Talk to others about your plans to visit Puglia and one of the first things they will probably mention are the trulli.
Clustered in pockets of Apulia like wild mushrooms, these unusual whitewashed buildings with conical roofs are a symbol of the region. In fact, this quiet part of southern Italy is the only place where they have ever existed.
It is to see the best and largest concentration of trulli in Puglia that brings people to Alberobello, a town of just over 10,000 inhabitants. As a must-do on everyone's itinerary, the city has inevitably become a bit overcrowded with day trippers and tour groups, but you can still enjoy it if you visit early and live up to your expectations.
Here's our guide to making the most of your time, including the best things to do in Alberobello, things to see, where to park and where to stay if you want to visit for more than a day trip.
A brief history of Trulli
uwords of UNESCO, who declared Alberobello a World Heritage Site in 1996, easily recognizable trulli (the singular istrulli) is:
“Excellent examples of dry wall construction (without mortar), a prehistoric construction technique still used in these areas. The domes are made of rough limestone blocks collected from neighboring fields. They typically have pyramidal, domed or conical roofs built of limestone slabs with ears.'
But how did these unique buildings in Puglia come about? Well, as with many key moments in history, it's all about taxes and money.
In the 1500s, the Acquaviva family, local lords within the feudal system, wanted to avoid paying property taxes to the king. They ordered the local peasants to build their houses and dwellings without plaster, so that, in the event of a royal inspection, the structures could be quickly and easily demolished and the tax kept low. Using local limestone and some clever construction techniques, the locals created the trulli, many of which are still standing today (a double feat, given that their purpose was easy to discern!).
So far so good - for the ruling family.
You can imagine how the farmers of Pula, who had to tear down their houses every time an inspection came, were less than satisfied with the situation. Fast forward to the 1700s and, after many pleas from disgruntled citizens regarding the continued treatment and rule of the Acquaviva family, the king granted their wish to become a "royal" city, and therefore free from the whims (and preferences tax evasion) their feudal lords.
After this decree, it was not surprising that there was less reason to build trulli. However, they stand today as a testament to the lengths to which the powerful will go to preserve their wealth and the tenacity and ingenuity of the powerless to make the most of their situation.
These days, most Alberobello residents don't live in a trulli. Instead, the city's more than 1,500 exquisitely preserved and restored trulli have evolved into gift shops, restaurants and, of course,accommodation for guestslooking for a unique experience.
You can also get onea two-hour walking tourin town to learn more about the history and importance of trulli.
What to do in Alberobello
Without a doubt, the only reason most people come to Alberobello is to wander the trulli streets. besides, there is no other place like it in the world.
When you reach the city center, it's immediately clear where to go - the Rione Monti district within the 'trulli zone'. Along a gentle hill, it contains more than 1000 trulli and almost no other style of construction. It's touristy, with souvenir shops on the other side, but it's also very, very beautiful.
If, like us, you are short, then walking among the trulli here will make you feel like a giant! The best plan is to have no plan at all and just wander and wander to your heart's content, finding the odd quiet street or ridiculously photogenic corner off the main road.
When you're in Rione Monti, shopkeepers will sit or stand outside in the sun and try to entice you to look around - obviously there's the hope of buying something, but it's not a hard sell and it offers a chance to see how these buildings are structured internally. Tourism is clearly the lifeblood of Alberobello's economy, so try to contribute if you find something you like or want a souvenir.
Tip // Don't miss itthe smallest trullo(that's the smaller trullo for those of you who don't speak Italian). Now the gift shop, you can find ithereon Google Maps.
For a more authentic feel of what it means to live among trulli, head to the Rione Aia Piccola area, which has around 500 trulli and is less commercialized. Here we enjoyed the most, getting a glimpse of the locals who still call these dwarf-sized buildings home and the larger groups of Italian men strolling the streets that were theirs long before the tourists arrived. It also gives you the best view of the clustered trulli in Alberobello.
