Apulia

Italy > Apulia

In addition to a long coastline on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Apulia delights visitors with its picturesque villages, olive groves and towns steeped in history. This south-eastern Italian region not only fascinates holidaymakers, but is also attracting more and more people migrating to Italy and wishing to settle here.

A variety of coasts and landscapes

Apulia covers an area of almost 19,540 square kilometers and has around 3.9 million inhabitants (as of 2022). Apulia’s coastline is one of the longest in Italy, which makes the region particularly attractive for beach lovers. From the gentle beaches of the Adriatic coast to the picturesque, often wild coasts of the Ionian Sea, the region offers an incomparable natural experience with numerous opportunities for both seaside holidaymakers and water sports enthusiasts.

Not only the coasts, but also the hinterland of Apulia has its own special charm. The landscape is characterized by fertile plains, olive groves and extensive vineyards, which are known for their characteristic dry-stone walls. The white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and impressive limestone cliffs are particularly charming, earning Apulia the nickname “Italian Caribbean”.

There is a lot to discover here for nature lovers: The Gargano National Park stretches across northern Apulia and contains diverse flora and fauna as well as spectacular coastal landscapes. The “Foresta Umbra” (“dark, shady forest”) in the national park invites you to take long walks and offers a refreshing contrast to the region’s sunny beaches.

Cities and sights in Apulia

Apulia is rich in history, dating back to the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Apulia is home to some of Italy’s most important archaeological and historical sites, which fascinate visitors and locals alike.

Bari: the vibrant capital

Bari, the capital of Apulia, is the economic and cultural center of the region. The lively old town “Bari Vecchia” with its narrow, cobbled streets and traditional houses exudes authentic Italian flair. The Basilica of San Nicola, where the remains of St. Nicholas rest, is one of the most important churches in southern Italy and attracts pilgrims from all over the world every year. The city is not only of interest because of its historical significance, but is also a popular place for people interested in living in Italy and appreciating the advantages of a lively coastal town.

Lecce: the “Florence of the South”

Lecce, often referred to as the “Florence of the South”, is known for its Baroque architecture and numerous ornate churches and palaces. The city is an architectural jewel and an absolute must for history and art lovers. The “Piazza del Duomo”, framed by magnificent buildings, and the amphitheater dating back to Roman times are just some of the sights that make Lecce unique. The city therefore not only attracts tourists, but is also a popular location for those wishing to live in Italy and enjoy the cultural riches of southern Italy.

Historical treasures: Alberobello and Castel del Monte

A special attraction in Apulia is the small village of Alberobello, known for its unique trulli houses. These round, whitewashed houses with their characteristic conical roofs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and give the village a fairytale atmosphere. For people emigrating to Italy, the Alberobello area offers an exceptional quality of life with its charming properties and tranquil lifestyle.

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Castel del Monte, an imposing castle from the 13th century. It was built by Emperor Frederick II and fascinates with its unusual octagonal shape and the mathematical precision with which it was constructed. It is a symbol of Italian architecture and offers a deep insight into the history and secrets of Apulia.

A paradise for gourmets

Apulia’s cuisine is known for its simplicity and at the same time for its variety and freshness. The basis of many dishes is the high-quality olive oil produced in the region’s countless olive groves. Apulia is considered the “pantry of Italy” and is famous for its excellent fresh ingredients and culinary specialties.

Typical dishes include orecchiette, a type of pasta that is often served with broccoli or tomatoes and pecorino cheese. Seafood also plays an important role in Apulian cuisine – fresh fish, grilled octopus and mussels can be found in many restaurants and markets. Taralli, a crispy snack made from wheat flour, are often served as a starter and go perfectly with a glass of regional wine.

Apulia is also known for its wines, especially the powerful red wine Primitivo and the Salice Salentino. These wines enjoy worldwide recognition and are the perfect accompaniment to typical Apulian dishes.

Quality of life in Apulia

For many people emigrating to Italy, Apulia is among the most attractive regions. The quality of life in Apulia is high, and the lifestyle is more relaxed and less hectic than in the big cities of northern Italy. The region offers an excellent infrastructure, good healthcare and a temperate Mediterranean climate that promises pleasant summers and mild winters.

Numerous charming towns and villages offer an ideal combination of tranquility, nature and cultural activities. People moving to Italy can find a variety of real estate options in Apulia – from renovated trulli in rural areas to stylish apartments in the historic city centers. The region is therefore also popular with families, those seeking peace and quiet and retirees looking for an alternative to city life.

Tips for special experiences in Apulia

There are countless places waiting to be discovered in Apulia. The town of Ostuni, also known as “the white town”, enchants visitors with its snow-white houses and views of the azure blue sea. The village of Polignano a Mare, perched on high cliffs above the sea, offers equally impressive panoramas and is always worth a visit for holidaymakers and locals alike.

A special experience in Apulia is a visit to the Castellana Caves, a huge cave system that stretches for several kilometers. Here you can discover underground lakes and fascinating stalagmite formations. The Salento peninsula is another highlight for nature lovers: it offers countless hidden bathing bays, turquoise waters and picturesque landscapes.

For wine lovers, there are numerous wineries in Apulia offering tours and tastings. Visitors can learn more about the traditional production of regional wines and let themselves be enchanted by the flavors of this unique region.

Summing up: Apulia, a region that has a lot to offer

Apulia is a region of great diversity that has a lot to offer its residents and visitors alike. The combination of stunning scenery, historical and cultural treasures and excellent cuisine makes Apulia an ideal place to live for people who want to move to Italy. Whether you are looking for a property in Apulia or simply want to experience authentic Italian life, you will find plenty of variety and a fulfilling lifestyle here.

Apulia consists of five provinces and the metropolitan city of Bari, which we would like to introduce to you here.

• Bari – Brief info with map available here: BARI
• Barletta-Andria-Trani – Brief info with map available here: BARLETTA-ANDRIA-TRANI
• Brindisi – Brief info with map available here: BRINDISI
• Foggia – Brief info with map available here: FOGGIA
• Lecce – Brief info with map available here: LECCE
• Taranto – Brief info with map available here: TARANTO

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The region of Apulia is known for its trulli and centuries-old olive trees.

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