First edition cataloged as a monograph in LC.

For centuries, Puglia has acted as the bridge to the Mediterranean. To the north, it is crowned by the wild greenery of the Gargano promontory, the Daunian Mountains, and the sweet hills that roll down to the Tavoliere delle Puglie. With its infinite seafront and old city, medieval churches and genuine cuisine, Bari is the metropolitan capital of the region. Romanesque cathedrals line the Adriatic coast. Numerous beach resorts dot the shore as you wind from the Gargano coast to Salento. The water is always crystalline, perfect for a refreshing dip. Further inland, Salento offers little villages of white houses and historical, Baroque-decorated town centers with dry stone walls bordering long bike paths. Explore everything this oasis has to offer with the expert help of National Geographic writers and photographers who have created insider itineraries into off-the-beaten-path destinations and well-known must-sees. Along the way, practical information for where to go, what to do, where to stay, and what to eat make this comprehensive guide the only reference you need to plan a trip to magical Puglia.

The National Geographic Traveler guidebooks are in tune with the growing trend toward experiential travel. Each book provides inspiring photography, insider tips, and expert advice for a more authentic, enriching experience of the destination. These books serve a readership of active, discerning travelers, and supply information, historical context, and cultural interpretation not available on the Internet. Italy offers a perfect combination of art, culture, monuments, food, fashion, shopping and fun. The natural landscapes are unique in their variety and completely harmonized with human activity. This book takes its readers on a journey through the peninsula, in the company of one of the best-known Italian tourist guides. There are practical tips on organizing a tour, descriptions of the history and the culture of Italy, its art and artisan movements, and of course, the cuisine. The chapters of the guide will provide the traveler with a well-structured, untrammeled guide to the beauties of Italy, starting with the legendary capital Rome, and followed by the regional attractions. Come with us as we visit Lombardy and its lakes, view the splendors of Venice, and travel from Emilia Romagna to the "regions of the monasteries" in the Apennines and on to the gems of southern Italy--the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. Every aspect of Italian life is dealt with in the numerous information boxes that describe a wide range of activities for tourists seeking unforgettable experiences. Follow in the steps of the Grand Tour; take part in the Palio di Siena, explore the trulli in Puglia; walk through medieval Rome; enjoy a truffle tasting; explore the Chianti vineyards by car...

"This lush guide, featuring more than 350 glorious photographs from National Geographic, showcases the best Italy has to offer from the perspective of two women who have spent their lives reveling in its unique joys."--Publisher's description.

Readers go on a drive along the Amalfi Coast; a boat trip to Capri and the islands; a walk through old Naples; and visit the Trulli houses of Puglia with author Tim Jepson, a renowned expert on Italian travel. Opening chapters give readers practical advice on planning your trip and explains the city and its surrounds in the context of its rich history and culture, its arts, and, of course, its cuisine. Subsequent chapters take readers to the gorgeous and historic Amalfi Coast and its islands and through the storied city of Naples, followed by visits to Vesuvius, Puglia, Calabria and Basilicata, and Sicily and Sardinia. Contemporary editorial features and experiential sidebars highlight every aspect of life in the south of Italy, and offer a wide range of activities for the traveler to seek out: Take a walk through old Naples; explore underground Naples; learn more about pizzas and pizzerias; take a Romanesque Puglia drive; journey through the Sila Mountains; and learn the truth about the Mafia in Sicily.

From the pastel rooftops of Positano to the soaring peak of Mount Etna, immerse yourself in la dolce vita with Moon Southern Italy. Inside you'll find: Flexible itineraries for exploring the best of Southern Italy, including Sicily, Puglia, Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and more, that can be combined for a longer trip Strategic advice for foodies and oenophiles, art lovers, hikers, history buffs, beach bums, and more Must-see highlights and unique experiences for any season: Dive into the art museums and traditional theater of Palermo's Centro Storico, and admire the Baroque monuments and carved churches of Lecce. Walk the frozen-in-time streets of Pompeii and marvel at the captivating Cathedral of Amalfi. Take an off-road Jeep tour of Mount Etna or hike along the coastline. Soak up the sun on a secluded beach or sail the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters The best local flavors: Stroll quiet village streets where the scent of Sunday ragu fills the air, feast on fresh seafood from a bustling outdoor market, and chow down on authentic Neapolitan pizza. Sip limoncello on a sunny terrace or sample wines from the mineral-rich local vineyards Expert suggestions from Amalfi local Laura Thayer and Palermo local Linda Sarris on where to stay, where to eat, and how to get around Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout Background information on the landscape, history, and cultural customs Handy tools including an Italian phrasebook and tips for seniors and traveling with children With Moon's practical tips and local insight on the best things to do and see, you can experience the very best of Southern Italy. Exploring more of Italia? Check out Moon Milan & Beyond with the Italian Lakes or Moon Rome, Florence & Venice.

A color-illustrated handbook for travel in Naples and Southern Italy that describes the history, culture, and significant sites; and also provides a visitor information guide to restaurants, hotels, shopping, and entertainment.