You’ve decided to spend your family holiday in Puglia but are unsure on what to do in this Southern Italian region to keep the children busy. Not to worry, I have highlighted in this article the best things to do in Puglia with your kids.
The region of Puglia sits in the heel of the boot shape of Italy and faces the countries of Montenegro and Albania on the East side of the coast.
Whether you enjoy a relaxing day at the beach or embrace the cultural part of Puglia by visiting Pugliese villages, I am sure you will find plenty of activities for the whole family.
1. Aquapark Egnazia
Aquapark Egnazia, located in West coast of Puglia not too far from Monopoli, is an ideal destination for families seeking a day of fun and excitement.
This water park offers a wide variety of attractions tailored to all ages, making it perfect for both young children and adventurous teens.
The park features thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and dedicated splash zones for the little ones, ensuring everyone has a fantastic time.
For parents, the park provides relaxing sun loungers and shaded areas, allowing them to unwind while keeping an eye on their kids.
With its combination of exhilarating rides, safe play areas, and family-friendly amenities, Aquapark Egnazia promises an unforgettable day for families visiting Puglia.
2. Castellana Caves
Grotte di Castellana, located in the heart of Puglia, is a must-visit destination for families with a love for adventure and natural beauty. Especially during the summer when you might need a few hours to cool down!
These magnificent limestone caves, formed over millions of years, offer an awe-inspiring underground experience that captivates visitors of all ages.
The guided tours (available in Italian, French and English) take families through a series of breathtaking caverns, showcasing stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations.
Children and adults alike will be fascinated by the enchanting atmosphere of the caves, where the play of light and shadows creates a magical ambiance.
The highlight of the tour is the incredible “White Cave,” known for its dazzling white alabaster walls. The tour is both educational and thrilling, providing insights into geology and the natural history of the region.
During the peak summer season, make sure to pre-book your guided tour at Grotte di Castellana to avoid disappointment.
3. Spend Half a Day in Ostuni
Ostuni, often called “La Città Bianca” (The White City), is a beautiful little town in Puglia that families should not miss.
Perched on a hilltop, this picturesque town is famous for its whitewashed buildings, winding alleys, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Ostuni’s charming, maze-like streets are perfect for families to explore together.
The town’s historical centre is a treasure trove of cultural experiences, with ancient churches, palaces, and cozy cafes where families can relax and enjoy local delicacies. The nearby beaches, just a short drive away, provide an excellent opportunity for a family day out by the sea, with shallow waters and sandy shores ideal for kids.
Ostuni also hosts various festivals and markets throughout the year, adding a vibrant atmosphere that families will love.
Don’t miss the several shops to bring back some souvenirs such as the ceramic colourful balloon available with different sizes.
4. Zoosafari Fasanolandia
Zoosafari Fasanolandia is another activity that offers families a unique and unforgettable experience.
As one of Italy’s largest safari parks, Zoosafari Fasanolandia allows visitors to drive through vast, open habitats where animals roam freely, giving children and adults alike the thrill of observing wildlife up close from the comfort of their own car or a guided train.
The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and giraffes, making it a thrilling adventure for kids who can see their favourite animals in a natural setting.
In addition to the safari, Zoosafari Fasanolandia features an amusement park with rides and attractions tailored for younger visitors, providing a full day of entertainment.
With its combination of wildlife adventure and amusement park fun, Zoosafari Fasanolandia is a perfect family outing in Puglia.
5. Spend the Morning in Alberobello
Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Puglia, is probably the most popular village in Puglia.
The town is famous for its trulli—unique, whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs that look straight out of a fairy tale.
Wandering through Alberobello’s narrow streets, families can marvel at these charming structures, many of which house shops, cafes, and museums.
The city offers guided tours that delve into the history and construction of the trulli, making the visit both educational and fun.
Nearby, family-friendly restaurants serve delicious local cuisine, allowing everyone to enjoy the flavors of Puglia.
Alberobello’s relaxed atmosphere and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy for families to explore at their own pace.
