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Spending two summers in Puglia with my young daughter was nothing short of magical. Based in Monopoli, my family explored this breathtaking region, discovering charming eateries, stunning beaches, and some of the best cities and places to go in Puglia with kids. Friendly locals welcomed us with open arms, and every meal—from fresh seafood by the Adriatic to handmade orecchiette—was a feast for the palate and the soul. This Italian region has captured our hearts, and we will forever feel the call to return.
Whether wandering the fairytale Trulli-lined streets of Alberobello, soaking in the Baroque beauty of Lecce, or splashing in the turquoise waters of Monopoli, Puglia offers unforgettable experiences for families with kids of all ages. Our guide to Puglia with kids includes things to do in each city, places to eat, and where to stay, making it easy to start planning your own Italian adventure! I hope this article helps you explore and fall in love with Puglia—just like we did!
Where is Puglia?
Located in southern Italy, Puglia stretches along the Adriatic and Ionian coasts—it’s the “heel of the boot”. The region offers a mix of charming seaside towns, historic cities, and rolling countryside. Famed for its picturesque countryside dotted with centuries-old olive groves and the iconic whitewashed homes of Alberobello, Puglia is gaining in popularity amongst travelers, including those with kids in tow! And it’s easy to see why. Its coastal location with cozy beaches, incredible food, walkable cities, and friendly locals make Puglia one of the best family-friendly destinations in Italy.
How Do You Get TO Puglia with Kids?
While getting to Puglia with kids takes a little more planning than reaching major hubs like Rome or Venice, it’s well worth the effort. Families can fly directly into Bari International Airport (BRI) or Brindisi Airport (BDS). Then, take a regional train or rent a car to reach one of the best cities in Puglia with kids featured in this guide.
Trenitalia offers family-friendly train options, often with discounts or free tickets for children. If arriving from another Italian city (like Rome), a first-class train ride is a comfortable way to travel. Or, you can opt for a short internal flight. When traveling by train, don’t forget to punch or authenticate your ticket before boarding. This can be a costly fine if forgotten.
How Do You Get AROUND Puglia with Kids
While not essential, renting a car allows for more flexibility and is recommended by most travelers. This is especially true if you plan to city-hop and visit multiple family-friendly destinations in Puglia. Just be sure to book an automatic in advance if needed, as they are limited!
During our first visit to Puglia, we rented a car for a few days, which helped. However, on our second visit, we only relied on train and bus travel. Both work! This decision will be based on personal preference, comfort with public transportation, and desired itinerary (bus and train routes may limit your preferred path).
Several bus and train routes reach the best places to go in Puglia with kids. The Trenitalia app makes booking tickets for both on the fly easy. Not all routes are direct from city to city. Some will require transfer (and even transfer from train to bus). Map your route in advance to ensure the travel route works for your needs. Trains and buses will also have space for luggage, so you don’t necessarily need to pack light if you go with this option. (Luggage storage on buses is below the seating; ask the driver to open the hatch for you to stow before departing.)
A note about buses: Buses can become delayed quickly in Puglia. Taking them requires flexibility and patience on your part. When departing smaller cities (like Locorotondo, for example), don’t wait until the last bus of the day to leave. You should also plan to wait or create a backup plan in case the bus is delayed. Additionally, the departure pick-up location is likely DIFFERENT from where the bus will drop you off (especially if it’s not a major/depot stop). Confirm with the driver about where the bus will pick you up.
Is Puglia Good for a Family Vacation?
Absolutely! Puglia is a fantastic family vacation destination with kids of all ages. Based on our experiences, and after spending a combined 6 weeks there, we highly recommend it!
The region of Puglia is rich in family-friendly destinations, with walkable old towns, sandy beaches, and delicious local cuisine. While some cities, like Bari, can be busier, most of Puglia offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for families. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Puglia with kids is an unforgettable experience filled with fun, culture, and stunning scenery.
Best Time to Visit Puglia with Kids
Wondering when to plan your family trip to Puglia with kids? Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, Puglia offers hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it a great year-round destination. When YOU want to go will depend on what activities you want to do when you get there.
Of course, summer is ideal for families looking to enjoy long beach days. June is the driest month and tends to be ahead of the big tourist crowds. Keep in mind that August is the busiest, as many Italians take their holidays then. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in late spring or early fall. November tends to be the rainiest month. Meanwhile, January is the coldest, with temperatures usually in the low 50s (°F).
No matter when you visit, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Puglia with kids, from exploring charming towns to relaxing by the sea. Now that you know the best time to go, keep reading to discover the top family-friendly destinations in Puglia!
