Headed to Southern Italy and wanna take a day trip to Alberobello? Follow this one day Alberobello itinerary to explore the iconic Trulli houses, try local delicacies, and take in the town’s unique atmosphere – all while soaking up centuries of history and stunning views! All my favorite things to do in Alberobello, coming right up!
As soon as we booked our Puglia road trip, I knew we needed to take a day trip to Alberobello. I’d seen photos of those whimsical Trulli houses with their iconic cone-shaped roofs literally all over social media, and knew I needed to see them for myself.
Was Alberobello worth a visit?! 1000% yes, but I’m glad we visited in the early AM before all the bus tours arrived, haha. It’s definitely one of Puglia’s most touristy spots… don’t say I didn’t warn ya!
Alberobello is a place where old-world charm meets laid-back vibes. There’s rows of Trulli houses, narrow cobblestone streets, cozy trattorias, and sun-kissed courtyards. And tons of fresh pasta, golden focaccia, and irresistible olive oil products. All surrounded by quirky shops with hand-painted ceramics and unique souvenirs.
So what’s so special about Alberobello anyways? Well, it’s one of Italy’s most charming and unique destinations, famous for its UNESCO-listed Trulli houses — and there’s over 1,000 of them over here! These traditional conical stone dwellings date back to the 14th century – and they’re a real architectural gem.
But wait – what’s a trullo? A trullo (plural: trulli) is a traditional stone hut with a cone-shaped roof, typically made from local limestone. The roofs are constructed using a dry-stone technique, meaning they’re built without mortar – which makes them not only unique but also surprisingly durable.
Originally, trulli were used as farmhouses and have deep ties to the construction traditions of this region. And lemme tell you, if you get the chance like we did, I highly recommend staying in one – it’s a one-of-a-kind experience!
So let’s get to it — the best things to do in Alberobello!
Day Trip to Alberobello Logistics
Before we get into all the fun things to do in Alberobello and my recommended one day Alberobello day trip itinerary, there’s a lot of logistics to talk about first. If you’ve read any of my blog posts before you know I’m super comprehensive…
Where is Alberobello?
First of all, where is Alberobello exactly?!
I have to admit, before doing any research for my most recent trip to Italy, I honestly had no idea where Alberobello was. So don’t feel bad if you haven’t got a clue either, lol. Sure, I had seen (plenty of) photos of those iconic trulli houses, but did I know where they were? Nope!
And before we get into the specifics, just remember that Italy is a long and narrow country, so don’t expect to be able to hop on over to Alberobello regardless of where you are in the country! For reference, Alberobello is about 500 km from Rome, 650 km from Florence, and 850 km from Venice.
While it’s certainly possible to make the trip from cities like Bari (about 70 km away) or even possibly Naples (about 250 km, but not advised), planning a day trip to Alberobello from farther cities would require some serious travel time.
So where is it?! You’ll find Alberobello in one of Italy’s most southern regions — Puglia, known as the heel of Italy. Alberobello is pretty close to most of the region’s other highlights (like Polignano a Mare, Ostuni, and Locorotondo), making it a perfect stop for a day trip on a road trip through Puglia (like we did!).
Geographically, Alberobello is surrounded by lush countryside and rolling hills, and dotted with centuries-old olive groves and vineyards, giving it a truly picturesque charm.
The views of the valley and the endless olive groves around town are absolutely stunning (kinda like in Locorotondo), and walking through the streets of Alberobello truly feels like stepping into a charming fairy tale. I couldn’t get enough of the scenery – it’s so striking and unlike anywhere else I’ve ever been!
When to Plan your Day Trip to Alberobello
Like much of Italy, Alberobello experiences four distinct seasons, each offering its own charm. Whether you’re drawn to the warmth and sunshine of the summer months or the more tranquil, cozy atmosphere of the cooler seasons, there’s a perfect time to visit this magical town.
Summer (High Season): June to August
Summer in Alberobello is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). If you’re after the classic Italian summer vibe – with long, sunny days, outdoor festivals, and food and wine al fresco – this is the time to visit.
That said, it’s also the peak tourist season, and while the town is lively, the crowds can be overwhelming, especially in July and August.
