“Puglia has everything I’m looking for – and more.”

What keeps surprising me about Puglia is how different it feels from other parts of Italy. The atmosphere is both raw and refined. The people are incredibly welcoming, without any fuss. The coastline is wonderfully diverse – from white sandy beaches to dramatic cliffs – and the architecture speaks volumes: whitewashed houses, historic masserie, earthy-toned villages surrounded by centuries-old olive trees. It’s a region that feels elegant and authentic at the same time. And that’s what I love.

My favorite places in Puglia

Cisternino: A small town with a big personality. The evenings here are magical: narrow streets, twinkling lights, the smell of meat grilling over open flames. Local families, couples, tourists – everyone comes together on the squares. This is the southern Italian evening you dream of.

Lecce: To me, the most beautiful city in Puglia. The baroque architecture is spectacular, yet Lecce feels relaxed and livable. I love to walk here in the late afternoon, when the city turns golden. Then a pre-dinner drink on a square – quintessentially Lecce.

Ostuni: The “white city,” perched on a hill overlooking olive groves and the sea. I keep coming back for the atmosphere: light, air, space. And that view... it impresses me every time.

Nardò: Less known, but absolutely a gem. A compact center with beautiful facades, quiet streets, and that authentic feeling of “nobody knows this yet.” Perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Monopoli: For anyone looking for a seaside town that still feels lived-in. The harbor is picturesque, the beaches are within walking distance, and the old center bursts with charm. My kids love the fishing boats here; I love the energy of life by the sea.

Why Nice2stay feels at home here

I’m incredibly proud of the collection we’ve built in Puglia: from large historic masserie to small design boutique hotels. Accommodations with soul, selected because they add something – in atmosphere, location, hospitality, or architecture. Many homes combine white stucco with natural earthy tones and modern design. Often with views of olive trees or the sea. Everything just feels right here.
And that’s where we at Nice2stay make a difference: we’re not an anonymous platform, but a small team with a love for beautiful places and real stories. We visit the accommodations ourselves, know the owners personally, and give honest information. If a kitchen is simple, we’ll say so. If a view is breathtaking, we’ve stood there ourselves.

Practical: why Puglia is such an attractive destination

What also makes Puglia such a great destination is its accessibility. You can easily fly to Bari or Brindisi, and within an hour you’re often among olive trees or by the sea. The climate is mild: from Easter through the autumn holidays, it’s wonderful to be here. Spring is perfect for peace and blossoms, summer for lively beaches, and autumn for culinary discoveries and warm days without the crowds.

Denise’s tips for your trip to Puglia

• Don’t rush. Puglia calls for a slower pace. It’s a place where you want to slow down.

• Rent a car. The charm lies in the small villages and hidden beaches.

• Visit the local market. Fresh fruit, burrata, olive oil – and a chat with the locals.

• Embrace simplicity. A plate of orecchiette with tomato and ricotta forte can be the highlight of your trip.

• Choose a stay that fits you. A masseria with history, or an intimate hideaway for two – in our collection, you won’t find rows of sameness, but characterful choices.

In conclusion

Puglia is a place where I feel at home, where I find inspiration, unwind, and discover something new each time. It’s a region full of contrast and beauty, where life still feels sincere and unhurried. And that’s exactly what we at Nice2stay want to share.
I invite you to experience Puglia for yourself – through my eyes, but above all at your own pace.

– Denise Bondi, Product Manager Italy