What Are the Best Cities in Puglia for Families with Kids?
After spending two summers exploring Puglia with our daughter (with a home base in Monopoli both summers), we’ve discovered some incredible family-friendly destinations in Puglia that are perfect for a memorable trip with kids of all ages.
Our top picks for the best cities in Puglia with kids are all based on our personal experiences. Most of these destinations are on the Adriatic side or in central Puglia, offering a mix of beaches, culture, and kid-friendly activities. For even more planning support, I’ve included a few recommendations for where to play, eat, and stay in these cities to get you started. I hope it makes planning your family trip to Puglia with kids even easier!
Likewise, I’ve also included a few cities we haven’t been to (yet!) to round out your list as you plan your own trip. Finally, a reminder that cities in Puglia observe a riposo (siesta period/pausa), and many things are closed from 1ish to 4ish. This is a great time to check into hotels, relax at a nearby park, or stroll through the city.
Monopoli
For us, Monopoli is home. And, in our opinion, is the most kid-friendly city in Puglia. This charming seaside town on the Adriatic Coast features a rich history, a relaxed atmosphere, and incredible food. Its pedestrian-friendly (and, even stroller-friendly) streets and cozy beaches make it an ideal destination for families.
Most visitors only stop for a day, but Monopoli’s true magic comes alive in the evenings—when locals gather in the piazza, kids play freely, and the scent of fresh seafood fills the air. Don’t miss dishes like orecchiette, burrata, and grilled octopus, all paired with a glass of local wine.
Monopoli is easily accessible by Trenitalia, with direct trains from major Italian cities and just a short ride from Bari. If you’re looking for a place to stay in Puglia with kids, Monopoli’s charm, walkability, and coastal beauty make it a perfect home base for exploring the region!
A Few of the Best Things to Do in Monopoli with Kids
Here are some of the things we loved to do in Monopoli with kids:
- Take a private guided walking tour in Monopoli (open to all ages).
- Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II is the largest piazza in the city. You can get a sense of the local vibe here, while young kids enjoy the on-site kiddie rides. Don’t miss the tourist street train departing from this piazza. It offers a 30-minute tour through the old city (note: tours will likely be in Italian, but they are still worth it!).
- Stroll along Lungomare Porto to enjoy stunning sea views, sunsets, and to watch ships.
- The museum at Castello Carlo V is an excellent museum with rotating exhibits.
- Monopoli has three fantastic playgrounds for kids, located at Piazza S. Antonio (our favorite) and Piazza Sacro Cuore.
- Our favorite free beaches include Spiaggia Cala Porta Vecchia and Cala Monaci, which have a lifeguard on duty. Then, Porto Rosso, Cala Porto Bianco, and Cala Susca are also fun options with kids.
- Our favorite lidi (beach clubs) include Porto Nero (best for tweens and teens), Lido Cala Paradiso, and Cala Paradiso (both great for all ages). These are our favorite beaches with an umbrella and loungers to rent for the day, as well as an on-site cafe. Expect to pay anywhere from 40-75 Euros for 2 chairs + 1 umbrella (normally, we payed 50 Euro/day).
- Take a boat tour. There are many options you can find in the port when you arrive, or book this boat tour from Monopoli to the caves of Polignano a Mare in advance.
A Few of the Best Places to Eat in Monopoli with Kids
- For breakfast: Pepe Nero Caffé, where you can get an espresso and croissant. Say ‘buongiorno’ to Vito for me! We started almost every morning here.
- Dolce Amaro Caffè is another excellent option for breakfast or gelato.
- Try Gasperini (our favorite), Frescolatte Monopoli Gelaterie di Puglia, Mokka che Mukka, and Frizz Cafè Monopoli for the best local gelato.
- Lo Squalo, Il Guazzetto, and Trattoria Il Brigante are fantastic for dinner, especially if you crave seafood and want to eat in the old port area.
- Bavarotti da Francesco is a new restaurant in Monopoli, and it’s a MUST! It features German-Italian fusion, and everything about it is excellent.
- Spaghetti d’Italia is a must for lunch. You can thank me later.
- For pizza, try Crudo alla Barese or Malto & Farina.
Where to Stay in Monopoli with Kids
- During our two summers in Monopoli, we stayed in two different apartments, a two-bedroom with a wrap-around balcony and a one-bedroom with a small balcony; both are in the same apartment building and have the same host (Martino). We highly recommend either of them!
- Don Ferrante – Dimore di Charme
- Hotel Palazzo Indelli
- Albergo Diffuso Monopoli
Alberobello
With its iconic trulli homes and storybook charm, Alberobello is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Puglia. These whitewashed, cone-roofed houses make the city a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wandering through its intimate, winding streets feels like stepping into a fairytale.