Personally, I’d avoid these hottest months. Why? Well, Puglia, and Alberobello in particular, is an extremely popular destination for Italian tourists, meaning it can be tough to find accommodation, and restaurants may have long waits. Plus, it gets scorching hot, making it less enjoyable to wander around town. And definitely steer clear of Ferragosto (August 15th) when the local crowds are at their peak.
If you can, plan your trip either at the very end of May or early June – just before the high season hits. During this time, the weather is ideal, the crowds are manageable, and you can still experience the magic of Alberobello without the summer chaos.
For reference, I visited in early June, and it was perfect – sunny and vibrant, but not too crowded… until mid day that was!
Spring (Shoulder Season): March to May
Spring in Alberobello is perfect for exploring, with mild temps ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is the perfect time to stroll through the streets and soak in the beauty of the Trulli houses without breaking a sweat.
Crowds are still low, especially in March and early April, making it a great time for budget travelers or anyone who enjoys a quieter atmosphere. Just be aware that Easter is a big holiday in Italy, so avoid visiting during that time if you prefer to stay away from crowds.
By May, many of the local attractions will be open, and you’ll find fewer tourists compared to the summer months. If you’re looking to enjoy Alberobello at a slower pace, spring is definitely the best time to go.
Fall (Shoulder Season): September to November
Fall in Alberobello starts warm in September, with temperatures still reaching summer levels, but by October and November, the weather cools to a comfortable 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). September still sees a decent number of tourists, but by early October, the crowds start to thin, making it a more peaceful time to visit.
Accommodation prices also drop after the summer rush, especially in late October and November, so it’s a great opportunity to book a stay in one of the town’s charming Trulli. Plus, the fall landscape around Alberobello is beautiful, with the olive groves turning golden — oh I can imagine just how gorgeous that must be!
Winter (Low Season): November to February
Winter in Alberobello is cool, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). While you’ll find fewer tourists and better deals on accommodation, the weather can be unpredictable, with some chilly and rainy days.
If you’re planning to visit mainly for the stunning views, the Trulli, and the peaceful atmosphere, winter might be a good time for you. But if you’re hoping for pleasant weather to enjoy the outdoors and other parts of Puglia (hello Mediterranean beaches!), I’d recommend waiting until spring or fall when temperatures are more comfortable for sightseeing.
How to Get to Alberobello
By Plane
If you’re not already in Italy, the closest major airport to Alberobello is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), located about 65 km (40 miles) away. Although you won’t be able to fly directly to Alberobello from outside Italy, connecting flights through Rome, Naples, or Milan are your best bet.
Once you arrive at Bari Airport, you have several options for getting to Alberobello:
- By Car: Renting a car is highly recommended if you’re planning to visit a few towns in Puglia as it gives you the freedom to stop and enjoy the scenic countryside. The drive from Bari to Alberobello takes about 1 hour. We LOVED having a car in Puglia and definitely recommend you do the same!
- By Train: You can take a train from Bari to Alberobello Station, which takes about 1 hour. From the station, it’s a short walk into the town center, where you can explore the Trulli and other local attractions.
- By Bus: Alternatively, there are buses from Bari to Alberobello that take about 1.5 hours. You can check out routes from bus companies like MarinoBus or Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL).
Other nearby airports include Brindisi Airport (BDS), about 1.5 hours away by car, and Naples Airport (NAP), about 3.5 hours away. If you fly into either of these airports, you’ll most likely need to transfer to Bari to catch a train or bus to Alberobello.
By Train
Getting to Alberobello by train is straightforward. You can take a train from Bari to Alberobello Station operated by Trenitalia, Italy’s national train company, which takes about 1 hour. This is an easy and scenic option, as you’ll pass through the beautiful Puglia countryside.
From the train station, the town center is just a short walk, where you can explore the famous Trulli houses and enjoy the local sights.
By Bus
If you prefer to skip the train and take a bus, there are several companies offering direct routes to Alberobello from various cities in Italy, including Bari, Naples, and Polignano a Mare. Expect the trip from Bari to take about 1.5 hours by bus. Companies like FlixBus, MarinoBus, and Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL) operate these routes, making it an easy and affordable way to get to Alberobello.
