Ostuni Italy is Outstanding!

The charm of Ostuni lies in its white architecture and flowered narrow lanes. Streets and steps winding up and down offer glances out to the sea. You will find many places to sit, eat and enjoy the panoramic views which span across the countryside to the Adriatic Sea. Ostuni is known as La Città Bianca (The White City). Colorful flowers and green succulent plants make for a visually stunning appearance in contrast to the white buildings. Ostuni Puglia, is one city definitely worth a visit when in this region! Read on to discover Ostuni’s highlights as well as my favorite Ostuni hotel and restaurants.

Get lost in Centro Storico! The city’s lively hub is Piazza Liberta. Grab a seat and savor an espresso in the morning. In the evening it is filled with strollers, shoppers and late diners. Ostuni becomes abuzz with activity at night. Soak in the atmosphere at one of the many local cafes and restaurants for aperitivo and after dinner music and drinks.

Directly off Piazza Liberta, follow the sloping steps down to Via Vito Tamborino. It consists of a piazza with plenty of shops and eateries. You’ll hear music in the air and see a beautiful view of the sea.

The Duomo di Ostuni (Basilica Concattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta) is an easy short walk from Piazza Liberta. There is a little square in front that sometimes has a live band. And always has tables for the gelato shop next to it. There is also a beautiful arch opposite the church, making the scenery simply lovely!

Ostuni Puglia Eats

The Puglia region has certain local vegetables and traditional dishes that are excellent.
First of all, the typical pasta in Ostuni is Orecchiette. It actually originates from Puglia, dating back to around 1500. A typical orecchiette dish is made with turnip greens and a flavorful sauce. Sometimes with anchovies and breadcrumbs added.
Second, mashed fava bean puree and chicory is a rich and flavorful dish – I really loved it.
Next, a Bombette. YUM! A thin sliced pork cutlet topped with breadcrumbs and cheese. Then rolled and baked into a Bombette. Delish!
Finally, Stracciatella is a traditional Italian cheese which is the creamy center of burrata cheese. It is extremely popular in Puglia and is amazingly delicious! We are crazy about it!

Osteria del Tempo Perso

The absolute best restaurant we had the pleasure of dining at was Osteria del Tempo Perso. Everything about it was fantastic! The food was delicious, the atmosphere divine and the staff was wonderful. We tried all the traditional foods and other dishes which were excellent. You must make reservations, especially in July and August.
Address: Via Gaetano Tanzarella Vitale 47

Antico Borgo Bristot

Antico Borgo Bistrot is a great hot spot for eats and drinks. This unique eatery is built into zig-zag multi-level steps. The view overlooks the countryside to the sea. It is the perfect place for an aperitivo. Moreover the food is delicious! Everything we had at our table of four was excellent. I would say that it is best for lunch or a light dinner. No reservations are accepted, first come, first served.
Address: Via Fina 8

Ostuni Italy Drinks

Bar Perso

We loved the seats conveniently located on the steps of the alleyway. Additionally, there are a few tables lower down. All have stunning views. Very cute place with good drinks and music.

Riccardo Caffe

Riccardo Caffè in Ostuni is a great spot for an aperitivo. We just love outside seating with lounge chairs on the steps.

Ostuni Italy Hotels

This is an Ostuni Hotel that I highly recommend. It is a wonderful place where we stayed for two nights; Vico Bianco Raro Villas. We had the Superior King Room # 5 (La Terra Junior Suite) with terrace. It definitely exceeded my expectations. I absolutely loved Vico Bianco. Not only was our room, terrace and bathroom terrific. But so was the rooftop lounge area, patios and lobby. The included breakfast was excellent – as well as the staff! Moreover, the location is perfect – just steps away from Piazza Liberta.

In summary, to fully explore the many wonderful restaurants, cafes, bars and shops, I recommend spending 2 days in Ostuni. Still, the whole city can be seen in a day, making it perfect to combine with Locorotundo, Polignano a Mare, Aberobello and Lecce, as well as other areas in Puglia.
Ostuni Italy is certainly charming!

