The first item on our list of day trips from Porto Cesáreo is Gargano National Park, a pearl of nature in the heart of Puglia. Located about 300 kilometers north of Porto Cesáreo, the park is an ideal destination for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. The tour will take a full day, but we assure you that it is worth the time.

Gargano National Park, created in 1991, covers an area of more than 118,000 hectares and is famous for its diverse landscapes - from dense forests to spectacular coastlines. The park's main attraction is the Foresta Umbra, one of the last fragments of ancient forest that once covered all of Europe. It's an ideal place for hiking and wildlife watching.

According to tourist reviews, Gargano National Park received a high rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, a testament to its undeniable attractiveness. Visitors especially praise the clear water, beautiful beaches and charming towns in the area, such as Vieste. One tourist describes the park as 'a true paradise on earth,' highlighting 'the beautiful coastline shaped over centuries, unusual rock formations, romantic coves and beaches.'

When visiting Gargano National Park, look out for:

• Picturesque trekking routes of varying degrees of difficulty
• The crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, ideal for swimming and diving
• An abundance of flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and animals
• Possibility to explore the park from the deck of a rented pontoon, giving unique perspectives on the coastline

Be aware, however, that the park can be quite crowded during the summer season, and temperatures can exceed 40 degrees Celsius, especially when the Scirocco wind blows in from Africa. It is advisable to plan a visit in spring or autumn, when the weather is milder and the park is less crowded.

Gargano National Park is a place that impresses with its natural beauty and diversity. It is an ideal destination for families, couples and individual travelers who want to experience the true wilderness of Puglia. Although the journey from Porto Cesáreo will take several hours, the sights and experiences that await on the spot will certainly reward the time spent on the road.

Another fascinating destination for a day trip from Porto Cesáreo is Alberobello, a town famous for its unique trulli houses. Located about 170 kilometers northeast of Porto Cesáreo, Alberobello is a place that transports visitors to a world like a fairy tale.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, Alberobello is famous for its more than 1,500 trulli - distinctive buildings with conical roofs. These unique houses, built using the dry masonry technique without mortar, are a symbol of the Puglia region and are a remarkable testimony to a prehistoric building technique that has survived to modern times.

According to tourist reviews, Alberobello has received an impressive 4.9 out of 5 star rating, a testament to its remarkable appeal. Many visitors describe the city as 'fabulous' and 'magical.' One tourist wrote: "Alberobello with its trulli, typical houses with conical roofs, is a place full of magic. Walking along the alleys you can observe these magnificent houses up close, even if many of them have now become small stores. However, one has the feeling of living in another world.'

While visiting Alberobello, it is worth noting:

• The Rione Monti district, home to the largest concentration of trulli
• Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo in town, now serving as a museum
• Sant'Antonio Church, built in the trullo style
• Numerous souvenir stores and restaurants offering local specialties

The best time to visit Alberobello is early morning or evening, when the town is not yet crowded with tourists. During the summer season it can get very crowded, making it a bit difficult to freely explore the narrow streets.

Also worth mentioning is the nearby 'Alberobello Painted Rooftops Photo Spot', rated 4.7 out of 5 stars. It's the perfect place to take souvenir photos of the city's skyline with its distinctive trulli roofs.

Alberobello is not only a tourist attraction, but also a living city with rich culture and traditions. Many of the trulli still serve as residential homes, and some have been converted into boutiques, cafes or guesthouses, giving visitors a chance to truly immerse themselves in the local atmosphere.

A trip to Alberobello is an unforgettable experience that combines fascinating architecture, rich history and authentic Puglia culture. It's a place that is sure to delight adults and children alike, offering a unique glimpse into traditional life in this region of Italy.

To conclude our Puglia tour, we suggest visiting two charming seaside towns - Polignano a Mare and Monopoli. About 200 kilometers from Porto Cesáreo, these picturesque towns offer the perfect blend of history, culture and natural beauty.

Polignano a Mare, known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', is a town perched on a high cliff above the blue sea. Its calling card is the Lama Monachile beach, which has received a 4.7 out of 5 star rating from visitors. One tourist describes it as 'the most beautiful beach in Puglia,' which is 'impressive both day and night.' Surrounded by high rocks, this beach offers not only beautiful views, but also crystal clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

While visiting Polignano a Mare, it is worth noting:

• The Old Town (Centro Storico) with its narrow, cobblestone streets and white houses
• The observation terraces offering spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea
• The Piana Grotto, which can be accessed from the sea
• The statue of Domenico Modugno, a famous Italian singer born in this city

Monopoli, located slightly south of Polignano a Mare, is another charming town worth visiting. Its main attraction is Castello Carlo V, a medieval castle that received a 4.4 out of 5 star rating. The castle, while not as imposing as some other Italian fortresses, offers interesting insights into the history of the region and beautiful views of the old town and harbor.

Worth seeing in Monopoli:

• The old town with its distinctive Apulian architecture
• The fishing port with its colorful boats
• Basilica Concattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia cathedral
• Numerous beaches around the city, ideal for relaxing after sightseeing

Comparing the two towns, Polignano a Mare seems to be more popular with tourists, offering more spectacular views and the famous Lama Monachile beach. Monopoli, on the other hand, is slightly less crowded and offers a more authentic experience of life in a typical Apulian town.

In terms of accessibility, both towns are easily accessible from Porto Cesáreo. The trip by car takes about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic. It is also possible to get there by train, although this may require a transfer.

It is worth remembering that both towns can be quite crowded during the summer season, especially Polignano a Mare. The best time to visit is early spring or late autumn, when the weather is still pleasant and the crowds of tourists are smaller.

A trip to Polignano a Mare and Monopoli is an excellent way to end your exploration of Puglia. These picturesque towns offer a fascinating mix of history, culture and natural beauty, providing the perfect complement to the places you've previously visited. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach or want to delve into the history and architecture of the region, these two towns are sure to meet your expectations and leave you with unforgettable memories of your Puglia trip.