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Locorotondo almost got the ax from our itinerary when we thought we had too tight a schedule. Luckily, we found a way to fit it in, and I couldn’t be happier that we did. Locorotondo has the type of energy where you’re just so pleased to be there.
Around every corner was a new quaint shop, restaurant, view, or local scene. Locorotondo is where we had some of the best local encounters of our entire trip. It’s also where we bought some of my favorite souvenirs, and had the best caffè leccese.
Locorotondo felt like a marriage between two of my other favorite Valle d’Itria towns, Cisternino and Ostuni. It takes the best of the winding white washed small town in Cisternino, and the quaint city on a hill in Ostuni.
If we’d had more time I would have wanted to spend a few days here to be honest, and next time around I wouldn’t hesitate to make Locorotondo my base for the Valle d’Itria region.
The thing about Locorotondo is that it’s small. So let me set some expectations: there isn’t really anything to “do” here. There’s honestly barely even anything to see. But that’s the point. Arguably that’s the point to a lot of Puglia, and Locorotondo just happens to do it well.
Alright, let’s get going on my mini guide to visiting Locorotondo!
Delve into Italy
Don’t forget to check out the rest of my Italy posts and guides if you’re still planning your perfect trip!
Complete Mini Guide to Things to Do in Locorotondo
Real Talk:
Puglia—like so many parts of Italy—is feeling the pressure of overtourism. And while I want to believe that if you’re here on my blog, you’re the kind of traveler who cares about leaving places better than you found them… I still have to say it:
Don’t be an asshole when you travel. Not in Puglia, not in Italy, not anywhere.
I’ve seen too many visitors treat locals like background characters or behave like the region exists solely for their vacation. So here’s your friendly-but-firm reminder:
If you’re going to make people’s lives harder, please just stay home.
1. Explore Locorotondo’s Charming Centro Storico
Unlike a lot of historic centers you might want to wander around, the one in Locorotondo doesn’t have a list of attractions or monuments you should check out.
There are certainly some churches hidden in the winding streets, but frankly the main draw and visual interest is in its simplicity. You can (and should, if you’re interested) of course hire a guide and take a tour, but I think part of the magic of Locorotondo is that you can appreciate it by having no plan at all.
Insider Tip
When you head into the centro storico stop for a caffè leccese at Caffè della Villa. It was my favorite one we had on our trip, and the vibes of this bar are great inside and out for people watching.
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2. Savor the Best Shopping Experiences in Town
Several of my favorite shopping experiences in Puglia took place in Locorotondo because we got to chat with some of the locals who make this town magical!
- Il Tempo Ritrovato di Spalluto Nunziata – If you visit one store let it be this one! Daniel and I spoke with Nunzia for probably 30 minutes (in Italian) about growing up in Locorotondo, going to school in a trullo, being the first in the town to get a card reader machine, and her crafting work. Her store is a treasure trove of hand made lace and other fabric crafts.
- Libreria L’angolo Retto – This is a super cute bookshop with a pretty sizeable English section in the centro storico… including a book or two about the local area! I’m always surprised more places in the world (at least where English is likely to be spoken) don’t prioritize this. The shop also does discounted “mystery books” wrapped in brown paper with an intriguing description. We bought two of them!!
- Ceramiche Pugliesi – If you won’t make it to Grottaglie on your trip, this shop is an excellent substitute! You’ll find all of the classic Pugliese pottery styles here at a relatively affordable price.
- Vicious Store – A trendy boutique with a modern, edgy vibe, Vicious Store offers a curated selection of fashion-forward clothing and accessories. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to add a touch of Italian style to their wardrobe.
- Via dei Miracoli – With a design concept rooted in local embroidery, much like that found at Nunzia’s shop, Via dei Miracoli offers sustainable, handcrafted clothing that blends tradition with modern elegance. Their unique pieces, made from natural materials, showcase the artistry of Puglia’s embroidery heritage, creating timeless fashion with a cultural touch.
3. Discover Local History at the Pearls of Memory Museum
This is a surprisingly off-the-beaten track thing to do in Locorotondo – and I am so bummed I didn’t get a chance to do it during my own visit!
You’ll step right into the past at the Perle di Memoria Museum, an interactive exhibition dedicated to preserving the ancient crafts and traditions of Puglia.
