If southern Italy’s scenic regions are on your radar for this spring and you’re wondering if you should be visiting Puglia in May, here are some things to know before planning your trip.
*I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables. I share my personal experience and cannot guarantee yours.
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Things to Know Before Visiting Puglia in May
The Weather is Mostly Perfect, But…
I think spring will forever be my favorite travel season, and it was no different in Puglia.
You can usually expect temperatures of 20°C-25°C (68°F-77°F) during the day in May, with a few degrees cooler at night. It’s mostly sunny and warm, BUT there are some cloudy, chillier days and evenings, so each day on your itinerary can look different.
If you’re also ready to take a swim, either on Puglia’s Adriatic or Ionian coast, the average water temperatures range from 18 °C to 20 °C (64°F to 68°F).
Most Towns are Still Pretty Quiet at the Beginning of the Tourist Season, But…
It’s no secret that summer is the peak season of a coastal destination like Puglia, and in May, it feels like there are few crowds in many of the towns and beaches in the region, or the only ones there are locals.
However, in several specific places, you can already see lots and lots of tourists, including:
- Bari: Well, it is the capital of the region and where most people fly to. It’s also a base for taking day trips, so many people, myself included, choose to stay there. That said, this city felt vibrant and alive to me rather than annoyingly touristy.
- Alberobello: The famous Trulli-houses town. Again, it’s not unbearably crowded, but it starts to feel more bustling (I also visited Puglia in March, and it felt like I had Alberobello to myself).
- Polignano a Mare: Probably the most photographed coastal town in Puglia. It didn’t make me not enjoy it, but I definitely felt how crowded it started getting (in March, it was totally quiet and serene).
This is not a reason not to visit in May; there’s only so much you can do to avoid large numbers of tourists if you’re not traveling off-season, but it is a thing to expect, though you can still find quiet corners no matter where you go.
Prices Start to Rise, But You Can Still Find Affordable Accommodations
As you approach summer, it’s obvious that accommodation prices start to get higher, but it’s very much possible find good options for most budget ranges in May.
Just to give you an understanding of price changes, a property that charged 60 euros in March will now charge 80+, and a room that cost 85 will now cost 100+ euros.
I don’t see accommodation prices as an issue during this time of year, but availability of highly-rated places to stay can be, mostly in popular spots like Bari and Polignano, and especially if you’re staying in the same town for more than just a couple of nights.
I suggest booking your accommodation in such towns ASAP after you have your flight and itinerary figured out (or adjust your itinerary according to what’s available).
Public Transport is…
I loved exploring Puglia without a car, by taking day trips from Bari and Lecce, and I think it’s a great way to see the region if you don’t want to drive yourself or have those car rental expenses.
That said, it is important to note that:
- Trains and buses to popular towns (like Polignano and Alberobello) can already get crowded, so patience is needed.
- Seasonal trains and buses (for example, those that help you explore the Salento Peninsula more easily) only operate from mid-June to mid-September. However, if you’re planning a road trip or choosing to focus on central Puglia, this is not an issue at all.
What to Wear in Puglia in May
For those warm days, pack whatever it is you’d like for that spring/summer weather – shorts, dresses, playsuits, sandals.
But considering those chillier days and evenings, I recommend also having a pair of sneakers, 1-2 pairs of long pants (I packed jeans and something similar to a linen pant), 1-2 long-sleeve tops, and even a lightweight cardigan.
So is It Worth Visiting Puglia in Spring (and Specifically in May)?
For me, it’s a YES! Even when you consider the less sunny days or the crowds in some of the towns, it’s still one of the best months to visit Puglia, making it a great European spring destination.
You can fully enjoy both the hotspots and the hidden gems, explore both the coastline and the countryside, immerse yourself in the local culture and history, or simply enjoy the views and vibe, and have memorable moments.
“Puglia Without a Car” Digital Guide
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Related Posts
Here are some more posts about Puglia:
- Hidden gems in Puglia
- What to eat in Puglia
- Is Bari worth visiting?
- 2 days in Bari
- Things to do in Bari
- Where to stay in Bari
- Hidden gems in southern Italy
Other Italy guides:
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