Apulia for Families: Adventures and Sweet Moments in the South
Apulia, that corner of Italy where the sea dances with the light, is an invitation to family travel. Here, every moment becomes an adventure: a swim in a secret cove or a pony ride under centuries-old olive trees… A journey where young and old share wonder and the joy of life.
With my little daughters playing on the sand, running through the white streets of Alberobello, or marveling at the giraffes in Zoosafari de Fasano, I realize how much Apulia is a land made for children. If you dream of a family getaway where nature, culture, and simple pleasures intertwine, here are my suggestions for unforgettable memories.
For the little ones: Sweetness and wonder
🌟 Museo dei Bambini – Lecce (Opening March 15, 2025)
An interactive museum designed to spark curiosity in the youngest. Here, they can touch, experiment, and discover at their own pace. A playful cocoon perfect for kids in Lecce.
🐴 Casale dei Pini – Pony rides in the countryside
What could be sweeter than a pony ride under olive trees? In this family-friendly equestrian center, little ones experience the joy of interacting with animals at a gentle pace.
🌳 Lacutura – Botanical garden with animals
An enchanting place where children can run freely, observe animals, and enjoy good food at the restaurant (reservation recommended, especially for outdoor lunch).
Zoosafari di Fasano
🐾 Zoosafari di Fasano – The Italian savannah
Drive among zebras, watch giraffes in the distance, or see a lion up close… A magical experience that takes children into the heart of a safari without leaving Italy.
🌊 Family swimming in calm coves
Apulia is full of beaches ideal for little swimmers. At Porto Cesareo or Baia dei Turchi, the shallow, crystal-clear waters are perfect for safe splashing.
For young explorers (6–12 years): Adventures and discoveries
💦 Aquapark Egnazia & Splash Gallipoli – Slides and laughter
Nothing beats a day of water fun to cool off in summer! From wave pools to inflatable slides, fun is guaranteed.
🌳 Indiana Park – Castellana Grotte – Adventure course in nature
Suspension bridges and zip lines let children discover the joys of outdoor adventure in a stunning natural setting.
🚶♂️ Hiking on the red cliffs of the Bauxite Lake
A cinematic landscape with incredible contrasts between the bright red rock and the deep blue sky. Perfect for a family walk and unforgettable photos.
🍕 Cooking workshop: Mozzarella & Pizza
Learn to stretch mozzarella or make pizza like a real pizzaiolo! At Masseria Il Frantoio, kids can experience traditional cheese-making.
🏡 Alberobello et ses trulli – A fairy-tale village
Alberobello fascinates children with its pointed-roof houses. For a kid-friendly visit, try a storytelling walk that transforms the village into an enchanted world.
For teens and adventurers (12+ years)
🤿 Orca Diving Center in Porto Cesareo – Snorkeling trips suitable for children from 8 years old.
🏊♂️ Réserve Naturelle de Torre Guaceto – Transparent turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.
🏔 Grottes de Castellana – Journey to the center of the Earth
An underground exploration that fascinates both kids and adults.
🌊 Carrisiland Aquapark – A water park for older kids with thrilling slides.
🏰 Castel del Monte – The castle of legends
Young adventurers will love exploring this enigmatic UNESCO-listed castle, where stories of knights come alive within its octagonal walls.
🐎 Circolo Ippico Tumara – An equestrian center in Apulia offering horse riding activities and lessons for young riders.
When to go?
🌞 Ideal: Early June or late September/early October
These periods allow you to avoid crowds while enjoying pleasant temperatures and often even swimming.
🎄 Magical winter: December
Christmas in Apulia lets you experience two seasons in one: the charm of festive markets and the mild Mediterranean climate.
Where to stay with family
For a comfortable family stay, here are some hotels and resorts suitable for children, offering activities, clubs, and dedicated services:
🌿 Masseria Torre Coccaro – Authentic luxury refuge (€€€€)
This historic masseria offers a unique experience among centuries-old olive trees and fragrant gardens. The kids’ club is a paradise with craft and traditional activities.
🏨 Borgo Egnazia – A magical oasis inspired by Apulian villages (€€€€)
Children love wandering the white streets and joining the creative workshops of the kids’ club.
🏝 Robinson Apulia – Friendly seaside resort (€€€)
Perfect for active families with many sports activities and a relaxed atmosphere.
🏖 Vivosa Apulia Resort – Accessible eco-family resort (€€)
An eco-friendly approach and excellent value for a worry-free family vacation.
Where to eat with family in Apulia
Apulia is also about enjoying good food, stress-free, with the whole family. Here are three places where kids are treated as well as adults.
Apulia: a land of happiness for families. Between swims, adventures, and discoveries, every day promises memories that last a lifetime. And with my little daughters, every moment here is a living postcard. 💛
