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The 20 Best Boutique Hotels in Puglia

Don Ferrante

Tucked in the heel of Italy, Puglia is very different from the rest of Italy. The area’s history is exotic – Greek, Arabic, Byzantine as well as Roman – its countryside full of extremes (lush valleys and dramatic ravines) and the atmosphere less ordered, more laidback. And it’s certainly hotter. Its style is also more individual – the delightful trulli buildings are just one example. And one of the best ways to discover its individuality is to stay in one of Puglia’s many boutique hotels. These range from palazzi and farmhouses to the iconic trulli houses.

For a luxury boutique hotel

Castello di Ugento

  • Castello di Ugento is a magnificent castle hotel in a sleepy town by the sea. Adults only, this property is the one to book if you want to enjoy boutique luxury accompanied by fabulous food, and an onsite museum!
  • If you want to be in the heart of an atmospheric city, take a look at Palazzo Bozzi Corso, an 18th-century palace in wonderful Lecce with its Renaissance architecture and Roman heritage museums. High-ceilinged rooms have a contemporary elegance – modern art, parquet floors – without losing their grandeur. There’s a courtyard plus garden terrace for al fresco breakfasts.
  • Also in a historic town, Monopoli, and in a historic monument – a former fort – Don Ferrante sits perched over the Aegean with glorious views. Whitewashed rooms with stone-vaulted ceilings and many with sea-views, are furnished in elegant style. There are plenty of terraces plus a rooftop plunge-pool.
  • Set right on the seashore – the bar and restaurant terrace have stunning views – La Peschiera is one of Puglia’s most romantic boutique hotels; a luxuriously cool retreat of white-on-white rooms, and lots of natural materials. Close to Alberobello’s trulli houses, it also has a swimming pool and excellent seafood restaurant.

Paragon 700

  • Also renowned for its food is Paragon 700 in Ostuni, the white city’s only red palazzo. Expect French parquet flooring, high ceilings and a mix of modern and vintage furnishings, put together with a cool design eye.
  • In quiet San Cassiano, the 18th-century palazzo of Don Totu offers elegant accommodation – some rooms with vaulted stone ceilings – in peaceful surrounds. The large private garden with swimming pool is perfect for relaxation after a day’s exploring; bike hire can be arranged.
  • Another quiet boutique hotel in Puglia is Palazzo Daniele, set right on the southern coast in sleepy Gagliano del Capo. The palazzo has beautifully restored rooms with original tiled floors, smooth plaster walls and quirky modern pieces. There’s also a pool in the garden.

For a boutique hotel in trulli country

Masseria Cervarolo

  • Set in Puglia’s iconic houses, Nina Trulli Resort offers a truly unique boutique hotel. With thick pale-stone arched walls, polished stone floors, and curious nooks and crannies, the trulli houses offer a timeless feel. Elegantly simple with rustic furniture and colourful cushions, the rooms are also romantic. Outdoor pool, too.
  • Another trulli conversion is Masseria Cervarolo where rooms in trulli houses sit next to a former farmhouse. Spacious and rustic, with colourful rugs, they feel very private. There’s a large garden with pool and a choice of indoor or outdoor dining.
  • Also in ‘trulli country’, Ottolire Resort is a traditional stone farmhouse given a sympathetic contemporary makeover. There’s a small spa, pool in the garden and modern restaurant.

For a complete escape

Masseria Mongio

  • Masseria Montelauro, a former monastery, also offers a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by gardens, olive trees, date palms and vineyards, its rooms are white-on-white with cool flagstone floors, delicate wrought-iron beds and sultry Moroccan lamps.
  • Yet another quiet place to stay is Masseria Le Mandorle, a former farmhouse that’s been converted into 12 chic bedrooms while the public areas show off wonderful original features. Food is a big draw here, and you can dine outside on the terrace or inside the romantic barrel-vaulted dining room.
  • If you want to be close to both town and beach, yet still feel like you're escaping the crowds, have a look at Masseria Mongio. This group of former rural buildings, close to Otranto and the coast, has been carefully converted to create contemporary rooms that retain original features of beams, exposed-stone walls and flagged floors. Choose either a terrace or garden room.

