10-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Puglia: World War II Historical Highlights

Day 1: Arriving in Bari

Bari, Italy

9:00AM

Visit the Norman Castle

Kick off your adventure by exploring the majestic Castello Normanno-Svevo, a castle with deep historical significance dating back to the 12th century.
The castle is centrally located in Bari, just a short walk from your accommodation.
EUR 8, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through the Old Town

Wander through Bari Vecchia, taking in sights of local life, stunning architecture, and atmosphere as the kids play in the Piazza del Ferrarese.
A leisurely 10-minute walk from the Norman Castle.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Tana del Polpo

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes by the waterfront, where the children can choose from various pasta and fish dishes.
Located in the old town, an easy 15-minute stroll.
EUR 60 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Puglia WWII Museum

Learn about the crucial role Puglia played during World War II through exhibits showcasing artifacts and personal stories.
A short 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
EUR 4, 2 hours

5:30PM

Gelato at Gelateria La Romana

Indulge in some of the best gelato in the city before heading back to your hotel.
A quick 10-minute walk nearby.
EUR 15 for a family of four, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Coastal Explorations

Polignano a Mare, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pescaria

Start your day with the famous mixed seafood sandwich paired with fresh juices.
A 30-minute drive from Bari to Polignano a Mare.
EUR 40 for a family of four, 1 hour

9:30AM

Exploration of Polignano a Mare

Stroll through this stunning coastal town with cliffside views and hidden beaches, perfect for family pictures.
Explore on foot as most sites are nearby.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Il Pescatore

Enjoy a sea view lunch featuring local specialties, including orecchiette pasta.
A 10-minute walk from the beach area.
EUR 70 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Grotta Palazzese

Explore the stunning sea cave known for its beauty; the kids will be fascinated by the natural wonders.
20-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR 5, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Gelato at Gelateria Martinucci

Treat your family to delicious gelato to end your day in Polignano.
A quick walk from the cave.
EUR 15 for a family of four, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Historical Charm

Monopoli, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffe Montalbano

Enjoy pastries and espresso at this traditional café with a local feel.
A short 20-minute drive to Monopoli.
EUR 30 for a family of four, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Monopoli’s Old Town

Wander through its charming alleyways and admire the picturesque marble-lined buildings.
On foot around the town center.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Puglia WWII Memorial

See the memorial dedicated to the local heroes of World War II, teaching the children about history in an engaging way.
A quick 5-minute walk from the town center.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hostaria al Fico

Dine on delicious local dishes such as seafood risotto in a family-friendly atmosphere.
A 10-minute walk from the memorial.
EUR 65 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Afternoon at the Beach

Spend some relaxing time on the small beaches of Monopoli, allowing the kids to enjoy the sandy shores.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Dolce Vita

End your day with amazing pizzas and warm hospitality in a family-friendly setting.
A short walk from the beach.
EUR 70 for a family of four, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Charming Valleys

Locorotondo, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Vino Paradiso

Enjoy a delightful breakfast of homemade cakes and local pastries.
A 25-minute drive to Locorotondo.
EUR 30 for a family of four, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Locorotondo's Trulli

Wander through the circular alleys of this picturesque town, famed for its white trulli houses.
Accessible on foot with plenty to see.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit the Belvedere

Stop by the viewpoint to take in sweeping views of the Itria Valley and capture photos of the family.
A quick 5-minute walk from Locorotondo’s center.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Ristorante Il Locandiere

Enjoy regional specialties with a veggie option that makes everyone happy.
A brief 10-minute walk from the viewpoint.
EUR 60 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Local Museum

Explore exhibits that highlight the area's agricultural history and impact during WWII.
Located just steps away from the restaurant.
EUR 5, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Gelato at Gelateria Caggianese

Savor some artisanal gelato before heading to Alberobello.
A quick walk from the museum.
EUR 15 for a family of four, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Twisted Trullis

Alberobello, Italy

9:00AM

Breakfast at Ristorante La Fontanina

Start your day with hearty Italian breakfasts including crisp frittatas and local pastries.
A quick drive from Locorotondo, about 20 minutes away.
EUR 40 for a family of four, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Trulli District

Spend the morning visiting the UNESCO-listed district with traditional trulli houses, fun for children as they explore.
Locate the district near the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria dal Nonna

Enjoy a homely atmosphere with pasta that the kids can help make!
Nearby, easily walkable.
EUR 55 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Trullo Sovrano

Tour the region’s only two-story trullo that offers insights into the fascinating architecture for the family.
A short walk from the restaurant.
EUR 8 per adult, children free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Take Pictures in Trulli

Spend some time capturing the perfect family photographs in front of these iconic structures.
Explore the surrounding area on foot.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Il Pescatore

Enjoy local fish dishes and family favorites in a cozy atmosphere.
Located back in the main area of Alberobello.
EUR 100 for a family of four, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Historic Adventure