Though undeniably one of the best cities in Puglia with kids, it’s also one of the most popular. Visiting mid-week helps avoid the biggest crowds. Leave the stroller behind, as many streets have stairs and uneven paths.
Reaching Alberobello can be a bit tricky, with renting a car being the easiest option. However, families can also arrive via train from Bari (about two hours) or bus from cities like Monopoli. Whether you’re admiring the trulli-lined streets, stopping for a sweet pasticciotto, or exploring local shops, Alberobello is a must-visit on any Puglia with kids itinerary!
Note: Alberobello’s homes and streets are beautiful, but remember that people live here. Do not randomly walk into open doors, homes, or gardens. Be mindful of the pictures you take, too. I hate to say this, but we observed this behavior by many tourists and heard complaints from the locals about people walking into their homes. Please visit respectfully.
Best Things to Do in Alberobello with Kids
Honestly, one of my favorite ways to explore Alberobello is without a plan! Just showing up and wandering around without a plan makes for the perfect day. Indeed, this charming village has a knack for showing its true beauty in its own time.
However, if you are looking for ideas, here are some of the things we loved in Alberobello with kids:
- Take a cooking class with Cesarine. We took this cooking class with Maria; it was one of the best experiences of my life!
- Tour the cozy heritage museum in Trullo Sovrano, featuring various artifacts.
- If you want to explore historic churches, try Church of Saint Anthony of Padua and Basilica dei Santi Cosma e Damiano.
- Belvedere Santa Lucia (a city terrace) offers one of the city’s best panoramic views (it’s adjacent to Chiesa di Santa Lucia).
- Meander the enchanting city center, or the Rione Monti quarter. Meander enchanting streets filled with local shops (which sell everything from local olive oil to handmade tablecloths!).
- Watch for the unique trulli, too! For example, Trullo Sovrano is the only two-story trullo. Then, Casa d’Amore (Il Trullo più piccolo) is the smallest trullo in Alberobello, and Trullo Siamese offers twin trulli.
- There is a playground and lovely greenspace near Casa Albergo Sant’Antonio.
Best Places to Eat in Alberobello with Kids
- Trattoria “Terra Madre” offers an unparalleled farm-to-fork experience. Make your reservation for the outdoor patio along the garden. This was one of the BEST meals we had in Puglia…or in life. We’ve eaten here every time we’ve gone to Alberobello.
- Also recommended to us: Trattoria “Casa Amatulli” di Gianvito Amatulli and Ristorante La Cantina.
- For gelato in Alberobello, try Gelateria Arte Fredda or La Bottega del Gelato.
Where to Stay in Alberobello with Kids
- Casa Albergo Sant’Antonio (this is where we stayed—nothing fancy, but a great location and comfortable).
- Le Alcove Luxury Resort nei Trulli
- Trulli e Puglia
- Grand Hotel Olimpo
- Masseria Torricella (outside of the city)
- Hotel Silva
- Find Kid-Friendly Vrbos in Alberobello
Locorotondo
Looking for low-key things to do in Puglia with kids? Locorotondo is the perfect stop! This charming hilltop town offers stunning panoramic views, unique architecture, and a genuinely peaceful experience for all ages. Plus, it’s just a short distance from Alberobello and Monopoli—making it a great detour for the afternoon.
Unlike its neighbor Alberobello, famous for its trulli, Locorotondo’s narrow streets and elegant townhouses give it a distinct charm. The best way to experience Locorotondo is to slow down and wander, stopping for gelato, enjoying a meal on a quiet side street, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Valle d’Itria. Notably, there isn’t much to do in Locorotondo; visiting here is merely about enjoying la dolce vita.
Easily reached by bus from Alberobello or Monopoli, Locorotondo is an ideal stop for families who want to enjoy a relaxing, crowd-free slice of Puglia.
Best Things to Do in Locorotondo with Kids
- Take in the views of the Valle d’Itria from the Lungomare. This is also where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in the city—all with epic views!
- Take in the views from Punto Panoramico. This elevated city terrace of sorts also offers shaded places to sit and enjoy a snack. It’s a good place for kids to roam freely, too.
- Meander the streets of the historic city center. You’ll find churches, cute shops, and eateries tucked into every nook and cranny along the way.
- Sírose – Azienda Agricola di Bufano Domenico is a beautiful winery along the edge of the city center. It’s worth the trip to Locorotondo alone. We loved it so much, we went twice! It’s a great place to try local wine and soak in stunning views.
- Take a walking tour to learn more about the city and its history.