Αν θέλετε να καταλάβετε λίγο περισσότερα για την ιστορία του Alberobello και ειδικά των trulli, σας προτείνουμε μια περιήγηση - αυτήa two-hour walking tourof the two neighborhoods listed above it is incredibly highly rated and really good value for money.
Other points of interest in Alberobello include:
Sovereign Trullo|The village's only two-story trullo, now serves as the small town's cultural heritage museum showing the history of Alberobello and the surrounding area. museum. The museum is open from 10 am to 1:30 pm. & 3.30 - 7.00pm (closes at 6.00pm from November to March) and entry is €2 per adult or €1.50 for concessions. A findhereon Google Maps.
Church of Sant'Antonio | Built in 1927, this is the town church of Aberobello which, you guessed it, was built in a unique style (the only trullo church in the world!). A findhereon Google Maps.
House of love| Built in 1797 by Francesco d'Amore - one of those responsible for the local uprising against the tyranny of the Acquaviva family - using plaster, as opposed to the traditional trulli method, Casa d'Amore began to mark the end of the feudal period. in Alberobello and is therefore of historical importance.Find ithereon Google Maps.
Cool art| If, like us, you believe that every day in Italy should include at least one ice cream, we suggest you go to Arte Fredo, known for serving the best ice cream in town - it's even won an award. You can find ithere.
Try Pasqualino | Since 1966, Alberobello has had its own sandwich, invented by Pasquale Dell'Erba, a local shop owner. With an interesting combination of rosetta or turtle bread and, in that exact order: tuna, capers, salami and cheese, it's obviously not for vegetables, but obviously you can't visit the town of trullis and not try it. Since we don't have personal recommendations, we encourage you to checkthis websitewhich has a list of where to find the best in town.
Join the culinary tour |This popular two-hour food tourit gives you the opportunity to experience the countryside as well as taste some of its culinary delights, such as primitive wine, cured meats and local cheeses. Learn morehere.
Take a cooking class | Join a local woman in her home and learn how to prepare a traditional 4-course meal - then enjoy! Learn morehere.
Sanctuary of Santi Medici Cosma and Damiano| It is located outside the Trulli tourist area (hereon Google Maps), is impressively dedicated to the Medici saints Cosmas and Damianus. Inside you will find relics of both - the reason there is an annual pilgrimage to the church to this day.
Siamese rot | In Via Monte Nero there is the only trullo that has two connected domes and two entrances. hence the nameRotten Siamese. Like many trulli in Alberobello, it is now a souvenir shop. A findhere.
There is also a street market along Via Barsento on Thursday mornings, from 7:30am. until 12:30 p.m.
Find the best of Alberobello
As famous as Alberobello's small streets have become, many of the iconic photos you've likely seen will be from various vantage points dotted around the town. some you'll likely discover on your meanderings, but there are a few you shouldn't miss:
Villa Comunale Belvedere | A small row of trees with places to sit and the most incredible view of the Trulli. A findhereon Google Maps.
Belvedere Santa Lucia | This popular spot is located near the Chiesa di Santa Lucia and is the best place to get a panoramic view of the Rione Monte area. If you have a choice, try to go there in the morning so you can take pictures without looking at the sun - alternatively, it's a great place for sunset! A findhereon Google Maps.
Bar Rione Monti | If you prefer to pair your views with a cold beer or a Golden Hour aperitif, head to this bar overlooking the Rione Monti - findhere.
Overview of the cottage |If you see a sign in front of any Trulli gift shop with the inscriptionpanoramic country house, that means if you buy something from them (it doesn't have to be expensive), you'll be able to access the observation deck from the top of their building for free! There are many around the village
Is Alberobello worth visiting?
We won't lie to you, we were a little disappointed with the weather in Alberobello.
We knew it would be one of the most touristic towns in Puglia, so our expectations were already justified before we arrived. However, it was clear from the first ten minutes that this is a city where tourism is at the core of many things today and, unfortunately, whenever and wherever this happens in the world, it starts to change the character of the place.
