
Top Family Activities in Puglia: A Guide for Traveling with Kids
(This article contains affiliate links which means if you buy something following a link on this page, we'll get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our blog!)
Updated 22 May 2025
Puglia, the sun-soaked gem of southern Italy, is easily one of the most family-friendly regions in the country. Unlike bustling hotspots like Rome, Cinque Terre, or Lake Como, where crowds and queues can wear everyone out (especially the little ones!), Puglia offers a slower, more relaxed pace of travel. It’s the kind of place where families can truly unwind—strolling through whitewashed villages, playing on golden beaches, and savoring every gelato-filled moment.
​
Unless you’re visiting in August—when Italian families traditionally head south for their summer holidays and the region fills up—Puglia stays wonderfully authentic, uncrowded, and easy to explore.
​
Home to some of the most famous towns in Puglia—like Alberobello with its iconic trulli, the vibrant port city of Bari, and the baroque beauty of Lecce—this region also hides some of Italy’s most charming gems, such as Cisternino, Locorotondo, and Martina Franca. These destinations are among the best places in Puglia for families, offering picturesque settings and safe, walkable streets perfect for little legs and strollers.
​
When it comes to planning the best things to do in Puglia with kids, the list is long and exciting. From thrilling theme parks and water parks to stunning caves and even a safari-style zoo, there are endless children activities in Puglia to enjoy.
​
In this guide, we’ll share some of the most fun family attractions in Puglia that we personally enjoyed.
Follow us on Instagram for more tips and recommendations.
5 Best Children’s Activities in Puglia for a Family Holiday


01
Carrisiland Acquapark (Cellino San Marco, Brindisi)
This Caribbean-themed water park and adventure area is a dream come true for kids. Carrisiland Resort is the largest water park in Salento (Apulia). It offers a variety of slides for all ages. The water park also has several large pools and one of the largest wave lagoons in Italy. In the evening, children can enjoy the show (though it's in Italian) and play on the inflatables. Children under 5 years old get free admission. Also, parking is completely free.
​
TIP FOR FAMILIES: If you're planning a full day (or more!) of water-filled fun at Carrisiland Water Park, consider staying overnight to make the most of your visit. Families can book a unique stay inside the park at Hotel Santa Fe, where you’ll enjoy free unlimited access to the waterpark — perfect for kids who can’t get enough of the slides and pools! Prefer something a little more luxurious? Just a short distance away is the 4-star Plazza Carrisi Hotel & Spa, offering elegant rooms and relaxing spa services for parents looking to unwind after a day of adventure.
POPULAR Boat Tours in Puglia
02
Splash Parco Acquatico (Gallipoli)
Located in the province of Lecce, Splash is one of the top water parks in southern Italy. It features multiple pools, a lazy river, thrilling water slides for older kids, and play areas for little ones. With shaded picnic zones and food courts, it’s ideal for a full-day family outing in the summer heat.


BEST tours in Puglia for children

03
Zoosafari Fasano
A unique combination of a drive-through safari park and amusement park, Zoosafari in Fasano lets you see animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes from the comfort of your car. Adjacent to the zoo is Fasanolandia, with rides and attractions suitable for all ages.
Photo by Matteo Marsullo on Unsplash
04
Grotte di Castellana (Castellana Grotte)
These are among the most impressive caves in Europe, stretching over 3 km underground. The guided tours (available in English) take you through spectacular chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. While stunning, the length and stairs may be more suitable for older kids and teens.

Photo by Gabriele Lancione on Unsplash
TOP RATED walking guided tours in Puglia
05
Grotta del Trullo (Putignano)
Although smaller than the famous Castellana Caves, Grotta del Trullo is no less impressive — and in fact, it holds a few unique charms of its own. It’s the only cave in Puglia protected by a traditional trullo roof, and also happens to be the first tourist-accessible cave in the region.
​
Thanks to its compact size, Grotta del Trullo is perfect for younger children who may find larger cave systems overwhelming. It’s also budget-friendly, with adult tickets priced at just €7, and children under 6 can enter for free.
​
Our visit lasted about 30 minutes, included a free English-speaking guide, and to our delight, we had the cave entirely to ourselves at 5 PM. Right next to the cave entrance, you’ll also find a small park with a playground — a great spot for the kids to burn off some energy before or after your underground adventure.


Final Thoughts: Is Puglia Good for Kids?
Absolutely! Puglia offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, culture, and fun — without the crowds and pressure of more tourist-heavy destinations. Whether you're hiking coastal paths, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or having a blast at a water park, Puglia is a destination that brings smiles to kids and parents alike.
​
So pack those swimsuits and comfy walking shoes — a family trip to Puglia is one you’ll never forget!
Ready to visit Puglia? Plan your trip with these tips.
-
Book your flight: Find the best rates on airline tickets using WayAway. Become WayAway Plus member and get cashback on flights, accommodation, car rentals, tours, and more.
-
Stay Connected: Enjoy a tailored eSim Data Plan that fits your needs, without the hefty roaming charges.
-
Want to travel on your own schedule?: Book your car with DiscoverCars.com. Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 111 000+ reviews. You can't get it wrong ))