13 August, 2025 Sadia Jabeen 15 Comments 1 category

If you dream of an Italian getaway that is filled with charm but free from the chaos of the summer rush, Puglia in October may be your perfect escape. This charming region in southern Italy offers warm autumn sunshine, delicious seasonal food, and vibrant cultural events—all in slow motion. Whether you’re exploring ancient cities, relaxing along the coast, or indulging in local wine festivals, October is a magical month to visit.

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Why go to Puglia in October?

Most tourists consider Italy to be a summer destination, but Puglia in autumn has its own special magic. With the intense heat of July and August gone, October brings mild weather that is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Hotels and restaurants are open, but without long queues, and you will often find better prices on accommodations and flights. It’s a time when the region celebrates the olive harvest and grape harvest—which means fresh flavors, seasonal food, and numerous festivities.

Coastal town in Puglia, Italy, with whitewashed buildings and calm turquoise sea under sunny October skies.

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The weather in October

Puglia October weather is one of its best-kept secrets. Expect daytime temperatures to hover between 18 °C and 24 °C (64 °F and 75 °F) with cool evenings. Although you can catch occasional rain showers, most days are sunny or partly cloudy, perfect for walking around the city or relaxing outside. Sea temperatures remain pleasant, around 21 °C** (70 °F), so rapid dips are still possible, especially in early October. Just bring a light jacket for the evening and some layers for the dawn.

Crowd levels in October

If you’ve ever seen Puglia’s packed beaches in August, you’ll appreciate the calm of October. It’s the start of the off-season, so popular cities like Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, and Ostuni are less crowded. You can wander the whitewashed streets, visit museums without waiting, and easily book tables at popular restaurants. Although the beaches are not busy, they are surprisingly peaceful—ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed environment.

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Festivals and events in October

One of the joys of visiting Puglia in October is to experience its autumn festivals, which celebrate food, wine, and tradition. Here are a few highlights:

1. Sagra della Volia Cazzata (MARTANO): A unique festival dedicated to local crushed green olives. Expect taste, music, and dance in the heart of Salento.

2. Fiera di San Oronzo (Lecce): Although the main feast is in August, October often sees small local fairs and markets in honor of the saints, giving visitors a taste of authentic community life.

3. Celebrating Wine Harvest: Many wineries throughout Puglia organize harvest ceremonies, offering tours, flavors, and traditional dishes that are paired with local reds such as Primitivo and Negroamaro.

4. Chestnut and Mushroom Festival: In the mountain towns of northern Puglia, October means chestnut roasting, wild mushroom feasts, and the warm smell of autumn food in the air.

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Best Places to Visit in Puglia in October

• Alberobello: The iconic Trulli houses look even more magical in soft autumn light, and you can freely explore without the crowds.
Polignano a Mare: Enjoy dramatic cliffside views, peaceful piazzas, and a relaxed coastal vibe.
• Ostuni: The “White City” is perfect for slow exploration, and the views of its hilltop over the olive groves are breathtaking.
• Matera (nearby Basilicata): While not technically in Puglia, it’s close enough for a day trip—and October’s cool weather makes walking through its ancient cave dwellings a delight.
• Salento Coast: Drive through charming fishing villages, sample fresh seafood, and enjoy empty sandy stretches.

Things to Do in Puglia in October

October in Puglia offers the perfect balance between warm Mediterranean days and cool, pleasant evenings. With fewer crowds, you can explore at your pace and experience the area more like a local. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

Explore Whitewashed Cities Without Crowds

Puglia’s postcard-perfect towns like Alberobello, Ostuni, and Locorotondo are often packed in the summer, but in October, you can walk their stone streets without rushing. This is the best time to admire Alberobello’s famous Trulli houses, admire the whitewashed façade of Ostuni shining in the autumn sunlight, and enjoy the panoramic views in Locorotondo.