We wandered around for a few hours, visited some shops, took pictures and then had a late breakfast at one of the nice sidewalk cafes. However, we were both happy to get back on the road and visit some of the other beautifully named towns nearby - such asLocorotondo- especially as we saw more and more buses of large escort groups arriving after 10.
That doesn't mean you shouldn't visit Alberobello. as we said, this place is unique, contains a very important history and we do not regret visiting it at all. Maybe because we arrived here after a few days in the lesser known west and south of Apuliaour own journeythat a couple of hours was enough.
Our advice is to try to get here before 9am. to get a taste of Alberobello before the crowds arrive or later in the afternoon after most have left.
Where to stay in: Alberobello
An alternative way to escape the crowds in Alberobello is to stay the night.' and if you do, then it must be in a sweet and cozy traditional trullo. Here are our favorites:
Boarding schools and boarding schools
Budget | For £56 per night,Pansion Trullieuoffers one of the most affordable options for staying in a trullo. Clean and nicely decorated, it is a great choice for couples or families looking for a quiet location close to the tourist area. To check prices and availability or learn more,Click here.
Mid-range |Trulli Casa offers self-catering facilities and a garden for 2-4 people in a prime location just outside the trulli zone. Prices for two people start from £68 per night - check availabilityhere.
TheLovely Bed and Breakfast TrulliHowever, if available, it is one of the best options in town for those looking for a base for a few nights, with a unique trulli experience. Two minutes walk from the church, on two floors, with a beautiful en-suite bedroom on the conical roof, a lovely outside terrace and breakfast. Prices start from £80 per night for two people, but can accommodate up to four people.Check the latest prices and availability.
Luxury | If your budget is over £100 per night then you have two great options. First,Astra, is a 16th century trullo in a wonderfully quiet and romantic location, run by Giuseppe & Anna-Maria. It's the perfect choice for couples or honeymooners, with prices starting from £117/night. Check availability and view photos,here.
With its rustic luxury ambiance and exquisite design features,Farmerov Trulloexudes authentic Italian charm and offers a uniquely beautiful trulli experience in Alberobello for £126 per night.See prices and availability here.
Airbnbs
There are many trulli available on Airbnb, both in Alberobello and the surrounding area. We chose four within the village to cover all calculations.
sister relay| By far the most luxurious option in the center of Alberobello (and price to match - £172 per night for two people), this has been beautifully renovated into a high-end boutique hotel atmosphere. clickhereLearn more.
Trullo of Massaia| Amazingly large, this 400-year-old trullo is a perfect blend of new and old. With authentic features, it has been exceptionally well updated to meet the needs of the modern traveller. clickhereLearn more.
The Trulli bake Totò| Located just outside the village, you get a lot for your money here! Recently renovated, it has all the modern comforts and a nice little terrace. From £55 per night. clickhereLearn more.
How to get to Alberobello
how to get to Alberobello by car
If you are visiting Alberobello as part of a longer trip to Puglia, the easiest way to get around is with your own vehicle. We visited the area three times and rented a car each time. While it's certainly possible to negotiate the area with public transport, without a rental car we wouldn't have been able to access some of the smaller off-piste locations or simply visit more than one place in one day - like combining trips to Alberobello with other towns and villages in the Val d'Itria.
If you rent a car and make onetrip to Apulia, then you will find two paid car parks (€6 per day) near Rione Monti - just follow the signs when you enter Alberobello or head towardsthis placeon Google Maps. Note that it was completely empty when we arrived just before 9am, but full by 11am.
If there is no space, there are plenty of other parking options within a few minutes' walk.
Top tip // We don't stick to one car rental company when renting our vehicles for our trips, but always look, compare and book through a big aggregator likeAutoEuropetheRentalCars- this often ensures greater availability and allows us to get the best vehicle for us, at the best price. We have used both of these companies exclusively for all of our travels and highly recommend them.
