The quality of Italy's coastal waters is excellent. This is confirmed by regional environmental agencies. Puglia has the cleanest sea.
Vacations in Puglia, where the sea is most beautiful and also cleanest.
It is the Puglia sung by Domenico Modugno, in his "blu, dipinto di blu," that wins the superlative for sea quality and crystal clear waters. According to a study for the Environmental Protection Agency, Puglia reaches 99.8 percent as to the purity of the sea, classified as excellent. It is followed by Tuscany and Sardinia, in second and third place, with 98.5 percent.
How the assessment was made
To decree not the most beautiful sea in Italy but the cleanest waters, therefore, bathing waters, including those of rivers and lakes, including those in Trentino Alto Adige, were put under analysis. 94 percent of Italian waters, therefore, score from good upwards, based on 32,000 samplings taken in 5,400 kilometers of coastline, to ward off the presence of escherichia coli and toxic algae.
This extraordinary assessment of Apulia's waters is but one more point, compared to the long list of awards from Legambiente and Touring club that the region has been winning in recent years, such as the five sails and blue flags, and the enhancement of wonderful historic centers.
From Gargano to Salento, Puglia is unrivaled.
Queen of southern Italy where the week of August is sold out for domestic summer vacations, given the times, Puglia has nothing to envy the Caribbean islands. So, in an era of travel restrictions, Italians have been won over by the waters of the Adriatic Sea and the most beautiful beaches of the Ionian Sea, and the study of the waters of the sea has not betrayed them.
Apulia, for that matter, boasts iconic locations for summer vacations by the sea. Not only Gargano with Peschici and Vieste, and the archipelago of the Tremiti Islands. Gradually descending you find sandy beaches, enchanting coves and breathtaking cliffs, very often also accessible. Wonderful places like Torre Guaceto and its marine protected area in the province of Brindisi, Polignano a Mare (home of Modugno) with its historic center overlooking the sea in the province of Bari.
In Salento, the Pearl of the Ionian Sea, Porto Cesareo with its legendary beaches of Punta Prosciutto and Torre Lapillo, stands out. Rolling further south are the beaches of Gallipoli with Baia Verde and Punta della Suina. On the opposite coast are Otranto, among the most beautiful villages in Italy, with its natural paradises such as the Alimini Lakes, the Orte, Porto Badisco and the coastline of Torre Sant'Emiliano, but also Castro, Santa Cesarea Terme where the waters are even beneficial and healthy.
And also Pescoluse, Lido Marini, the area of Nardò with the marvelous natural park of Portoselvaggio, and the entire Ionian arch of Taranto, in whose tourist district are San Pietro in Bevagna and Campomarino di Maruggio.
Apulia is a very long region, washed by as many as two seas, with a myriad of beautiful cities all to discover, rich in history. It knows how to conquer even at the table, offering recipes of Mediterranean cuisine, knows how to entertain with its many events and squares that are always open and welcoming. And as of this year, it also has an extra privilege: the certainty of also having the cleanest sea in Italy.
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Wedding: how to organize it
Where to get married in Apulia: wedding locations Puglia, with its enchanting landscape and mild climate, is one of the most sought-after destinations for weddings in Italy. The region offers a variety of locations that can cater to every need, from traditional to more modern and alternative weddings. Among the most popular options are masserias, luxury villas, historic mansions and breathtaking beaches. Masserias, in particular, are a symbol of Apulian tradition and offer a rustic yet elegant atmosphere surrounded by nature.READ ALSO: Masserie in Ostuni: an authentic experience in the heart of Puglia.Where to celebrate wedding PugliaAfter the ceremony, the wedding party is the time for the bride and groom and their guests to relax and enjoy themselves. In Puglia, there are countless locations to celebrate the wedding, ranging from restaurants with panoramic views toluxurious reception rooms. Many of these locations offer full services including catering, decorations, music and entertainment, ensuring an unforgettable celebration.Locations such as Ostuni, Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, Castro, Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca are among the favorites, thanks to their unique beauty and historical charm.The best villas for weddings in Puglia Wedding villas in Puglia are synonymous with elegance and sophistication. These historic mansions, often surrounded by vast gardens and centuries-old olive groves, offer a fairytale setting for the most important day. Each villa has its own unique style, which can range from baroque to neoclassical, thus offering a wide choice to suit the bride and groom's tastes.ALSO READ: The 10 most exclusive luxury villas in Ostuni: a haven for relaxationPuglia wedding locations by the seaPuglia is famous for its beautiful coastline, and many newlyweds choose to celebrate their wedding by the sea. Locations such as the Torre di San Tommaso in Porto Cesareo offer spectacular views of the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean. A wedding by the sea provides a romantic and evocative atmosphere, with the sound of the waves playing in the background of the ceremony. In addition, these locations often have private beaches, providing privacy and intimacy for the bride and groom and their guests.READ ALSO: The Tower of Porto Cesareo: the perfect place for a dream wedding.Puglia civil weddingFor those who want a civil wedding, Puglia offers numerous options in both public and private venues. Many municipalities allow weddings in beautiful outdoor locations, such as botanical gardens, historic parks and beaches. In addition, many farms and villas have been licensed to host civil ceremonies, offering an elegant and personalized setting.Alternative wedding PugliaFor newlyweds looking for something different, Puglia offers many options for an alternative wedding. From celebrating in a trullo in Alberobello, a symbol of Apulian tradition, to an eco-sustainable wedding surrounded by nature in the Gargano National Park, the possibilities are endless. Symbolic ceremonies, such as sand or candle rituals, are also becoming increasingly popular. These unconventional choices allow the bride and groom to express their personality and creativity.READ ALSO: the trabucchi of the Gargano.Puglia vip weddingPuglia has also become a popular destination for VIP weddings. Italian