*The abundance of sandy beaches make Puglia a perfect option for children*

This summer we were fortunate enough to take a multi-generational trip to Puglia, Italy. Puglia is the once-hidden gem of Italy, where we enjoyed sun-kissed beaches surrounded by beautifully restored masserias and olive trees. The charming towns were filled with friendly locals and visitors from all over Europe and the United States. While Puglia’s popularity has grown exponentially in the past decade or so, it still retains the slow-paced charm of an Italian sea-side escape.

Puglia is one of the best destinations in Italy for families, yet it still flies somewhat under the radar compared to Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast. Located in the heel of Italy’s boot, this region offers a combination that is surprisingly perfect for traveling with children: charming historic towns, beautiful beaches, incredible food, and a relaxed pace of life.

Unlike many of Italy’s more crowded destinations, Puglia feels spacious and authentic. Kids can explore medieval alleyways, swim in the turquoise Adriatic Sea, and eat their weight in burrata and handmade pasta while parents enjoy stunning architecture, boutique hotels, and some of the best restaurants in southern Italy.

If you’re planning a trip to southern Italy, this Puglia travel guide for families covers the best places to stay, the best towns to visit, and the top things to do with kids.

Why Puglia Is Great for Families

Puglia is particularly well suited to family travel for several reasons.

First, the region is relatively compact. You can drive between most towns in under an hour, making it easy to explore without exhausting travel days. Second, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming toward children. Italians generally adore kids, and family-friendly restaurants and beaches are the norm. Finally, the combination of historic towns, countryside, and beaches means there is always something new to explore.

Highlights include:

Swimming in the Adriatic Sea
Exploring trulli houses in Alberobello
Wandering whitewashed towns like Ostuni
Beach clubs perfect for long lunches
Outstanding Italian food

Kid's pool at borgo egnazia — *The kid’s pool at Borgo Egnazia in Puglia*

WHERE TO STAY IN PUGLIA

Our home base for our week in Puglia was Borgo Egnazia. It felt like stepping into a movie set where everything was beautifully curated to to look like an authentic Puglian masseria. This resort was pure luxury with several gorgeous pools perfect for sipping Aperol spritzes near. It also had a free kids club and fun nightly activities for kids and families. During the peak summer months they offer several nights of Festa del Borgo. This was a real highlight of our stay, as it felt like being invited to a wealthy Puglian’s dream wedding. Read our full review here.

check rates for Borgo Egnazia

Festa del Borgo is a wonderful party at Borgo Egnazia — *Dance the night away, Puglian-style at one of Borgo Egnazia’s Festa del Borgo events throughout the summer*

Explore the Surrounding Towns

Monopoli harbor at sunset — *Exploring the charming harbor of Monopoli*

MONOPOLI

Monopoli, with its crystal-clear waters and charming old town, is definitely worth a visit. The town was definitely touristy, yet it still retained the feel of a working port. We watched several fishing boats and commercial vessels come and unload while strolling around this port town. There were charming eateries and plazas around every turn. The old town is all pedestrian-only which we really enjoyed with kids. While you could definitely make Monopoli your home-base for a Puglian vacation, it also felt small enough to explore in one day.

meandering the alleyways of Ostuni — *Get lost in the alleys of Ostuni, the White City*

OSTUNI
Ostuni, the "White City," will leave you charmed with its labyrinthine streets, whitewashed buildings, and bougainvillea in full bloom. It's like navigating a beautiful maze where every turn is a photo opportunity. Embrace the challenge – getting lost here is the best way to discover hidden gems and a newfound appreciation for Google Maps. The views from the city of the surrounding countryside were magnificent. The abundance of olive oil and wine shops make this a great place to stock up on souveniers as well.

POGLIGNANO A MARE

Polignano a Mare is the Italian version of a postcard come to life. With cliffs diving into the sea, this seaside town is so charming. The water was a beautiful turquoise color and could be seen throughout town. This felt more touristy than Monopoli, but still retained it’s authentic Puglian charm. Several of the streets closest to the sea are car-free making this a wonderful town for a La Passeggiata, or evening stroll.

*Cala Masciola seaside dining at Borgo Egnazia*

WHERE TO EAT PUGLIA

Find our entire Puglia Restaurant Guide Here.
One of the best parts of Puglia was trying all of the incredible fresh seafood and produce that can be found locally. We gorged on orecchiette pasta and found our new favorite snack, a soft twisted cracker called Taralli.

*View of Pogliano a Mare from our catamaran charter*

WHAT TO DO IN PUGLIA

Jump in the Sea

One of our favorite things we did while in Puglia was rent a boat and sail around the Apulian Sea. We rented a catamaran from Almarano Charters and really enjoyed seeing Puglia from a different perspective. The famous beach of Poligano a Mare was also fun to see from the sea. It was a little choppy the day we went out, but it was still nice to be able to jump in the water and use the paddleboards.

Explore the Trulli of Alberobello

Walking through Alberobello feels like stepping into a storybook.

Kids love spotting the unusual roofs and climbing the small stone streets.

Spend a Day at a Beach Club

Beach clubs are one of the highlights of visiting Puglia.

You can swim, relax under an umbrella, and enjoy long seafood lunches while the kids play in the water.

Wander Ostuni at Sunset

The white buildings of Ostuni glow beautifully in the evening light.

Grab a gelato and wander the narrow streets while enjoying incredible views over the countryside.

Take a Cooking Class

Food is central to life in Puglia.

Many masserias offer cooking classes where families can learn to make pasta like orecchiette, the region’s signature dish

jump in the sea at the beach club in Puglia — *Coccaro Beach Club in Puglia*

We had an incredible time in Puglia, and we encourage you to get lost in Ostuni's white labyrinth, dive into the turquoise sea at Polignano a Mare, and let Monopoli's coastal charm capture your heart. In Puglia, as in anywhere in Italy, be sure to allow time to embrace the “dolce far niente” or “art of doing nothing.”

Best Time to Visit Puglia With Kids

The best time to visit Puglia is May, June, or September.

These months offer warm weather, beautiful beaches, and fewer crowds than July and August.

July and August are the busiest months when many Italians take their summer holidays.

Puglia With Kids FAQ

Is Puglia good for families?

Yes. Puglia is one of the best regions in Italy for family travel thanks to its beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and welcoming culture.

How many days do you need in Puglia?

Five to seven days is ideal to explore several towns and enjoy time at the beach.

Do you need a car in Puglia?

Yes. Renting a car is the best way to explore the region and visit smaller towns and beaches.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Puglia With Kids

Puglia is one of the most rewarding places to visit in Italy with children. The combination of historic towns, beautiful beaches, incredible food, and relaxed countryside hotels makes it an ideal family destination.

While it may not yet have the same fame as Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast, that’s part of its charm.

If you’re looking for an authentic Italian vacation that both kids and parents will love, Puglia is hard to beat.