By Organized Day Trip
And if you’d rather make it super, super easy and only have time for one day in Alberobello, definitely consider an organized tour. Hey, you’re on vacation!
Guided day trips mean you don’t have to worry about transportation (or parking!) at all! A great option if you’re navigating Puglia without a car, or just want a super stress-free day. Many day trips visit a few towns in one day, meaning you get to see quite a lot in a short amount of time!
There’s quite a few tours depending on where you’re coming from – I’m listing some highly rated ones below:
- From Brindisi or Ostuni: Alberobello, Locorotondo & Ostuni Tour with Brunch – 3 villages in one day! Savor an Apulian brunch, enjoy an olive oil tasting, and enter an iconic Trullo house.
- From Polignano a Mare or Bari: Day Trip to Alberobello and Matera – Discover TWO UNESCO World Heritage sites in one day exploring the sassi districts in Matera (the European Capital of Culture in 2019) and the trulli homes in Alberobello (free time for lunch and shopping).
- From Bari: Alberobello and Polignano a Mare Half-Day Trip – Perfect for those without tons of time, as you get to see both Alberobello and Polignano a Mare in just 6 hours or so. Note that shared tours only depart on certain days, so book ASAP.
- From Lecce: Ostuni, Alberobello, and Polignano Tour – Visit three authentic villages on a day trip, including Ostuni (known as the “white city”), Alberobello (to see the trulli houses of course), and finally the coastal town of Polignano a Mare to take in glorious coastal views.
By Car
If you’re nearby or prefer the flexibility of driving, Alberobello is easily accessible by car.
The A14 and SS96 highways connect the town to Bari and other parts of Puglia, and the drive offers beautiful views of rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards. Expect a smooth drive on the main roads, though be prepared for smaller, winding roads as you approach the town.
Tip: If you’re driving to Alberobello, consider stopping in Locorotondo or Martina Franca on your way – these towns offer charming streets and authentic Puglian experiences. Once you get to Alberobello, the town is small enough to explore on foot, and you’ll likely only need your car to get to the town.
Parking in Alberobello
Finding parking in Alberobello can be tricky, especially near the historic Trulli district. The town center, especially the area around the Rione Monti and Aia Piccola districts, is a Restricted Traffic Zone (ZTL), so be careful not to drive into these areas unless you have a permit.
We parked in a HUGE grassy lot right on the outskirts of town, and while it honestly seemed a little sketch (possibly because we couldn’t figure out if the local man sitting nearby was an attendant or just hanging out…), all was fine. And there were no signs, so…?
Plus, parking ended up being FREE, which completely threw us off – we’re used to paying for parking in touristy towns! Parking in San Francisco has definitely made us extra cautious about parking in general, haha.
Your best bet is to park on the edges of town or in one of the larger parking lots – it’s easy and hassle-free! Some good options include:
- Parcheggio Via Caduti di Via Fani: A large parking lot near the entrance to Alberobello, with easy access to the town center.
- Parcheggio Via Lucana: Located near the old town and a good option if you’re staying in the historic area.
- Parcheggio Piazza del Popolo: Another option closer to the town center, ideal if you’re exploring on foot.
Parking in Alberobello can be busy, especially during the high season, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Once you park, you can easily walk to the main attractions. Since the town is small, you won’t need your car to get around once you’re there.
A Few Tips About Driving in Italy in General
You’ll need an international driver’s permit: In order to rent a car in Italy as an international tourist, you need to present an International Driver’s Permit. We typically get ours from AAA, and it’s a super easy process (you will need passport photos as well so keep that in mind). Once granted and “activated”, it’s valid for a year.
Rent a small car: There’s no need for a huge car here in Alberobello, and Puglia in general. I actually recommend renting the smallest car possible to make parking easier. We drove around in a small Fiat Panda, and were able to park in small spots and navigate the narrow streets with ease. Psst – Make sure you know how to properly drive a stick if you rent a manual (which is common in Italy and all of Europe).
Beware of local drivers: Italians can be assertive drivers (which we definitely experienced firsthand). Stay alert and be prepared for sudden stops or lane changes. Locals don’t always follow the rules; they don’t stop at stop signs, don’t follow speed limits, and the amount of times we were tailgated was beyond infuriating.
