Puglia is the southern Italy that feels rawer than Tuscany or Umbria, and that’s precisely why I keep returning. White cities like Ostuni, Otranto, and Monopoli, beach cafes such as Lido Bizarro, and the little village of Savelletri for a lovely dinner. If you have the time, combine this with a visit to Matera, just across the border in Basilicata. But the heart of a Puglia trip is always the masseria for me. It’s the old agriturismo of the south, often with its own land still being cultivated, fitting all budgets and suitable for everyone. Here are six masserias in Puglia that I visited myself, scattered around Ostuni, Monopoli, and Otranto.
Which Masseria in Puglia Fits Your Trip?
Your choice of masseria largely depends on your desired location and what's important to you. Want to see a lot of Puglia? Then a masseria around Ostuni and Fasano is a great base. Heading further south? Staying near Otranto makes sense. And then there's the choice between small and personal, a bit more luxury, or something friendlier on your budget.
From the masserias I visited, these are my picks:
Masseria Montenapoleone, my favorite for a first time in Puglia
A beautiful estate near Ostuni and Fasano, full of character, with a pool and a restaurant where you can dine among the vineyards. A great choice if you want to be centrally located and seek that typical masseria experience.
Masseria Salamina, for history and character
A historic masseria where the family story is genuinely part of the place. Perfect if you’re not necessarily looking for sleek design but rather for a stay with character and a story.
Masseria Muntibianchi, for those heading towards Otranto
This one is much further south and is particularly appealing if you want to explore Salento and the Otranto area. A good choice to split up a tour through Puglia so you don't have to drive everywhere from Ostuni.
Torre Coccaro, for beach and a bit more luxury
An excellent choice if you want to combine the atmosphere of a masseria with comfort and beach proximity. With its location near Savelletri, you're also close to the coast.
Masseria Valente, for a friendlier budget
If you want to sleep in a masseria but don't want an exorbitant price tag, Masseria Valente is one of the places I'd consider.
Masseria Grieco, for an intimate and personal experience
A great choice if you prefer a more intimate masseria over a larger resort feel.
Below, I’ll tell you more about all six masserias, their locations, how I experienced them, and why I would (or wouldn't in a specific situation) stay there.
Masseria Montenapoleone: Masseria in Puglia near Ostuni
Masseria Montenapoleone is grand in scope but feels immediately personal and cozy upon arrival. As you drive through the gate, the scent of wild rosemary and oleander blends with the sea breeze. The long driveway to the main building, with its irregular contours echoing the passage of time, makes you feel you've arrived somewhere special. On special evenings, you can dine amongst the vineyards, moments that define a stay here. There's a great restaurant, too, worth visiting even if you’re not staying there, and the pool is cooled at night during the summer—a necessity in the Puglian heat. This masseria is the most stunning on the list.
Masseria Salamina: Four Hundred Years of History on Four Hundred Hectares
Masseria Salamina holds four hundred years of history across four hundred hectares, and you can feel it. Unlike Montenapoleone, which consists of several buildings, Salamina is more compact, with twenty rooms surrounding a gorgeous old main building. The chic restaurant on the castle's patio is fairytale-like, a place where weddings often take place. Olive oil and wine tastings are part of the program, along with the kitchen gardens that continue to be cultivated. For those who want to feel history rather than just read about it.
Masseria Muntibianchi: Modern Near Otranto
Masseria Muntibianchi is much further south than the other five, near Otranto, and feels different too. The building is more modern, less ancient than the rest of the list, with a spa, an indoor and outdoor pool, and a large hall with a fireplace. The breakfast is delicious, and the restaurant is chic. I had fish in a salt crust here, a dish I still mention when talking about Puglia. Tastings and weddings are also offered here. For those who prefer to stay at Otranto rather than around Ostuni.
Masseria Torre Coccaro: The Most Expensive, With Two Private Beach Clubs
Masseria Torre Coccaro is similar in atmosphere to Montenapoleone—fairytale-like and lush, with an excellent restaurant and spa treatments for those who want to relax. The special feature here are the two private beach clubs just a five-minute drive away, making it perfect for anyone wanting to mix beach and masseria without changing locations. This is the priciest option on the list, with rates starting at three hundred euros per night, but just for those two beach clubs, it's justifiable.
Masseria Valente: The Cheapest Option, Centrally Located Between Beach and Ostuni
Masseria Valente is smaller and less chic than Salamina and Torre Coccaro but no less charming. The location is excellent, centrally situated between the beach and Ostuni, making it an ideal base. The people are friendly, the restaurant is delicious, and the evening lighting gives the grounds an atmosphere you wouldn't expect at this price level. Starting at 150 euros per night, this is the cheapest option on this list and a great choice for those who want to save on budget without compromising on atmosphere.
Masseria Grieco: A Family Story of Twenty Years
Masseria Grieco has the most personal story on this list. The current owner’s father and uncle bought the farm nearly twenty years ago and spent fifteen years renovating it. The first ten rooms opened in 2018. That story is still felt in the ambiance. The grounds are beautifully laid out, the rooms are lovely, and by the pool is a small bar with a surprisingly tasty menu. For those who love a place with a soul and an owner who’s eager to share the story.
Six Masserias in Puglia for Every Budget
Masseria Montenapoleone for the fairytale atmosphere near Ostuni. Masseria Salamina for four hundred years of history and a chic restaurant. Masseria Muntibianchi for those who prefer Otranto, with a more modern building and spa. Torre Coccaro for those wanting to combine beach and masseria with two private beach clubs. Masseria Valente for the best value for money, centrally located between beach and Ostuni. Masseria Grieco for anyone seeking a family story and a soul. Combine a visit with the white cities Ostuni, Otranto, and Monopoli, an evening in Savelletri, and if you have the time, an excursion to Matera. Prices are indicative and may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Staying in a Masseria in Puglia
What is a Masseria in Puglia?
A masseria is a traditional farmhouse or estate in Southern Italy, best known from Puglia. Many of these old farms have been restored and converted into small-scale hotels or agriturismi, often still surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, or farmland. It's precisely this blend of history, rural life, and small-scale accommodation that makes staying in a masseria so enjoyable for me.
How Much Does It Cost to Stay in a Masseria in Puglia?
Prices vary greatly per masseria and season. You can find simple, small-scale places, but also luxury masseria hotels with restaurants, spas, and pools. Prices are usually much higher in July and August, so comparing and booking early pays off.
Which Masseria in Puglia is near Ostuni?
Around Ostuni and Fasano, you’ll find several beautiful masserias. Among the places I visited, Masseria Montenapoleone, Masseria Salamina, and Masseria Grieco are located in this part of Puglia. It’s a great region to stay if you want to explore places like Ostuni, Monopoli, and the Valle d'Itria.
What's the Difference Between a Masseria and an Agriturismo?
A masseria originally refers to the type of historic farmhouse or estate you find a lot in Southern Italy. An agriturismo is accommodation connected to a farm. A masseria can now function as an agriturismo, but the two terms don't mean exactly the same thing.
Do You Need a Car When Staying in a Masseria in Puglia?
I would say yes. Masserias are usually located outside of villages and towns, deep in the countryside. With a rental car, you can easily reach your accommodation and also combine visits to different places, beaches, and restaurants. Puglia is a region that’s perfect for a road trip.