For a boutique city stay

Mantatelure

  • For a city-based boutique hotel in Puglia, Palazzo de Noha, in Lecce, offers a stylish stay. Rooms are slick with designer touches with bold bathrooms and modern art. The roof-top terrace lounge surrounds a plunge-pool.
  • Also in Lecce, but quietly tucked away, Mantatelurè offers just six elegantly contemporary rooms that mix pale, neutral shades with original features. There’s also a bar – with home-made cakes – and a garden with hot tub.

For great value

Relais Il Mignano

  • In the heart of Lecce, close to Sant’Oranzo Square, Palazzo Gorgoni is cool and simple with whitewashed plaster or exposed-stone walls, polished wood or flagged floors, and traditional furnishings. One of its four rooms is also family-friendly.
  • In one of Puglia’s iconic white towns, Ostuni, La Sommità Relais Culti is cool and chic: airy rooms with white-on-white décor, limestone floors, sleek wooden furniture and fat creamy candles. There’s a romantic vaulted dining-room, small spa plus glorious views from the terraces.
  • Exceptional value for money is Relais Il Mignano, a 16th-century palazzo in the centre of Nardo. Rooms retain original features and are elegantly furnished with the occasional antique, plus there’s a courtyard garden, and rooftop terrace with whirlpool tub.

Palazzo del Corso

  • Another superb value boutique hotel in Puglia is Palazzo del Corso. Set on the Gallipoli peninsula, rooms are light and traditional, some with stunning sea views. There’s a small spa, rooftop plunge pool plus rooftop bar; the latter perfect for sunset drinks.
  • For a remote-feeling place, that’s still in a small town, Palazzo Guglielmo is an unexpected find. A chic boutique hotel close to the Salentine coast, it offers cool, creamy rooms – some with exposed stonework – a vaulted lounge, shady garden and pool.

Still not sure?

  • For more choices, browse our full range of Puglia hotels.
  • Or check out our pick of B&Bs in Puglia, or our recommendations for neighbouring Basilicata.
  • Alternatively you could contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.
    • Castello di Ugento Puglia 9 rooms from £321

      Romantic Break  -  This charming palazzo is ideal for couples on a romantic getaway
      Sights nearby  -  The cathedral towers over an elegant square and Byzantine and Baroque churches can be seen down tiny alleyways
      Restrictions on children  -  Children over the age of 10 can be accommodated in extra beds in two of the rooms
      Restaurant  -  The superb Il Tempo Nuovo serves contemporary, gourmet Pugliese cuisine.
      Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

      A magnificent castle hotel in a lovely sleepy town by the sea, combining old-world elegance with contemporary sophistication. Expect restored frescoes rubbing shoulders with modern art and artisanal pieces. The food is outstanding and guests can learn some tricks at the in-house cookery school. See More

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    • Masseria Mongio Otranto, Puglia 17 rooms from £142

      Local exploring  -  A great base for exploring this beautiful corner of Puglia
      Spa  -  There is a spa with a large spa bath, Turkish bath, sauna, multi-sensory shower and herbal tea corner
      Restaurant  -  Serves typical cuisine of the Salento region using mainly local produce
      Sights nearby  -  The historic coastal town of Otranto is just a few minutes in the car
      Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets
      Recommended by  -  I Escape

      An elegant masseria conversion just north of Otranto. Seventeen individually designed suites offer chic minimalist accommodation, and all come with either a private terrace or garden. Large outdoor pool, excellent restaurant specialising in Salento cuisine, and just steps from the beach. See More

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    • Masseria Le Mandorle Ugento, Puglia 12 rooms from £217

      Local exploring  -  A chic little base for exploring the southern region of Puglia from its beaches and markets to its historical sights.
      Families  -  With its superb facilities including tennis court and pool, and great location, it's ideal for a family break.
      Cooking classes  -  Pop down the road to sister property Castello di Ugento for its top notch cookery school
      Sights nearby  -  Ugento is home to a world class archaeological museum and Gallipoli is very close by.
      Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming Pool

