As travelers seek more meaningful escapes, many are trading crowded cities for the charm of smaller destinations. Nearly one in five globetrotters now plan to spend their holidays in small towns, drawn by their authenticity, slower pace, and sense of discovery. Among Italy’s many options, Ostuni stands out as an ideal destination, with its whitewashed streets and vibrant culture offering the perfect balance of seclusion and sophistication.
Located within easy reach of Bari, Lecce, and Brindisi, Ostuni is perfectly placed, close to larger destinations yet far enough to provide a serene, slow-paced escape. Steeped in culture and history, the White City is celebrated for its striking architecture, authentic Pugliese cuisine, and thriving community of local artisans. Travelers can wander lively markets, discover centuries-old olive groves, or simply lose themselves in the charm of its whitewashed streets and panoramic coastal views.
For those seeking an immersive retreat, the newly opened Vista Ostuni embodies the city’s warm spirit of hospitality. Housed in a meticulously restored 14th-century palazzo, the property offers 28 elegant rooms and suites framed by two hectares of private gardens and an ancient olive grove—an intimate retreat that feels both timeless and serene. This season, guests can immerse themselves in Puglia’s most cherished traditions, from joining the olive harvest to see how the fruit is hand-picked and pressed into golden extra virgin oil, to savoring acclaimed vintages at Gianfranco Fino’s celebrated winery in Manduria, renowned for producing one of Italy’s finest red wines.
