According to forum posts, popular beach destinations in Puglia include Gallipoli, Porto Cesareo, and Torre San Giovanni. These towns are appreciated for their sandy beaches and vibrant local atmosphere.

For those seeking less crowded spots, some travelers recommended Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. Monopoli is noted for being a great base for exploring nearby beaches and enjoying the old town.

Travelers have called out Otranto and Torre dell'Orso for unique beach experiences. Otranto offers beautiful sandy beaches, while Torre dell'Orso is known for its picturesque settings and is accessible by public transport.

Some users suggested exploring the beaches of Pescoluse and Punta Prosciutto for their clear waters and sandy shores. These beaches are often listed among the best in the region.

According to forum posts, Puglia's train network is efficient along the coast, linking major towns like Bari, Lecce, and Monopoli, with most stations conveniently located near town centers. However, inland travel by train is less connected, and some users have recommended renting a car for visiting less accessible places.

Some travelers mentioned that bus services are available, connecting various towns and cities. A local company, FSE, operates buses and trains within the region, including services from Bari to Alberobello and from Lecce to Gallipoli.

For many users, hiring a car offers greater flexibility and convenience for exploring Puglia, especially for reaching rural areas or towns not well-served by public transport. Travelers have called out the ease of driving in Puglia compared to other parts of Italy, suggesting it as a good option for those comfortable with driving.

Travelers have also utilized taxis and professional driver services for short trips and to avoid the hassle of public transport schedules, particularly when exploring multiple destinations within a short period.

According to forum posts, popular day trip destinations from Bari include Polignano a Mare, Matera, Alberobello, and Monopoli. These towns are praised for their unique cultural and historical significance, such as the trulli houses in Alberobello and the ancient cave dwellings in Matera.

Some travelers have highlighted that Bari offers convenient train connections to various destinations, which simplifies planning day trips. For instance, frequent trains run to nearby towns like Monopoli and Polignano a Mare, making them accessible for short visits.

Travelers have called out that Bari itself deserves at least half a day for exploring, suggesting that even when planning day trips, one should allocate time to experience Bari's old town and culinary offerings.

According to forum posts, Polignano a Mare is known for its stunning coastal views and beaches. The famous rocky beach cove in Polignano is particularly noted for being less crowded in October. Some travelers have recommended nearby beaches such as San Vito, Ponte dei Lapilli, and various beaches in Monopoli like Porto Rosso and Cala Verde.

Travelers have called out Pescaria as a popular and inexpensive place to eat, famous for its polpo panino. However, some users have advised against dining at Grotta Palazzese due to a health inspection finding dated meat and untraceable seafood origins.

For many users, the old fishing port in Monopoli offers a change of pace and a glimpse into local life. Additionally, a drive to Spiaggia di San Vito is recommended for better lighting in the mornings, enhancing the scenic beauty.

Travelers have noted that while Polignano a Mare has a small pebble and rock beach, it is stunning and offers a true coastline experience. The town is easily accessible by train, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby areas.

According to forum posts, travelers can take a train from Brindisi Centrale to nearby cities like Bari, with the option to buy combined bus and train tickets directly from the airport to the train station. Additionally, regular buses are available from the airport to Brindisi station, facilitating further train connections.

Some travelers have mentioned that taxis are readily available at Brindisi Airport. The journey to nearby locations like the city center takes approximately 7 minutes and typically has a flat-rate cost of around 20€. For longer distances, such as to Gallipoli, travelers should expect higher fares, although specific prices are not detailed.

For those preferring a direct route, private transfers are an option, as discussed by users. Companies like Suntransfers.com and shuttle-direct.com offer services from Brindisi Airport to destinations like Ostuni. Prices are similar across different providers, though the quality of service may vary.

For travel beyond the immediate region, checking flights from Brindisi to destinations like Sicily was suggested as a fast alternative. This might be particularly advantageous for longer-distance travel within Italy.

According to forum posts, popular towns in the Valle d'Itria that are favored by travelers include Alberobello, known for its unique Trulli houses. Other recommended towns are Martina Franca, Ceglie Messapica, and Cisternino, which offer a mix of beautiful architecture, local cuisine, and a genuine Italian atmosphere.

Some travelers have specifically recommended visiting Locorotondo and Ostuni. Locorotondo is appreciated for its picturesque setting and white-painted architecture, making it a charming place to explore. Ostuni, often referred to as the White City, is celebrated for its vibrant bar and restaurant scene alongside its rich history and stunning views.

For those looking to stay in the Valle d'Itria, forum users have suggested experiencing a stay in a traditional Trullo in Alberobello. Additionally, staying in a masseria (a fortified farmhouse) near Cisternino provides an authentic Puglian experience, combining rural charm with modern amenities.

According to forum posts, travelers recommended staying in Lecce as a base for exploring Salento due to its proximity to various beaches and its vibrant nightlife. Some travelers preferred staying in small villages like Castro or Otranto for a more relaxed and scenic experience.

Some travelers suggested flying into Brindisi Airport as it is closer to many destinations in Salento compared to Bari, which, although offering more flight options, is farther away. For getting around, renting a car was frequently recommended to facilitate easy access to the scattered attractions of the region.

For beach enthusiasts, forum posts highlighted Porto Cesareo and Torre dell'Orso as good bases for beach access. However, some travelers advised that while Porto Cesareo has a narrow strip of sand, its sea is spectacular, contrasting with Punta Prosciutto, which offers more beach space but less scenic ocean views.

Travelers have mentioned exploring less touristy towns like Specchia and visiting natural reserves like Porto Selvaggio for hiking and enjoying nature. The east coast of Salento was recommended for its dramatic coastal views, particularly between Castro and Leuca.

According to forum posts, Alberobello is recognized for its UNESCO-listed trulli houses. However, some travelers have noted that the town can feel overwhelmingly touristy, especially during the day when it is crowded with day-trippers.

For a more enjoyable visit, some users recommend exploring Alberobello in the early morning or late evening. This is when the town is less crowded, allowing for a more authentic experience. Staying overnight in a trullo is suggested to fully experience the unique atmosphere of the town.

Despite its touristic nature, there are less crowded parts of Alberobello that offer a more genuine feel of the town. Travelers have mentioned the Aia Piccola district as a quieter area with restored trulli mainly serving as B&B accommodations, providing a closer look at the local heritage.

While Alberobello is known for its charm, navigating the crowds can be challenging. Plan your visit to manage expectations regarding the commercialization and the busy nature of the main trulli zones.