Things To Do
in Putignano
Putignano sits on a sunlit hill in Apulia, with whitewashed houses climbing narrow lanes and sweeping views over olive groves. Its history blends medieval architecture with Baroque touches, reflected in churches and arcaded streets. The town is famed for one of Europe's oldest carnivals, the Carnevale di Putignano, which draws visitors from around the world.
Surrounding the town are winding rural roads that lead to the Itria Valley and the Adriatic coast, making Putignano a gateway to regional treasures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh brioche and Italian coffee while soaking in the town’s slow pace. Stroll along Corso Umberto I to admire the medieval gates and Baroque façades. Check into your accommodation early and unpack before your first afternoon outing.
Wander through the narrow alleys of the historic center, popping into artisan shops that sell ceramics and locally woven linens. Visit the Church of Saint Peter Apostolo to admire its ornate marble altar and soaring nave. Pause for a glass of Apulian white wine on a terrace overlooking the town.
Dine at a traditional trattoria, savoring orecchiette with fresh tomato and ricotta cheese. Enjoy an aperitivo of local olives, taralli, and a chilled rosato. End the night with gelato as you stroll under the softly lit archways.
Join a guided walking tour of Putignano’s historic center, hearing stories of its medieval origins and the evolution of its famous Carnival. Snap photos of carved stone balconies and hidden courtyards. Pick up biscotti dolci from a family-run bakery.
Explore the Museo della Cartapesta to learn how papier-mâché floats are crafted for the annual Carnival. Then visit the Church of San Domenico to see its frescoes and baroque altar. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby enoteca featuring local salumi and cheeses.
Head to Piazza Plebiscito to watch locals gather for evening passeggiata. Sample bombette, grilled meat rolls stuffed with cheese and herbs, at a popular street-food stand. Finish with a limoncello in a cozy wine bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥖Bakery item | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transit ticket | $1-2 per ride |
| 🛌Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture
- Delicious regional cuisine
- Compact, walkable historic center
- Proximity to UNESCO-listed towns and the Adriatic coast
- Smaller nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds during Carnevale and summer
- Limited public transportation within the town center
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è la stazione?" - Where is the station?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Un tavolo per due" - A table for two
Places to Visit in Putignano
Visit one of these nice places.
The main square framed by pastel façades and arcades; ideal for daytime photography and sunset portraits.
A network of covered walkways and whitewashed walls that glow in the morning light.
A medieval church with stone details; a strong subject for architectural shots.
A hilltop vantage point offering sweeping views of the Itria Valley and olive groves.
Food in Putignano
Putignano Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small ear-shaped pasta tossed with turnip greens, garlic, olive oil, and a hint of chili.
Must-Try!
Creamy burrata served with ripe tomatoes and crusty bread, drizzled with local extra-virgin olive oil.
Crunchy, ring-shaped snacks flavored with fennel or black pepper; perfect with wine.
Crisp frisella topped with tomato, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
A rustic filled bread typical of the region, with simple local fillings and seasonal ingredients.
Creamy fava beans with bitter greens, a comforting staple from the inland countryside.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively weekly market where locals buy fresh produce, cheese, bread, and olives—great for authentic tastings and casual snacks.
Evening stalls offer panzerotti, puccia, and other quick bites showcasing local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buona sera; use Signore/Signora when addressing strangers; a courteous tone goes a long way.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Ask permission before photographing people; respect ceremonies and private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Putignano
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common when service charges are not included.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with long days; hydrate, seek shade during peak sun, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Milder temperatures and harvest season; comfortable for walking tours and photography in golden light.
Mild with occasional rain; fewer crowds, making it ideal for museum visits and cozy dining.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; perfect for strolls and hillside hikes.
Putignano at Night
Hiking in Putignano
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to challenging trails around the caves with optional guided tours.
Scenic walking and cycling routes through whitewashed towns and olive groves.
Flat to rolling rural paths ideal for scenic strolls and photography.
Airports
How to reach Putignano by plane.
Main international gateway to Bari; about a 40–50 minute drive to Putignano depending on traffic.
Alternative airport with domestic and some international connections; about 1.5–2 hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are local families who have lived in the area for generations.
Mild climate and tranquil pace attract retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
Some residents study in Bari or nearby towns and commute for work or study.
Visitors peak during Carnevale and the warmer months for food, culture, and scenic drives.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and casual games are common.
Favored for rides through the Itria Valley and countryside roads.
Traditional bocce courts are common in town squares and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Putignano.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful, with pasta, vegetables, burrata, and legumes; look for dishes based on fresh produce and cheese, and ask for meat-free preparations.
Gluten-free options exist in many venues; inform staff about dietary needs and inquire about cross-contamination in kitchens; opt for grilled vegetables, cheeses, and seafood where possible.