      A stunning little hotel in the depths of southern Puglia. Its rooms and suites have been done in a contemporary chic style, plus you'll find a sleek pool and superb sports facilities on site. There's an excellent restaurant championing seasonal local cuisine and sister property for fine dining. See More

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    • Paragon 700 Ostuni 11 rooms from £260

      Local exploring  -  The white cities and Valle d’Itria Golf are 30 minutes away.
      Short break  -  It's easy to reach Puglia, fly to Bari or Brindisi.
      Honeymoons  -  Luxurious, quiet and private.
      Sights nearby  -  The white cities and Valle d’Itria Golf are jut 30 minutes away.
      Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParking

      The only red palazzo in the white city of Ostuni, Paragon 700 is an absolutely stunning addition to the boutique hotel scene in Puglia. A timeless place where elegance and history are found in each one of the beautifully finished rooms and suites. Plus a gourmet restaurant & pool. Open year-round. See More

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    • Relais Il Mignano Nardò 7 rooms from £67

      Local exploring  -  Set within the heart of the historic centre with many of the city's attractions within walking distance
      Value chic  -  A luxury property with exceptionally good rates
      Great walks  -  Just a 10 minute drive from the Portoselvaggio Nature Park where one can set out on gorgeous coastal walks
      Sights nearby  -  Make a trip to the historical town of Lecce 30 minutes from the property
      Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

      A 16th century palace situated in the heart of Nardò. Stunningly renovated rooms keep their original charm with exposed stone, beamed ceilings and antique furniture. The simple design throughout gives a contemporary air. A rooftop terrace and hot tub are ideal for unwinding with a drink. City chic. See More

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    • Palazzo Gorgoni Lecce, Puglia 4 rooms from £61

      Local exploring  -  Set beside the Sant'Oronzo Square in the historical quarter, most of Lecce's historical sites are a walk away
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the old Greek Theatre and the Benedictine Monastery (the oldest Monastery of the city)
      Great walks  -  Take a stroll through the pretty gardens, the Villa Comunale di Lecce
      Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
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      Graceful B&B near Sant'Oronzo Square in the centre of Lecce. Huge, light-filled bedrooms with sandstone walls feature parquet floors and elegant furniture. A great value spot, and family friendly too. See More

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    • Palazzo Guglielmo Vignacastrisi di Ortelle Lecce, Puglia 8 rooms from £91

      Families  -  Families and kids of all ages are welcome. Suites and self catering apartments are ideal accommodation options
      Foodies  -  Regular cooking classes, poolside BBQs and wine tastings are held
      Restaurant  -  Open six days a week. Closed on Sundays. Specialises in Puglian cuisine using fresh, local produce.
      Great walks  -  Wander through the picturesque town of Vignacastrisi
      Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParking
      Recommended by  -  I Escape

      Seamlessly chic hotel in a small town near the Salentine Coast. Lush gardens surround a pool, a relaxing roof terrace looks out over sandstone rooftops, all-cream rooms and suites have private terraces and hot tubs. Perfect for families, couples, or groups. See More

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    • Hotel Palazzo del Corso Gallipoli Lecce, Puglia 16 rooms from £121

      Spa breaks  -  Indulge in the wellness centre complete with a rooftop hydrotherapy pool and good range of massages and treatments
      Local exploring  -  Perfectly placed in the old town, just a few km from the historical sights and within easy reach of Lecce
      Foodies  -  Dine in the fabulous seafood restaurant La Dolce Vita
      Sights nearby  -  The Greek Fountain of Gallipoli, Gallipoli Port, Greek Fountain and Gallipoli Castle are all nearby
      Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViews

      A fabulous five-star hotel on Gallipoli's peninsula. Stunning sea views from the rooftop terrace, lively bar, excellent seafood restaurant, and a top of the range wellness centre. Rooms and suites filled with romance have four-poster beds, creamy furnishings, and balconies. Luxurious on all fronts. See More

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    • Masseria Cervarolo Ostuni Brindisi, Puglia 18 rooms from £134

      Families  -  A number of the rooms sleep upto four and the pool has a lifeguard meaning children can roam free!
      Country Escape  -  With beautiful countryside, indulgent cuisine and a large pool this is an idyllic rural escape
      Traditional
      Restaurant  -  Serving Puglian cuisine including local specialities
      Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Sawdays

