The region on the southeast coast of Italy is renowned for its extensive coastline, picturesque whitewashed villages and exceptional food and wine – all enjoyable in 20C autumn temperatures
If you’re yearning for the warmth of the sun on your face even in autumn, there’s a hidden gem in Italy that offers sandy beaches, crystal clear seas and breathtaking beauty in abundance.
Puglia, located on Italy’s southeast coast, is famed for its sprawling coastline, charming whitewashed villages and exquisite food and wine. Beyond the bustling summer season, it becomes an idyllic spot to find uncrowded beaches where the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea meet the Ionian Sea.
With temperatures lingering in the mid-20s in September, and fewer tourists around, this romantic and authentically Italian destination is perfect for those seeking ‘la dolce vita’.
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As a whole, Puglia is a lesser-known destination, offering a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere than some of Italy’s more tourist-heavy areas. Sprinkled with picturesque medieval towns, visitors flock here to wander down ancient streets and immerse themselves in the region’s rich history.
One standout attraction is the Roman city of Lecce, often dubbed the ‘Florence of the South’. This Baroque wonder is brimming with stunning architecture and traditional Italian piazzas.
Polignano a Mare, perched atop limestone cliffs overlooking the Valle d’Itria coast, is another magnet for tourists. Visitors are drawn to its winding old town streets, panoramic wine-sipping terraces and stunning beaches with crystal-clear blue waters.
Even after summer has faded, sun seekers can still enjoy an authentic Italian beach holiday along the region’s breathtaking coastline. Whether it’s the pristine white sands and turquoise waters of Torre dell’Orso and Punta Prosciutto or the untouched beauty of Porto Selvaggio, seaside adventures abound.
In fact, one beach in this tranquil corner of Italy is so revered it’s been christened the ‘Maldives of Puglia. ‘ Pecoluse, with its fine white sands and mesmerising blue sea, is a year-round paradise.
Autumn is also an ideal time for a boat trip on the serene seas around Italy’s ‘heel’. Away from the shore, sailors can marvel at the stunning views of ancient villages like Monopoli, Taranto, Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca, reports the Express.
Puglia is also a key player in Italy’s wine scene, thanks to its Mediterranean climate and fertile soil. The region’s winemaking process blends tradition with innovation, producing some of Italy’s most acclaimed wines.
With the grape harvest taking place in September and October, there are ample opportunities for visitors to taste the delightful red and white wines that the region is renowned for.