Straddling a small cove, whitewashed buildings stack atop each other along two rocky plateaus, in a scene fit for an Italian romance. Just south of Bari, this is where city folk head to relax to the sound of crashing waves, catch a few rays on the sandy beaches, and explore the hidden grottoes along the craggy coastline. Head through the ancient Porta Vecchia gate into the old town, navigating the enviably pretty whitewashed streets with their balconied townhouses. You’ll soon stumble on one of the three terraces that offer superb views across the Adriatic. Sink into family-run trattorias, don’t skip the golden-hour aperitivo, and be sure to indulge in the gelato: this town is famous for it. Super Mago del Gelo in particular is the stalwart gelato bar that many locals to Puglia travel here for.