The “I Wish I was Staying Longer” Guide to Puglia, Italy
From three perfect days.
I am having an Italian summer and I couldn’t be happier about it. I just returned from my first big trip of the season to Puglia, Italy and wow did I love it! I’ve traveled around a lot of Italy but had yet to explore “the boot”—so when an invitation to join The Thinking Traveller on a brand trip to Puglia appeared in my inbox, it only took be a few minutes to respond with an enthusiastic “yes!”.
Embarking on brand trips is easily my favorite part of my content creator/writer job. I get to experience the best of a new place with other creators who are dedicated to capturing a magical experience. While I love planning my own itineraries, it is such a treat to follow a perfectly planned schedule created by an amazing PR team (BIG shoutout to Perowne International!).
In this case, I simply showed up to the itinerary locations at the time I was told—and when I inevitably return to Puglia (because it was fab), I plan on repeating the same itinerary from this trip. It was the perfect mix of leisure time at the villa, swimming in crystal clear coves, wandering beautiful old towns, excellent food, and a bit of shopping.
The villa I stayed at is a part of The Thinking Traveller collection of properties. These are luxury villas in fabulous locations, vetted by The Thinking Traveller team with property managers, in-house chef and staff options, and localized itinerary options and experiences. If you’re traveling with a group or family, I highly recommend staying in one of these villas. There are a wide range of property sizes and price options which make it a cost-effective alternative to booking multiple hotel rooms.
The Villa
Castello di Caprarica
I wish I could’ve stayed in this villa (which is actually a transformed castle) for an entire month. The property is huge and out of a fairytale. Each bedroom has its own charm, the artwork in the villa is museum-worthy, and the pool is perfect. I loved that each guest had their own space and that we could come together for meals in the gorgeous courtyard. Truly a dream to stay at this property.
Other Thinking Traveller Villas I Love:
*I have not stayed in these but would like to!
Ottoconi
Casino Doxi
Blu Melia
The Ideal Itinerary
Like I previously said, I can’t take credit for this itinerary, but I can certainly endorse it! I would copy this exact schedule again but I would extend my trip to be at least six days long.
Day One
Breakfast at Castello di Caprarica (included in the stay)
Cove Hopping: 10 minute drive to Tricase Porto! There is a small sandy beach, gorgeous coves, locals of all ages, and few restaurants and bathrooms. An easy spot to spend hours and hours.
Explore Lecce: This beautiful historic town is about a 45 minute drive from Tricase and well worth the time. I spent a few hours wandering and found a fun local shops, gelato, and amazing architecture. I’d give yourself at least two hours of time to stroll.
Dinner at Pietrabianca Vino & Cucina
Day Two
Breakfast at Castello di Caprarica (included in the stay)
Boat Day with Sea Luxury Yachts Gallipoli aboard The Brigitte, the trip included drinks, lunch, and two stops for swimming. So much fun!
Cooking Class and dinner at Castello Alborgo. This was a highlight of the trip. We helped make the most amazing meal of my life (not kidding) in a spectacular family-owned villa. If you are going to do one thing on this itinerary, this should be it! This experience was booked by The Thinking Traveller team.
Day Three
Breakfast at Castello di Caprarica (included in the stay)
Swimming & leisure at Castello di Caprarica
Beach Club & Lunch at Lo Scalo: I am obsessed with this beach club. It was small and low-key with amazing swimming, food, and views.
Drinks in Tricase at Farmacia Balboa: a cool bar right in the Tricase old town square. Fun drinks, live music, and small bites!
Dinner at the Castello di Caprarica: an add-on with the stay. The in-house chef made an amazing meal and eating out on the terrace feels so dreamy!
Other Things to Note:
I highly recommend renting a car. The beaches, villas, and towns are not far from each other but they are also not walking distance (especially in the heat). Renting a car will make your life so much easier.
I flew from JFK to Rome and then from Rome to Brindisi
Bring cash everywhere
We spent two weeks in Puglia but this three day itinerary seems pretty perfect to me!
Love your green one piece, would you be open to sharing where it's from?