The Puglia climate is typically Mediterranean, with short,mild, wet winters and hot dry summers. The Puglia area is amongst the driest and hottest areas in Italy, and even in January temperatures average around 8 degrees C.

Southern Puglia has mean temperature higher than 18 °C from May to October. This region receives about 700 mm of rainfall per year, with 63 rainy days clustering mainly during November and March. July and August are the hottest months with temperatures typically rising to around 30°C, and sometimes reaching 40°C. If you love the sun, the heat then July and August are the best months for soaking up the sun, swimming in the pool or sea, and generally relaxing. June and September are warm and sunny - perfect for beach days and pool activities, as well as exploring. And the beautiful weather generally continues through till the end of October with sea temperatures still inviting.

If you are planning your holiday to include exploring the historic centres of Lecce, Otranto or other cities we recommend you plan your visit for April, May or September/October. Walking around the cities will be comfortable in the mornings, while the afternoons are still warm enough to relax by the pool or on the beach.

Of course we can't guarantee the weather and over recent years we have seen much higher temperatures than those reported as the average highs (see table below). In July and August in particular temperatures can reach the low 40s.