Matera, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe A'Rennella

Enjoy rich Italian coffee and fresh pastries to fuel your trip to Matera.
A 30-minute drive to Matera.
EUR 30 for a family of four, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Sassi di Matera

Take a guided tour of the unique cave dwellings that narrate a captivating history and UNESCO heritage.
Easily accessible from the café by car.
EUR 40 for families, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Francesca

Taste traditional Lucanian dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients, family-friendly choices available.
Just a short drive from the Sassi.
EUR 70 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

Step into history by visiting the well-preserved cave house that showcases life in the Sassi.
10-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR 5, 1 hour

3:30PM

Learn at the Museo Nazionale di Matera

Discover more about Matera’s brutalist architecture and WWII history through engaging exhibitions.
Located 15 minutes from Casa Grotta.
EUR 8, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Gelato at Gelateria Gusto

Savor artisan gelato made with local flavors to wrap up your Matera visit.
A short drive back to the city center.
EUR 15 for a family of four, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Historic Seaport

Taranto, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gran Caffè Garibaldi

Enjoy the famous pasticciotto (traditional pastry) in this local favorite café.
A drive of approximately 45 minutes to Taranto.
EUR 30 for a family of four, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tour the Aragonese Castle

Experience history by exploring this well-preserved castle with its scenic views over Taranto's harbor.
Short drive from the café.
EUR 10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto

Discover ancient artifacts and learn about Taranto’s significance, including during WWII.
Only a few minutes away by car.
EUR 8, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Piano B

Enjoy a family-friendly menu specializing in fresh seafood dishes in a relaxed environment.
Close to the museum.
EUR 70 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Taranto Beach

Spend quality family time at the beach, letting the kids splash in the waves.
A drive to a nearby beach area.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Pignata

Enjoy traditional Puglian cuisine amidst a cozy, family-friendly setting.
Short drive from the beach.
EUR 80 for a family of four, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Coastal Treasures

Brindisi, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Vignola

Precede your day with Italian pastries and strong coffee local mirth.
A 50-minute drive to Brindisi.
EUR 30 for a family of four, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Roman Column

Stand beside this iconic landmark signifying the end of the Via Appia with a striking historical significance.
Located near the seafront, within walking distance.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Stroll along the Waterfront

Enjoy a scenic walk along the shores with great views while the kids enjoy some free time to play.
Easily accessible from the column.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Al Rione Antico

Taste creative dishes while enjoying views of the classic fishing harbor.
Located near the waterfront.
EUR 85 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the WWII War Cemetery

Reflect at this powerful site dedicated to the soldiers from Commonwealth nations who fell during the war.
A short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Gelato at Gelateria Gran Caffè

Delight in some delicious gelato in a variety of unique flavors to refresh your afternoon.
A brief trip back towards the city center.
EUR 15 for a family of four, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Il Fisherman

Complete your day with excellent seafood in a warm ambience, catering to families.
Centered near the city.
EUR 85 for a family of four, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Seaside Serenity

Otranto, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Centrale

Start your day with a lovely breakfast of fresh fruit, yogurt, and baked goods.
A 1-hour drive from Brindisi to Otranto.
EUR 30 for a family of four, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Otranto Castle

Explore the castle that tells the tales of Otranto’s rich history, with stunning views of the city.
Located a short walk from the café.
EUR 5 per adult, children free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Il Diavolo della Presta

During lunch, treat your family to wonderful local dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.
Short walk from Otranto Castle.
EUR 75 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Cathedral of Otranto

Admire the beautiful mosaics and the enchanting architecture that date back to the 12th century.
A short walk from the restaurant.
EUR 3 per adult, children free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Beach time at Otranto Beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing at one of the Adriatic’s stunning beaches, enjoying swimming and family games.
Located just a few minutes away by car.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at I Faraglioni

Enjoy some delicious grilled fish in a stunning seaside setting ideal for a family dining experience.
Located close to the beach.
EUR 90 for a family of four, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Cultural Capital

Lecce, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Alvino

Start your day with delightful pastries and fresh coffee in this well-loved café.
A 30-minute drive to Lecce.
EUR 30 for a family of four, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Lecce’s Baroque Architecture

Take a family-friendly walking tour through Lecce to admire its unique Baroque art and architecture.
Walking tour starts at the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Osteria degli Spiriti

Enjoy local specialties while savoring the beautifully decorated interiors.
Located within walking distance from the City Centre.
EUR 70 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the War Museum of Bandiera

Engage in WWII history at this museum that focuses on the roles of local people during the war.
A short drive from the restaurant.
EUR 6, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Villa Comunale

Unwind in the city's beautiful park, where children can play while parents relax.
Easy access from the museum via car.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at La Tuscia

Conclude your Puglia journey with a celebratory dinner featuring regional dishes and family favorites.
A short drive to the restaurant.
EUR 90 for a family of four, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability