16 of the Best Things to do in Alberobello, Italy

Looking for the best things to do in Alberobello, Italy? In this post I will introduce 16 of the best things to do in Alberobello, along with a map and FAQs.

A vintage bicycle with a basket full of decorative items is parked against a white building in charming Alberobello. The wall is adorned with various hanging crafts and ornaments.

White stone buildings with conical roofs line the charming streets of Alberobello, featuring pink flowers in pots along a pathway with a black metal bench, all under a clear blue sky.

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Hello 👋 I’m Hazel, a British tavel blogger from the outskirts of London in England. I have visited Alberobello several times as a solo traveller. Most of the photos in this post are from my 2023 visit.

I have also travelled extensively throughout the Puglia region, so be sure to check out my Puglia posts if you are planning a trip to this region.

About Alberobello.

Alberobello is a town in the southern Italian region of Puglia which is known for its distinctive ‘trulli’ buildings. These are traditional conical limestone dwellings, and the whole trulli area is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You may also be interested in my Alberobello travel guide.

Alberobello is segmented into two main zones: Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola, which is smaller and quieter. Rione Monti houses over a thousand trulli and has a bit of a touristy atmosphere. The Aia Piccola zone offers an insight into what this city was like pre-tourism boom.

Alberobello also has an abundance of rich cultural heritage, along with amazing cuisine too!

In a hurry? Here are some quick Alberobello links.

Reserve your Alberobello Hotel early, before they sell out.
Remember to pack decent sunscreen and a packable sun hat.
There are many Alberobello tours you can book (no payment required up front).
Private cooking classes are very popular in this region.
If you need a rental car, book one at Discover Cars and pick it up at the airport.

16 Things to do in Alberobello, Puglia

Here are some of my favourite things to do in Alberobello and the surrounding area.

1. Visit the Trulli di Alberobello.

The Trulli di Alberobello UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises 1500 trulli buildings, and dates back to prehistoric times. The trulli buildings are unique limestone structures with conical rooftops. Each building is adorned with a symbol-filled stone tablet that is thought to bring luck and protect the inhabitants.

A row of traditional trulli houses in Alberobello, with their iconic conical roofs and white symbols, set against a backdrop of trees and blue sky. — Trulli in Alberobello

The trulli houses of Alberobello are unique to the region and are one of the main attractions of the town. The two most picturesque parts of Alberobello to explore are Rione Monti and the Aia Piccola. The Rione Monti is the main tourist part of the town, and is often signposted as Trulli Zone.

You can explore the trulli houses on your own, or you can join a guided tour to learn more about their history and construction. You won’t find these types of houses outside of the Itria Valley, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to see these unique buildings for yourself.

There are also special trulli houses, such as the trullo siamese, which is two houses in one.

A person with long hair and sunglasses takes a selfie in front of the iconic conical-roofed trulli buildings of Alberobello, under a clear blue sky. — Alberobello rooftops

One of my favourite things to do in Alberobello is to wander around with no plan, and just take it all in. The winding streets and alleys are beautiful, and there is always something interesting waiting around the next corner!

There are hotels in this area, or you can also stay in a Trulli – I stayed in this one. You can read about my experience staying a trulli here (with photos).

Click here to see all Trulli accommodation rates on Booking.com.

2. Enjoy panoramic views from Monti D’Alberobello.

Monti D’Alberobello refers to the stunning viewpoints located at the top of the hill at Rione Monti. On a clear day you can see for miles and the view is breathtaking.

You can also get great views from Belvedere Santa Lucia in the Northern and more authentic part of town, along with the various rooftops dotted about the Rione Monti quarter (see Terrazza Panoramica below).

Nestled in the heart of Alberobello, a village boasts white, conical-roofed houses, framed by lush trees with a palm tree standing prominently in the foreground.

3. The basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian.

Puglia is filled with original baroque architecture, and one example is the Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian in Alberobello. This is a beautiful Roman Catholic church that dates back to the 16th century. It features an impressive façade, with a large arch opening at its entrance.

Aerial view of the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua surrounded by traditional trulli houses in the whitewashed townscape of Alberobello, reminiscent of the charm associated with Saints Cosmos and Damian. — Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian

The interior of the basilica boasts many stunning works of art and sculptures, including frescoes depicting stories from the lives of Saints Cosmas and Damian. The church also contains two altars dedicated to these two saints – one on either side of the nave – as well as other shrines honouring other patron saints. There is another church too – the church of St Anthony – which is a trulli style church.

In the heart of Alberobello, a person stands in front of an old stone building with columns, reminiscent of the Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian, wearing a white jacket and sunglasses. — Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian

A person takes a selfie in front of the historic Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian, showcasing its impressive columns and ornate carvings. — Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian

(In case you’re wondering, I propped my phone up on a windowsill to take the photo on the left!)

4. Enjoy local cuisine.

The cuisine of Puglia is renowned for its fresh ingredients and delicious flavours. When you’re in Alberobello, be sure to try some of the local dishes, such as orecchiette, a type of pasta made with durum wheat and the region’s famous olive oil.

You can find the local grandmothers sitting out in the streets making the orecchiette (or ‘little ears’) at tables. The best place to see these ‘pasta streets’ is Bari, about an hour from Alberobello.

If you like street food tours, try to book this food tour if you can. It looks great but it was fully booked when I visited.

At Alberobello restaurant, a plate of pasta crowned with grated cheese and herbs sits elegantly on a red plate. In the background, a blue plate cradles a piece of bread alongside a basket filled with an assortment of breads. — Pugliese orecchiette pasta dish in L’Aratro Restaurant Alberobello

a blue plate topped with a dessert covered in sauce. — Pugliese orecchiette pasta dish in L’Aratro Restaurant Alberobello

You’ll also be able to enjoy some of the best bread in the world here, including traditional focaccia and Pane di Altamura. The region is also known for its wines, so be sure to sample some of the local varieties while you’re in town.

If you love cheese, you can’t miss the local speciality burrata cheese. Mine below was infused with truffle, and it was delicious. The restaurant was Paco Wines and I highly recommend it.

Sliced prosciutto and a ball of mozzarella rest in a wooden bowl on a cutting board, accompanied by a spoon, evoking the rustic charm of an Alberobello wine bar. — Pugliese burrata cheese and parma ham

A hand holds a slice of bread with creamy cheese spread beside a bowl of cheese, a glass of white wine, and a lit candle on an intimate Alberobello wine bar table. — Pugliese burrata cheese and parma ham

15 Best Alberobello Restaurants, Cafes, Pizzerias, Bakeries, Dairies and Wine Bars.

5. Take in the view from a terrazza panoramica.

Throughout Alberobello you will see little souvenir shops and cafes with the sign ‘Terrazza Panoramica’ outside. This means there is a rooftop you can go up to and get amazing views.

Most of these places require you to buy something in the shop before you can go up to the rooftop.

A person stands on a tiled terrace next to a conical stone building under Alberobello's clear blue sky. — Terrazzo panaromica

Entrance to "Terrazza Panoramica" in Alberobello, adorned with decorative plates and signs on a white stone wall, with charming souvenirs by the door. — Terrazzo panaromica

6. Hike or cycle the Itria Valley.

The Itria Valley is one of the most picturesque areas of Puglia, with its rolling hills, quaint villages, and olive groves. You can explore this area on foot or by bike, and you can also join a guided tour to learn more about the region.

A rural landscape in the Itria Valley features hay bales scattered across a harvested field, surrounded by stone walls and a few trees, with rustic conical structures under a clear blue sky. — Itria Valley

The Itria Valley is a great destination for hikers and cyclists. With its winding roads and spectacular scenery, it offers a range of routes ideally suited for different cycling levels – from short and leisurely rides to more challenging climbs.

One popular ride takes you through some of the UNESCO-listed Trulli villages. Along the way, you can stop off at local wineries, olive oil presses or shops selling homemade produce such as cheese, salami, and bread. You can collect a bike or ebike with a GPS, and just take to the valley at your own pace.

Slices of parma ham rest elegantly on a wooden board, with a seeded sandwich peeking in the background, bringing a taste of Puglia to your table. — Parma Ham and sandwiches in the Itria valley

There are also hot-air balloon tours which take you high above the Itria Valley. You’ll need to be an early riser if you’d like to try one of these tours; most flights begin at 6am.

7. Visit the museum of rural culture.

The museum of rural culture is an interesting museum that showcases the history and culture of the region. The museum houses a collection of artefacts from the area, from ancient tools to traditional costumes, as well as a selection of traditional crafts. All of the furnishings found here are originally from the 19th century and offer a unique glimpse of what life was like back then.

A charming white stone building with conical roofs and an arched entrance sits in a cobblestone courtyard, reminiscent of the iconic trulli of Alberobello. Above it, the bright blue sky stretches endlessly. — Alberobello Sovrano museum

Discover local handicrafts at the Trullo Sovrano museum, and admire traditional artefacts from Apulian culture such as pottery, textiles and carpets, as well as trulli models.

Further reading: Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide.

8. Shop for souvenirs.

Souvenir shopping is one of the most popular things to do in Alberobello.

Souvenirs in Alberobello include locally made trulli models, ceramic items, jewellery and much more. The town centre has plenty of little shops you can explore to find the perfect reminder of your visit to Alberobello.

Shelves display rows of intricate miniature village models, including charming Alberobello-inspired buildings, tiny trees, and detailed landscapes, all with varying prices. — Alberobello souvenirs

Shelves display various olive oil bottles and colorful ceramic trulli models, quintessential Alberobello souvenirs, against a rustic brick wall. — Alberobello souvenirs

You’ll also find authentic local products like wine, olive oil and honey.

If you’re looking for something truly unique, be sure to check out the craft markets held in the squares around town from April until October each year. Here you’ll find handmade wooden objects, artworks and other traditional handicrafts that make great gifts for family and friends back home.

A vintage bicycle, reminiscent of Alberobello's charm, is adorned with stuffed dolls, flowers, and delicate hanging trinkets, elegantly displayed against a wall lined with decorative items.

If you run out of time for shopping, or you can’t fit any gifts in your hand luggage, fear not! There are a surprising amount of Trulli souvenirs on Amazon, including fridge magnets, keyrings and t-shirts.

These would also make great gifts for when you want to surprise someone with a special trip to Puglia.

9. Shop for Italian fashion.

Everyone knows Italian fashion is up there amongst the best fashion in the world. I met a woman in Puglia who had packed an extra bag in her suitcase, with the intention of filling it with new Italian clothes and shoes to take home!

There are lots of fashion shops in Alberobello and the surrounding region. The handbags and accessories are always particularly beautiful.

The Alberobello shopping experience comes alive with a storefront window showcasing three mannequins in vibrant dresses against a rustic brick wall backdrop.

In the charming alley, a stone building with conical roofs reminiscent of Alberobello proudly displays an array of hats and bags outside.

10. Olive oil tasting and olive picking.

Alberobello has some of the best olive oil in Italy and is a great place to learn about the production process. Visit an olive grove to pick olives straight from the trees, then sample some of the freshest olive oils available.

The locals will be more than happy to answer any questions you have and help you find the perfect bottle of oil for your taste. You’ll get a real insight into how Italian olive oil is made and why it’s so special.

In a sunlit, rocky landscape near Alberobello, ancient olive trees with thick trunks and dense foliage stand majestically. — Olive trees in Puglia

I recommend a guided tour of the active olive oil factory at Oleificio Salamida, where you can see how they traditionally make olive oil. At the end of the tour you can pick up a bottle of top-quality olive oil to take home.

11. Relax at the beach.

The Puglia region is blessed with some wonderful beaches. The most popular beach in Alberobello is Valle d’Itria Beach, located on the Adriatic Sea. It’s a great spot to relax and unwind, with plenty of amenities including umbrellas and lounge chairs.

You can also take part in various water sports such as waterskiing and windsurfing.

