European Escape

Insider Tips

Go late summer but beware of the storms! When it rains in Italy, it really rains. September time is beautifully warm.

Ostuni is a feast for the eyes and belly! Also known as the ‘White City’ it is full of gorgeous flowers against a white back drop.

A must-visit would be to Matera, it’s Italy’s oldest city and the views are to die for!

Hire a car or driver (our host in Alberbello teamed us up with his friend who was lovely) and visit the coast, go to Polignano a Mare and Monopoli.

It’s so easy to use the train in the region; be sure to visit towns such as Martina Franca and Locorotondo.

Where to stay

Stay in a traditional Trulllo house in Alberobello, they are made from dry stone and have a conical roof.

I love staying at Trulli Colarossa. Donato who runs it is really warm and makes you feel part of the family instantly. He even collected my husband and I from the train station and took us to the supermarket! There is a swimming pool and BBQ you can use so it has that rustic stay-at- home vibe.

Where to eat

If you stay in Alberobello then for a cheap and very authentic eat (with all the locals) try Macelleria Braceria da Zio. It is a local farm so for a small price you can eat a tapas style section of homemade cheeses and meats along with wine.

For a more luxe spend then I would recommend Taverna della Gelosia. The food is amazing and the ambience is wonderful.

What to buy

I wouldn’t come back from Puglia without some nostalgic-tasting Taralli, a snack you have with Pugliese wine. You can find them everywhere.

There are some amazing antique junk shops in Ostuni which have the most beautiful, exquisite things. Don’t visit without exploring them.

What to pack

You can easily pack light for Puglia, I travelled for a week with my Globe-Trotter 18” Trolley Case.

When I went last, I lived in a maxi navy silk button down dress, Raybans and my navy Globe-Trotter head scarf.

Polignano a Mare (the beach) is close so pack a piece of swimwear, a light towel and good book.