GemmaIf you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through sun-drenched vineyards, tasting wines so fresh you could swear you were sipping liquid sunshine, and discovering charming towns that look like they were plucked straight from a postcard, Valle d’Itria in Puglia should be at the very top of your travel list. Nestled between Bari, Brindisi, and Taranto, this region is a wonderland of rolling hills, centuries-old trulli houses, and vineyards producing some of Italy’s most delightful wines. From my own personal experience, there’s nothing quite like sipping a crisp white or a bold red while overlooking the lush valleys and olive groves that define this part of Italy.
Valle d’Itria is not just a place—it’s an invitation to slow down, explore, and let your senses soak in beauty, history, and flavor. And what better way to do this than by following its scenic wine routes? These routes aren’t just about wine—they’re about culture, gastronomy, history, and the sheer joy of discovering hidden gems.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through 12 must-see wine routes in Valle d’Itria, what you can do along each route, and why they’re truly worth exploring. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just someone who enjoys a good glass of wine with a view, there’s something here for you.
1. Martina Franca – Locorotondo Route
Martina Franca, with its baroque architecture, is a perfect starting point for a wine journey. This route takes you through gently rolling hills, dotted with trulli and whitewashed villages. Along the way, you’ll find family-owned wineries producing Primitivo and Verdeca wines.
You can spend your day wandering Martina Franca’s cobblestone streets, marveling at the ornate churches, and then hop into the nearby countryside for wine tastings. A stop in Locorotondo is a must—this town is famous for its circular old town, which makes it look like it was designed with geometry in mind. Try a glass of Locorotondo DOC white wine—it’s crisp, refreshing, and pairs perfectly with local cheeses.
Things to do:
- Wine tastings at small vineyards
- Visit historic palaces in Martina Franca
- Walk through Locorotondo’s old town
- Stop at artisanal cheese shops
You’ll truly love the combination of history, wine, and breathtaking views on this route.
2. Alberobello – Noci Wine Trail
Alberobello is synonymous with trulli—the cone-shaped houses that make this region instantly recognizable. The wine trail from Alberobello to Noci allows you to explore vineyards while staying immersed in the unique architectural charm of the area.
On this route, you’ll find wineries producing Negroamaro and Malvasia Nera. The scenery is magical, with vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, interspersed with centuries-old olive trees. Noci itself is a beautiful town to explore, known for its lively piazza and charming cafes.
Things to do:
- Explore the trulli in Alberobello
- Stop for wine tastings in boutique wineries
- Take a cycling tour through the vineyards
- Enjoy a traditional lunch in Noci
From my overall experience, this route is perfect for combining visual beauty with delicious wine.
3. Cisternino – Ostuni Wine Circuit
Cisternino, often called one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, is the perfect entry point for this route. Head towards Ostuni, the famous “White City,” and enjoy a journey that combines medieval towns with lush vineyards.
The vineyards along this route produce Bombino Bianco and Negroamaro wines. Many estates welcome visitors for tasting and even guided vineyard tours. Along the way, you’ll see centuries-old farmhouses and perhaps even catch a glimpse of traditional olive oil production.
Things to do:
- Explore Cisternino’s old town
- Wine tastings in small, family-run estates
- Visit Ostuni’s whitewashed streets
- Enjoy local Apulian cuisine
This is a route that truly captures the essence of Valle d’Itria—history, wine, and stunning landscapes.
4. Locorotondo – Fasano Wine Passage
Locorotondo itself deserves a dedicated wine trail. From here, you can venture toward Fasano, where vineyards are abundant, and wineries are known for their high-quality Verdeca and Fiano wines.
The charm of this route is its mix of hilltop towns and low-lying vineyards. As you travel, you can visit zoosafari parks, historical landmarks, and charming farmhouses offering wine tasting experiences.
Things to do:
- Walk Locorotondo’s circular old town
- Taste local wines and cheeses
- Explore Fasano’s countryside
- Stop at traditional trattorias
You’ll truly love the combination of peaceful countryside and lively towns on this path.
5. Ostuni – Carovigno Wine Path
The Ostuni-Carovigno route is ideal for those who love white wines and scenic drives. Ostuni’s whitewashed streets are just the beginning—vineyards along the route produce crisp Verdeca and Chardonnay wines, ideal for summer sipping.
As you drive or cycle, you’ll see vineyards blending seamlessly with olive groves and historic masserie (farmhouses). Many masserie offer tasting sessions paired with local delicacies like focaccia, burrata, and cured meats.
Things to do:
- Visit Ostuni’s historic center
- Wine tastings in masserie
- Bike tours through vineyards
- Enjoy a traditional meal in Carovigno
This route allows you to fully immerse yourself in the flavors and sights of Puglia.
6. Locorotondo – Ceglie Messapica Wine Route
If you’re after a mix of wine, history, and gastronomy, the route from Locorotondo to Ceglie Messapica is a must. Ceglie Messapica is a culinary hotspot, making it perfect for wine and food pairing experiences.
Vineyards here produce Primitivo, Negroamaro, and Malvasia Bianca, each with a distinct character. You can visit historic wineries, meet winemakers, and even take cooking classes that feature local wines.
