Things to do in Puglia on Your Italian Family Holiday
Puglia is truly one of the hidden gems in Italy and is the perfect destination for a family Holiday. Here you can find a range of things to do in Puglia with kids that parents will love to. We include where to go and what to see when planning to visit Puglia, Italy. Including Bari the capital, Alberobello, and more. Southern highlights for your Italy family holiday
Why you need to add Puglia to your Italy family holiday
Located in the south of Italy on the heal of the boot is the breathtaking region of Puglia. With some of the best beaches in Italy, this region is full of little surprises.
Puglia was actually my first stop in Italy where I was based for a Summer back when I was travelling Europe. It’s one of those places that stayed in my mind over time. I loved it so much that I returned years later to explore with my family.
For many families, Puglia isn’t on the top of their Italian holiday destinations list, mainly because it is right down south. Many travellers who visit Italy tend to visit the northern region, and the more touristic places such as Rome, Florence, or Venice.
However, this little unspoiled region tucked away in the southern pocket of Italy, is a splendorous place to visit and well worth the trip if you can make it down southern region.
When is the best time to visit Puglia?
The weather in Puglia is quite pleasant all year round. Being in southern Italy it doesn’t usually get too cold. However, if you like spending time at the beach, Summer time, between May – September is probably best time to visit Puglia.
One time we visited Puglia in April and we still were able to take a dip in the water. That’s the good thing about the Mediterranean, the water is always warmer than many parts of the world.
Travelling around Puglia with the family
The easiest way to travel Puglia, especially with kids, is by hiring a car. There are buses and trains, and when I first travelled Puglia with a friend, we were able to get around with public transport.
However, visiting Puglia with kids, I found a car was much more convenient. A car will give you much more flexibility, and parking is easy to find in most places.
6 Family friendly things to do and see in Puglia:
Puglia is a family friendly destination with many activities available for kids making it perfect for your Italy family holiday. Here are some of our top family friendly things to do and see in Puglia with kids:
1. The Trulli Houses in Alberobello
A trip to Puglia is never complete without seeing the famous Trulli Houses. These limestone houses with coned roofs date back to the 14th Century and are the perfect place to stay to get the real Pugliese experience.
We rented out a Trullo from a place called Trulli Mania in the centre of Alberobello for a few days during our visit. The kids absolutely loved it. Ours was like a small self contained apartment on two levels with a terrace with a view of the town where we had our breakfast every morning.
Sitting up on the terrace looking out to all the other coned roof Trulli is just incredible. Perfect for your Italy family holiday.
The historical centre is something out of a fairy tail and a stroll through the Trulli lined streets is an absolute must to really experience the beauty.
2. Castellana Caves – La Grotta di Castellana
The Grotta di Castellana – Castellana caves are the largest ever explored in Italy and is one of the best things to do in Puglia with kids. They are a must see sight for any traveller and feature a unique “white cave” which by some is considered one of the best in the world.
The Castellana Caves are quite accessible for children. You cannot bring a pram, though it is safe enough to wear a baby carrier for babies or toddlers. They actually provide some at the door if you don’t have your own. We had our two year old in a back pack carrier and he loved it. Our four year old was able to walk the 3km round trip with no problems.
For children, and parents, exploring these caves provide a day to remember and a wonderful memory of your Italy family holiday.
3. Fasano Zoo Safari
It may not be Africa, but it’s the next best thing for kids. The Fasano Zoo is something you can’t miss on your Puglia family holiday. It is one of the biggest zoo’s in Europe and is a combination of a self drive safari, walk around zoo, and amusement park.
Drive through the zoo getting close enough to the zebras and giraffes that you can even feed them if you purchase some nuts before you enter. Keep your windows closed as you get close to the lions, some of them even walk up close to your car.
After the safari you can take a small train to the walk around zoo to view the larger animals and watch the zoo keepers feed the hippos and polar bears. A boat ride will get you close to the monkeys, and is an experience in itself. There is a dolphin arena, aquarium and a tropical room with reptiles and fish of all species too.
4. Fasanolandia
Connected to the Fasano Zoo you can find the amusement park Fasanolandia with rides and attractions for all ages. Your zoo ticket entrance includes Fasanolandia so there is no extra fee. Another must see if you are visiting Puglia with kids.
For younger children there are rides such as pirate boats, helicopters and dogem cars. Then there are also rides for adults and older kids like roller coasters too.
Food is everywhere and the prices are actually not too bad for an amusement park.
5. Polignano al Mare
A scenic little seaside town on Italy’s Adriatic coast, Polignano al Mare has a strategic location making it popular for tourists. Polignano itself is great to explore on foot with the family, and you are sure to find many resturants serving up the local cuisine.
With a gorgeous beach surrounded by limestone cliffs, Polignano al Mare makes a relaxing day out for the whole family.
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6. Bari, The Capital of Puglia
Bari is the the capital and the gateway to Puglia with an airport, large train station, and a ferry port where you can travel over to Greece or Croatia.
The capital of Puglia has a lot to offer for children and families. It is a great place to base yourselves while travelling Puglia with kids.
Family travel in Bari is quite easy, and there are many cultural family activities to enjoy. Visit the historical churches, cathedrals and museums, or hire a bike and ride along the coast. It is a great place to base yourselves if you don’t have a car.
Your Italian Family Holiday in Puglia
Whether you are visiting Italy with Kids, visiting relatives, or just wanting to explore Puglia with your kids, there is so much to see in this gorgeous region which makes up the heal of the boot of Italy. Puglia really is perfect for your family friendly Italy family holiday.
If you are looking for more adventure, take a look at our Calabria with Kids post or look at our main post Italy with Kids for more Italian travel tips. Make sure you follow us on Facebook!
