Things to do in Puglia

Casina Menga is the ideal base for exploring Puglia: from the historic trulli of Alberobello to the dramatic cliffs of Polignano a Mare and the baroque splendour of Lecce.

A woman walking down a narrow European street with old buildings and balconies, with a clock tower in the background showing 4:20.

Explore Monopoli Old Town

Discover Monopoli's enchanting Centro Storico—wander its whitewashed narrow alleys, medieval walls, and hidden courtyards, including quirky Via Argento, the town's narrowest street at just 35 cm wide.

Piazza Garibaldi buzzes with vibrant cafes, the perfect spot for espresso, aperitivi, and classic Italian people-watching.

Street art murals add colorful pops against ancient stone, while historic gates like Porta Vecchia reveal sea views and timeless Puglia charm.

A narrow stone pathway in a village with white-washed buildings and conical stone roofs, decorated with colorful flowers in pots.

Alberobello UNESCO World Heritage site

Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site just 20-25 minutes' drive from Monopoli, famous for its unique trulli—conical stone houses that create a fairy-tale landscape.

Head out early to explore Rione Monti (trulli district with shops) and Rione Aia Piccola (quieter area). Combine with a Valle d'Itria wine tasting for an authentic Puglia experience.

Cliffs along a coastline with colorful buildings on top and the sea below, under a clear blue sky.

Bike Coastal Trails

Pedal scenic coastal trails on a rented e-bike through endless Puglia olive groves, winding to charming Sant’Andrea village or down to Savelletri for a seafront meal.

Stumble across hidden beaches, ancient dry-stone walls, and stunning sea scapes—perfect for active adventurers or relaxed pedallers from your Casina Menga base.

Aerial view of a coastal city with white buildings, cliffs, and blue water at the bottom of the image.

Day Trip to Polignano a Mare

Enjoy a 15 minute trip to Polignano a Mare, Puglia's dramatic clifftop gem famed for gaping sea caves like Lama Monachile. And of course Red Bull diving.

Explore ancient Roman bridges, cliffside beaches, and azure coves perfect for swims or photos.

An easy and worthwhile trip by boat or car from Casina Menga.

Interior view of a Baroque church or cathedral with ornate gold and marble detailing, arched ceilings, stained glass windows, and vintage wall sconces.

Cathedral Visit

Discover Monopoli's Basilica of the Madonna della Madia—a Baroque treasure with an ornate rose-window facade and intricate sacred art.

Descend to the atmospheric Romanesque crypt amid ancient columns, then explore the adjacent archaeological museum revealing eerie ancient tombs and artifacts.

This sacred icon's legacy blends faith, history, and artistry - Puglia's spiritual highlight near Casina Menga.