Hidden Gems: Puglia

With its stunning coastal towns, historic villages, and laid-back charm, Puglia is high up on our Hidden Gems destination list.  

Puglia (also known as Apulia), is the easternmost region in Italy, often referred to as ‘the heel of the boot’. It has a long, narrow peninsula that is bordered by the Ionian and Adriatic seas. As well as boasting the longest coastline in Italy, it is home to some of the country’s most archaeologically and historically interesting areas. Holding all the charm of traditional Italian culture, Puglia is famously relaxed, offering visitors the opportunity to ramble along its country roads and medieval streets, visit centuries-old towns nestled in the hills, and enjoy its world-renowned cuisine prepared with local, fresh produce. 

Puglia has a rich farming, wine, and food production heritage, responsible for almost half of Italy’s olive oil harvest as well as pasta and bread, earning it the nickname the “breadbasket of Italy”

The location 

Located in southeastern Italy, Puglia extends from the Fortore River in the northwest to Cape Santa Maria di Leuca at the tip of the Salentine Peninsula. The region contains the provinces of Bari, Barletta-Andria-Trani, Brindisi, Foggia, Lecce, and Taranto. 

The people 

With a population of around four million, Puglia’s residents are known for their warmth and easygoing nature. Since it is not yet a popular destination for international tourists, you will find most residents speak only Italian and may only have a few words of English.   

Tourism   

Unlike Rome, Florence, Tuscany, Umbria, and the Amalfi Coast, Puglia does not have a strong tourism tradition. English is not widely spoken here, shops do not stay open all day to accommodate visitors, and tourist information is in short supply. However, recent years have seen tourism offerings expand, and it continues to do so. 

What makes Puglia unique 

Originally believed to be built by invading Turks, the iconic Trulli is a stone dwelling found only in this region. A whitewashed round structure with a conical roof, Trullis were the traditional homes of peasant farmers. In the UNESCO site of Alberobello, trullis line the town’s streetscapes, transporting visitors back to the Middle Ages. The city of Lecce boasts some incredible Baroque architecture. The region is also known for its delectable cuisine; fresh seafood, local olive oils, handmade pasta, and authentic pizza. 

What to do 

• Polignano a Mare 
• Alberobello (UNESCO town) 
• Brindisi  
• Trani 
• Lecce 

Puglia is perfect for those who want to embrace the slow life; discover astonishing architecture, eat delicious fresh food, and admire the azure sea.  

Best time to visit 

Puglia has a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. Visit in the Spring or Autumn to avoid the scorching temperatures of summer. 

Flying private to Puglia

Chartering a private jet for your trip to Puglia will guarantee a memorable and hassle-free travel experience.  Customize your trip to your exact requirements with tailored itineraries and ensure ultimate privacy and exclusivity. 

Entry airport 

Bari International Airport  

Officially, Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, this airport serving the city of Bari in Italy is located 8 km northwest of the town center.   

• IATA code: BRI 
• ICAO code: LIBD 
• Coordinate: 41°08’17”N 016°45’54”E 
• Elevation: 193 FT / 28.7 °C 
• Fuel: Jet A1 is available  

Operational information    

• No permits are required presently  
• Parking is allowed from 2000Z TO 0500Z, the maximum ground time is three hours 
• The Flight Coordination Office will follow the criteria of time and date of arrival of the requests to confirm the stand allocations  
• Parking confirmation will be given by mail five days before the estimated time of flight arrival 
• The maximum parking time permitted for GA flights is 12 hours from the estimated time of arrival 
• There are two airside FBOs open from 0800 AM to 0800 PM with extensions possible on request 

Commercial flights 

Puglia is served by British Airways, Easyjet, Lufthansa, and Ryanair, amongst others. The two main international airports, Bari and Brindisi, have direct flights from all over Europe. 

Immigration  

A Schengen visa is required for some nationalities. Click here for more information. 

Health screening  

There is no vaccination or PCR requirement for visitors.  

Visitor tips  

• Shops close over the heat of midday but open again in the evening time. So, be prepared! 
• Familiarize yourself with some Italian phrases to ease your communication with the locals 
• The local currency is the EURO  
• Don’t expect the same broad range of accommodation you might in other Italian regions, Puglia is still developing as a tourist destination  

To create your ultimate Puglia travel experience, contact UAS Charter or UAS Executive Travel.

For more Hidden Gems, visit UAS Blog