For more tips on reducing the stress and cost of renting a car, read these posts:9 essential tips for car rental travelers, Ourstravel itineraryand our post furtherdriving tips for Puglia.
how to get to Alberobello by train
If you can't rent a car in Puglia or prefer not to rent a car, the good news is that Alberobello is accessible by public transport.
To get to Alberobello from Bari, you will need to change trains at Putignan. Take the train from Bari Centrale that runs every two hours and transfer to the direct train to Alberobello. This takes just over two hours, which means that a regular direct bus between the two of you (journey time around one hour) may be more efficient.
The easiest places to reach Alberobello by train are the neighboring beautiful towns of Martina Franca and Locorotondo, which have regular trains and take 10 - 20 minutes.
Check the trainshereon the official website of Trenitalia.
how to get to Alberobello by bus
There is a direct bus from Bari to Alberobello. It departs regularly from the new city station.
Visit to Alberobello with a guided tour
There are also a growing number of organized trips to Alberobello from other parts of the region (or nearby):
FAQs
Can you drive by car in Alberobello? ›
By car: It is easy to drive to Alberobello. Upon arrival, there are three well-signposted car parks in town near the Rione Monti.
What is the main street in Alberobello? ›Down on the main street, Largo Martellotta, are more typical Italian bars and a few small food shops.
Is it worth going to Alberobello? ›Absolutely yes! If you're looking for an authentic experience, staying in Alberobello and booking a trullo house is for sure a great way to fully enjoy the town. Even if you spend only one night, we highly recommend booking accommodation in Alberobello here!
Is driving in Puglia difficult? ›Driving in Puglia is probably different from what you're used to at home. But, I can assure you, if you're assertive and do a little prep work (learn the Italian road signs, read about parking, etc), you'll be fine on Puglia's roads. The driving is 'active,' but not difficult.
How much time do I need to visit Alberobello? ›You can easily spend a few hours in Alberobello as it's a small village. 4 hours should be all you need! However, it is a magical experience if you stay overnight in a trullo!
How much is a taxi from Alberobello to Bari? ›| OPTION | PRICE | AVAILABILITY |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Pickups | €135 | 24/7 |
| Book | ||
| Taxi | €100 | 24/7 |
| Train | €24 | 05:26–23:38 |
The closest big cities are Taranto, Bari, and Brindisi, all about 1h from Alberobello by car. The closest international airports are Bari and Brindisi and the closes cruise port is Brindisi.
Where can I walk in Alberobello? ›| Alberobello, la città dei trulli – giro ad anello nel centro storico | Easy |
|---|---|
| Chiesa Sant'Antonio di Padova – Trullo Sovrano, Alberobello loop from Alberobello | Intermediate |
| Ponte di Cecca – Magical Mystery Path loop from Alberobello | Expert |
| Ponte di Cecca loop from Coreggia | Intermediate |
Trulli (singular, trullo) are traditional dry stone huts with a corbelled roof. Their style of construction is specific to the Itria Valley in the region of Puglia.
What are the signs on Alberobello trulli? ›The white Trulli symbols painted on many of the Trulli roofs add to the mystical appearance of these tiny dwellings. There are varying designs, including a sun, moon, love hearts and other pagan-like symbols. It is believed that some of these were of religious significance, whilst others had an astrological meaning.
Where can I see trulli houses? ›
They're not hard to find. Several thousand trulli are visible in the Itria Valley, with more than 1,500 concentrated in Alberobello, a town located some 40 miles south of the port city Bari.
What are 3 fun facts about trulli? ›Here are 10 interesting facts about Apulian trulli:
The Siamese trulli are those characterized by double façade, double pinnacle and low hearth. Furthermore, they have no windows. Trullo Sovrano is the only trullo with two floors. La Casa d'Amore was the first house built in lime, in 1797.
To reach Alberobello from Bari, you'll need to change the train in Putignano. Take the train from Bari Centrale which runs every two hours and change to a direct train to Alberobello. This takes just over two hours, meaning the regular direct bus between thee two (journey time of around an hour) may be more efficient.
