Ostuni Itinerary 10 Days: The White City & Beyond (2026)

Arrive in Ostuni and settle into your accommodation. Spend your first day getting acquainted with the enchanting Centro Storico, the historic heart of the White City. As you step into this magical labyrinth of whitewashed alleys, you'll feel like you've traveled back in time. The narrow, winding streets are a delight to explore, with every turn revealing a new surprise – a hidden courtyard, a flower-adorned balcony, or a breathtaking glimpse of the Adriatic Sea. Take your time to wander without a map, allowing yourself to get lost in the charm of this ancient town. The gleaming white walls, a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages, create a stunning contrast with the vibrant blue of the sky and the colorful flowers that cascade from window boxes. In the afternoon, make your way to Piazza della Libertà, the bustling main square. Here, you can admire the impressive Colonna di Sant'Oronzo, a baroque column dedicated to the city's patron saint. The piazza is the perfect spot to relax at a café, enjoy a gelato, and soak up the lively atmosphere. As evening approaches, find a spot with a view to watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the White City. For dinner, choose one of the many traditional trattorias tucked away in the side streets, where you can savor your first taste of authentic Puglian cuisine. The simple yet flavorful dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients, are a true reflection of the region's culinary heritage.

Today, delve deeper into the history and architecture of Ostuni. Start your morning with a visit to the magnificent Ostuni Cathedral, the Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta. This 15th-century masterpiece of Gothic and Romanesque architecture stands at the highest point of the city, its intricate rose window a stunning example of medieval craftsmanship. Step inside to admire the beautifully decorated interior, with its ornate chapels and impressive ceiling paintings. Just outside the cathedral, you'll find the Arco Scoppa, a graceful stone archway that connects the Bishop's Palace to the seminary. This picturesque spot is one of the most photographed landmarks in Ostuni, and it's easy to see why. After exploring the cathedral, take a leisurely stroll along the ancient city walls, the Cinta Muraria. These defensive walls, which once protected the city from invaders, now offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. The contrast between the whitewashed city and the vast expanse of olive groves that stretch to the coast is a sight to behold. Find a comfortable spot to sit and take in the scenery, or stop at one of the small cafes along the walls for a refreshing drink. In the afternoon, continue your exploration of the Centro Storico, seeking out the famous 'La casa con la porta blu' (the house with the blue door), a charming photo opportunity that perfectly captures the essence of Ostuni. As evening falls, consider taking a tuk-tuk tour for a different perspective of the city, zipping through the narrow streets and discovering hidden corners you might have missed on foot.

Experience the vibrant local culture of Ostuni by visiting the Saturday market. This bustling market is a feast for the senses, with stalls overflowing with fresh, seasonal produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and fragrant herbs. It's the perfect place to sample some of the region's specialties and pick up ingredients for a picnic or a home-cooked meal. Mingle with the locals as they do their weekly shopping, and don't be afraid to try something new. The market also offers a variety of other goods, from clothing and household items to handmade crafts and souvenirs. It's a great opportunity to find a unique memento of your trip to Puglia. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the heart of Puglian cuisine with a hands-on cooking class. Learn the secrets of making traditional pasta shapes like orecchiette, and discover how to prepare classic local dishes using the fresh ingredients you found at the market. Many classes are held in traditional Masserie (farmhouses) in the countryside, offering an authentic and memorable experience. Under the guidance of a local chef, you'll learn about the history and culture behind the food you're preparing. The best part, of course, is sitting down to enjoy the delicious meal you've created, accompanied by a glass of local wine. This is more than just a cooking lesson; it's a chance to connect with the local culture and create lasting memories.

Today you'll venture into the heart of the Valle d'Itria, a region famous for its unique conical-roofed houses called trulli. Your first stop is Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the best-preserved example of trulli architecture. Walking through the Rione Monti and Aia Piccola districts is like stepping into a fairytale. These charming, whitewashed structures with their mysterious symbols painted on the roofs create a truly magical atmosphere. You can visit the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo, to see how people lived in these traditional homes. Many of the trulli now house souvenir shops, cafes, and artisan workshops, offering a chance to pick up a unique keepsake. In the afternoon, continue your exploration of the Itria Valley with a visit to Locorotondo, one of Italy's most beautiful villages. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the valley, Locorotondo is known for its circular historic center, from which it derives its name. The town is a maze of narrow, flower-decked streets and whitewashed houses with distinctive pitched roofs called 'cummerse'. It's a quieter and less touristy alternative to Alberobello, offering a more authentic glimpse into local life. Take a leisurely stroll through the pristine streets, admire the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside dotted with trulli and vineyards, and enjoy a glass of the local white wine, Locorotondo DOC, at a wine bar in the historic center.