The sandy beach with scattered rocks and grass at the Nature Reserve Of Torre Guaceto overlooks a calm turquoise sea. People stroll and relax near the shoreline under a clear blue sky, embracing the tranquil beauty of this protected haven. — Nature Reserve Of Torre Guaceto

Other nearby beaches include La Selva Beach and San Vito Beach, both popular spots for sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.

If you’re looking for something a little more secluded, you can check out some of the smaller coves that dot the coastline, including the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve. This is a truly beautiful place to visit, and it’s particularly worthwhile if you like snorkelling or birdwatching as there are plenty of unique birds to spot here.

Suggested beach reading: 10 excellent books and novels set in Puglia.

12. Explore the old town.

The ‘old town’ refers to the Rione Aia Piccola area. Considered one of the most timeless and picturesque areas in Alberobello, Rione Aia Piccola translates to “Small Yard District.”

Containing around 400 trulli over eight streets, this district offers an idyllic atmosphere of small alleys with a majority being private residences. There are far fewer shops and tourist establishments compared to its more popular neighbour, the Rione Monti quarter. This is one of the best things to do in Alberobello if you want to avoid tourists.

The narrow alleyway in Alberobello is lined with white walls and colorful flower pots, showcasing red, pink, and white blossoms beneath a clear blue sky.

Taking some time out of your travels to simply explore these winding, cobbled streets is a fantastic experience. Don’t forget to stop off at one of the many cafes or restaurants for a bite to eat.

The best approach to exploring the old town is to go in with no plan at all. The winding streets will take you on a truly magical journey, where you’ll explore the trulli houses at your own pace. If you want to learn more about this area, there are also guided tours available.

The white stone building, reminiscent of Alberobello's iconic style, boasts a conical slate roof under a clear blue sky. A small door, typical of this charming architectural design, is accessed by a few inviting steps.

The Alberobello-inspired stone structure features a rounded roof and arched entryway, with a closed wooden door set in a rugged stone wall under the clear blue sky.

13. Head to Locorotondo.

Locorotondo is a small town just outside of Alberobello Italy, and it’s well worth a visit.

This picturesque town is known for its white-washed houses and winding streets. You can soak up the quintessential Italian vibes of this region throughout the day, with the odd stop-off to get a drink or two.

Narrow picturesque alleyway in Locorotondo, with white stone buildings adorned with small string lights, closed shutters, and a few balconies. Sparse leafless trees line the street. — Locorotondo

Another worthwhile town nearby is Martina Franca, which is a short train ride (Martina Franca has a stop on the Locorotondo line, so you could do both in one day).

You can read about both of these towns in my guide to the towns of Puglia.

It is also very easy to visit both towns as a road trip, or as part of a guided tour, or even cycle along the Itria Valley between the two towns.

Further reading: 14 Beautiful Towns in Puglia, Italy.

14. Take a Cooking Class.

Puglia is known for its delicious cuisine, and a cooking class is an ideal way to learn more about the region’s culinary traditions. Local chefs often host classes that focus on the traditional dishes of the region, such as the Cesarina tradition, which is based on the recipes of local grandmothers.

Local experts, called ‘Cesarine’, offer an authentic and in-depth experience as you learn to prepare classic dishes like orecchiette alla barese, friselle pugliesi, and much more.

Hands shaping dough into small dumplings on a floured wooden surface. — Making Orecchiette pasta with Italian Cesarinas

As part of your culinary journey through Puglia, you’ll visit some of the region’s best food markets to pick out fresh ingredients for your recipes. You’ll then head back to your Cesarina’s kitchen where they will lead you step by step through preparing delicious dishes that have been passed down through generations of families living in this unique corner of Italy.

If you’re looking to treat a foodie, this Puglia Cookery Book would be a great accompaniment to a Puglia food tour.

15. Visit the Church of St. Anthony.

The Church of Saint Anthony (or Parrocchia Sant’Antonio da Padova) is a one-of-a-kind Italian trullo church. It is one of the most famous trulli in Alberobello.

Constructed within fourteen months under the guidance of Don Antonio Lippolis, to counterbalance the abrupt increase in Protestantism, this large trullo was designed by engineer Signorile Bianchi and master De Leonardis, before its grand opening on June 13th 1927.