and international celebrities have chosen this region for their special day, attracted by its natural beauty and exclusive locations. Among the celebrity weddings, that of Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel, celebrated at Borgo Egnazia, certainly helped put Puglia in the international spotlight. The locations chosen by VIPs often offer the highest level of services, guaranteeing privacy and luxury.READ ALSO: Treasures of antiquity at Egnazia.How long does a wedding in Puglia last?The duration of a wedding in Puglia can vary depending on the preferences of the bride and groom. Traditionally, celebrations in this region tend to last the entire day, beginning with the ceremony in the morning and continuing with the reception until late at night. However, many brides and grooms choose to extend the celebration over several days, holding pre-wedding events such as welcome dinners and post-wedding events such as relaxing brunches. This allows guests, especially those from afar, to fully enjoy the Apulian experience.YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN : 5 things to know before leaving for Puglia Sleeping in a Masseria in Puglia: an authentic and relaxing experience Tips for a vacation in Puglia: how to experience it at its best The 5 best itineraries for visiting Puglia The beaches of Alto Salento: coastal treasures to discover Where to sleep in Puglia by the sea Where to find the Maldives of Salento in Puglia The Best Restaurants in Ostuni: A Guide to Apulian Cuisine Leuca Restaurants: the sea meets Salento's culinary tradition
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Events
The Tower of Porto Cesareo: the perfect place for a dream wedding
A significant event for Porto CesareoThe event marked the beginning of a long-awaited and ambitious journey for Porto Cesareo, which has always believed in its tourism potential and the importance of enhancing its historical and cultural resources. Mayor Silvia Tarantino stressed the collective commitment of the municipal administration and the tourism department in opening the doors of this extraordinary facility to such significant events. "We all believed in this journey, aware that our territory deserves to offer and receive unique opportunities," said the mayor proudly.Porto Cesareo: a destination of excellence for weddingsBut why has Porto Cesareo Tower so quickly become a popular destination for weddings? Barbara Paladini, tourism councilor, explains that wedding tourism is one of the keys to cementing the city's reputation as a destination of excellence. "Porto Cesareo, with its natural beauty, offersapriceless setting in which toset extraordinary and timeless moments," the alderman stresses. And the Tower of St. Thomas perfectly embodies this vision.Situated in a privileged position, overlooking the crystal clear sea and surrounded by an evocative atmosphere, the Tower offers a unique setting for exchanging eternal promises of love. Its historic and imposing architecture adds a touch of romance and timeless charm to any ceremony, while the spacious indoor and outdoor spaces allow you to customize every detail to make your wedding day even more special.Moreover, the Porto Cesareo Tower is not only a place of great aesthetic value, but also rich in history and culture, which adds an additional element of charm and authenticity to any event celebrated there, offering the bride and groom and their guests a unique experience that goes far beyond the mere holding of a wedding ceremony.And so, as the first couple exchanged vows in front of the majestic walls of the Tower of St. Thomas, a new chapter in the history of Porto Cesareo was inaugurated. A chapter made of love, beauty and tradition, confirming once again the role of this beautiful town as a destination of excellence for unforgettable weddings.Make room for unique moments in Porto CesareoNow that you've discovered the beauty and charm of the Tower of St. Thomas as a location for your dream wedding, don't miss the opportunity to extend the magic by booking one of our exclusive vacation homes or luxury villas in Porto Cesareo. You'll have an unforgettable experience immersed in the breathtaking beauty of this enchanting place, creating precious memories to share with your loved ones. Contact us now to book your stay and turn your wedding into an unforgettable vacation.Discover the houses in Porto Cesareo
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Guides
The 5 best itineraries for visiting Puglia
Lecce - Torre dell'Orso - OtrantoBegin your trip in Lecce, known as the "Florence of the South" for its stunning Baroque architecture. Admire the beauty of the Basilica of Santa Croce and the Roman Theater before heading to the coast. Along the way, stop at Torre dell'Orso to enjoy a relaxing day on its beautiful beach. Then continue to Otranto, with its charming historic center and majestic Cathedral, overlooking the crystal clear sea.Gallipoli - Nardò - Porto CesareoHead to the west coast of Puglia and explore the coastal town of Gallipoli, famous for its golden sandy beaches and charming historic center. Then continue to Nardò, where you can admire its elegant Renaissance and Baroque palaces. Finally, reach Porto Cesareo, with its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking beaches, ideal for some relaxation and fun in the sun.Ostuni - Locorotondo - AlberobelloDiscover the beauty of the characteristic white towns of the Valle d'Itria on this itinerary. Start in Ostuni, the "White City," with its winding streets and whitewashed houses. Then continue to Locorotondo, an architectural gem with its circular streets and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Finally, visit Alberobello, famous for its trulli, the characteristic conical dwellings that make this place unique in the world.Fasano - Monopoli - Polignano a MareExplore the Adriatic coast of Puglia in this charming itinerary. Start in Fasano, where you can visit the Zoo Safari, an exciting experience for the whole family. Continue to Monopoli, with its charming historic center and picturesque harbor. Finally, reach Polignano a Mare, with its sheer cliffs and hidden sea caves, making this place a true paradise for sea lovers.Andria - Foggia - ViesteDiscover the beauty of Puglia's hinterland on this itinerary that will take you to the region's northern coast. Start in Andria, with its imposing Castel del Monte, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Continue on to Foggia, a city rich in history and tradition, where you'll be able to sample Puglia's delicious cuisine. Finally, reach Vieste, nestled between limestone cliffs and golden beaches, perfect for a relaxing and unforgettable stay.
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