Polignano a Mare Restaurants – Best in Town

Savor the Flavor | Best Polignano a Mare Restaurants

You will find Polignano a Mare restaurants serving wonderful pastas or local seafood, either raw or deliciously cooked. Fresh catch of the day changes with the tide. You can enjoy dining locations from the seaside to cute little piazzas. Eggplant is a staple in this area and it is a terrific dish to try, especially with a dollop of stracciatella cheese on top! Here are a few favorites to tickle your tastebuds!
Remember to start by savoring an aperitivo before dining. To finish your meal, you should try a ‘caffè speciale’. It is a traditional sweetened coffee flavored with lemon peel, amaretto and cream. YUMMY! Here are some of my recommendations on the best restaurants in Polignano.

Casa Orecchietta

Casa Orecchietta – A charming space with incredible authentic food, delicious wine and wonderful service. Their braciole (thin sliced beef stuffed with breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, pine nuts) will melt in your mouth! Save room for their delicious Tiramisu. It is a little bit away from the tourist area, but worth it, since it is everything an Italian meal should be!
Address: Piazza Caduti di Via Fani 7

Bella ‘Mbriana

Bella ‘Mbriana is an excellent choice for dinner overlooking the main piazza of the old town. The location is perfect, right in the heart of Polignano a Mare. Delicious food and excellent staff. Definitely try the Orecchiette and the amazing pizza choices!
Address: Piazza Vittorio Emanuele 22

Polignano a Mare Cave Restaurant – Grotta Palazzese

Yes, this is the Polignano a Mare cave restaurant you’ve heard about. Grotta Palazzese is the famous restaurant carved directly into the rock. It is quite beautiful and atmospheric, if you love ambience, this is the place for you! Be that as it may, I feel obligated to inform you that the food is mediocre. I dined here a few years before Puglia exploded on the scene and according to current reviews, the best thing about it is still the view. Therefore, I skipped it this year. Reservations online with advance payment only.
Address: Via Narciso 59

Pescaria

Pescaria is a delicious restaurant where you feast on unconventional fast food, enjoying seafood both raw and cooked. WOW what amazing combinations make up their amazing menu. There seems to be a line out the door at all times. Moreover, this is the flagship restaurant – to date there are 7 others in Italy and one rumored to open in NYC. This is your go-to place for seafood sandwiches in a fast, casual and delicious format.
Address: Piazza Aldo Moro 6/8, Polignano a Mare, Italy

Massari

We all have priorities in restaurants including amazing food, charming ambiance, as well as first class service. Moreover, some like to dine at a trendy scene. My recipe is to mix all these ingredients and suggest the best Polignano restaurants to you. Buon Appetito!

Casual or Take-out – Another place to get delicious food is Massari Food Bar! Definitely stop here for a quick bite or for a beach snack. Honestly it serves the best tomato foaccia that I have ever tasted! This very popular Apulian gastronomic tradition includes fresh tomatoes and olives. Of course, I can’t wait to have it again! Very casual, eat in or take out.
Address: Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi 16, Polignano a Mare, Italy

Discover my favorite restaurants in Lecce, Ostuni and Locorotundo. Don’t miss these beautiful towns while in Puglia!

Polignano a Mare Italy – Puglia’s Treasure

Discover the beauty of Polignano a Mare in Italy, famous for its stunning limestone cliffs and crystal clear sea. Explore top attractions and enjoy delicious local cuisine. Perfect for a memorable visit to Puglia.

Polignano a Mare, Italy is everything you look for in a beautiful village. It is famous for its unparalleled position atop the limestone cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Bright white stone, contrasting against the impossibly clear sea offers magnificent and spectacular views. Certainly, it is a treasure hidden among the rocks. Well known for the beauty of its landscapes, as well as its shimmering sea and charming town, Polignano Puglia is well worth the visit.

What to See

Polignano’s main attraction is its balcony which overlooks the most photographed beach in Puglia, Lama Monachile. This beach is known for the spectacular beauty of its landscape and its crystal clear sea. Located in a cove nestled between two massive cliffs, it is impossible not to notice from every viewpoint. This is a public beach that we had a thoroughly enjoyable few days at. We had so much fun jumping off the rocks and simply tanning and watching the activity. Bring your own towels and maybe grab something to eat since this is not a full-service beach.

