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The summer months are when Puglia really comes alive. Its stunning golden beaches attract the Italian locals, and who knows the best places to visit in Italy other than the Italians themselves?

Thanks to this influx of visitors, festivals and summer markets spring up all over the region and a buzzing summer atmosphere descends on the towns and cities.

However, if you are visiting the area for its natural beauty, and you’re looking to get some hiking or cycling in, visit in the spring. The weather, though pleasant, is not scorching, and you’ll see the hills burst into colour thanks to meadows of wildflowers.