Spotlight on Puglia with kids

I'm working on a Puglia itinerary for a client family, and the more I explore, the more I think every family I work with should consider this destination.

Puglia is quieter than Tuscany and way less hectic than the Amalfi Coast. The beaches are peaceful, the properties are spacious, and the food is some of the best in Italy.

Where is it?

Puglia is the heel of Italy's boot, stretching down the southeastern coast. It's filled with whitewashed hill towns, ancient trulli, silver-green olive groves, and a coastline that doesn't feel overcrowded. You can drive the whole region from top to bottom in about three to four hours, making it easy to manage even with kids. A rental car is a must, but the roads are straightforward.

Getting There and When to Go

The closest airports are Bari and Brindisi, both with direct flights from major European cities. From the U.S., you can connect through Rome, Milan, or another European city, or fly directly to Bari from NYC.

The best times to visit with kids are June or early September. July and August are peak season, so the beaches are busy, it's really hot, and prices are high. June offers warm weather, longer days, and fully open properties without the summer crowds. Early September is probably the best time — the sea is warm and the crowds have thinned out.

How to structure a trip: At least one week, two stops.

Most families I work with split their time between the Fasano area, where the best masserias are, and further south toward Lecce.

A note on beaches

Most places to stay in Puglia are masserias — historic farmhouses turned into luxury hotels, located inland instead of on the water. This might sound like a downside until you see how it works. The masserias around Fasano have beach clubs, usually a five to ten-minute drive away, with free shuttles included in your stay. For families, this setup is great — you get the space and grounds of the property and the beach whenever you want it.

Add Matera

Technically just over the border in Basilicata, but Matera is a must on any Puglia itinerary. It's an ancient cave city where people lived until the 1950s, and now you can even stay in one of these caves.

Where To Stay

Masseria Torre Maizza - My Top Pick

The most complete luxury property in the region — exceptional service, beautiful grounds, and a beach club that is worth visiting even if you are not staying there. Works beautifully when visiting Puglia with kids.

Borgo Egnazia - Best Resort Experience

The most well-known property in Puglia and the right choice for families who want a full resort experience. Multiple pools, excellent programming, and enough space that everyone can spread out. The kids club is genuinely well run.

Masseria Torre Coccaro - Most Authentic

The most authentically Puglian of the masserias — whitewashed walls, rustic stone, deeply rooted in the region. Families who want something that feels real rather than designed will love it here. Strong beach club as well.

Ready to start planning? Start here