The main attraction in Alberobello, Italy, is the trulli. There are two primary areas composed mostly of trulli: Rione Monti, a touristic district on a slope facing the modern town center; and Aia Piccola, a quieter residential district.
Rione Monti attracts mostly tourists and is ultra picturesque -- both up-close and afar. For the best photo of the district, cross the main street, Largo Martellotta, and walk up the steps located behind the public parking lot. From the terrace to the right at the top of the steps is the perfect spot for viewing a sea of conical roofs.
Among the narrow streets of Rione Monti, you will find many tchotchke shops selling colorful terracotta whistles (a favorite toy in Puglia, and very annoyingly loud!), ceramics, and everything under the sun shaped like a trullo. While walking the area is very enjoyable, the constant pleas from local vendors coercing you into their shop can be a little distracting. A few owners go so far to pitch signs luring you in with claims of having the 'oldest' trullo or a 'panoramic' view. If you can't resist, the cost (if any) is usually minimal to take a peak. A nice stop is in Enoteca Tholos (located on the main street), a wine store featuring Puglian wines and local products. The staff is very knowledgeable about their products and eager to offer free samples -- enough to make up a small meal! While in Rione Monti, head up Via Monte Michele to Chiesa di Sant'Antonio, a 20th-century trullo church.
Aia Piccola is very different from Rione Monti. Most trulli are not white-washed and left in a more natural state. A walk through the area is picturesque and a welcome retreat from the hordes of tourists in Rione Monti.
If you continue up Corso Vittorio Emanuele, you will pass through part of the modern center. There are wonderful piazze, boutiques and restaurants. The street ends abruptly with the majestic Basilica Santi Medici--a beautiful sight at night! But, if you continue up the hill behind the church, you will find Trullo Sovrano, Alberobello's largest trullo. Inside, is an example of a conventional domestic dwelling.
For a taste of local life, visit Piazza del Popolo at night. Families enjoy their passaggiata while neighbors and friends sit under the well-groomed trees catching up on daily events. The area is full of life and fun!
Do you have a favorite trullo, monument or museum in Alberobello? I'd love to hear about it!