A white, conical-roofed church reminiscent of Alberobello's charm stands under a clear blue sky, surrounded by trees and a metal fence supported by sturdy stone gate posts. — Church of Saint Anthony of Padua

16. Go Wine Tasting.

Spend an afternoon tasting some of the region’s finest wines at one of Alberobello’s wineries. The best place to go wine tasting in Alberobello is the Masseria Torricella. The vineyards are located just outside of town, offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Sign on a light blue wall in Alberobello with text in Italian about a trullo, featuring symbols below. A wooden door stands to the right, embraced by a leafy plant above.

In addition to the fantastic wines available for tasting, guests can also enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by an Italian cheese platter on the terrace overlooking the vineyards.

Other popular wineries in Puglia include Masseria Cappuccitti and Cantina Fiorillo, both of which offer delicious wines as well as tours and tastings.

Bottles of Italian wine displayed on a shelf, featuring Alberobello's own Primitivo and Trose varieties, all with visible price tags. — Primitivo Wine

Bunches of ripe purple grapes hang on vines in an Alberobello vineyard, with sunlight shining through the leaves. — Primitivo Wine

If you arrive home and wish you had brought some wine back from Puglia, you can still buy authentic Pugliese wine on Amazon here.

Further reading: Guide to wine in Puglia + best wineries in Puglia.

Where to stay in Alberobello

There is a wide selection of trulli hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs available for those wanting to experience this unique destination.

Here are my recommendations:

Gatto Bianco Case d’Allora: Charming and traditional private trulli situated within 5 minutes walk of the heart of Alberobello. I stayed here in April 2023 – see my review and photos. Check prices here.

Trulli Nuova Aia Resort: aparthotel in Alberobello with terrace or balcony and a swimming pool. Rated exceptional on Booking.com. Check prices here.

Trulli e Puglia Luxury Suite: exceptional trullo property with a hot tub! Check prices here.

Trulli Terra Viva: huge amazing 5 star villa with swimming pool for a large family, sleeps 14. Rarely have I ever seen a 10/10 rating on Booking.com before! This would be perfect for a large family, check prices here.

There are lots of different types of properties to choose from. You can check the current prices and availability for all properties in Alberobello on Booking.com here.

You can also use this map to see where accommodation by location:

Booking.com

FAQs about things to do in Alberobello.

Below are some frequently asked questions about things to do in Alberobello, Italy.

Q: Is Alberobello worth a visit?

A: Absolutely! Alberobello is a must-see destination in southern Italy, and it’s a great place to visit for its unique architecture, delicious food, and friendly locals. The trulli homes are especially impressive, with their conical shape and white limestone walls.

You can tour the town and admire the trulli from close up or take an aerial view atop one of the hills. There are also plenty of interesting museums to explore such as the trulli museum or the Pezze di Greco Museum which documents local history.

Further reading: Your Ultimate Guide to visiting Alberobello.

The food in Alberobello is also excellent and there are many wonderful restaurants to choose from where you can sample traditional dishes from Puglia.

Q: How much time do you need in Alberobello?

A: Alberobello is a small town, so you don’t need an extended visit. You can see much of what this UNESCO-listed town has to offer in a few hours, or a half day trip.

A walking tour could include visits to some of the local trulli homes and churches, as well as taking in views from one of the two public parks. It’s an essential stop on any Puglia road trip.

If you have more time, there are plenty of restaurants, shops and wineries where you can enjoy further experiences that Alberobello has to offer. In fact for such a small town, there are a lot of things to do in Alberobello. I recommend two days if you have the time, for a more leisurely experience (that would give you more time to try out the local restaurant scene too).

Q: What is Alberobello famous for?

A: Alberobello is most famously known for its unique trulli houses with conical roofs. The alberobello trulli are traditional limestone dwellings with a conical roof that were built in the 15th century by local farmers. These homes have become a symbol of Puglia and can be found throughout the city, some of which date back to the 1600s.

There are over 1,000 trulli houses in Alberobello, making it one of Italy’s most popular destinations for tourists. The town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 due to its historical significance as a trulli settlement.