I guess they’re getting annoyed with the increase of tourists… which I totally get. They don’t look, signal, or stop, they just GO. So be extra, extra vigilant and careful. And always let the locals pass you.
If you’re coming from a nearby town, here’s how far Alberobello is:
- From Locorotondo: ~10 km (6 miles). About 15 minutes by car; no direct train service, but you can take a bus (about 15 minutes).
- From Cisternino: ~20 km (12 miles). About 30 minutes by car; no direct train service, but you can take a bus (about 30 minutes).
- From Bari: ~65 km (40 miles). About 1 hour by car or 1.5 hours by bus; no direct train service, but you can take a train to Martina Franca (about 1 hour), then a short bus ride to Alberobello.
- From Polignano a Mare: ~50 km (31 miles). About 45 minutes by car or 1.5 hours by bus; no direct train service, but you can take a train to Monopoli (about 30 minutes), then a bus to your destination.
- From Matera: ~75 km (47 miles). About 1.5 hours by car; no direct train service, but you can take a bus (about 1.5 hours).
- From Gallipoli: ~130 km (81 miles). About 2 hours by car; no direct train service, but you can take a bus (about 2.5 hours).
- From Otranto: ~150 km (93 miles). About 2.5 to 3 hours by car; no direct train service, but you can take a bus (about 3 hours).
- From Lecce: ~160 km (99 miles). About 2.5 to 3 hours by car or bus; no direct train service, but you can take a train to Martina Franca (about 1.5 hours), then a short bus ride to your destination.
How to Get Around Alberobello
Getting around Alberobello is super easy – the town is small and walkable, so you can easily explore on foot. Everything is within a short walking distance, so there’s no need for taxis or public transport unless you’re venturing further out.
Just be prepared for some cobblestone streets and gentle inclines as you explore the town’s historic areas.
Day Trip to Alberobello vs. Staying Overnight
Should you take a day trip to Alberobello or stay overnight? Honestly, if you’re short on time, a day trip is more than enough to experience the magic of this charming town. But just look at our hotel!
While it’s true that Alberobello feels extra special once the day-trippers head out and the town quiets down, there’s not actually a ton to do here, so we were able to get a feel of the place in just a few short hours. The iconic Trulli houses are definitely the highlight, and you can wander the narrow streets and snap all the photos you need without feeling rushed.
That being said, I do think you should spend at least one night on your Puglia road trip in a trulli hotel (doesn’t actually need to be in Alberobello itself)! If you’re looking for a relaxing night, staying overnight nearby in a masseria (like we did near Cisternino) can be a wonderful way to enjoy the Puglia countryside and get a peaceful, authentic experience.
We stayed in a Trulli-style room at Borgo Canonica, and it was one of the highlights of our trip – a unique stay with beautiful views, but still close enough to Alberobello for a quick visit the next morning. More on our hotel below (psst — we LOVED it).
But don’t worry – day trips are very much possible if you’re already in the nearby region of Puglia! As you can see below, most popular towns/cities in Puglia are only about an hour or so away from Alberobello, meaning if you head there in the early AM, you really have all day to explore!
Taking a day trip to Alberobello like we did? Since Alberobello is one of the most touristy towns in Puglia, you’ll wanna get here on the earlier side to beat the big buses that drop people off in hundreds.
We parked around 8:30am or so and wandered amongst the trulli for a bit until it got crowded. Then we had some of the best focaccia al pomodoro of our lives at La Lira and promptly left, haha. A few hours was enough for us (plus we had more towns to see!).
Where to Stay in Alberobello
A trullo of course! Yes, you can stay in them!
These traditional stone dwellings, with their conical roofs and charming, rustic architecture, are iconic to the Puglia region in southern Italy. Most trulli have vaulted ceilings, antique furnishings, original stone features, and a private bathroom. Meaning, a super unique stay, and so very different from a typical (dare-I-say-boring) hotel room.
Staying in a Trullo is like stepping back in time. The interiors are typically cozy and rustic, with stone walls and curved ceilings. Modern amenities are often added for comfort, so you’ll find things like air conditioning, modern bathrooms, and kitchenettes in most accommodations, but the charm and old-world feel of the Trulli are preserved.
