural parks. |
Porto Cesareo
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Margherita di Savoia is a coastal town located in the northern part of Puglia, along the Adriatic Sea.
Known for its long sandy beaches and salt flats, it is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The town’s main attraction is the large saltworks, which are among the biggest in Europe and offer a unique landscape. Visitors can also explore the local historic centre, with its quaint streets and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Close by, the town of Barletta offers historical landmarks. |
Margherita di Savoia
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