Housed in the Sant’Anna di Renna complex just outside of town, this immersive museum brings forgotten trades like the shoemaker, trullaro, and towing to life using advanced technology. As you explore, antique tools and artifacts animate with sound, video, and even scent, fully engaging your senses. It’s a fascinating way to connect with local history while exploring Locorotondo’s cultural roots.
Oh, and if you want to be even more immersed, join a “stone processing” workshop where you’ll have the chance to carve the local white stone yourself!
Get Your Hands Dirty with Local History!
4. Unwind at the Villa Comunale & Stroll the “Lungomare”
Villa Comunale is a lush green space just outside of the centro storico as you come into Locorotondo. It’s a worth a little stroll around here, especially because it offers a great view of the valley below. When we visited there was also some kind of art installation up, which was cool to check out!
Another great way to get some good views is to walk along Via Nardelli, which runs right around the circular border of the centro storico. Endearingly (yet somewhat confusingly) locals refer to this stretch as the Lungomare – a term which usually refers to a road that runs parallel to the sea!
5. Venture Out to Visit Nearby Valle d’Itria Towns
If you’re planning on staying in Locorotondo (which I recommend, and you an find my best hotel picks if you keep scrolling), you can easily visit many other nearby towns in the area.
If you want to know my detailed thoughts on all of the Valle d’Itria towns you could hit, check out this post!
For the TL;DR version, I recommend you make time for Martina Franca, Cisternino, Bari, Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, and Ostuni.
Explore More of Puglia by E-Bike Along the Apulian Aqueduct Cycleway
Looking for a scenic way to experience the countryside around Locorotondo? Hop on an e-bike and pedal along the Apulian Aqueduct cycleway, the longest aqueduct in Europe. This tour takes you into oak forests, right through Locorotondo, past iconic trulli, and along quiet country roads lined with vineyards and masserias. It’s the perfect way to explore nearby areas in spring or fall, when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are bursting with life.
6. Taste the Famous DOC White Wine of Locorotondo
Bianco Locorotondo DOC is a famous Puglian white wine that is made right here in Locorotondo! Puglia is very understandably proud of their DOC and DOP products, so you should definitely make an effort to try this sparkling, dry white wine while you’re here.
There are loads of quaint places to grab a drink in Locorotondo, but my favorite is Pavi, because it comes with a killer view.
7. Visit Puglia’s Oldest Trullo
Trullo di Marziolla is one of the oldest trulli in the region, believed to date back to 1559. The conical stone structures were traditionally used for agricultural purposes like storing tools or producing wine.
Today, many trulli have been restored for tourism, but this particular trullo retains its original features, making it incredibly unique.
Insider Tip
Trullo di Marziolla is located on private property, but if you want to take a tour and explore the interior you can contact the owner of the property to arrange it!
Where to Stay in Locorotondo
I wouldn’t hesitate to make Locorotondo my base in Puglia—it’s perfectly located, close to the sea, and still manages to feel quaint and authentic. Whether you want to explore the Valle d’Itria or just soak in the charm of this peaceful town, Locorotondo offers some lovely accommodation options. Here are my top picks for where to stay!
Historic Mansion | Jacuzzi & Rooftop Terraces
Nestled in the heart of Locorotondo, 1783 Dimora d’Epoca is a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion turned luxury B&B. With spacious, elegantly designed rooms, a cozy fireplace, and a unique basement jacuzzi, this boutique hotel offers a truly memorable stay. Guests rave about the warm hospitality from Chiara and the delicious homemade breakfasts by Rosanna. Whether relaxing on the terrace or exploring the charming streets, this is the perfect retreat for those seeking comfort and charm in Puglia.
Photo: Booking.com
Warm, Personal Hospitality | Renovated Historic Building
Da Concavo e Convesso offers a charming stay in a beautifully renovated historic building. With modern, well-equipped rooms that retain the character of the original structure, this B&B blends comfort with authenticity. Guests rave about the personal touches and exceptional hospitality from Vitangela, who provides helpful local tips. The breakfast is a highlight, featuring freshly baked cakes that change daily, making every morning a delicious surprise. This is the perfect retreat for a cozy and welcoming stay.