Does Alberobello have beaches? ›Alberobello with its unique trulli in the world is the perfect destination to enjoy the whole Puglia, including beaches.
Do I need cash in Puglia? ›The official guidance from the Region of Puglia to business is “Encourage payment by debit cards, prepaid cards and credit cards“. As a matter of practice there is little difference. All bars, restaurants and shops are taking payment as before, whether cash or card.
Do they speak English in Puglia Italy? ›English is not that widely spoken
Not a surprise given that it's not an English speaking country, but definitely one to note if you're used to travelling in the north of Italy or other popular tourist destinations in Europe.
You need at least 4 or 5 days to travel around Puglia, since towns and beaches are spread out. Don't even try to see Puglia in 3 days, because you'll be rushed and barely able to see anything. A week is ideal, and more time will allow you time to relax and soak up the sun.
How long to drive Matera and Alberobello? ›The direct drive from Matera to Alberobello is 41.6 mi (67 km), and should have a drive time of 1 hr 15 mins in normal traffic.
Is it easy to get around Puglia without a car? ›If you're entering and leaving Puglia from Italy, it's easy to do so via train, as there's a major station in Bari. If you're coming from a different country, you'll likely fly in and out of Bari or Brindisi, which is about a 1.5-hour train from Bari and a half-hour train from Lecce.
Do they have Uber in Puglia Italy? ›Yes, Italy does have Uber but not in the way that travellers expect; you can't get an Uber everywhere in the country. The lack of Uber drivers in some Italian cities has everything to do with resistance from other taxi drivers.
How expensive is Puglia Italy? ›
The surprise for many is that the overall cost of living is low in Puglia. Real estate can be very affordable, with homes starting at just $50,000. Of course, larger houses, country villas, and seaside homes run a premium but even so, some deals can still be found.
Do people live in the trulli of Alberobello? ›They are called trulli (the plural of trullo), and they are the traditional residences of the town of Alberobello, here in the Italian region of Puglia.
Why is Alberobello famous? ›The town of Alberobello is among the most famous of the region's attractions, known as home to the largest collection of trulli - whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs that have been around for centuries.
Is Alberobello hilly? ›Alberobello is a small Italian town like any other at a first glance. The streets are narrow and hilly, houses are white, the weather is pleasant and life is slow.
How many days do you need in Bari? ›With one day in Bari, you'll have the opportunity to explore most of the city, eat classic Barese food, and feel better acquainted with the Puglia region. With 2 days in Bari, you'll have enough time to explore the city but also spend time along the coast and enjoy one of the beaches the city has to offer.
What is the biggest trullo Alberobello? ›The Trullo Sovrano
The largest trullo of Alberobello is called Trullo Sovrano and is located in Piazza Sacramento at 10/11 . It is about 14 m and its official name was given by Giuseppe Notarnicola in 1916.
Alberobello and the most beautiful districts to visit
The name Alberobello derives from the Latin "Sylva Alboris Belli" which literally means Forest of the War Tree.
The Pumo or Pomo di Puglia is the representation of a flower bud surrounded by young leaves that symbolize spring and the rebirth of nature. It originated in the city of Grottaglie (Puglia) and is the good luck charm of Puglia.
What are the little white houses in Puglia? ›Trulli (plural, trullo is singular) are traditional homes from the Itria Valley in Puglia. They are made of limestone with conical roofs, and many times the walls are then painted white. The effect is honestly something like a fairy tale home, though these dwellings have much more humble origins.
What is a fun fact about Alberobello? ›5. Alberobello is a town with a very beautiful and interesting legend. It is said that the Count of Conversano, Andrea Matteo Acquaviva who owned a large uninhabited area, ordered his peasant workers to build stone houses and settle there. They had to cut down the oak forest in order to build their houses.
Why are Trulli round? ›
The trullo is usually circular and the interior spaces are distributed around the central compartment. The thickness of the walls and the few windows ensure an optimal thermal balance, warmth in winter and cool in summer.
