Puglia, with its white villages, tranquil sea even in winter and strong traditions associated with the holidays, is an ideal destination for those who want to experience the Christmas atmosphere in an authentic and evocative way. In this two-day itinerary we will explore three iconic locations in the region-Bari, Monopoli and Alberobello-that during the Christmas season are transformed into scenery full of lights, events and initiatives. It is an itinerary suitable for families, couples and groups of friends who love to combine culture, food and wine and the spirit of the holidays.

Day 1 - Morning: Bari, between tradition and grand arrangements

The journey begins in Bari, Puglia's capital city, which in recent years has invested heavily in the enhancement of Christmas, transforming the center into a place full of attractions. The route can start from Piazza del Ferrarese, where the big Christmas tree, inaugurated on December 6, is set up every year. The square becomes a popular meeting point, perfect for immediately getting into the holiday mood.

A short walk leads into Umberto I Square, home of Santa's Village. Here Christmas comes to life through wooden houses, decorations, thematic characters and activities designed especially for children, but also appreciated by adults who want to immerse themselves in a fairy-tale atmosphere.

Continuing toward Bari Vecchia, one encounters the illuminations that decorate the wall and small squares of the old town. This route is particularly atmospheric in the evening hours, when the lights are reflected on the stones and narrow streets. The area also hosts a number of markets, where local artisans and producers display typical objects, cribs, sweets and gift ideas.

For those who wish to enrich the morning, it is possible to travel to Casamassima, about twenty minutes from Bari. The town is known for the "Blue Christmas", an event that from Nov. 30 to Jan. 6 lights up a large part of the historic center with blue installations, creating an original atmosphere that is different from classic Christmas decorations.

Day 1 - Afternoon and Evening: Monopoly and its light installations

The afternoon of the first day is devoted to Monopoly, reachable from Bari in about fifteen minutes by car. During the Christmas season, the historic center of the coastal village comes alive thanks to the "Illuminandia" project, which from December 5 offers an itinerary of lights, installations and decorations spread throughout the main streets.

One of the most scenic spots is Victor Emmanuel Square, where a large tree of illuminations is set up. Surrounding the tree are the so-called Star Swings, an installation much appreciated by visitors and often the subject of numerous shots. Also in the same square it is possible to admire the Soundbox, also decorated for the occasion and sometimes the site of small musical events.

In Palmieri Square, on the other hand, the Snow Dome, an original structure that recalls Nordic settings and is a must-see for those who love special Christmas scenes. Continuing toward Garibaldi Square, one encounters the illuminated Nativity, which helps create a harmonious path between the various areas of the center.

For those who wish to end the day with a quiet activity suitable for all ages, the Christmas train offers a scenic ride through the illuminated streets, allowing them to discover Monopoli in a relaxed and enjoyable way.

Day 2 - Morning: Alberobello and the magic of the trulli

The second day is devoted to Alberobello, about twenty-five minutes from Monopoli. This village, world-famous for its trulli, becomes even more charming during the Christmas season thanks to a set of events and installations that transform the town into a real living nativity scene.

From November 29 to January 6, the "We Are in Trulli - Winter Edition," which includes artistic projections on the roofs of the trulli, light installations and an atmosphere that combines tradition and innovation. In particular, the renowned Alberobello Light Festival illuminates the Monti district with scenic light displays that tell stories and themes related to Christmas.

Largo Martellotta and Villa Donnaloja host traditional Christmas markets, where it is possible to buy typical products, local handicrafts and gastronomic specialties. An ice rink is also set up in People's Square, accompanied by markets and refreshment stands, active from Dec. 5 to Jan. 6.

Alberobello's Christmas itinerary also includes the living nativity scene and the nativity scene of light, elements that contribute to an even more intense visit linked to the cultural roots of the area.

Day 3 - Morning: Ostuni, Christmas among markets, lights and thematic routes

The third day is dedicated to Ostuni, the famous "White City", which during the Christmas season becomes even more charming thanks to lights, events and initiatives distributed in the historic center and the municipal villa.

The path can start from the Christmas markets, generally set up between downtown and the municipal villa. The characteristic wooden cottages host artisans, local producers and exhibitors related to the Christmas world. It is the ideal place to look for decorations, nativity scenes, typical gifts, sweets and zero-mile products.

Inside the municipal villa comes to life the Enchanted Villa, a thematic area designed especially for families. Here there are light installations, stage sets, Christmas characters, small shows and a layout that recreates fairy-tale atmospheres. The trail is designed to engage children and adults alike, thanks to the well-kept settings and attention to detail.

Ostuni's Christmas program also includes the event Sugar and Cinnamon, an event dedicated to the typical flavors of winter. Amid scents of spices, traditional sweets, hot drinks and showcooking, the initiative allows visitors to savor Apulian Christmas through tastings and local gastronomic offerings. It is a perfect opportunity to discover the sweetest and coziest flavors of the season.

When the morning is over, you can continue your visit by getting lost in the streets of the old town, which takes on a special charm in the winter thanks to the lights that highlight the white of the houses, or continue with other activities in the area.

Here are the paragraphs devoted to Toast in the afternoon, to add to your itinerary. They are written in the same style as the previous article and without emoticons.

Day 3 - Afternoon: Brindisi, among the sea, Christmas lights and Santa's Village

The afternoon of the third day can be dedicated to Brindisi, a city overlooking the sea that during the Christmas season is dressed up in light displays and initiatives designed for families and visitors of all ages. The historic center and the port area become the heart of the events, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that enhances the city's architectural heritage.

The path can start from the Santa's Village, usually set up between Victory Square and the central streets. Here there are wooden cottages, creative workshops, moments of animation and thematic characters that involve especially the youngest children. It is an area where the Christmas tradition takes shape through curated sets, shows and activities designed to recreate the magic of the North Pole.

Continuing to the Regina Margherita promenade, Brindisi offers an evocative itinerary of Christmas illuminations, which tower above the main streets and accompany visitors along the promenade overlooking the inner harbor. Light installations are also distributed along Corso Garibaldi and in the small side squares, creating a harmonious path that highlights the city's historic architecture and most characteristic spots.

During the festive season, there is no shortage of side events such as markets, musical performances, traveling shows and eateries dedicated to seasonal specialties. Brindisi, thanks to its combination of sea, history and lights, is a perfect stop to end the day in a relaxed atmosphere but rich in visual and cultural stimuli.