For decorative artist Caroline Lizarraga, Puglia is more than just a vacation destination — since first traveling there a decade ago with her now husband, who grew up in the area, Caroline has established both a home and a business along the vibrant coast. Over the years, she’s become a true local expert, with an insider’s knowledge of the best places to eat, stay and explore, from hidden-gem artisans and boutique shops to historic towns and stunning churches.
Caroline also curates week-long immersive experiences under the name Curiosare Italia, blending her artistic sensibility with a thoughtfully crafted itinerary that highlights the magic of Puglia.
See Puglia through Caroline’s eyes below:
Lecce countryside as seen from Tenuta Dell’Alto, available through Luci Stays.
What drew you to this locale originally? What have you come to appreciate about it the most over the years?
Caroline Lizarraga: Ten years ago, I met a very handsome Italian scientist in the United States. I had planned a trip to Florence, where I originally studied restoration. He picked me up in Florence and took me to the area where he grew up — Puglia — and it was love at first sight.
As I arrived, I was greeted by the breathtaking olive trees swaying in the breeze and the sparkling waters of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, embracing the land on either side. The picturesque towns, dotted throughout the landscape, truly captured my heart. I cherished how Puglia had remained untouched by time: still no Uber, little English spoken, and shops closing from 1 to 5 every day — the charm of the past was alive.
With every visit, my connection to this extraordinary place deepened (and yes, that charming scientist eventually became my husband). I dove headfirst into the rich culture and artisanship that thrived around me.
How did you begin planning excursions?
CL: You see, I am a passionate person, eager to ignite that same enthusiasm in others. I often told my husband of my dream to host small, curated groups in Puglia, sharing the wonders I discovered. After a few years of nurturing this dream, I finally felt ready to offer my classes — and to my delight, they sold out in mere minutes! From that point forward, my venture truly blossomed.
My clients, who become true friends at the end of each week, are willing to explore the secrets of this land, including lesser-known places and access the artisans my husband and I have had the pleasure of building relationships with over the past 10 years.
What does a typical day on one of your trips look like?
CL: A day spent curating experiences begins with a delightful breakfast overlooking the scenic Lecce Valley. Following a stroll through the vineyard, we gather outdoors to paint together, where I share my techniques for the stunning wall finishes I create in my interior projects.
After a light lunch and a quick change of clothes, we venture into the charming town of Grottaglie, renowned for its plethora of ceramic artists. We work closely with a few talented artisans, soaking in their skills and the rich heritage of Apulian ceramics. Of course, a little shopping is a must before we head to the Valle D’Itria and visit some of its charming towns to witness a breathtaking sunset while dining alfresco in one of their lively piazzas with white stone architecture.
Tenuta Dell’Alto, available through Luci Stays.
Where would you recommend travelers stay?
CL: During our trips, we all share a charming villa — a true home away from home. But Puglia isn’t just about experiences; it’s become a sought-after design destination. With so many remarkable places to stay, it’s essential to embrace the diversity of unique accommodations.
One must experience the trulli, the iconic cone-shaped homes that grace Puglia and boast UNESCO status (one of four heritage sites in the region). I highly recommend a stay at Borgo Canonica for those wanting to immerse themselves in this architectural marvel.
Another example of typical Apulian architecture is the masseria, a former farmhouse now converted into chic, glamorous resorts that have become staples of the landscape. Many masserias produce their own olive oil, and staying in one means dining farm-to-table — it’s the perfect backdrop for cooking classes that celebrate local flavors. One of our favorites, and close to our hearts, is owned by our friend Maria Antonietta, who runs Masseria Stefanodelconte just outside the charming town of Fasano. It’s an oasis of peace where she’ll welcome you with delicious homemade food and local wine.
As you venture further south, the Baroque architecture steals the show. This is the land of palazzos, and when in this area, you must experience the luxurious Palazzo Bozzi Corso or the splendid La Fiermontina. Situated in Lecce, often called “The Florence of the South,” this vibrant city pulses with creativity, offering endless opportunities to wander, explore, and create lasting memories. Getting lost here is not just welcome; it’s highly encouraged!
Lecce.
What should lovers of design and architecture be sure to see when they visit this destination?
CL: Whenever I immerse myself in the enchanting beauty of Puglia, I find myself utterly transformed. The exquisite Baroque architecture, the warm embrace of the limestone, and the devoted artisans ignite a fire within me that is unlike anything I experience back home in the United States.
Here, life unfolds in a beautifully simplistic manner; every creation is a labor of love, and each craftsman’s story resonates deeply with me. This profound connection captivates my thoughts and challenges my perspective on space design in the most exhilarating way. Nature’s whispers and the echoes of history continually inspire me, and in this mesmerizing place, my creative palette evolves and flourishes in ways I never imagined.
What are some locations you would recommend for shopping for objects, furnishings, textiles, etc.?
CL: Puglia is a treasure trove of arts and crafts, where the summer sun brings life to the bustling flea market. Here, you can hone your skills and uncover amazing finds hidden among the stalls.
In the heart of this vibrant region lies Grottaglie, a town celebrated for its exquisite ceramics. One must-visit is the studio of Enza Fasano, a brilliant artist who masterfully blends tradition with innovation in every piece of Apulian pottery she creates.
Visiting Lecce is a must on your journey through Puglia. This city is home to Ninaleuca, a shop that embodies the timeless charm of Apulia, offering a beautiful selection of textiles, dresses, and homewares made from local materials with Italian craftsmanship. You also shouldn’t overlook Vico dei Bolognesi, a family-owned store that focuses on contemporary design items. It’s a lively place where you’ll always receive a warm welcome and engaging conversation.
Another one of my favorite high-end interior shops in Lecce is D-Absolute Design — make sure to check it out!
What are some locations that have your favorite local cuisine?
CL: No visit to Puglia would be complete without exploring its culinary delights. Apulian cuisine is nothing short of spectacular, reflecting the region’s connection to the sea and land. Every town in Puglia is quite different from one another, and so is their food, making it important to taste the typical delicacies the area has to offer.
For example, a must-try in Lecce includes ciceri e tria (their own version of pasta, homemade of course, and chickpeas), rustico (a snack made with puff pastry filled with tomato and mozzarella), and pasticciotto (a cream-filled pastry). However, my heart belongs to a simple vegetarian dish that pays homage to Puglia’s rural heritage: fava e cicorie, or fava beans and chicories. This dish is a true gem, showcasing the beauty of simplicity.
How does this destination influence you as a designer?
Puglia speaks to every creative part of me. The rich heritage, the visual serenity of its landscapes, the authenticity of the artisans, and the deeply rooted traditions — all of it continually pushes me to rethink, reshape, and evolve my approach to design. There’s a certain poetry to the way life is lived here that I try to channel into my work — slow, intentional, beautiful.
Photography by Dario Garofalo.
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