Lama Monacille — Lama Monachile – swimming view from viewpoint in town.

Polignano Rock Jumping — Lama Monachile – swimming view from viewpoint in town.

Activities

Polignano, Italy has many places to shop for clothes and beautiful ceramics, as well as other items. Of course, it is also perfect for a day at the beach and strolling through its charming town. An afternoon gelato and delicious dinner is always in store for you. On the more exciting side, you can take one of many boat or a walking tours. Moreover, you can rent kayaks or rickshaws.

What to See

Here are a few significant sights to find during your visit….
Lama Monachile Beach (Cala Porto)
Santa Maria Assent Church – dates back to the 13th century.
Arch of the Marquis (Port Grande)- the entrance into old town, built in 1530.
Palazzo dell’Orologio Clock Tower located in beautiful Piazza Vittorio Emanuele ll.
Domenico Modugno‘s statue
Finally……savor a spectacular dinner at one of many charming restaurants in Polignano!

Polignano a Mare is the birthplace of Domenico Modugno. He is one of Italy’s most cherished singer-songwriters. He is famous for the song ‘Nel blu dipinto de blu’ also known as VOLARE. You have definitely heard it, since the song is as popular today as it was in the 1950’s.

You will love Polignano and all of Puglia. It is truly a beautiful and unique region of Italy. I suggest staying at least a week to see all its splendor and to soak up the wonderful culture and delicious local cuisine. Other great towns to visit are Alberobello – the Trulli Town, Lecce, Locorotundo, Ostuni, and Monopoli. In addition, Matera is amazing – nearby but in the region of Basilicata.

Restaurants

Jump to my favorite restaurants here. 🍝🍕

Polignano a Mare Hotels – Where to Stay

San Michele Suite – For a luxury stay in a perfect located in the historic center, this is the place for you. It is a gorgeous hotel with exceptional service and beautiful rooms. Make sure you book a room with a fabulous view over the beach. Moreover, don’t miss sunset drinks and snacks on the spectacular rooftop. You will love every minute at San Michele Suite.
Address: Via Arco Bellipario 5, Polignano a Mare Puglia

B&B nel Blu Dipinto di Blu – This is a clean and modern B&B on the main street in the heart of old town. It is spotlessly clean with a sleek design, and it is cozy and comfy! Of course, booking a a balcony overlooking Via Roma is great for people watching while enjoying a drink.
Address: Via Roma 72, Polignano a Mare Puglia

Polignano a Mare Italy Picture Gallery

Experience the exceptional beauty of Polignano Puglia, with its unparalleled sea views and charming town. Delight in a visit to Lama Monachile Beach and savor a spectacular dinner at one of the charming restaurants.

Alluring Lecce Italy

Puglia’s Baroque City

Lecce, Puglia is a beautiful city with unmistakable style. It’s known for its Baroque architecture, Roman monuments and ancient amphitheater. The historic center is enchanting. You will find beautiful seventeenth-century buildings adorned with ornate details. Not to mention, there are architectural surprises around every corner. Adding to its beauty is that everything was built with local ‘Lecce Limestone’ which bathes the town in glowing shades of cream and golden depending how the sun hits it. Lecce Italy, nicknamed ‘The Florence of the South’, is definitely worth a visit.

Moreover, there are many main attractions to see in the historic center of Lecce Italy. The highlight of these being the Roman Amphitheater located in the main piazza of old town. Remarkably, this spectacular theater was buried under the earth for centuries while structures were built above. Its hidden existence was discovered in 1901, when it was unearthed while excavation began to build a bank. The amphitheater is surrounded by other ancient ruins including a Baroque triumphal arch, all seen in one sweeping view!

Things to do in Lecce

Basilica di Santa Croce Lecce — Basilica di Santa Croce

Small enough to walk everywhere and with so many unique things to see, here are some things to see in Lecce.