Go to the olive garden and taste fresh olive oil

October is the olive harvest season in Puglia. Many farms offer guided tours where you can see the harvest process, visit ancient olive presses, and taste freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil—instead of pepper, green, and anything bottled. Cities like Fasano and Monopoly are great for joining in the olive oil flavor experience.

Attend autumn food and wine festivals

October celebrates the festive season in Puglia and local produce such as mushrooms, chestnuts, and new wine. The Festa del Vino Novello (New Wine Festival) takes place in several cities, offering live music, street food, and, of course, wine flavors. In the Gargano region, the Sagra della Castagna (Chestnut Festival) is a cozy autumn tradition.

Olive groves and countryside in Puglia, Italy, bathed in warm autumn light during October.

Enjoy the beach in peace

While summer swimmers left long ago, Puglia’s coastline is beautiful in October. If you’re adventurous, the weather can still be warm enough for a seaside picnic or even a quick dive. Poliigno A Mare, Torre dell’Orso, and Porto Cesariro are perfect for enjoying coastal walks without the hustle and bustle of the peak season.

Discover Lacey’s Baroque Beauty

Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lacey shines in the golden light of October. The intricate Baroque facades are more interesting without the distractions of large tourist groups. You can linger in Piazza del Duomo, explore Roman ruins, and relax in the outdoor café without waiting for tables.

Cycle or hike in cold weather

The mild temperatures of October are ideal for active travelers. Rent an e-bike and explore the Itria Valley, or hike the coastal trails along Gargano National Park. With fewer cars on the road, cycling through the countryside is especially enjoyable, past olive trees, vineyards, and sleepy villages.

Explore castles and historical sites

The Castel del Monte in Puglia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is especially atmospheric in the soft light of October. The territory is also home to medieval castles, watchtowers, and Romanesque cathedrals—perfect for cultural day trips without heat.

Indulge in the flavor of autumn

The October menu features turnips, rich lamb stew, and orecchiette pasta with seafood and seasonal vegetables. In coastal cities, freshly caught sea urchins can still be found. Pair it with a glass of Primitivo or Negroamaro wine for a true taste of Puglia.

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October Travel Tips

• Pack level: The days are warm, but the evenings can be cooler.
• Book accommodation in advance: Although this is not the high season, some rural ones are closed for the winter—check in advance.
• Rent a car: Public transport is limited in rural Puglia, and it is perfect for October road trips.
• Plan for short days: Sunset is earlier, so plan outdoor activities accordingly.
• Embrace local events: Check local notice boards for small-town festivals.

✈️🏨 Latest Deals on Cheap Flights & Hotels in Puglia

🛫 Airline/Hotel📍 Departure/Location📅 Travel Dates💰 Price
✈️ ITA AirwaysRome → Bari10–17 Oct 2025€49 RT
✈️ RyanairMilan → Brindisi15–22 Oct 2025€39 RT
✈️ Wizz AirLondon → Bari12–19 Oct 2025€59 RT
🏨 Hotel Bella PugliaBari City Center1–3 Oct 2025€55/night
🏨 Trulli Holiday ResortAlberobello10–12 Oct 2025€80/night
🏨 Masseria San DomenicoSavelletri20–22 Oct 2025€120/night
✈️ EasyJetParis → Brindisi18–25 Oct 2025€69 RT
🏨 Seaside Inn PugliaPolignano a Mare25–27 Oct 2025€70/night

Is Puglia busy in October?

Short answer: no. You will find more locals than tourists, and life moves at a slower pace. This is when Puglia returns to itself after a busy summer, making it the perfect time to experience authentic everyday life.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Puglia in October is a chance to see this sunny area at its most authentic. You will enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and delicious seasonal food—without the summer crowd. Whether you’re sipping wine at a harvest festival, wandering medieval towns, or standing on the Adriatic coast at sunset, October offers a richer, more relaxed version of Puglia. If you’re looking for a trip that blends culture, scenery, and flavor, October in Puglia should be at the top of your list.

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