Puglia has quietly become the place so many UK travellers are typing into search bars this spring. Maybe you saw a photo of a white-washed town with cone roofs, or heard about new direct flights to Bari and Brindisi—whatever the trigger, interest in puglia is up. Now here’s where it gets interesting: cheaper connections, a summer-ready itinerary and a wave of lifestyle-focused coverage (plus influencer posts) have aligned to make Puglia feel both newly discovered and immediately reachable for Brits.
Why Puglia is trending in the UK right now
Several things have converged. Airlines added seasonal routes from London and regional airports, travel writers published upbeat pieces, and social media amplified sun-drenched visuals. Add competitive prices compared with other Italian regions and Puglia becomes a practical pick—not just a pretty backdrop on Instagram.
There’s also a subtle shift in travellers’ priorities: people want authentic places with space, reliable weather and strong food scenes. Puglia offers all three, which helps explain why UK searches and bookings have leapt.
What makes Puglia special: landscapes, towns and food
Puglia (sometimes called Apulia in English) sits on Italy’s heel. Think olive groves that run to the horizon, limestone towns carved with baroque churches, and pockets of coastline that still feel uncrowded. The region’s signature trulli—dry-stone huts with cone roofs—are instantly recognisable and a major draw.
Food is a central reason to go. Puglia is Italy’s pantry: fresh seafood, orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, rustic wines and sun-drenched vegetables. Eating here often feels local and unpretentious, which is exactly what many UK visitors want now.
For background reading on the region’s history and geography, see Apulia on Wikipedia.
Key places to add to an itinerary
– Bari: the regional hub with flights, a lively old town and good rail links.
– Alberobello: the trulli village (touristy but iconic).
– Lecce: baroque architecture and a fantastic food scene.
– Ostuni and Polignano a Mare: white towns and cliffside views.
– Salento peninsula: beaches and local nightlife.
Case study: A week in Puglia for a UK traveller
Here’s a practical example based on recent itineraries I’ve reviewed: fly into Bari on a budget carrier, spend two nights exploring Bari Vecchia and nearby Polignano a Mare, rent a car and head south to Alberobello and Ostuni, then finish with three nights around Lecce and the Salento coast.
Costs (rough estimates): return flights from UK £80–£180 off-peak; mid-range B&B £60–£120/night; car hire £25–£45/day. Total for a week roughly £450–£900 depending on season and style.
When to go: timing and a quick comparison
Timing matters. Summer (July–August) is hot and busy; late spring and early autumn give warm weather with fewer crowds. Winters are mild but quieter—many seaside spots close seasonally.
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–Jun) | Comfortable temps, wildflowers, fewer tourists | Some beach venues not fully open |
| Summer (Jul–Aug) | Reliable sun, festivals, full services | Heat and crowds, higher prices |
| Autumn (Sep–Oct) | Warm seas, harvest events, good value | Shortening days |
| Winter (Nov–Mar) | Low prices, authentic local life | Limited tourist services |
How to get there and practical booking tips
Direct flights from several UK airports now reach Bari and Brindisi on seasonal schedules. For schedules and official tourist info, check the regional pages such as Puglia at Italia.it.
Tips: book flights early for the best fares; consider regional airports to save time; rent a small car for flexibility—public transport is ok between major towns but limited for remote beaches.
Accommodation and unique stays
Stay in a restored trullo for a once-in-a-lifetime night, or pick an agriturismo (working farmhouse) for authentic food experiences. These options often provide better value than city hotels and link you to local producers.
Sustainability and local side-effects to watch
With popularity comes impact. Puglia benefits economically from tourism, but small towns need balanced visitor levels to avoid congestion and resource strain. Look for locally run businesses, stay outside peak weekend hotspots, and support producers directly at markets.
Community-based experiences—olive-press visits, small-winery tastings—help keep money in the region while offering richer visitor experiences.
Real-world examples and quick wins
A recent ripple on social media followed a feature in a UK travel section and the launch of a low-cost route—both nudging searches up by thousands. Anecdotally, UK travellers tell me they now combine Puglia with a week elsewhere in Italy or use it as a primary sun-destination because it feels more relaxed than the Amalfi or Cinque Terre.
For further reading on contemporary travel coverage, check this feature from a major news outlet: BBC Travel on Puglia.
Practical takeaways
- Book early if you’re targeting high summer; flights and rental cars fill fast.
- Consider shoulder seasons (May–June or Sept) for the best balance of weather and crowds.
- Choose agriturismo or trulli stays for authentic, often better-value experiences.
- Rent a car for rural exploration, but plan parking in historic centres.
- Support small businesses and seasonal producers to keep your visit sustainable.
Whether you’re planning a first trip or looking for a quieter Italian alternative, Puglia has the mix—scenery, food, price and access—that explains the UK surge. It’s not just pretty pictures; it’s a practical, reachable region that rewards a little curiosity and planning.
Two small points to remember: check regional opening times outside summer, and be ready for rustic charm rather than flashy resorts. If you go this season, you might return with more than photos—you’ll bring recipes, olive-oil bottles and a reminder that Italy still holds surprises off the beaten track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) offer warm weather, fewer crowds and better value than high summer. July and August are hottest and busiest.
Yes—seasonal direct flights often connect UK airports to Bari and Brindisi. Book early for best fares and check regional airlines for new routes.
Both. Families often appreciate beaches and relaxed agriturismo stays, while solo travellers can enjoy safe towns, accessible transport and abundant food experiences.
Light summer clothes, comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle and a small daypack for coastal hikes and market visits.