Note that some Trulli might have air conditioning or portable fans, but older Trulli might rely on natural ventilation or small space heaters, so be sure to check the amenities when booking.
Besides our stunning cave suite in Matera, our trulli masseria near Alberobello was the most unique accommodation I’ve ever stayed in in Italy (and possibly all of Europe)!
Note that many properties in Alberobello have minimum stays of 2 nights, especially in peak summer season. We originally wanted to stay at Romantic Trulli or Astra right in town, but with only a week in Puglia (plus an additional 2 nights in Matera) and plenty of places we wanted to visit, I just couldn’t make it work to spend 2 nights here in a trulli.
I do think our one night at Borgo Canonica was enough, although I wouldn’t say no to another few afternoons by the pool. Part masseria, part trulli, it’s truly the best of both worlds (see what I did there, haha). The hotel grounds are stunning, the pool is oh so peaceful, and it was so fun to sleep in a trulli! Plus, there’s free private parking which is always appreciated.
With that being said, there’s plenty of opportunities to spend the night in a trulli outside of Alberobello itself. As noted before, we stayed in a trulli masseria right outside the small village of Cisternino, and loved it.
Here’s a few other options for trulli accommodation in Alberobello:
- Astra: a luxury trullo with tons of excellent reviews, featuring a perfect blend of modern amenities and traditional charm in the heart of Alberobello
- Romantic Trulli: a charming and intimate getaway, ideal for couples looking to experience a unique, cozy stay in one of Alberobello’s iconic cone-shaped homes.
- Tipico Resort: a tranquil retreat with spacious trulli accommodations, providing a peaceful escape surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Puglia
- Trulli in Corte: offers beautifully restored trulli with a rustic yet comfortable feel, perfect for those who want an authentic, homey experience in the center of Alberobello
- B&B Trulli Miriva’: combines traditional charm with modern comforts, offering a delightful stay with personalized service and an ideal location
- Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso: a unique “spread-out” hotel experience where guests can stay in beautiful trulli scattered around the town
What to Eat in Alberobello
Alberobello isn’t just about beautiful Trulli – it’s also a fantastic place to eat! The food in this part of Puglia is deliciously simple, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. Here’s a few must-try dishes:
- Orecchiette: This iconic ear-shaped pasta is a Puglian specialty and a must-try when you’re in Alberobello. It’s often served with a simple sauce like cime di rapa (broccoli rabe) or a hearty tomato-based sauce with meat. You can find it in most local trattorias or restaurants.
- Panzerotti: Think of it like a savory, deep-fried pocket of dough filled with mozzarella, tomato, and sometimes other fillings like ham or mushrooms. Perfect for a snack while wandering the streets!
- Focaccia Barese: This soft, olive-oil-rich bread topped with tomatoes, olives, and oregano is a must-try, especially for breakfast or as a snack. It’s available at bakeries around town, and it pairs beautifully with a glass of local wine.
Since we only visited for a few hours (and feasted at our hotel before arriving), we didn’t have too many opportunities for meals in Alberobello. But the one that we did? Simply fantastic. Easily the best focacceria al pomodoro of our lives — head over to La Lira; you won’t be disappointed.
Brief History of Alberobello
Alberobello’s story begins all the way back in the 14th century when it was just a tiny farming village under the rule of the Count of Conversano.
But what really sets Alberobello apart is its Trulli – those iconic conical-roofed stone houses. Legend has it that the Trulli were built without mortar – a type of paste made from sand, water, and a binder like cement – that would normally be used to hold the stones together.
The people of Alberobello cleverly stacked the stones without mortar to avoid paying taxes, since the Kingdom of Naples required taxes on permanent structures. So, the Trulli could be easily dismantled, making them technically “temporary” and tax-free.
The town didn’t officially become a proper settlement until the late 16th century when the local ruler, Count Gian Girolamo, allowed it to expand. The Trulli started popping up all over, and by the 18th century, the village was thriving.
In fact, Alberobello’s entire historic center, with its maze of Trulli, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. Today, you can still walk through streets lined with these adorable homes, each with a history of its own.