When were Trulli built? ›The first records of Trulli being built in Puglia date from around the 14th century. The likely reason for their design was to create housing that could be easily demolished, enabling the feudal lord to avoid paying taxes on new settlements as well as making it easy to remove unwanted tenants!
What is the population of Alberobello? ›It has 10,237 inhabitants (2022) and is famous for its unique trullo buildings. The trulli of Alberobello have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996.
Is the bus or train from Bari to Alberobello? ›The best way to get from Bari to Alberobello is to bus which takes 1h 5m and costs €3 - €10. Alternatively, you can train and line 1 train, which costs €4 - €9 and takes 3h 7m.
Is Alberobello safe? ›Is it Safe to Travel to Trulli of Alberobello? Our best data indicates this area is generally safe.
How much is taxi from Monopoli to Alberobello? ›Taxi is the fastest way to travel from Monopoli to Alberobello. Tickets cost €21. The journey takes approximately 20 мин.
Can you swim in Alberobello? ›Around 21 beaches in Alberobello are supervised by lifeguards, but it's important to keep in mind that you can't solely depend on them. Always be cautious when in the water. Additionally, it's important to note that lifeguards only work during the season and specific hours.
How far is Alberobello from the ocean? ›Alberobello is located a mere 20 kilometers inland from the Adriatic Sea.
What are trulli houses in Alberobello Italy? ›Trulli were generally constructed as temporary field shelters and storehouses or as permanent dwellings by small proprietors or agricultural labourers. In the town of Alberobello, in the province of Bari, whole districts contain dense concentrations of trulli.
Is there a ZTL in Alberobello? ›Most people visit Alberobello on a day trip from Bari. If you plan to drive, then make sure you are familiar with the limits of the ZTL zones in both towns.
Can tourists drive in Italy? ›
Can foreigners drive in Italy? Yes, if you're visiting, you'll need to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your legal driving license. If you're a resident of Italy, you will need to obtain an Italian driving license after one year of becoming a resident.
How can I avoid ZTL in Italy? ›- Avoid driving in urban areas if you can.
- If you have to, be super vigilant for ZTL signs.
- Don't always trust your sat-nav to be 100% accurate about where zones are.
- Don't follow a car into a ZTL zone assuming it's ok, many locals have permits.
- Use public transport in urban areas if possible.
What does a ZTL ticket Cost? Fines are different depending on the city, but expect the traffic violation itself to be between about 50 and 80 Euros. If the car is rented, the rental car company will usually add an additional fine.
How do I avoid ZTL zone in Florence? ›The best solution in the end to avoid driving all over the center and risking going where you are not supposed to is to park in a city public garage or private garage. Read more about all parking solutions in Florence in this article.
Which is better Alberobello or Matera? ›Both Matera and Alberobello are fascinating, but they evoke completely different feelings. Both are rich in history. However, in Matera, you get the impression of struggle amongst a vast wilderness, whilst Alberobello brings magic and enchantment to mind.
How many days do you need in Puglia? ›You need at least 4 or 5 days to travel around Puglia, since towns and beaches are spread out. Don't even try to see Puglia in 3 days, because you'll be rushed and barely able to see anything. A week is ideal, and more time will allow you time to relax and soak up the sun.
Does my US driver's license work in Italy? ›Tourists may also use their valid American driver's license if accompanied by an official translation in Italian. Americans registered as residents with the local Vital Records Bureau (known as Anagrafe) must apply for an Italian license within one year of the date of registration.
Is it easy for Americans to drive in Italy? ›ANYONE with an inkling of common sense, a little pre-trip prep and a solid smartphone or GPS can easily handle driving in Italy. Here are the top Italian driving tips to hit the roads like a pro. Driving in Italy is safe, fun and a must if you really want to see the land.
Can I rent a car in Italy with US driver's license? ›If you're visiting as a tourist, you can rent a car in Italy with a US driver's license. If you're living here in Italy, you can rent a car in Italy with a US driver's license, but only if you're not a resident or have been a resident for less than one year.