* Visit the Cattedrale (cathedral) of Santa Maria Assunta. It is in the Piazza del Duomo, one of the most beautiful squares in Lecce. Perfect for people watching and enjoying the ambiance.
* Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce. It is a superb example of the most intricate Baroque works in Italy. Moreover, it possesses hidden stories and words on its facade.
* Visit Progetto, which is a contemporary art gallery. By appointment only

Best Restaurants in Lecce Puglia

Restaurants in Lecce
Ristorante Doppio Zero — Ristorante Doppio Zero

In Lecce Puglia the atmosphere is lively and bustling. Day and night, the city will delight you with its elegant alleyways and delicious restaurants.
In fact, an excellent restaurant we love is Doppio Zero 🏆. The food is delicious and the service is friendly and excellent.
In like manner, listed below are more delicious Lecce establishments recommended by two local residents: my daughter and her boyfriend! Take the time to enjoy these restaurants in Lecce.
🍝 Restaurants – Trattoria dall’Antiquario, I Latini and Zio Pesce.
🍷 Aperitivo and Cocktails – Quanto Basta, Barroccio (casual), Caffe Cittadino (go upstairs for a nice view of Piazza Oronzo) and Miro Coffee Bistrot.
🍦 Gelato – Martinuccio or Natale

Hotels in Lecce Italy

Alvino Suite & Breakfast
Hotels in Lecce — Alvino Suites

We stayed at a terrific place in Lecce named Alvino Suite & Breakfast. It offered a sweeping view from the Amphitheater to the Piazza Sant’Oronzo. Our room was huge and beautiful with a balcony to view it all. Furthermore, directly downstairs is a delicious Pasticceria & Gelateria. You should try a Pasticciotto Leccese – a famous custard cream-filled pastry of southern Puglia.

Another place we love is Airbnb La Casa del Mare(k). It is an entire one bedroom condo with modern, chic decor. In addition, it is spotlessly clean and includes everything you will need for your stay – including a parking spot. La Casa del Mare is located directly outside of old town, only steps away! Furthermore, it is a guest favorite and one of the most loved B&B’s in the area. I highly recommend!

Looking for popular meeting places? Head to Piazzetta Santa Chiara and Porta San Biagio – especially in the evening since there are plenty of restaurants, pubs and clubs.

Lecce, Puglia is definitely worth a visit as it is a beautiful city. Not to mention, there are many beautiful Salento beaches you can visit by car from here.

Other must see charming Puglian towns are Ostuni, Locorotondo and Polignano a Mare! It is only a 1 hour drive to Ostuni and 1.5 hour drive to either Locorotondo or Polignano.

Lecce Picture Gallery

Gate to Lecce — Porto Napoli (above) is one of the three remaining gates leading to Lecce’s historic walled city. Of course, built to protect Lecce from the Turks and any other invaders.

This adorable tiny car is owned by #bruna.pizzichini.

Puglia Italy

Thanks to Instagram, Puglia, Italy has become a very popular region – just look at pictures! There are beautiful, white-washed villages, amazing beaches, delicious Apulian food and wonderful people. All these reasons will make your visit a very memorable one! Not to mention, it is very convenient to rent a car and visit practically all of it, since many towns are a short drive away from each other, and all are near the beautiful coast.

Having the longest coastline of any mainland Italian region, Puglia consists of the entire ‘heel’ of Italy’s boot shape. Surrounded by the Adriatic Sea on the east, and the Ionian Sea on the west. Both being part of the Mediterranean Sea.

The Most Picturesque Towns in Puglia

Ostuni at night at Piazza Liberta — Locorotondo is Lovely!

Another spectacular place to visit is Matera. Not in the Puglia region, but close enough to drive to. It is truly a unique, must visit town.

Puglia Italy Map

Locorotondo is Lovely!

The Puglian town of Locorotondo, Italy is definitely enchanting! I was greeted by a maze of white-washed houses adorned with elegant wrought-iron balconies, dripping with flowers! Not to mention, Locorotondo Puglia is listed as one of Italy’s prettiest small towns in I borghi più belli d’Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). This is certainly a well-deserved honor!

Locorotondo (rotundo means round) is a village built in a circular fashion positioned above the beautiful Valle d’Itria. The hillside is filled with vineyards, olive groves and sprinkled with Trulli homes. Furthermore, I found a wonderful maze of pretty narrow streets which wind up to the central piazza.