What’s fascinating is that while Alberobello was once a remote, rural community, it’s now a must-visit destination in Italy. The Trulli have been carefully preserved and restored, and the town has blossomed into a charming place where you can see history come to life. Despite the influx of tourists, it retains its original charm and offers a peek into a way of life that has been around for centuries.
Other FAQs and Info about Alberobello
What’s so special about Alberobello?
Alberobello is one of those places that feels like stepping into a storybook – a town full of picture-perfect conical-roofed houses, the Trulli! These little stone huts, with their quirky roofs, are literally everywhere you look, and there’s something about the way they dot the landscape that feels both ancient and whimsical.
Where can you see trulli?
Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the heart of the Trulli region and is home to over 1,500 of these structures. There are two main areas in Alberobello where you can find Trulli:
- Rione Monti: The larger of the two neighborhoods, this area is full of Trulli and gives you a chance to stay right in the heart of the UNESCO-listed town. This is the area we primarily explored!
- Rione Aia Piccola: A quieter, less touristy area, where you can experience the Trulli in a more residential setting. If you’re exploring over here, please be respectful of the locals and remember – people still live here!
In addition to Alberobello, the nearby towns of Locorotondo and Martina Franca also feature Trulli, though on a smaller scale.
Is Alberobello really that touristy?
Haha, yup! As someone who’s traveled all over Italy, I can tell you that Alberobello definitely gets its fair share of tourists, but that doesn’t mean it’s lost its charm. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site after all, so it attracts visitors, especially during the summer months.
The Trulli houses are iconic, and you’ll find crowds around the most famous areas like Rione Monti – the district packed with those adorable conical-roofed homes.
However, here’s the thing: it’s touristy in the best way. While some parts of Alberobello do feel like a tourist destination (hello, souvenir shops!), the town still feels authentic.
You can easily wander off the main streets and discover quieter, less commercialized corners of the town, especially in the Rione Aia Piccola district. It’s here that you’ll see locals living their lives among the Trulli, which is what makes Alberobello so magical.
So yes, it’s touristy – but not to the point where it takes away from the town’s charm. You can still find those quiet moments to feel like you’re stepping back in time.
Currency in Alberobello
Like the rest of Italy, the currency in Alberobello is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in larger shops, restaurants, and hotels. However, for those little family-owned trattorias or quirky cafes tucked away in quieter corners, it’s always a good idea to carry a bit of cash. Plus, cash is the easiest option for souvenirs.
If you’re not sure where the nearest ATM is, don’t worry – Alberobello has several, and you’ll find them near the main tourist areas.
Language in Alberobello
The main language spoken in Alberobello is Italian, of course. While it’s always great to brush up on some basic Italian phrases (and believe me, locals really appreciate it when you try), you’ll find that many people in the more touristy areas speak at least a little English. Still, don’t expect everyone to be fluent, especially in smaller cafes or shops.
A few phrases to remember:
- Ciao! – Hello!
- Per favore – Please
- Grazie – Thank you
- Quanto costa? – How much does it cost?
- Parla inglese? – Do you speak English?
If you’re staying in one of the Trulli or venturing into the surrounding countryside, you may even hear a bit of the local Apulian dialect, but don’t worry – it’s similar enough to standard Italian that you’ll still get by!
Things to do in Alberobello
Looking for things to do in Alberobello?! You’re in the right place. There’s honestly not a ton to do here besides strolling around the UNESCO World Heritage Site, but enough to fill a morning and/or an afternoon.
And to be completely honest, Alberobello definitely feels like a tourist trap in Puglia (easily…), but still a must-see in my opinion (just arrive early!). Just don’t plan to spend multiple days here.
1. Wander through the trulli districts
Of course one of the most popular things to do in Alberobello is to simply wander among all the trulli! That’s the main appeal of visiting the town of course, and what makes this spot so different from others on any Puglia itinerary.
The town is divided into two main districts – Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola. Rione Monti is the more touristy area (with the highest concentration of trulli); this is where many trulli have been converted into shops, cafes, and accommodations.
Rione Aia Piccola is a smaller but less touristy area of trulli — it’s much quieter and has a more residential feel. Note that some of the houses are still inhabited, so always make sure to be extra respectful and avoid disturbing the residents (including staying off private property).
