Italy, the coast, what comes to mind? The Amalfi Coastline? Naples? These are both highly recommended destinations in Southern Italy. But let me tell you about some of the hidden gems of Italy! Starting on the east coast of Italy, Bari! A lesser-known region of Southern Italy that demands your attention. Bari is located in the Adriatic sea, the body of water that separates Italy from the Balkans. Also known as the Puglia region of Italy. Puglia is where all the hidden gems of Italy can be found! Google Map of Hidden Gems of Italy
Hidden Gems of Italy | Southern
Bari, Italy
Free Google Map of Bari
Best Hotels in Bari, Italy
What is the Puglia Region of Italy? The Puglia region consists of several coastal towns in the heel of the “boot,” and the most popular are Bari, Polignano A Mare, and Monopoli. Each of these coastal destinations is easy to reach via Bari by train.
A fun fact about the Puglia region is that Italy’s oldest olive trees live there. Specifically in, Melendugno. Olive oil is one of Italy’s largest export, next to the wine and other fine food exports. An Italian olive oil makes a great souvenir from your travels.
Polignano a Mare
If you are looking for the true hidden gems of Italy, you must visit Polignano a Mare. I would choose Polignano a Mare over Monopoli if you don’t have time for both places. The cliffside views and beaches are magical. I got lost in the streets of this idyllic village just 20 miles south of Bari.
Polignano a Mare is not super touristy; most of the tourists appeared to be Italians. So you can count on a more authentic experience. A local did say that with each passing year, tourism is increasing. Get there now before it’s totally found out!
If you decide to make it more than just a day trip from Bari, here are hotel recommendations.
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Monopoli
Another hot spot in the Salento Peninsula is Monopoli. The most iconic site in Monopoli is the Porta Vecchia. Here you find the traditional blue and red fishing boats. These boats are used today by fishermen looking for octopus and other fish in shallow waters.
Spend the rest of your time in Monopoli, strolling around the streets of the old town. There are a few local churches of baroque city architecture. My favorite was the Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia.
A noteworthy stop when you are hungry for a snack is Sottocoperto Pub. I enjoyed a quick bite and cocktail when my feet got too tired from walking. They have a lovely outdoor patio that I hope to someday return.
Some of the best accommodations in Monopolio are:
Hidden Gems of Italy | Northern
Verona
In Italy, there are just countless places to visit! Each region has different traditions and ways of life. In the north of Italy, an amazing hidden gem is Verona!
Verona is a romantic city full of culture and charm! I visited Verona while staying in Bologna. For the best day trip to Verona, check out my guide!
Bologna
Bologna is known as the food capital of Italy! Hard to believe it would be considered a hidden gem! Bologna is a great place to station yourself in if you want to make day trips to places such as Florence or Verona. Check out my Highlight from Bologna here.
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Helga says
Wow. This is a great article about Bari. 🙂 I’ve been in 17 different towns/cities in Italy, but not yet to Bari. Your article gave me some inspo. Thanks <3
madhu sharma says
Wow ..awesome post. Italy is in top of my bucket list .hope to make it soon
Tina Krey says
Oh wow I love your cohesive photos & text, very comfortable to read. Bari sounds and looks amazing. Would love to go back to Italy right now..
Emma says
What a beautiful looking place, and it seems like it’s so quiet, you almost have the place to yourself. Love the small streets and architecture, my favourite thing about Europe is just walking
Bliss Eatts says
I was just in Italy last weekend and I miss the food so much. The south of Italy is so pretty.
Meghan Emcee says
I’d never heard of Bari before but now it’s definitely added to my bucket list 🙂
Lauren says
This is a great post! I love Italy and now I want to explore Bari! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Ophelie says
Eve though I have heard about Bari, this is the first time I get so much info about it. Your photos show a beautiful city and you gave so many information about the things to do in the area – even day trips – that you convinced me to visit it!
Melissa Byron says
It’s so great because it’s really affordable and far fewer tourists than in famous cities!
Tina says
Melissa, you make me crave Italian food & wine so bad!! Love this post, will definitely check out some of these places next time I go to Italy. Bari looks incredible!
Maya says
This is such a great post! You did a wonderful job of capturing the atmosphere. I love the fact you included accommodation and day trips! Saving this to my next Italy trip!
Jiayi Wang says
You’re making me miss Italy so so much. I grew up there but still have so much of it to see! Need to go to Polignano a Mare asap 🙂 Thanks for sharing this!
Taylor says
This is an amazing article! I cannot wait to travel to this part of Italy. I feel like it is underrated. Your photos are beautiful and I will be keeping this post handy. 🙂
Anuradha Srinath says
I have always wished to travel through Puglia region in Italy. This is such a detailed post that will come handy when I travel. Pinning it for my future use.
ANUKRATI DOSI says
Such lovely pictures! I am already in love with Italy 🙂