Best Places to Eat in Locorotondo with Kids
- Sírose – Azienda Agricola di Bufano Domenico for local wine tasting and snacks.
- Caffè della Villa is a great, low-key stop near Punto Panoramico for a quick drink, lunch, or gelato.
- Gelato at Cuor di panna di Gavagnin S. & Pulieri A. (Or, Gelateria Del Corso if you need a stop as you trek up the hill from the bus stop!)
- Choose anything on Via Nardelli for excellent views while dining.
Where to Stay in Locorotondo with Kids
We didn’t stay overnight, but here are some great options for places to stay in Locorotondo!
- Masseria San Michele (outside the city)
- Hotel Donna Crescenza
- Relais Il Palmento
- Search for Kid-Friendly Locorotondo Vacation Rentals on Vrbo
Lecce
Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is one of the best places to go in Puglia with kids for families who love history, art, and stunning architecture. This Baroque beauty on the Salento Peninsula is famous for its intricately designed churches and grand piazzas. Plus, the unique craft of papier-mâché, which is still important to many local religious festivals.
Kids will love exploring the Roman amphitheater, while parents can appreciate the ornate details of Basilica di Santa Croce. If you’re planning a day trip, take a direct train with Trenitalia from cities like Bari or Brindisi, or arrive early by car to secure parking outside the old town.
Strolling Lecce’s pedestrian-friendly streets, stopping for gelato in Piazza Sant’Oronzo, and marveling at centuries-old architecture make this a fantastic family-friendly stop in Puglia.
Best Things to Do in Lecce with Kids
Here are a few things we really liked in Lecce (and a few things we didn’t see, but have kept on our list for next time):
- Enter the historic old city through the impressive Porta Napoli. This colossal arch is GORGEOUS and sets the perfect tone for visiting Lecce Centro Storico.
- Don’t miss the Roman Amphitheater in Piazza Sant’Oronzo. I recommend walking around the amphitheater to take it all in. Or, take a guided tour to learn more.
- Piazza del Duomo is stunning, with an intimate feel and beautiful views of the surrounding architecture and churches.
- If churches pique your interest, visit Basilica di Santa Croce, Lecce Cathedral (free), and Chiesa di Santa Chiara. The city’s tourism office offers bundled tickets to see them all.
- Add a museum to your itinerary too. Try Museo Faggiano (an archeological museum) or Palazzo Taurino Jewish Museum.
Best Places to Eat in Lecce with Kids
- Caffè Alvino for a traditional Caffè Leccese.
- La Vecchia Osteria da Totu was our lunch stop, and it was delicious!
- Also recommended to us: 00 Doppiozero, La Sapore, and La Cucina di Mamma Elvira.
- Maglio Cioccolato for locally-made chocolates.
Where to Stay in Lecce with Kids
We stayed one night near Lecce in a town called Cellino San Marco. I absolutely adored the hotel (it had a wonderful spa), but the city was pretty sleepy. We stayed at PlazaCarrisi Hotel. And, had some of the best sandwiches in our lives (according to my husband) at L’angolo (a short walk from the hotel).
If you want to stay in Lecce, consider booking a room at:
- Hilton Garden Inn Lecce
- L’Orangerie d’Epoque
- Grand Hotel di Lecce
- Torre del Parco
- La Fiermontina | Luxury Home
- Search for Kid-Friendly Lecce Vacation Rentals on Vrbo
Ostuni
Ostuni is one of the best cities in Puglia with kids (especially with older kids and teens). Called “La Città Bianca” (The White City), the city is picturesque with its whitewashed buildings and stunning hilltop views. Surrounded by endless olive groves, this charming town is perfect for a leisurely stroll through its winding alleys and sun-drenched piazzas.
While young children may prefer beach time in Monopoli, teens will love Ostuni’s Instagram-worthy streets and panoramic views. Families can explore the Centro Storico, enjoy a gelato in Piazza della Libertà, or take in the sea views from the city walls.
Getting to Ostuni is easiest by car, but if arriving by train, be prepared for a 1.5-mile uphill walk. Or, take a local bus. Parking near the historic center can be tricky, so plan to park outside the city center and walk in. Ostuni’s mix of history, charm, and scenic beauty makes it a must-visit when exploring Puglia with kids!
Best Things to Do in Ostuni with Kids
Here are some fun things to do in Ostuni with your kids to get you started:
- A walking tour or an ape tour is a fun way to get to know the city’s history and culture (“ape” means bee in Italian—it’s like a tuk-tuk).
- Just walk around and enjoy the views! The streets are incredibly walkable, with many twists and turns adding to the fun. Don’t miss Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta and Arco di Scoppa while you wander around.
- Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi is an excellent historical stop in the city.
- Or, try a local cooking class to learn something new together.
Best Places to Eat in Ostuni with Kids
- Caffé Ayroldi (get fig!) or La Dolce Vita Gelateria Artigianale for gelato
- Dinner at Caffè Garibaldi is lovely, but a little touristy.
- Also recommended to us: Osteria Ricanatti, Trattoria Sapere E Sapori, Osteria CasaCiaccia, and Osteria Piazzetta Cattedrale. Then, Cielo Restaurant is one of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in Puglia.
Where to Stay in Ostuni with Kids
- Masseria Le Carrube
- Masseria Salinola (outside the city center)
- Dimora del Parco (outside the city center)
- Search for Kid-Friendly Ostuni Vacation Rentals on Vrbo
Bari
As Puglia’s capital and largest city, Bari is a vibrant hub on the Adriatic coast and a convenient starting point for exploring the region. While much of the city is modern and bustling, its charming old town, Bari Vecchia, offers a glimpse into its rich history. Its winding streets, historic churches, and lively harbor offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history. The city also boasts several beaches and an epic food scene.
Candidly, Bari wasn’t our favorite destination in Puglia. We originally planned an overnight stay but left after just a few hours due to a series of mishaps. Unlike the quieter towns in Puglia, Bari has heavier traffic, and pedestrians should be extra cautious when crossing streets. While our experience was mixed, many families love Bari, so I’ve highlighted the best of Bari below for those looking to visit.
Bari is well-connected by air and rail. Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla (BRI) is the main gateway to the region. And, the city’s train station offers high-speed connections to Rome, Milan, Bologna, and Venice via Frecciargento and Frecciabianca services.
Best Things to Do in Bari with Kids
Here are a few things we did enjoy about Bari:
- Strada delle Orecchiette was the *reason* I wanted to go to Bari. It did not disappoint! Here, you can watch women gather outside their homes and make orecchiette. This iconic experience is best enjoyed in the morning. Chat with the women, and be sure to buy some pasta! (Just make sure the pasta has been thoroughly dried, or it will mold before you can get it home.)
- Stroll through the Old Fish Market (best in the early morning when the ships enter the harbor).
- Walk along the city’s Lungomare (where many local beaches are). Bari also has an observation wheel on the waterfront.
- Try sweets at Marnarid dei F.lli Sifanno S.R.L., the oldest candy store in the city. It’s tiny but fun to peek in.
- One of Bari’s largest draws is Basilica San Nicola, which is significant for the area and houses the relics of Saint Nicholas (the saint who inspired Santa Claus!).
- You can also spend the day at Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica, Castello Normanno Svevo, or Castel Del Monte.
Best Places to Eat in Bari with Kids
- Have lunch at La Tana del Polpo (Make a reservation. We didn’t do this, so this was one of those unfortunate events for us!).
- Other options recommended to us: Antico Chiosco da u Russ, Le Sgagliozze di Donna Carmela, L’Osteria Del Borgo Antico, and Ristorante Biancofiore.
- Grab your daily gelato from Gelateria Gentile (one of the best we had in Puglia!).
Where to Stay in Bari with Kids
- The Nicolaus Hotel
- Hi Hotel Bari
- JR Hotels Oriente Bari
- La Maison del Borgo Antico
- Search for Kid-Friendly Bari Vacation Rentals on Vrbo
Additional Cities to Consider Visiting in Puglia with Kids
If you have time, there are a few other cities and places to go in Puglia to add to your itinerary with kids. We didn’t make it to them during our recent trips, but these family-friendly destinations in Puglia tend to be very popular with those traveling with kids!
- Polignano a Mare (located just outside of Bari, before arriving in Monopoli—it’s famous for its beaches and food scene)
- Taranto
- Gallipoli
- Otranto
- Brindisi
- Matera is often included in itineraries for Puglia, though it is technically in Basilicata (a neighboring region). Those taking a road trip through the region can easily add it to their itinerary.
Have Fun Exploring Puglia with Your Kids!
Puglia is undoubtedly a fantastic family destination. It offers a vibrant history, stunning landscapes, and plenty of kid-friendly activities for all ages. And, I highly recommend visiting with your family! Whether you’re wandering the charming whitewashed streets of Ostuni, exploring the baroque beauty of Lecce, or soaking up the sun in Monopoli, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Puglia with kids. No matter which of the best cities in Puglia you choose to visit with kids, you’ll find plenty of ways to experience the magic of Southern Italy together. Enjoy exploring these family-friendly destinations in Italy together!
Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. A reminder that this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.