Puglia, located in the southern part of Italy, is a stunning region filled with picturesque landscapes, ancient towns, and beautiful beaches. It is no secret that Puglia is a popular tourist destination for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm Mediterranean climate. However, what many people might not know is that Puglia is also an ideal destination for family holidays, especially for children. The region is home to several charming villages that offer plenty of activities and attractions to keep the little ones entertained and engaged.
One of the must-visit villages in Puglia is Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its iconic trulli houses. These traditional stone houses with cone-shaped roofs are a unique sight to behold and will certainly capture the imagination of children. In Alberobello, families can explore the village, stroll through the narrow streets lined with trulli houses, and even stay in one of these fairy-tale-like dwellings. There is also a Trullo Sovrano, a two-story trullo house that has been converted into a museum, where children can learn about the history and architecture of these traditional houses.
Another village that is perfect for a family holiday in Puglia is Locorotondo. Known for its white-washed houses, narrow streets, and charming squares, Locorotondo provides a peaceful and traditional atmosphere for children to enjoy. Families can wander through the village’s winding streets, discover hidden corners, and admire the stunning panoramic views from the Belvedere viewpoint. Locorotondo also offers activities such as olive oil tastings and cooking classes, where children can learn about the region’s culinary traditions and try their hand at making homemade pasta or pizza.
For families looking for some seaside fun, Polignano a Mare is the ideal destination. This picturesque coastal village is perched on cliffs overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Children can spend hours exploring the hidden coves, splashing in the sea, and building sandcastles on the sandy beaches. Polignano a Mare also has a charming old town, where families can discover ancient churches, picturesque squares, and try gelato from local gelaterias. Moreover, the village is known for its dizzyingly high cliff-jumping spots, where older children can experience an adrenaline rush by jumping into the deep blue sea.
In Ostuni, often referred to as the “White City,” families can get lost in its labyrinthine streets lined with whitewashed houses. The village’s historic center is a delight to explore, filled with shops selling local crafts, cafés serving delicious gelato and pastries, and stunning viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. Children can also visit the Ostuni Cathedral, a beautiful example of Apulian Romanesque architecture, and marvel at its impressive rose window and intricate details.
In conclusion, planning a family holiday in Puglia, Italy is a wonderful choice. With its charming villages, beautiful beaches, and wealth of activities, Puglia offers a fantastic experience for children and adults alike. Whether it’s exploring the trulli houses of Alberobello, wandering through the narrow streets of Locorotondo, enjoying the seaside delights of Polignano a Mare, or discovering the “White City” of Ostuni, Puglia’s villages will leave a lasting impression on the whole family. So pack your bags, indulge in gelato, and get ready for a memorable holiday in this enchanting region of Italy!