alltheflavorsandcolors: Puglia (Apulia) region in Italy: 7 towns, 7 stories

Tourism in Puglia region has grown substantially during last years, as many low cost airline companies decided to include Bari in their networks. Italy itself is a perfect holiday destination and Puglia region makes no exception from the rule, as it also comes with the advantage of low prices for accommodation, transportation and food. Forget about the fancy, costly restaurants in Milan or Venice. In Puglia, friendly prices come hand in hand with friendly places and locals. So, taking many factors into account, one of my last year's summer destinations has been this beautiful region in the southern part of Italy and I couldn't have made a better decision As my journey covered 7 small towns in Puglia, I decided to tell you about my experience through more posts, in order to properly present the wonders I have encountered along the way.

Gallipoli

My trip in Puglia started in Gallipoli, placed in the southern part of the region, in the province of Lecce. This is a town with few foreign tourists, as it seems that not many visitors are willing to explore the areas far from Bari - the main hub of Puglia. Gallipoli is ideal for visiting and spending one or more days at the beach. Though narrow, as many of the Italian beaches are, Gallipoli's picturesque city beach is clean and covered with golden sand, so it makes perfect sense to lay on the towel and have long baths in the azure sea.

The town is divided into the modern part and the old city - the most interesting part, located on a small island connected to the mainland by an old bridge. My main activity has been to wander along the narrow, white streets and alleys, while taking my time to stop for souvenirs, enjoy a glass of wine or a delicious gelato and try the local products markets.

The harbour, placed in the old town, offers a beautiful scenery and represents a good viewpoint of the 14th century walls surrounding the old town.

A complete tour of the old town should include the fish market (placed at the entrance of the old town) and a long lunch at L'Angolo Blu restaurant, situated in the heart of the old town (https://www.langoloblutrattoria.it/). My recommendation from their menu: the tasty raw seafood platter.