Things to see and do…..

Via Nardelli is the ‘balcony’ road of town – a wonderful place for you to view the spectacular countryside surrounding Locorotondo Italy. Definitely take a nice walk and enjoy the panoramic views of the valley below. On Via Nardelli, you will find great places to sit and eat. After all, it’s time for an Aperol Spritz! Moreover, you can take a staircase down from here, to the vineyards of Sirose Bufano Winery for a wine tasting and bites.

We had the most amazing lunch and drinks at Controra overlooking the countryside. An incredible sandwich of prosciutto, stracciatella cheese, and pistachios. Stracciatella is the delicious gooey inside of burrata cheese and is extremely popular in Puglia! I suggest you make a stop here!

Locorotondo Puglia is a town to simply get lost in for a few hours or immersed in for a day or two. The great thing about Locorotondo is that it is not yet crowded with tons of tourists. Therefore, you can stroll around and really get the natural vibe of this special town. Centro Storico has many tiny streets to wander and places to sit in the sun and just take in the atmosphere.

What to See & Do

By all means, roam the white washed streets and take a huge amount of pictures. Furthermore, try traditional Puglian food, such as orecchiette. And let’s not forget the wine! There are several wineries and wine bars with wine straight from the Puglia region.

Palazzo Morelli

At the center of the old town is stunning Palazzo Morelli. The palace boasts an entrance in Baroque architecture which is the finest example in Locorotondo. The ornate balconies with rounded wrought iron railings, is a true example of supreme art and engineering from the 18th century.

Be sure to visit Villa Comunale Park. It contains 19th century gardens and has a beautiful view of the valley below. There is an extremely moving monument honoring all local fallen soldiers from during WW1 and WW2. It was so sad to see the same last names from one war to the next. Generations of families sacrificed their loved ones to fight fascism and Nazi Germany. It is hard to believe this happened, in what is now a beautiful, peaceful town.

My Favorite Restaurant in Locorotondo Italy

U Curdunn is a delicious restaurant serving traditional local cuisine. You can dine outside or in the elegant, stone vaulted rooms inside. Great atmosphere with excellent pastas and wines. You won’t be disappointed!

Locorotondo Hotel – My Favorite

When I booked a suite at Sotto Le Cummerse Albergo Diffuso, I never imagined what we would get for such a great price. We had an entire three-floor apartment with 2 bedrooms and bathrooms, a full kitchen and a terrace! Moreover, they owned the best breakfast spot just steps away. I highly recommend this excellent hotel – you will be very happy! Definitely my favorite Locorotondo Hotel and one of the best on our trip.

I fell in love with Locorotondo, Puglia and its locals – when you visit, you will also. In summary, in order to fully explore the restaurants, cafes, and shops, I recommend spending one night in Lorocotondo. However, the whole city can be seen in a day, making it perfect to combine with Ostuni, Polignano a Mare, Aberobello and Lecce, as well as other areas in Puglia.
Locorotondo Italy is certainly charming!

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Ostuni Italy is Outstanding!

Ostuni Puglia Eats

Osteria del Tempo Perso

Antico Borgo Bristot

Ostuni Italy Drinks

Bar Perso

Riccardo Caffe

Ostuni Italy Hotels

Polignano a Mare Restaurants – Best in Town

Savor the Flavor | Best Polignano a Mare Restaurants

Casa Orecchietta

Bella ‘Mbriana

Polignano a Mare Cave Restaurant – Grotta Palazzese

Pescaria

Massari

Polignano a Mare Italy – Puglia’s Treasure

What to See

Activities

What to See

Restaurants

Polignano a Mare Hotels – Where to Stay

Polignano a Mare Italy Picture Gallery

Alluring Lecce Italy

Puglia’s Baroque City

Things to do in Lecce

Best Restaurants in Lecce Puglia

Hotels in Lecce Italy

Lecce Picture Gallery

Puglia Italy

The Most Picturesque Towns in Puglia

Puglia Italy Map

Locorotondo is Lovely!

Things to see and do…..

What to See & Do

Palazzo Morelli

My Favorite Restaurant in Locorotondo Italy

Locorotondo Hotel – My Favorite