Discover November in Puglia: A Hidden Treasure for Travelers

Dear traveler friends, My name is Elisabetta, and I am your personal concierge at BeBari Apartments. Today, I invite you to explore the wonders of Puglia in November, a lesser-known but incredibly charming time with unique activities that will make your holiday unforgettable.

Mild Climate and Enchanting Autumn Landscapes

November in Puglia offers a surprisingly mild climate, ideal for those who prefer to avoid the extreme heat and the chaos of the summer period, enjoying the region. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, often ranging between 10°C and 18°C, allowing for long walks outdoors and exploring the autumn landscapes. The trees are dressed in warm colors, and the vineyards prepare for winter rest, offering a natural spectacle of rare beauty.

Apulian Cuisine: A Journey into Flavor

Apulian cuisine in November is a true triumph of autumnal flavors. From fresh porcini mushrooms to hearty legumes like fava beans, there is a wide range of dishes reflecting the richness of the season. You cannot visit Puglia without trying Altamura bread, famous for its crispy crust and intense flavor, ideal to pair with local cheeses and artisanal cold cuts. Discover the typical dishes of Puglia: what to eat (by area)

Festivals and Autumnal Fairs

November is also the month for festivals and local fairs, celebrating seasonal products and ancient Apulian traditions. Do not miss the “New Oil Festival,” where you can taste oil freshly pressed from the olives collected in local mills. This is also the time for the “Novello Wine Festival”, where new wines are introduced to the public, accompanied by tastings and celebrations in small villages and towns.

1. St. Martin’s Festival (Martina Franca, November 11)

In Martina Franca, St. Martin’s Festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Traditionally associated with novello wine, the festival includes wine tastings and local specialties such as chestnuts and new oil.

2. New Oil Festival (Bitonto, variable, typically mid-November)

Bitonto, known as the city of oil, celebrates the arrival of the new oil with a dedicated festival. The event offers the chance to taste freshly pressed oil and to participate in workshops, lectures, and guided tours of the mills.

3. Novello Wine and Local Products Festival (Locorotondo, early November)

This festival celebrates novello wine and seasonal products of the Itria Valley. In addition to wine tastings, there are food stalls offering local specialties, traditional music performances, and craft exhibitions.

4. Memorial Day (Brindisi, November 1)

In Brindisi, Memorial Day is a day of commemoration dedicated to all those who fell in war. The ceremonies include wreath-laying, military parades, and moments of public reflection.

5. St. Cecilia’s Festival (Nardò, November 22)

St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music, is celebrated in Nardò with concerts and performances involving local bands and choirs, celebrating music in all its forms.

6. Almond Festival (Turi, third week of November)

The Almond Festival celebrates this precious fruit with tastings, cooking workshops, and a market of local products, including sweets and crafts based on almonds.

Cultural Discoveries: From Trulli to Art Cities

Take advantage of the tranquility of the month to visit some of the UNESCO sites without the tourist crowds, like the famous trulli of Alberobello and the beautiful city of Matera with its sassi. Bari, with its vibrant cultural scene and the historic Basilica of San Nicola, offers moments of deep cultural immersion with fewer interruptions, allowing a true connection with the essence of the place. Read about the journey through UNESCO Heritage sites in Puglia Discover which churches and cathedrals in Puglia to see Discover the museums of Puglia not to miss Check out the list of archaeological and historical sites not to miss in Puglia

Cultural and Recreational Events

The European Film Festival in Lecce

This event typically takes place in November, turning the city into a hub of film activities with screenings, workshops, and meetings with filmmakers. For nature lovers, nature reserves like Torre Guaceto offer guided ecological walks, providing the opportunity to observe wildlife in a calm and serene setting.

FAI Autumn Days (various towns, variable, generally a weekend in November)

The FAI Autumn Days allow visiting places usually closed to the public, with extraordinary openings of villas, castles, and historical sites throughout Puglia, offering a new perspective on the region’s cultural heritage. These November events offer a variety of experiences showcasing the cultural and gastronomic richness of Puglia, perfect to be enjoyed in the fresh and welcoming autumn climate.

Begin your journey from BeBari Apartments

At BeBari Apartments, we offer not just a stay, but an authentic Apulian experience. Our apartments are equipped with all modern comforts and are strategically located to facilitate your explorations. With our virtual check-in, you have the freedom to arrive at your convenience, without worries. I hope I have given you enough reasons to consider Puglia and BeBari Apartments for your November vacation. Our region awaits you with open arms, ready to offer you an unforgettable experience in culture, nature, and cuisine. See you soon in Puglia, Elisabetta