Exploring Puglia with the Family: Top Spots and Tips for Lifetime Memories
(That Just Happen to Be Picture-Perfect)
There’s something about Puglia that gets under your skin. Maybe it’s the warmth of the light, the rhythm of the sea, or the way even the most ordinary moments—buying a peach, jumping in the waves, wandering through alleyways—feel cinematic here.
It’s the kind of place where memories make themselves, especially when you’re travelling with kids.
For me, Puglia isn’t just a place I photograph—it’s family. My husband is from Lecce, and for a while, we lived on his family’s olive grove just outside town. One of my favourite memories? Sitting at a long table in the shade with his grandparents, eating lentils and bread, the air thick with sun and laughter. No views, no frills. Just everything that matters.
Italy Family Vacation Photoshoot in Monopoli, Puglia
When to Go
Puglia is wonderful all year round, but keep in mind the winter it’s very quiet (and everything is super damp).
Most likely you’re coming in summer! From late June to mid-September, the coast is buzzing with Italian families on school holidays. August is the busiest month, so if you want space on the sand and a carpark by the beach, arrive early and head south—the further down into Salento, the more laid-back and local the vibe.
Things to Do in Puglia with Kids
Here are some of my favourite places and experiences that are both fun and photo-worthy—even if you’re just snapping on your phone.
🐟 For Salty Air & Slow Mornings
Gallipoli – Arrive early, walk the old town, and grab fresh seafood from the market to cook for lunch.
Punta Prosciutto – Shallow, clear water perfect for little ones. I love the low-key beach clubs (lidos) with traditional deck chairs and shady umbrellas.
Hire a boat or go sailing – No licence needed for small boats. Or sail with a skipper and enjoy the coastline stress-free. A favourite memory of mine? A breezy day on the water with a family drifting past coves near Brindisi.
Related: Family Sailing in Puglia
Sailing in Puglia
🌿 For a Bit of Adventure
Grotta Zinzulusa – A sea cave near Castro that feels magical and slightly mysterious, especially for curious kids.
Porto di Salveggio – Think rocky coastal paths, incredible water for swimming, and a sense of discovery.
Gravina in Puglia – A less-known alternative to Matera with bridges, ravines, and trails that are perfect for a quiet hike.
Gravina in Puglia
🍦 For Sweet Stops & City Wanders
Lecce – Explore baroque streets, then head to Le Mucche Volanti in the suburbs for locals-only gelato and fresh mozzarella.
Monopoli – Small, walkable, and charming. The ancient harbour glows at golden hour—ideal for a relaxed family stroll.
Ostuni – It may be busy, but aperitivo at sunset here is magic. The light on the whitewashed streets? Unreal.
Related: Lecce Family Photoshoot
Lecce Gelato Family Photoshoot by Classico Portraits
🎨 For Curious Minds
Grottaglie – Watch artisans make ceramics in their workshops. It’s hands-on and inspiring, especially for kids who love art.
Bari Vecchia – See women hand-rolling orecchiette pasta in the street. You can buy it to take home.
Matera – Technically in neighbouring Basilicata, but a must-see. Kids love exploring the ancient cave dwellings.
Alberobello – The fairytale village where houses have cone roofs and an equally interesting story as to why!
The magical village of Alberobello
A Dream Destination for Multi-Gen Travel
Puglia makes it easy to travel with grandparents, teens, toddlers—and everyone in between.
Many of the best experiences here don’t require big itineraries or endless planning. A beach umbrella, a long lunch, an early morning market stroll—these become the moments everyone remembers.
I’ve photographed families gathered around villa tables near Ostuni, three generations sharing stories between swims, or simply walking together through the old streets of Lecce. There’s something powerful about seeing all those ages and personalities in one place, sharing something new together.
And it’s often in those everyday scenes—bare feet on tiled floors, hands passing bread—that the magic happens.
Good to Know
✈️ Getting There
Fly into Rome, Milan, or Naples.
Then, connect to Brindisi or Bari—both have international airports and are convenient bases.
If flying into Naples, consider taking the train to Puglia—especially scenic if you’re heading to Matera or Lecce.
Couple enjoying the seaside near Ostuni
🏡 Where to Stay
Whether you’re here for a week or just a few days, the right place to stay can make all the difference:
Masserie – Traditional farmhouses turned boutique hotels. Often family-run, with home-cooked meals and peaceful gardens.
Apartments or Villas – Ideal for families or multi-gen travel. Having a kitchen and space to spread out can make a world of difference.
Boutique Hotels – Many beautiful, family-friendly options across the region, especially near Lecce, Monopoli, and Ostuni.
Top Recommendations: Borgo Egnazia is my top pick for a luxury base for families. Masseria Potenti is gorgeous for a more authentic (and slightly more economical) option.
Mum and daughter photoshoot at Masseria Potenti
Want to Remember It All?
As a family photographer based in Italy, often in Puglia, I’m lucky to explore this region through both lenses—of love and light. If you’re already planning a multi-gen trip or family vacation in Puglia this year, consider adding a relaxed family portrait session to your itinerary. It’s a beautiful way to remember the trip—and each other.
Whether it’s a stroll through town, a morning at the beach, or time spent together at your villa, I create portraits that reflect both the place and the people.
Because some trips deserve more than selfies.
Feel free to get in touch if you’d like to learn more or see if I’ll be nearby during your travel dates.
Ciao, I’m Kirstie
Photographer and Australian expat living her best burrata life
Specializing in capturing family portraits and memorable moments in some of Puglia’s most stunning locations.
With over 14 years of experience, she creates personalized, timeless photoshoots for families seeking to preserve their travel memories in Puglia.
Whether you’re exploring the beaches of Salento, wandering through Lecce’s historic streets, or enjoying a family reunion at a masseria, Kirstie brings a relaxed, fun approach to every photoshoot, ensuring your family’s memories last a lifetime.
Vacations gift us the rare space to spend quality time together.
Hold onto these moments through quality photographs on your walls.