But regardless where you wander, you’re sure to come across all the quirky, conical roofs – there’s tons of them over here. There’s something so magical about the way the light hits the whitewashed stone, and my husband had to literally pry my camera outta my hands, haha.
2. Take a guided tour
If you’d rather wander around with a local guide and actually learn a thing or two (highly recommended), consider signing up for this 2-hour guided trulli tour. I think our visit would have had a lot more meaning if we understood the history and significance.
On this guided sightseeing tour with a local (whose family had lived in Alberobello for many generations and even lived in one of the Trulli in town), you’ll learn all about and admire the architecture of the city’s unique trulli buildings, marvel at panoramic views of the city, visit a typical Trullo church, and even head inside a trullo. Doesn’t get more meaningful than that!
3. Find the best viewpoints
Of course, wandering the town at ground level is great, but if you’re looking for breathtaking views, make sure you head up to one of the panoramic terraces. You can look over the town’s rooftops and really see the conical roofs that make these trulli truly unique!
Alberobello offers plenty of stunning views, and to find the best spots, keep an eye out for signs that say “Vista Panoramica.” These will lead you to terraces and rooftops with sweeping views of the town and its iconic trulli.
Just remember, to access the roofs you’ll need to buy something from the shop, typically a coffee or a small souvenir. From these vantage points, you can take in the sight of the conical roofs spread across the landscape, framed by olive groves and rolling hills. STUNNING.
4. Admire the view from Trulli Panoramic View
With that being said, if you’re looking for the absolute best view in town, you have to head to Trulli Panoramic View. It’s located right in the heart of Alberobello and offers stunning panoramic views of the Trulli district and the surrounding countryside. By far the best view of the historical part of the town.
We started our day in Alberobello here, and LOVED the morning light over the whitewashed rooftops – I honestly kinda wish we had come for sunrise!
It’s the perfect spot to take in the entire layout of the town and snap a few photos from above. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Alberobello, so I highly recommend heading here first thing since there’ll be fewer tourists and more space to take it all in.
5. See the Church of Sant’Antonio
I was so surprised to learn that there’s actually a church built in the shape of a Trullo! The Church of Sant’Antonio is a stunning example of how the Trulli architecture has influenced other parts of Alberobello. This 20th-century church, located in Rione Monti, is one of the highlights of the town, with its beautiful stonework and unique conical roof.
It’s a peaceful place to take a moment and reflect, and the church is still very much in use for services, so you might get lucky and experience the serene atmosphere during a Mass. It was one of those quiet moments that felt like I was experiencing a true blend of local tradition and spirituality at the same time.
6. Explore the Local Shops
Alberobello is filled with quaint little shops selling everything from handmade ceramics to local olive oils and artisan wines. I spent an hour or so popping in and out of these adorable stores, picking up unique souvenirs to take home (of course I grabbed myself a cute postcard like I always do!).
And since the trulli are the main appeal of town, of course the souvenirs reflect that. I saw so many mini trulli-themed souvenirs, ranging from mini trulli models to decorative items like magnets, postcards, and keychains. There’s also plenty of wooden crafts, artisan-made jewelry, woven textiles, and local food products like local olive oil, taralli (traditional Italian snack crackers), pasta, cheese, and wine thrown into the mix.
7. Relax at the Parco dei Trulli
After a few hours of sightseeing, you’ll want to find a nice spot to relax, and the Parco dei Trulli is the perfect place. This peaceful park is just a short walk from the town center, and it’s great for unwinding after all the wandering. The park is dotted with small Trulli, which makes it feel like you’re still in the heart of the historic district, but it’s a lot quieter and more relaxing.
We unfortunately didn’t make it here as we had other towns in the Itria Valley to check out, but if you’ve got more time, definitely add this to your list.
8. Check Out the Trulli Museum (Trullo Sovrano)
A quick stop at the Trulli Museum (also known as the Trullo Sovrano) is a great way to learn about the history and significance of these iconic homes. And to learn more about the construction techniques of these fascinating structures.
The museum is small but incredibly informative – perfect if you want to understand the history behind how the Trulli were built without mortar (yes, no glue or cement keeping the building together – which I found just wild!).