Photo: Booking.com
Spacious, Contemporary Design | Thoughtful Host Touches
Civico40 Suite offers an exceptional stay in Locorotondo, with a beautifully decorated, spacious apartment spread over two floors. High vaulted ceilings, two terraces, and modern amenities make this a standout option. Guests love the thoughtful touches from hosts Veronica and Donato, from local bites and wine to a fully stocked kitchen. With two bathrooms, plenty of space, and a quiet atmosphere despite being near restaurants and cafes, this suite is perfect for families or couples looking for comfort and style.
Photo: Booking.com
Modern Comforts | Impeccable Attention to Detail
Dimora d’Itria offers a cozy and stylish stay in the heart of Locorotondo’s picturesque old town. This brand-new apartment features modern decor, a comfortable bed, and thoughtful amenities to ensure a relaxing experience. Guests appreciate the spotless cleanliness and excellent service from the hosts, as well as the high-quality breakfast served nearby. With a welcoming atmosphere and everything designed for comfort, Dimora d’Itria is perfect for couples seeking a peaceful getaway.
Photo: Booking.com
Where to Eat in Locorotondo
Locorotondo may be small, but it’s packed with incredible dining experiences that showcase the best of Puglian cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional dishes, local wines, or modern takes on Italian classics, these restaurants offer something for every taste. Here are my top picks for where to eat in Locorotondo!
- Osteria Il Rosone – A cozy spot offering traditional Puglian dishes with fresh, local ingredients and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Controra – Modern meets rustic at this chic restaurant known for its creative menu and beautiful presentation of classic Italian cuisine.
- La Bottega de I Pastini – A charming wine bar where you can enjoy local Puglian wines paired with artisanal meats, cheeses, and small plates.
- Pavi – This hidden gem offers incredible views alongside delicious cocktails and DOC Locorotondo wine, making it perfect for a relaxing evening.
- Vinifera Vini & Affini – A wine lover’s paradise, this shop and tasting room offers a curated selection of local wines and expert recommendations.
- Neglia Alfredo – Though primarily a wine shop, this spot also offers tastings and the opportunity to sample some of Locorotondo’s best local vintages.
When to Visit Locorotondo
Locorotondo is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall. The weather is mild, the streets are less crowded, and you’ll still experience the charm of this quaint town withouvt the summer rush.
For a true local experience, plan your trip around one of the town’s traditional festivals or sagre, when Locorotondo comes alive with celebrations and local flavor.
Summer is lovely if you prefer warm weather and lively atmospheres, but naturally you can expect more tourists at this time.
No matter the season, Locorotondo’s beauty shines through!
FAQs about Locorotondo:
Is it worth visiting Locorotondo?
Yes! It is without a doubt worth visiting Locorotondo. Not only is it beautiful and quaint, it’s also quite small and easy to fit into almost any itinerary.
Its location means it will be easy to get to from most of the other towns in the Valle d’Itria, so you shouldn’t have a problem making time for this idyllic white town on a hill.
How long do you need in Locorotondo?
If you’re just passing through, you really only need about half a day in Locorotondo. Because it’s so small and there isn’t a ton to “do” here, it’s easy to explore the old town and enjoy a drink all in one afternoon.
If you’re staying in Locorotondo I recommend 3-4 days so you can properly see the rest of the region.
Which is better, Alberobello or Locorotondo?
This is kind of an apples and oranges situation but let me try my best.
If you’re wondering where you should visit, Alberobello is more iconic and there is more to see, so I would say that Alberobello is better than Locorotondo for a day trip.
However, if you’re wondering where to stay, Locorotondo has Alberobello beat by a long shot. It’s more local and quaint and a much better base for your trip.
Is Locorotondo a good base?
Yes! If you like a slower pace and want to stay somewhere that is well located, but still quiet and calm, Locorotondo is an ideal option for you. Staying here will have you well located to the rest of the Valle d’Itria, and will offer an authentic experience of Puglian life and culture.
I would say that Locorotondo is not a great base if you want to stay somewhere with more going on in town. If that’s you I would recommend Polignano a Mare, Ostuni or Martina Franca as alternate bases.
How far is Locorotondo from the beach?
Locorotondo is about a 20-30 minute drive to the Adriatic Coast, depending on which specific beach you want to visit. My top picks are Lido Bambù (upscale with a good – if slow – restaurant) and Lido Ottagono (more traditional, but still comfortable and unique!).
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Ready to explore Locorotondo?
I hope you found this post helpful!
If you’re still trying to plan the perfect trip to Puglia, check out the Puglia archives here.
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