Things to do:
- Culinary experiences in Ceglie Messapica
- Wine tastings in boutique vineyards
- Explore local historic sites
- Enjoy truffle and olive oil tastings
From my overall experience, this route is a favorite for combining food and wine adventures.
7. Martina Franca – Ostuni Wine Expedition
This is one of the longer routes, perfect for a full-day adventure. Starting in Martina Franca and heading toward Ostuni, you’ll traverse vineyards producing Negroamaro, Primitivo, and Bombino Bianco.
The rolling hills along this path are breathtaking, and the towns you pass through offer charming cafes, artisan shops, and local markets. A stop at a vineyard for lunch paired with wine is a highlight not to be missed.
Things to do:
- Explore Martina Franca’s baroque beauty
- Vineyard tours with tastings
- Discover Ostuni’s historic streets
- Enjoy panoramic views from hilltops
You’ll truly love how this route blends history, landscapes, and wine culture.
8. Alberobello – Martina Franca Wine Route
This scenic trail connects two of Valle d’Itria’s most iconic towns. Along the way, the landscape alternates between trulli-dotted hills and lush vineyards producing Primitivo and Verdeca wines.
Many wineries on this route offer guided tours, tastings, and even harvest experiences during certain seasons. Don’t miss stopping at Alberobello’s trulli for photos—they’re Instagram-worthy and magical in real life.
Things to do:
- Visit Alberobello’s trulli district
- Wine tasting in local estates
- Explore Martina Franca’s historic center
- Picnic in the vineyards
From my overall experience, this route is perfect for a leisurely day of exploration and tasting.
9. Ceglie Messapica – Ostuni Wine Trail
This trail is for those who love a combination of gastronomy and wine. Ceglie Messapica’s culinary reputation pairs perfectly with the crisp wines of Ostuni.
Along this route, vineyards produce Chardonnay, Verdeca, and Malvasia Bianca. You can plan stops for tastings, farm-to-table meals, and even small cooking workshops. The landscape is a patchwork of vineyards, olive groves, and historic farmhouses.
Things to do:
- Culinary experiences in Ceglie Messapica
- Vineyard tours
- Explore Ostuni’s whitewashed alleys
- Try traditional pastries and cheeses
You’ll truly love the flavor explosion on this route, combining wine and food perfectly.
10. Locorotondo – Monopoli Wine Circuit
The Locorotondo-Monopoli route is ideal for those seeking both coastal and inland charm. Starting from the hilltop village of Locorotondo, you’ll head toward the Adriatic coast and discover wineries producing Fiano and Primitivo wines.
The highlight is the contrast between inland vineyards and the sparkling sea views near Monopoli. Wineries here are often family-owned, offering intimate tastings and personal stories behind each bottle.
Things to do:
- Visit Monopoli’s historic harbor
- Wine tastings with panoramic views
- Stroll Locorotondo’s streets
- Sample fresh seafood paired with white wines
From my overall experience, this route is perfect for a combination of sea, history, and wine.
11. Martina Franca – Ceglie Messapica Wine Route
This route is a hidden gem for those wanting authentic experiences. Wineries along this path produce Primitivo and Negroamaro, often in small batches with unique flavors.
The charm of this route lies in its unspoiled landscapes and lesser-known wineries. You can spend hours wandering through vineyards, chatting with winemakers, and enjoying local treats.
Things to do:
- Vineyard tours in boutique estates
- Explore historic towns along the way
- Enjoy local culinary specialties
- Take scenic drives through rolling hills
You’ll truly love the authenticity and charm of this route.
12. Alberobello – Cisternino Wine Route
The final route takes you from the iconic trulli town of Alberobello to the hilltop beauty of Cisternino. Along the way, vineyards produce Malvasia Bianca, Primitivo, and Negroamaro, offering a taste of Puglia’s diversity.
This route is perfect for those who want a mix of architecture, history, and wine. Stroll through Alberobello’s trulli, stop at a vineyard for a tasting, and end your day in Cisternino enjoying panoramic views and delicious local cuisine.
Things to do:
- Explore Alberobello’s trulli district
- Wine tastings in family-run vineyards
- Visit Cisternino’s historic center
- Enjoy local olive oil and cheese
From my own personal experience, this route is one of the most rewarding, combining culture, wine, and breathtaking landscapes in a single day.
Final Thoughts on Valle d’Itria Wine Routes
Valle d’Itria is not just about wine—it’s about experiencing Italy in its most authentic, flavorful, and beautiful form. Each route offers something unique: historic towns, rolling hills, scenic vineyards, and intimate encounters with winemakers. Whether you’re tasting crisp whites, bold reds, or experimenting with food pairings, these 12 scenic wine routes are journeys you’ll truly remember.
Planning your trip around these routes allows you to immerse yourself in the region’s culture, history, and natural beauty while savoring every sip along the way. You’ll return home with memories, bottles of exquisite wine, and perhaps a little longing for the sun-drenched hills of Valle d’Itria.
So, pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and let these wine routes guide you through one of Italy’s most enchanting regions. You won’t regret it.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.