u/lonktendo

Hi everyone! I plan to go to Puglia for the first time with my boyfriend, I recently posted in this sub about this. I was planning to leave on the 14th so I can meet my family in Lazio in time for Ferragosto. This would be my first time in Puglia.

I have also never driven in Italy before, but I've heard the trains are less reliable in this region. Do you think renting a car will make everything easier given what I have below?How is this itinerary?

Aug 5	Flight
Aug 6	ARRIVE in Bari, Go to Matera
Aug 7	Matera -> Monopoli
Aug 8	Monopoli (Relax by the beach)
Aug 9	Monopoli (Day trip to Alberobello and Grottaglie)
Aug 10	Monopoli (Train to Polignano for beach day)
Aug 11	Otranto (Go to Otranto early)
Aug 12	Otranto (Spend all day swimming in the nearby coves and beaches)
Aug 13	Otranto --> Bari (stay in Bari one night)
Aug 14	Fly out of Bari

Listen, I sort of already know the answer here. With Ferragosto, as well as the heat, August is the worst time to visit.

I'm an American and have lived in Rome before for half a year, and have returned to Italy every year since. I am fluent in Italian (I don't sound native, but am between B2/C1 level). Getting around is much easier for me for this reason.

I am taking two and a half weeks off work later this summer, starting the beginning of August. For the first 7 or 8 days of trip, I was thinking of bringing my boyfriend (he doesn't speak Italian) to Puglia, a place we both have never been to.

My main goal is to experience all of the wonderful beaches around the region for a relaxed summer, and to eat all of the wonderful food I know Puglia has to offer! I also would love to see the important historical wonders (such as Matera, for example).

With all of this in mind, will the region truly be so unbearable this time of year? Italians, past tourists, please weigh in! Also, do you have any recommendations on a loose itinerary? Thanks so much!