      Gorgeous traditional Ostuni farmhouse. Traditional trulli (conical peasants' houses) act as rooms and suites, immaculately painted in white. Stunning grounds, terraces, and enormous swimming pool. A fabulous choice for romantic breaks, family holidays, and friends. See More

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    • Ottolire Resort Locorotondo (Ba), Puglia 14 rooms from £156

      Country Escape  -  Set in picturesque countryside this traditional trulli has been given a modern touch making it a stylish rural escape
      Spa  -  The wellness trullo comes with hammam, hot tub, and sensory shower, plus treatments aplenty!
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the pretty town of Alberobello known for its traditional trulli houses
      Restaurant  -  Serving delicious Puglian dishes that have been given a fresh, modern twist.
      SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

      Once a traditional farmhouse this beautiful Trulli now offers guests a slice of contemporary Italy in a picturesque rural setting. Rooms see chic contemporary furniture perfectly set amongst the building's original features. The spa and excellent Mediterranean restaurant make this an alluring pick. See More

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    • Palazzo de Noha Lecce 10 rooms from £165

      Local exploring  -  Set in the heart of the city with many of the main attractions within walking distance
      City Style  -  A stylish design hotel filled with antiques and artworks
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the 17th century Basilica di Sante Croce and admire its stunning Baroque facade
      Swimming Pool  -  Small plunge pool on the roof terrace
      Air conditioningSwimming PoolParkingNo pets

      A boutique property in the heart of historic Lecce. The old building has been renovated by its art-loving owners and now also boasts a superb contemporary art gallery. Rooms are spacious and bright with a simple white-on-white-style, and there's the added bonus of a roof terrace with plunge pool. See More

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    • Masseria Montelauro Otranto 29 rooms from £156

      Honeymoons  -  A tranquil and romantic spot for honeymooners, each of the elegant suites faces onto the gardens and the soothing countryside.
      Cooking classes  -  The hotel organises cooking classes, learn to whip up your favourite dishes frm the menu.
      Sights nearby  -  Explore the lovely Otranto, with its lively bars, restaurants and squat Aragonese castle.
      Great walks  -  Take a wander around the lush gardens, or further a field into this scenic landscape.
      Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking
      Recommended by  -  I Escape, Fodors

      Relaxed retreat with a contemporary twist surrounded by olive trees, vines and date palms. Sophisticated, airy white on white rooms with cool flagstone floors, delicate wrought iron beds, Pugliese embroidery and Moroccan lamps. Lovely pool, local food and stunning surrounding farmland. See More

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    • Don Totu Puglia 6 rooms from £217

      Romantic Break  -  Beautiful and private accommodation with a quiet atmosphere-perfect for a romantic retreat
      Total relaxation  -  Unwind in style at this historic palazzo, lounge by the pool or unwind in the hammam area
      Cooking classes  -  Join in with one of the cooking classes to learn how to whip up your favourite Italian dishes
      Opulent
      Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Great Small Hotels

      Don Totu offers elegant boutique B&B accommodation in San Cassiano. This elegant 18th-century palazzo comes with a lovely luscious garden. Bask in the sun by the pool and enjoy a cocktail or homemade ice cream. Head off by bike or foot on a tour of the area. A rejuvenating stay! See More

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    • Don Ferrante Monopoli 10 rooms from £243

      Sights nearby  -  You're right in the centre of historic Monopoli, but most of Puglia's attractions can be easily reached by car
      Restaurant  -  Serving Puglian specialities, Locanda Don Ferrante is an outdoor restaurant overlooking the sea.
      Views  -  Stunning views over the Adriatic Sea
      Swimming Pool  -  Small outdoor pool
      Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

      A seriously stylish conversion of an ancient fort overlooking the Adriatic. Individually designed rooms have travertine vaulted ceilings, and elegant furnishings. There's a little rooftop plunge pool for cooling off & a myriad of terraces for sitting and soaking up the stunning views. Total bliss! See More

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    • Palazzo Daniele Puglia 9 rooms from £294