The exhibits are really well curated, and they dive into the unique dry-stone building technique that makes these structures so durable and distinctive. I found it fascinating to learn how the Trulli evolved from simple farming homes to the architectural marvels that they are today. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re a history buff or just curious about the building techniques!
9. Take a tuk-tuk tour of Alberobello
A tuk tuk tour of Alberobello is a fun and breezy way to explore the town, where you can zip around in a colorful three-wheeled vehicle and take in the sights, especially the iconic Trulli houses of course. These tuk tuks, called Apes in Italy, can be found all throughout the Puglia region. We also saw them all over Matera!
The tours are led by friendly local drivers who share all kinds of interesting facts about the history and architecture of the town while you cruise through its charming streets. It’s a great way to cover more ground without having to walk under the hot summer sun. This tour even goes to the surrounding countryside to see some rural examples of trulli architecture.
You’ll be given time to stop and take photos, enjoy panoramic views, see the basilica, Sant’Antonio Church, and Trullo Sovrano. And even into a family’s home in a trullo – something you don’t get to do just wandering around yourself! It’s a great way to discover the history of the Trulli and of Alberobello without melting in the sun.
I didn’t end up taking the tuk tuk tour during my visit, but honestly, I kind of wish I had! I kept seeing the little vehicles whizzing around, and it looked like such a fun way to get around and see the town from a different perspective. Plus, I had already walked 20k steps a few days in a row, so my feet would have definitely appreciated the rest, haha. Something for me to consider next time!
10. Take a food walking tour
Food in Puglia is next level, and Alberobello is no exception. Because of this, a food tour is easily one of the best things to do in Alberobello. I mean, this is Italy we’re talking about – of course the food’s gonna be amazing!
While I unfortunately discovered this tour a little too late in my trip, it looks absolutely spectacular and is definitely on my list for next time! A food tour is the perfect way to dive into the flavors of Puglia and experience the region’s culinary traditions firsthand. And plus, you get to fill up on burrata, focaccia, and gelato – what could be better?!
On a food tour in Alberobello, you’ll also learn about the region’s famous olive oils and wines – Puglia is known for producing some of the best in Italy! And of course eat plenty of cheese… because why not?!
11. Learn how to make pasta and tiramisu
Wanna learn how to make your own pasta and tiramisu?! Alberobello’s the place to do it! I love taking cooking classes when I travel (I’ve made macarons in Paris, egg tarts in Lisbon, pizza in Rome, tamales in Mexico, and tiramisu in Florence), and they’re always such great ways to really immerse yourself in the culture. Plus, you get to eat what you cook afterwards, soo…. If you have the time, I’d definitely say yes to a cooking class.
In this pasta making class, you’ll learn how to roll ‘sfoglia’ (fresh pasta) by hand and how to prepare 2 simple different kinds of pasta from scratch. And of course how to prepare the iconic Tiramisu, all in a local home in Alberobello. You know it’s gonna be fresh when most of the ingredients are home grown by the family! There’s a reason the cooking class got such great reviews. I’d kill for some fresh pasta right about now!
12. Take a day trip to surrounding villages
While Alberobello is absolutely worth spending a few hours in, if you have the time, I highly recommend exploring the surrounding Valle d’Itria. This area is known for its vineyards, olive groves, and other beautiful hilltop towns like Locorotondo, Martina Franca, and Cisternino.
Locorotondo, with its charming circular old town, and Cisternino, known for its beautiful historic center and delicious grilled meats, are just a short drive away and are very different from Alberobello. We loved both of these other hilltop towns, and actually visited both on the same day as Alberobello during our week in Puglia.
If you’re in the mood for a longer day trip, you can also stop by nearby Martina Franca, with its baroque architecture and quaint streets. I’m still sad we missed this (as I’ve heard really good things), but just another reason for us to come back to Puglia!
Alberobello’s not far from other towns in Puglia as well, including Polignano a Mare and Monopoli — two favorites of ours!
Hope that helps you plan out your day trip to Alberobello, and give you an idea of all the fun things to do in Alberobello as well! Are you visiting Puglia anytime soon?!
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