Visiting Locorotondo, Italy – A Guide to the Trulli Town

Have you heard of Locorotondo, Italy? Locorotondo is one of Southern Italy’s most beautiful villages, in my opinion, but it isn’t yet overwhelmed with tourist crowds.

A true hidden gem, Locorotondo is just a 12-minute drive from busy Alberobello in the Puglia region, but feels like a world away.

Both Alberobello and Locorotondo are home to trulli — white conical buildings unique to Puglia’s Itria Valley (Val d’Itria). You see trulli (singular: trullo) strewn throughout the Puglian countryside, and the town of Alberobello is home to neighborhoods entirely composed of trulli!

The trulli of Alberobello are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and they draw huge crowds year-round. And while I think visiting Alberobello is essential, the nearby town of Locorotondo is even better.

What makes Locorotondo stand out is the distinct shape of its historical center. Locorotondo derives from the Latin locus rotundus and means “round place” in the Italian language.

While there aren’t tons of things to do in Locorotondo (that’s all part of the charm!), it’s a stunning little spot with a tranquil feel. You’ll love taking photos here and soaking up the vibe.

Here you can enjoy the circular Centro Storico, sip a glass of Locorotondo DOC, and survey the Mediterranean landscape from the hill. Locorotondo is absolutely worth your attention if you’re planning a Puglia road trip. 

This post was published in August 2024 and was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Hannah Cooper.

Best Things to Do in Locorotondo, Italy

Wander the white streets

Wandering around the “round place” is reason enough to visit Locorotondo. The circular layout is the most distinctive feature of the town, though you’ll need a bird’s eye view to totally appreciate it. 

Still, this labyrinthine tangle of narrow lanes, whitewashed churches, and baroque facades is a joy to meander — even more so with a gelato in hand!

Locorotondo isn’t full of museums and attractions like other parts of Italy, but it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to keep your camera ready.

Start with the photogenic Porta Napoli, which marks the western entrance to the old town. This paves the way to Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, the main square. Porta Nuova stands at the east of town.

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