      Foodies  -  A local chef cooks regional dishes with organic produce. The menu is decided on the day and is always bound to impress
      Total relaxation  -  Send days strolling through the palazzo, reading a book beside the pool, and relaxing in the sauna
      Great walks  -  Enjoy long walks along the coast stopping for swimming breaks along the way
      Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
      Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Design Hotels, Tablet

      A lovingly restored palazzo set in the quiet coastal town of Gagliano del Capo. The interiors have been entirely reworked culminating in a heady mix of original features and cool minimalist style. Homemade regional meals are exceptional and the courtyard pool and sauna are utterly divine. See More

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    • Mantatelure Lecce (Le Palmeraie S.r.l.) 6 rooms from £137

      Romantic Break  -  Featuring romantic rooms, a courtyard hot tub (where prosecco is served) and a grown-up feel, this is perfect for couples
      Local exploring  -  Well located near the iconic Baroque Basilica Santa Croce yet in a quiet untouristy neighbourhood
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the beautiful Basilica di Santa Croce on Via Umberto
      Local markets  -  Explore local coffee shops and street markets
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      Recommended by  -  I Escape

      Refined sixteenth century mansion in a quiet corner of stunning Baroque Lecce with six modern, elegant rooms. Guests can enjoy a freshly baked Italian breakfast or sip glasses of prosecco in the exclusive garden terrace beneath the citrus trees, or relax in the hot tub. The perfect romantic getaway. See More

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    • Nina Trulli Resort Monopoli (Bari), Puglia 6 rooms from £165

      Local exploring  -  Hire a vespa and discover the surrounding villages and towns
      Country Escape  -  A converted farm set in picturesque Puglian countryside
      Sights nearby  -  Explore the churches and palaces of beautiful Lecce
      Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
      RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking

      A chic converted Masseria set in the picturesque rural landscapes of Puglia. White washed rooms, uneven walls and well placed ornaments all lend an air of rural-cool. A good sized pool, fantastic restaurant (serving regional produce) and easy access to Puglia's sights make this a fantastic stay. See More

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    • La Sommità Relais Ostuni 15 rooms from £167

      Foodies  -  A fantastic little Michelin starred restaurant and great wine list.
      Spa  -  Massages, Turkish baths and excellent range of treatments using SPA Gerard's methods and products
      Sights nearby  -  Nearby towns of Cisternino and Martina Franca
      Restaurant  -  Cielo Restaurant holds one Michelin Star.
      Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet

      Minimalist luxury in an ancient white town. Stunning views from the terraces and a lovely restaurant serving fantastic food with immaculate presentation. Large comfortable beds in airy bedrooms. A small plunge pool perfect for cooling off. A gem of a hotel. See More

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    • La Peschiera Savelletri 12 rooms from £347

      Honeymoons  -  The majestic seaside setting and superb suites make it perfect for honeymooners.
      Beach Life  -  Right on the sea with exclusive access to a beach and a relaxed seaside vibe.
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the stunning historic UNESCO protected Trulli of Alberobello.
      Restrictions on children  -  Adult only.
      Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
      Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

      A stunning five-star hotel, set right on the Adriatic Sea. The luxury design and magnificent location combine to create a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxing seaside break. Enjoy sumptuous seafood and staggering sea vistas at the hotel's restaurant. The embodiment of serenity. See More

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    • Palazzo Bozzi Corso Lecce 10 rooms from £382

      Local exploring  -  Lecce is steeped in rich Puglian culture, step out the door and explore the city by foot
      Foodies  -  There is no shortage of fine foods and wines to be sampled in Lecce
      Sights nearby  -  There is an abundance of Renaissance architecture to see in Lecce, particularly the Santa Croce church and Lecce Cathedral
      Cooking classes  -  Your hosts offer to arrange cooking classes with a private local chef
      Air conditioningGardenDisabled accessNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

      This 18th-century palazzo has retained its original grandeur. The elegant rooms feature high ceilings, fireplaces and simple modern furniture with french windows overlooking the palazzo courtyard. The contemporary artworks are a nice touch. Historically rich and very central. See More

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Written by Helen Pickles

posted Monday, 28th June 2021