Have you ever heard of Alberobello? It might sound like something out of a fairy tale, but this charming little town in the province of Bari, located in the heart of Puglia, Italy, is very real and utterly magical.
Alberobello is world-renowned for its unique trulli architecture. These circular white houses, adorned with various decorative symbols and topped with distinctive grey stone roofs resembling bird nests, are like nothing you’ve seen before.
While you may stumble upon intriguing trulli houses scattered across the Puglia region, Alberobello is the true “Trulli Town.” Here, Trulli houses line the streets, creating a picturesque landscape that seems frozen in time. Some of these historic homes are still inhabited today, adding to the town’s living history.
Let’s explore the best things to do and see in Alberobello, including where to stay and the perfect time to visit this enchanting destination.
Best Time to Visit Alberobello
You can visit Alberobello year-round, but the best time to go is between April and November.
The warmest months are June to August, while January and February are the coldest. However, don’t expect freezing conditions—temperatures rarely drop too low. I visited in February, and the weather was pleasantly sunny, with temperatures around 15°C (59°F) 😊.
TIP: Loving Italy? Be sure to check out the stunning Cinque Terre National Park!
Best Hotels in Alberobello
There’s no need to find long-term accommodation in Alberobello, as the town is perfect for a day trip. However, if you want to make your visit truly unforgettable, consider staying in one of the charming trulli houses.
- For a budget-friendly option, try Trulli Quercus.
- For a mid-range experience, Romantic Trulli offers a delightful stay.
- For a luxurious getaway, choose Resort La Corte Dell’Astore.
19 Best Things to Do and See in Alberobello
Alberobello may be a small town, but it has plenty to offer. I’ve put together 19 must-see spots in this enchanting town to help you make the most of your visit.
TIP: Don’t miss our article on other must-visit Italian destinations!
Iconic Trulli Houses of Alberobello
The main attraction of Alberobello is undoubtedly its iconic trulli houses. These unique structures are built without mortar, using carefully crafted stones, and topped with conical roofs adorned with white symbols. Originally, each trulli had just one room with thick walls.
As you explore the town, you’ll find yourself walking through a charming maze of these white houses. Some of the trulli have even been converted into souvenir shops, allowing you to step inside and experience their distinctive architecture up close.
Quartier Rione Monti
Alberobello is divided into two main districts, one of which is Rione Monti district. This district is the more bustling and tourist-friendly area, home to around a thousand trulli houses set on a gentle hillside. Here, you’ll find an array of souvenir shops nestled among these iconic structures.
Rione Aia Piccola
Rione Aia Piccola is the quieter district of Alberobello, home to around 400 trulli houses. Unlike the busier areas, you’ll find this part of town peaceful and free from crowds of tourists.
Trullo Sovrano
Trullo Sovrano is the only two-story trullo that still retains its original authentic furnishings. Built-in the 18th century by the Perty family as their private residence, this unique structure stands out for its grandeur.
Its remarkable design and historical significance have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. You can visit Trullo Sovrano at 10 Piazza Sacramento.
Church of St. Anthony of Padua
The standout feature of the Rione Monti district is the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua, built in 1926. This unique church, constructed in the traditional Trulli style, blends seamlessly with the surrounding houses. It was commissioned by Father Antonio Lippolise, who wanted to provide the local poor with a place of worship that felt just like home.
Casa D’Amore
Casa D’Amore, also known as the House of Love, is located in King Ferdinand IV Square. Built in 1797, this was the first trulli house constructed with mortar, marking the year Alberobello became a free town.
Basilica of St. Cosmas and Damian
The Basilica, dedicated to the patron saints of Alberobello, Saints Cosmas and Damian, was built in 1885. This neoclassical structure houses the remains of the brothers, making it a significant landmark in the town.
Trullo Siamese
In the Rione Monti district, you’ll find the unique “Siamese” trulli house, notable for its two separate trulli structures joined under a shared double roof.
This house has no windows and features two entrances. Interesting fact: According to local legend, it was once home to two brothers. One was engaged to a girl who later fell in love with the other brother, becoming his mistress, which adds an intriguing layer to its history.
Villa Donnaloja
Villa Donnaloja is a lush urban park in Alberobello, perfect for taking a break, enjoying a snack, or relaxing in the shade.
Church of St. Lucia
Another must-see in Alberobello is the Church of Saint Lucia, located in Piazza San Girolamo. This church was built to welcome the many faithful who visited the town.
Pezzolla Museum
In town, you can explore a museum dedicated to showcasing traditional life in Alberobello and the rich history of the trulli houses.
Excursions from Alberobello
A single day in Alberobello is enough to experience its charm, but if you’re staying longer, you can explore the surrounding Puglia region. You can easily book excursions through the travel portal GetYourGuide.
You can visit the following places:
- Locorotondo: A charming town in southern Italy, Locorotondo is known for its bright white trulli houses, typical of the Apulia region.
- Martin Franco: Traditional trulli houses can also be found around Martina Franca, a town characterized by its Moorish atmosphere.
- Bari: For a mix of history and modernity, visit Bari, the second-largest city in southern Italy.
- Monopoli: A small coastal town rich in history, Monopoli boasts numerous beaches.
- Matera: A breathtaking town literally carved out of rock, Matera was the filming location for the James Bond film No Time to Die.
- Polignano a Mare: This seaside town, perched on cliffs, offers stunning views and beautiful beaches.
- Brindisi: An Italian port town, Brindisi is surrounded by two bays that create a natural harbor.
- Ostuni: Known as the “White Town” for its snow-white houses stacked atop each other, Ostuni offers a rich history and lovely beaches.
Fascinating Facts About Alberobello
To conclude, here are a few interesting facts about Alberobello:
- The origin of trulli houses dates back to the second half of the 16th century.
- Trulli houses were constructed from stone without using mortar or other binding materials. This design allowed them to be quickly dismantled, which was a practical solution to avoid taxation. Remarkably, some of these trulli are still inhabited today.
- In 1996, Alberobello was recognized for its exceptional architecture and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Frequently asked questions:
Where is Alberobello?
Alberobello is a picturesque historic town in southern Italy, located in the Apulia region.
Why is Alberobello famous?
Alberobello is famous for its traditional trulli houses, which are unique and characteristic of the area. This architecture was built without the use of mortar and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How do I get to Alberobello?
Alberobello is accessible from different parts of Italy. The nearest airports are in Bari and Brindisi.
