The Itria Valley is a unique region located in the heart of the Apulia, famous for its undulating landscape, characteristic trulli and white villages that dot it. This valley represents a combination of nature, history and ancient traditions, offering multiple opportunities for visits and tourist activities.
Characteristics and history
The Itria Valley is known for its rolling hills dotted with centuries-old olive groves, vineyards and masserie, typical rural structures that tell the agricultural history of the region. The area is renowned for its trulli, ancient dry-stone constructions with conical roofs, a UNESCO heritage site since 1996, representing an architectural and cultural symbol of Apulia. The valley has a long history dating back to Messapic, Roman and medieval times, and preserves historical evidence ranging from Baroque churches to medieval castles.
What to see
AlberobelloFamous for its trulli, it is a must-see and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Locorotondo: A village with a circular layout with trulli and cummerse, houses with sloping roofs, and a very characteristic historical centre.
Martina Franca: Known for its Baroque architecture, with noble palaces, the Basilica of San Martino and scenic squares.
Cisternino and Ostuni: Other beautiful white Apulian villages with characteristic alleys and enchanting views.
Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve: For nature and sea lovers, with protected beaches and biodiversity.
Castles and churches: Among those worth visiting are the Castle of Martina Franca and the many churches of historical value scattered throughout the villages.
What to do
Trekking and nature walks among olive groves and trulli.
Guided tours of villages and historical monuments.
Tasting of local wines from the Wine Route, which runs through the entire Itria Valley.
Discover traditional Apulian cuisine in typical restaurants and masserias.
Participate in cultural events, festivals and fairs related to local traditions.
The Itria Valley is therefore a complete destination that combines natural beauty with a rich historical and cultural heritage, perfect for an immersive journey into Apulian tradition.
Recommended 3-day itinerary in Itria Valley
Here is a recommended three-day itinerary to best explore the Itria Valley, combining landscapes, historic villages, culture and typical Apulian gastronomy.
Day 1: Alberobello and Locorotondo
Morning: Visit to Alberobello, a UNESCO heritage site, to admire the famous trulli. Stroll through the two main districts, Rione Monti and Aia Piccola, also visiting the Trullo Sovrano, the largest in the area.
Lunch: Tasting of typical Apulian dishes in a restaurant overlooking the trulli.
Afternoon: Move to Locorotondo, explore the circular historic centre, visit the Mother Church of San Giorgio and stroll around the Aia area with its trulli.
Dinner: Experience local wines from the Wine Route in Locorotondo with typical food pairings.
Day 2: Martina Franca and Cisternino
Morning: Visit to Martina Franca, known for its Baroque architecture. Don't miss the historical centre, the Basilica di San Martino and the Palazzo Ducale.
Lunch: Savour local products in a typical trattoria.
Afternoon: Drive to Cisternino, another charming white village. Stroll through the characteristic streets, explore the craft shops and enjoy an aperitif in the open air.
Dinner: Dinner in one of the restaurants in Cisternino famous for its barbecued meat.
Day 3: Ostuni and Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve
Morning: Visit Ostuni, the “White City”, to admire the historical centre full of alleys, squares and churches with panoramic views over the valley.
Lunch: Lunch in a typical restaurant with dishes based on local organic products.
Afternoon: Excursion to the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve, among protected beaches and nature trails to admire local flora and fauna.
Return and relax: Finish with an aperitif while enjoying the sunset over the Adriatic coast.
This itinerary allows you to fully experience the scenic, cultural and gastronomic variety of the Itria Valley, combining visits to historic villages, unspoilt nature and traditional Apulian flavours.