With its enchanting scenery and cultural richness, Alberobello is a must-visit for families traveling through Puglia.
6. A Day at the Beach
As you may know, the region of Puglia is famously known for its beautiful sand and rocky beaches with emerald waters.
Whether you are staying on the West side on the Adriatic sea or on the East side in Gallipoli or Taranto, I am sure you will find lots of beaches to explore.
During the summer, most of the Italians have a membership to privates beaches so they can have their own parasol and loungers ready when they arrive for the day.
We have tried several private beaches where we thought it was a great idea to avoid walking too long and also have great facilities on the site.
One of private beaches we really liked in August is Cala San Giovanni near Polignano a Mare. We also enjoyed spending the day at Yachting Club in Taranto with several entries to the sea with plenty of space to cool down.
7. Explore Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare, perched on the cliffs of the Adriatic Sea in Puglia, is a stunning little town that offers families a perfect place to wander around the little streets.
Known for its dramatic coastal scenery, Polignano a Mare’s crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches, like Lama Monachile, are ideal for a family day by the sea.
The town itself is a joy to explore, with its narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and charming piazzas.
Families can discover the local culture by visiting historic churches, enjoying gelato in the town square, or walking along the scenic cliffside paths that offer panoramic views of the coastline.
Polignano a Mare is also famous for its seafood, and family-friendly restaurants serve delicious, fresh dishes that cater to all tastes.
Don’t miss out on the famous take away place La Focacceria Delle Noci Marco where you can buy delicious focaccia.
8. IndianaPark Castella Grotte
IndianaPark Castellana Grotte is an exciting outdoor adventure park in Puglia, perfect for families looking to enjoy a day of fun and physical activity.
Nestled in a forested area near the famous Castellana Caves, the park offers a variety of tree-top courses and zip lines designed to suit different age groups and skill levels.
Kids and adults alike can test their balance, strength, and courage as they navigate through suspended bridges, rope ladders, and thrilling zip lines high above the ground.
For younger children, there are specially designed courses that are lower to the ground, ensuring they can join in the fun safely.
The natural setting of IndianaPark adds to the experience, allowing families to connect with nature while enjoying an active and adventurous day.
Picnic areas and rest spots are available, making it easy for families to relax and enjoy a meal together amidst the beautiful surroundings.
9. Stroll the Old City of Monopoli and Have Lunch there
Monopoli, a charming coastal town in Puglia is a great way to relax in the morning before hitting the beach in the afternoon.
Known for its picturesque old town with narrow, winding streets and vibrant piazzas, Monopoli invites families to explore its rich heritage through historical landmarks such as the 16th-century Cathedral of Monopoli and the impressive Castello Carlo V.
The town’s scenic waterfront features beautiful sandy beaches, like Cala Porta Vecchia, perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.
Monopoli also boasts a lively marina area, where families can stroll along the promenade, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, and experience the town’s charming, laid-back vibe.
With its blend of cultural attractions, beautiful beaches, and a welcoming atmosphere, Monopoli is an excellent choice for a memorable family getaway in Puglia.
10. Gargano National Park
If you venture around the North of Puglia, you have to spend some time exploring the magnificent Gargano National Park with the kids.
Gargano National Park is known for its stunning and diverse landscapes, including lush forests, dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque lakes.
Families can explore these varied environments, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and nature walks.
The park is also home to some of Puglia’s most beautiful beaches, such as those near Vieste, Peschici, and Mattinata.
These beaches are often sheltered by cliffs, providing calm and shallow waters that are perfect for young children to swim and play in.
Finally, the Foresta Umbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the park, is a must-visit for families. This ancient forest offers shaded walking trails, where kids can learn about the local flora and fauna, including a variety of bird species and small animals.
CONCLUSION
In this article, I have shortlisted what I think are the best family friendly activities you could do in Puglia. As you can see, you can alternate your days between cultural visits and relaxing day at the beach.
The deep south of Italy is still relatively unspoilt and is getting more and more popular with foreign visitors.
So make sure to visit this stunning region of Italy because it gets too crowded!
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