Puglia, in Italy’s far south, may be best known for its slow-paced, sun-bleached towns and cliffside beaches, but its architecture is among the most distinctive in the country. Staying in one of the best Airbnbs in Puglia offers the chance to live like a local, immersing yourself in the carb-heavy cuisine that the “breadbasket of Italy” is famed for, along with the region’s singular architectural heritage: from the iconic trulli (whitewashed, conical stone homes) to the grand masserie (the fortified farmhouses that once guarded rural estates) and buildings made of its local limestone, pietra leccese, which is distinctive for its warm golden hue. Whether you opt for a traditional home in a quiet village or a picturesque villa on the sea, these Puglia rentals certainly mirror the beauty of their surroundings.
Perks: Sea views, pool, outdoor shower, pergola and barbcque, pre-arrival grocery shopping by request
It doesn’t get more authentically, or aesthetically, Pugliese than staying in a trullo. And this traditional home, with its thick stone walls and conical roofs, has been thoughtfully maintained and renovated into a minimalist beauty. While the three bedrooms are on the small side, the outdoor area is almost excessive in its offerings. There isn’t just a lounger-ringed pool, but also a clear view of the Adriatic Sea, as well as a pergola and outdoor shower which beg visitors to spend just about every minute of their time here outside. From $4,034 for five nights, with a five-night minimum.
Perks: Roof deck, amazing views of the village, fresh fruit and fresh flowers upon arrival
Tucked within the oldest district of one of Puglia’s most ancient towns, Gargano, Casa Civita is a home you can only access by foot. The romantic way of arrival—you can leave your car in town before winding your way through a maze of tiny streets—sets the scene for an equally storybook stay. The one-bedroom retreat has been stylishly modernized with a modern kitchenette, concrete floors, and an iron spiral staircase leading to a lofted bed. A tranquil color palette of creams and whites harmonizes with the ancient stone work of the walls and door frames, original fireplace, and exposed wooden ceiling beams. From $388 for two nights, with a two-night minimum.
Perks: In a walkable location, incredible views, crib available upon request, terrace
Set within a pedestrian-only district beside a 13th-century cathedral, Suite Santa Maria is a place to truly slow down and try living like a local. You will have to leave your car behind here as well, because the home is located right on one of the palazzi of an ancient town built for anything but cars. The home is a study in contrast: ancient bones—arched ceilings, herringbone brick floors, exposed stones—and sleek, sculptural design. A curved concrete staircase that leads to a cozy lofted bedroom, contemporary bathrooms, and a streamlined kitchen complete the space. But the real beauty is in the views. The terrace opens onto uninterrupted countryside vistas, ideal for admiring over a sunset aperitif. From $415 for two nights, with a two-night minimum.
Perks: Small pool, outdoor dining area, lots of room
Although just 10 minutes from the sea, you might find yourself not wanting to leave this spacious home in the historical center of Nardò. Plan to arrive with a crowd—the homes can easily sleep 10—and enjoy the unusually spacious rooms and extra tall ceilings. Architectural features here span centuries, and part of the home dates as far back as the 16th century. There are incredible historical details throughout like original plastering on the wall, antique tiles, vaulted ceiling, and terrazzo floors. There’s a small pool in the courtyard for the days you choose to stay at home. From $1,651 for two nights, with a two-night minimum.
Perks: Located on the Appian way, lots of room. large pool, outdoor pizza oven
History doesn’t just surround Villa Pizzorusso—it runs through it. This stately masseria, built in the 16th century, is located right along the fabled Appian Way, the ancient road that ran from Romse to Brindisi. A very private place to call your own for a few days, Villa Pizzorusso’s large pool, olive groves, and a garden dotted with orange trees and herbs will have you dreaming of permanently moving in. This home is grand in every sense of the word and the spacious interiors can easily accommodate 12. Inside, a wealth of period details have been preserved, including star-and-barrel vaulted ceilings and stone arches. From $16,171 for seven nights, with a seven-night minimum.
Perks: A small pool, roof deck, outdoor dining area
This beautifully restored historic house is just a short walk from the cafés and trattorias of Carovigno. It’s a decidedly Pugliese bohomian aesthetic with plenty of linen and rattan. Inside you’ll find two comfortable bedrooms, one with an en suite bathroom, a spacious living room, and sleek kitchen. Outside shines with a small pool, roof deck, and hammock. From $1,050 for three nights, with a three-night minimum.
Perks: Lots of room, pool, jacuzzi and Turkish bath, dedicated spa area
This sprawling home, which dates to the 16th century, was once part of an agricultural complex belonging to the College of the Compagnia di Jesús. Today it’s an ultra-luxurious compound with room for at least 16 guests. Built of traditional pietra leccese, the interiors have been renovated to create a clean, contemporary canvas with sleek, tonal furniture. Preserved historical details like a wine cellar that’s now an intimate space to relax add to the appeal. From $8,975 for three nights, with a three-night minimum.
Perks: Shared pool, sea view, sea access, large terrace with outdoor dining table, washer and dryer, crib available upon request
This two-bedroom sea-facing home feels straight out of the early 20th century, with old-world furniture like iron beds and large wooden wardrobes, as well as country-feeling kitchen arched stone ceilings. The real beauty of the property is outside, where you’ll find a large pool and terrace with plenty of seating and a large outdoor dining table for eating alfresco. Guests should note that the pool and outdoor area is shared with the owners who live on the property, though you can always head down to the rocky beach just a few steps away for some privacy. From $691 for two nights, with a two-night minimum.