Prepare to be dazzled by the architectural splendor of Lecce, often called the 'Florence of the South'. This elegant city is a treasure trove of Baroque architecture, with elaborately decorated churches and palaces at every turn. The local limestone, 'pietra leccese', is so soft and malleable that it allowed for the creation of incredibly intricate carvings, which adorn the facades of many of the city's buildings. Start your exploration at the Piazza del Duomo, a stunning square that is home to the Lecce Cathedral, the Bishop's Palace, and the Seminary. The cathedral's bell tower offers panoramic views of the city. From there, make your way to the Basilica di Santa Croce, the most magnificent example of Leccese Baroque style. Its facade is a riot of cherubs, griffins, and other fantastical creatures, a testament to the incredible skill of the local artisans. Just around the corner, you'll find the Piazza Sant'Oronzo, the city's main square, where you can see the remains of a Roman amphitheater. Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming streets of the historic center, discovering hidden courtyards, artisan workshops, and stylish boutiques. Lecce is also known for its papier-mâché art, so be sure to visit a workshop to see how these delicate creations are made. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Lecce's many excellent restaurants, savoring the sophisticated flavors of Salento cuisine.

Today, you'll explore the stunning Adriatic coastline, with visits to the picturesque towns of Polignano a Mare and Monopoli. Start your day in Polignano a Mare, a town perched on a limestone cliff overlooking the crystal-clear sea. The town's historic center is a maze of narrow streets that open onto breathtaking balconies with panoramic sea views. The most famous sight in Polignano a Mare is Lama Monachile, a small pebble beach nestled between two cliffs, which you've likely seen in countless photos. Take a walk through the historic center, cross the Roman bridge, and enjoy the stunning views from the viewpoints. For the adventurous, a boat tour of the sea caves is a must-do activity. In the afternoon, head to the nearby town of Monopoli, a charming fishing port with a beautiful historic center. Unlike Polignano a Mare, Monopoli has a more lived-in feel, with a bustling harbor where you can see fishermen mending their nets. The historic center is a delightful mix of narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and elegant noble palaces. Don't miss the beautiful cathedral, the Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia, and the Charles V Castle, which stands guard over the harbor. Take a stroll along the lungomare (seafront promenade) and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. End your day with a delicious seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants overlooking the harbor, savoring the catch of the day.

After several days of exploring towns and cities, it's time for a relaxing day at the beach. Head to the Coastal Dunes Natural Park (Parco Naturale Regionale Dune Costiere da Torre Canne a Torre San Leonardo), a protected area of coastline that stretches for several kilometers between Ostuni and Fasano. This beautiful park is home to a variety of landscapes, including sand dunes, wetlands, and ancient olive groves. The beaches here are some of the most beautiful in the region, with fine white sand and crystal-clear water. You can choose from a number of beach clubs (lidos) that offer sunbeds, umbrellas, and refreshments, or find a more secluded spot on one of the public beaches. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing by the sea. If you're feeling more active, you can take a walk or a bike ride along the coastal paths, or try your hand at kitesurfing or windsurfing. The park is also a great place for birdwatching, with a variety of species inhabiting the wetlands. In the evening, enjoy a casual dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and watching the sunset over the Adriatic. This is the perfect day to recharge your batteries and enjoy the natural beauty of the Puglian coast.

Today, you'll discover two more gems of the Itria Valley: Cisternino and Martina Franca. Start your day in Cisternino, a charming town known for its whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The historic center is a delightful place to wander, with its picturesque courtyards and flower-filled balconies. Cisternino is also famous for its 'fornelli pronti' (ready-made ovens), butcher shops where you can choose your meat and have it grilled on the spot. It's a unique and delicious dining experience that you shouldn't miss. In the afternoon, head to Martina Franca, the largest town in the Itria Valley. Martina Franca is known for its elegant Baroque and Rococo architecture, which you can admire in the beautiful Piazza Plebiscito and the Basilica di San Martino. The historic center is a maze of winding alleys and grand palaces with ornate balconies. Take a stroll through the streets, browse the stylish boutiques, and enjoy a coffee at a café in one of the charming squares. Martina Franca has a more sophisticated and less touristy feel than some of the other towns in the Itria Valley, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of the region.

Today, you'll explore the artistic and culinary traditions of Puglia with a visit to Grottaglie and a wine tasting experience. Start your day in Grottaglie, a town famous for its ceramics. The ceramics district, located in the historic center, is home to numerous workshops where you can see artisans at work, creating beautiful hand-painted pottery. From traditional designs to modern creations, you'll find a wide variety of ceramics to admire and purchase. It's the perfect place to find a unique souvenir to take home with you. In the afternoon, head to the town of Manduria, the heart of the Primitivo wine region. Here, you can visit a local winery for a tour and a tasting of the famous Primitivo di Manduria wine. You'll learn about the history of winemaking in the region, the cultivation of the Primitivo grape, and the process of turning the grapes into wine. The tour will be followed by a tasting of several different wines, accompanied by local snacks. It's a great opportunity to discover the rich flavors of Puglian wine and learn about the passion and dedication that goes into every bottle.

On your last day in Puglia, take the time to enjoy a final stroll through the charming streets of Ostuni. Revisit your favorite spots, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or simply relax at a café and soak up the atmosphere. Enjoy a final Puglian lunch, savoring the flavors of the region one last time. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to visit one last sight or simply relax before heading to the airport. Reflect on the incredible experiences you've had over the past ten days, from the whitewashed streets of Ostuni to the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic. Puglia is a region that captures the hearts of all who visit, and you're sure to leave with a desire to return. As you head to the airport, take with you the memories of the beautiful landscapes, the delicious food, and the warm hospitality of the Puglian people. This journey has been a celebration of the simple pleasures of life, and a reminder of the beauty that can be found in every corner of the world. Arrivederci, Puglia!