Alberobello
Alberobello
⭐ Ranked #25 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
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Latest page update: 2 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Alberobello is one of the most unique in the whole of Italy. Translated into English, the town's name means "Beautiful Tree" but its biggest draw by far is its wonderful Trulli Houses.
Distinctive by their conical roofs which often come painted with a variety of symbols. The Trulli of Alberobello have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 and this contributes to the town's status as one of Puglia's foremost visitor destinations. There are plenty of hotels in and around the town but the best places to stay in my opinion, are the Trulli houses themselves. |
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What People Ask About Alberobello
What is Alberobello known for?
Why are the houses in Alberobello special?
Is Alberobello worth visiting?
How do you get to Alberobello?
Can you stay in a trullo in Alberobello?
Related links
Overview
Overview
Trulli houses date back to around the 14th century and it is thought that their mortarless construction was a deliberate attempt to avoid any taxation that could be brought upon permanent housing.
The fact that they could quickly be dismantled was a way of navigating around those rules. Almost resembling Hobbit's houses from Lord of the Rings, the Trulli are whitewashed on the outside, made from the local limestone and usually a single storey in height with a conical roof.
Many of the roofs are adorned with symbols such as hearts or good luck charms to ward off evil spirits.
The fact that they could quickly be dismantled was a way of navigating around those rules. Almost resembling Hobbit's houses from Lord of the Rings, the Trulli are whitewashed on the outside, made from the local limestone and usually a single storey in height with a conical roof.
Many of the roofs are adorned with symbols such as hearts or good luck charms to ward off evil spirits.
Things to Do
Things to Do
Exploring the Trulli Zone
Since the town's popularity has soared in recent years, there are now dozens of genuine Trulli houses where you can spend your stay in Alberobello. The houses are comfortable and fitted with all the mod-cons you'd expect, but offer a unique experience and a peek into the region's history.
The Trulli zone occupies one side of the town and is certainly the most visited but away from there, this is a living, breathing town with a population of just over 10,000 people. This other side of the town is worthy of a visit in its own right with its interesting churches, restaurants and open public spaces.
The Trulli zone occupies one side of the town and is certainly the most visited but away from there, this is a living, breathing town with a population of just over 10,000 people. This other side of the town is worthy of a visit in its own right with its interesting churches, restaurants and open public spaces.
Tours & Activities
Comune di Alberobello
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Province: Metropolitan City of Bari
Region: Puglia Population: 10,174 (in 2024 - source) Total size: 41 km² Elevation: 428 metres Highlights: Trulli houses, Chiesa di Sant'Antonio di Padova Close by: Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Cisternino, Ostuni Nearest train station: Stazione di Alberobello (town centre) Best airports: Bari Airport (66 km), Brindisi Salento (73 km) |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay
- Le Alcove Luxury Resort nei Trulli Located in the heart of Alberobello, this luxury resort offers unique trulli-style rooms with modern amenities, an elegant atmosphere, and a renowned restaurant serving traditional Puglian cuisine. Guests appreciate the authentic experience, the high-quality service, and the proximity to the famous Trulli zone and other local attractions. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Trulli & Grotte Situated just outside the centre, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with traditional trulli architecture, a large garden, and a restaurant serving regional dishes. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, the welcoming service, and the easy access to the Trulli district and the historic centre of Alberobello. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Trulli D'Autore Set in the picturesque Trulli zone, this bed and breakfast features cosy rooms in traditional trulli houses, a beautiful garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Guests enjoy the personal touch of the hosts, the central location, and the proximity to Alberobello's main attractions, including the UNESCO-listed Trulli area. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Montegusto Located just outside Alberobello, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with views of the countryside, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests enjoy the rural setting, the authentic Puglian experience, and the short drive to Alberobello’s historic sites and nearby nature reserves. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Trullo del Sole Situated a short walk from the town centre, this charming bed and breakfast offers modern rooms with rustic touches, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality, the peaceful environment, and the easy access to Alberobello's Trulli zone and nearby attractions. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat
- Evo Ristorante: Located in the heart of Alberobello, this modern restaurant offers a contemporary take on traditional Puglian cuisine. The tasting menu provides a delightful experience with regional dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list. Price guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante L'Aratro: Situated in a traditional trullo, this restaurant offers authentic Puglian dishes in a cosy atmosphere. Signature dishes include orecchiette pasta with turnip tops and grilled meats. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Il Pinnacolo: Located in the Rione Monti district, this restaurant is known for its traditional Puglian cuisine and rustic charm. The menu includes local favourites like orecchiette pasta and grilled meats, all served in a welcoming setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Cico Osteria: For a more upscale dining experience, Cico Osteria offers innovative dishes that combine traditional Puglian ingredients with modern techniques. The stylish terrace is perfect for al fresco dining. Price guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- La Lira Focacceria: Specialising in focaccia and puccia sandwiches, La Lira offers a variety of fillings, from traditional to contemporary. It's an ideal spot for a casual lunch or snack while exploring Alberobello. Price guide: € (Affordable)
Photo Gallery
Photo Gallery
Nearby Places
Nearby Places
Alberobello is situated in the Valle d'Itria which includes neighbouring towns such as Locorotondo, Cisternino, Martina Franca and Ostuni, each of which merit a visit. The Trulli houses can be seen throughout the Itria Valley and there are some particularly interesting examples of the architecture in nearby Selva di Fasano with its Trulli-style church.
One of the most popular excursions from Alberobello is to visit the Sassi in the town of Matera, across the regional border in Basilicata. It takes an hour by car to get there with many visitors choosing a half day in each location, equating to a sensible day-trip.
One of the most popular excursions from Alberobello is to visit the Sassi in the town of Matera, across the regional border in Basilicata. It takes an hour by car to get there with many visitors choosing a half day in each location, equating to a sensible day-trip.
Puglia Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Puglia
1. Lecce
2. Alberobello
3. Otranto
4. Gallipoli
5. Polignano a Mare
6. Monopoli
7. Vieste
8. Trani
9. Giovinazzo
10. Castel del Monte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Puglia
1. Lecce
2. Alberobello
3. Otranto
4. Gallipoli
5. Polignano a Mare
6. Monopoli
7. Vieste
8. Trani
9. Giovinazzo
10. Castel del Monte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Puglia
Getting There
Getting There
By Rail: Alberobello is served by its own train station, Stazione di Alberobello, with regular services to cities such as Bari and Taranto. The journey from Bari to Alberobello takes about 1 hour by train. From the station, the town's attractions are within walking distance.
By Road: Alberobello is approximately 55 km southeast of Bari, and the drive takes around 1 hour via the SS16 and SS172 roads. From Bari, follow signs for Brindisi, then take the exit for Alberobello. The town is also accessible via the SS172 road, connecting it to surrounding areas.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Alberobello is approximately 55 km southeast of Bari, and the drive takes around 1 hour via the SS16 and SS172 roads. From Bari, follow signs for Brindisi, then take the exit for Alberobello. The town is also accessible via the SS172 road, connecting it to surrounding areas.
Nearest International Airports:
- Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (Aeroporto di Bari-Karol Wojtyła): Located about 60 km northwest of Alberobello, the drive takes around 1 hour via the SS16 and SS172 roads. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a train to Alberobello.
- Brindisi – Salento Airport (Aeroporto di Brindisi – Salento): Situated about 70 km northeast of Alberobello, the drive takes around 1 hour via the SS16 and SS172 roads. From Brindisi, you can rent a car or take a train to Alberobello.
