With its vast rolling expanse of olive groves and vineyards dotted by conical-roofed trulli dwellings and whitewashed hill towns, Puglia’s Itria Valley—or Val d’Itria—is a mecca for foodies, photographers, and fans of the slow-travel ethos. Pocket-sized Ostuni and Locorotondo practically force visitors to settle into their relaxed village pace, while UNESCO-listed Alberobello wows with its hundreds of picture-perfect trulli. Outside the towns, traditional walled masseria estates tempt with artisan delights, and wine and olive oil tastings top the list of things to do in the Itria Valley.
Puglia’s temperatures skyrocket in the summer, and the Itria Valley bakes under the sun—even the seaside villages of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare don’t offer much respite. Visit in spring and fall to enjoy the small towns, countryside farms, and coastline when the temperatures are milder, but hotels, restaurants, and other services are open for business. However, summer is the high season for Itria Valley festivals, with local feast days and cultural events filling the calendar from June to August.
Getting around the Itria Valley by public transport is tricky but doable. Both Trenitalia trains (national railway company) and FSE trains (Puglia’s regional railway) stop at the main towns like Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Ostuni, Locorotondo, and Alberobello, and local buses link to the smaller towns and villages. Prepare to dedicate time to interpreting and coordinating the rail and bus timetables. Alternatively, rent a car to explore with more freedom and flexibility.
The Itria Valley countryside is dotted with masseria estates, a traditional walled farm compound with whitewashed buildings—often trulli—arranged around a large central courtyard. Many of these estates have been renovated into boutique hotels or rural restaurants, but others still operate as farms producing wine, olive oil, cheese, and other local products. Keep your eyes peeled while driving the country roads for masserie offering tours and tastings.