Q: Can you stay in a Trulli?

A: Yes, you can stay in a Trullo when visiting Alberobello. (‘Trulli’ is the plural of ‘trullo’). I stayed in this one and it was lovely. You can check prices of all Trulli accommodation on Booking.com here.

Trulli homes usually come equipped with all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay, such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, and fully-equipped kitchens. Plus, many of them also boast stunning views of the countryside or nearby towns. Read my trulli review here.

Q: Where can I see the best trulli in Alberobello?

A: The best trulli can be found in two main districts: Rione Monti and Aia Piccola. Rione Monti is the more touristy area with shops and restaurants, while Aia Piccola offers a quieter, more authentic experience.

Q: Are there guided tours available in Alberobello?

A: Yes, there are many guided tours available in Alberobello, including walking tours, trulli history tours, and day trips from nearby cities. These tours often provide fascinating insights into the history and architecture of the trulli. I book my tours through Viator or Get Your Guide.

Q: What are some popular things to do in Alberobello?

A: Popular things to do in Alberobello include exploring the trulli districts, visiting the Trullo Sovrano (a two-story trullo turned museum), shopping for local crafts and souvenirs, and enjoying traditional Apulian cuisine at local restaurants.

Q: Is Alberobello family-friendly?

A: Yes, Alberobello is a family-friendly destination. Children will enjoy exploring the whimsical trulli houses, and there are plenty of open spaces for them to roam.

Q: What is the best time to visit Alberobello?

A: The best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the town is less crowded. Summer is also popular but can be quite busy.

Q: Are there good restaurants in Alberobello?

A: Alberobello has a variety of excellent restaurants offering Apulian specialties like orecchiette pasta, fresh seafood, and burrata cheese. Many eateries are located in trulli, adding to the dining experience.

Q: Is Alberobello easy to reach by public transport?

A: Yes, Alberobello is accessible by train or bus from nearby towns like Bari, Monopoli, and Martina Franca. However, having a car offers more flexibility for exploring the surrounding area. I use Discover Cars for car rentals.

Q: What are some nearby attractions to visit from Alberobello?

A: Nearby attractions include the caves of Castellana Grotte, the whitewashed town of Locorotondo, and the coastal city of Monopoli. These can easily be visited on day trips.

Further reading: Must See Sights: The 30 Best Places to Visit in Puglia.

Q: Are there any festivals in Alberobello?

A: Yes, Alberobello hosts several festivals, including the Patron Saint Festival of Saints Cosmas and Damian in late September and a Christmas market during December.

Q: Is Alberobello touristy?

A: Alberobello can be quite touristy, depending on the time of your visit. There are crowds of tourists and bus loads arriving each day – but they don’t stay long, usually about 1.5 hours. I recommend visiting before or after the high season. It is also a good idea to try to visit early in the morning, or late afternoon after the crowds have left.

Don’t let the tourism put you off – Alberobello really is beautiful and you won’t want to miss it.

Related reading: The Best Time to Visit Alberobello.

A street in Alberobello lined with traditional conical-roofed buildings under a dusk sky. People stroll along the sidewalk, and warm lights softly illuminate the charming structures.

Map of things to do in Alberobello.

The Google map below shows all of the things to do in Alberobello, Puglia as listed in this post. Click the blue icons to see more information about each place, or click the star to add to your own Google Maps.

Further reading: How to Get to Alberobello by Plane, Train, Bus and Car.

A person sits on a bench beneath the clear blue sky, gazing at the iconic Alberobello rooftop of a conical stone-roofed building. — Alberobello rooftops

Aerial view of the charming village of Alberobello, showcasing its distinct conical-roofed houses under a bright blue sky. — Alberobello rooftops

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Collage of Alberobello's signature trullo buildings, highlighting places to visit, dine, and explore, and things to do in Alberobello with a website URL at the bottom.

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Thank you for reading my guide to 16 things to do in Alberobello, Italy. I hope it has helped you plan your trip to the Puglia region. Feel free to leave your comments and feedback below.