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Last Updated on 28 April 2024 by Vanessa
Just south of Bari, there’s this little seaside village called Cozze, part of the larger Mola di Bari. It’s not the kind of place you’ll see on every Puglia travel itinerary, and you won’t spot any massive hotels there either. You’ve only got less than a handful of restaurants, shops, and bars to check out. However, despite its low-key vibe, there are three good reasons to visit to Cozze in Puglia. And yes, cats are one of those reasons.
Cozze, Puglia
Three reasons why you should add Cozze to your Puglia itinerary
1. Coastal walks
Cozze’s charm lies in its rugged coastal setting and local atmosphere. It’s like a world of its own.
You’ll mostly run into either locals or Italian tourists seeking a quieter escape. Most people who come here want to steer clear of the hustle and bustle found in more popular nearby towns like Monopoli, Polignano a Mare, or Bari.
It’s still a raw coastline with no big hotels in sight. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll along the beach in the morning or evening. The reefs and rocky shores are easy to explore.
There are several individual fishermen around, bringing in catches like Adriatic sea bass (Branzino), Adriatic Sea bream (Orata), cuttlefish (Seppia), octopus (Polpo), anchovies (Alici), mussels (Cozze), and squid (Calamari).
Cap off your walk with a drink at Cozze’s Las Palmas beach bar.
2. Cats
In Cozze, I stumbled upon the largest gathering of cats in Puglia.
Most of the cats hang out on and near the beach, where they observe the fishers as they haul in their catches. Every now and then, a kind-hearted man shares some of the day’s catch with these feline spectators. It’s heartwarming to witness the interaction between the cats and the fishermen. And it’s reassuring to know that these furry friends get to finish their day with a satisfied stomach.
However, it’s essential to point out that a significant number of these cats appear to be strays. They aren’t in the best shape, judging by their rugged appearance.
Nonetheless, as you wander through the streets of Cozze, you’ll notice some people leaving food out for the cats.
Yet, aside from these generous souls and the occasional fishermen, the cats of Cozze pretty much fend for themselves. This stands in stark contrast to other places in Italy like Matera and Portici, where the local population practically worships their feline residents.
Therefore, think about bringing some kibble with you when you visit Cozze. Considering these cats are born into tougher conditions, they’ll be forever grateful for the gesture.
3. Convenient location
Are you looking for a convenient spot to set up camp in Puglia? Do you need a place where you can easily hop in your car and explore the region without getting caught up in the touristy hubbub?
If so, Cozze might be for you.
Keep in mind, though, that Cozze is a small town. As such, it doesn’t boast big hotels. However, you can find a few privately owned rental houses and rooms available for short-term or long-term stays.
Furthermore, Cozze happens to be strategically situated if you’re keen on checking out other, more famous Puglian destinations—all of which I highly recommend:
- Bari: Bari is the capital city of the province of Bari. It is approximately 25 kilometers (about 15 miles) northwest of Cozze. As a major port city, it has many historical and cultural attractions, including the Basilica di San Nicola.
- Conversano: About 30 kilometers (about 19 miles) northwest of Cozze, Conversano is known for its medieval castle, historical architecture, and excellent culinary scene. I recommend going to Conversano for dinner if you’re spending the night in Cozze.
- Mola di Bari: Around 15 kilometers (about 9 miles) northwest of Cozze, Mola di Bari attracts many tourists thanks to its fishing port and historic center. It is located approximately 35 kilometers (about 22 miles) southeast of Cozze,
- Monopoli: Monopoli is another coastal town with stunning historic architecture, beaches, and old town. It is right next to Cozze.
- Polignano a Mare: This charming beach-side town is about 40 kilometers (about 25 miles) south of Cozze. At Polignano a Mare, you can see dramatic cliffs, stunning sea views, and a beautiful historic center. This is where you’ll have the most spectacular scenery (and wine) in all of Puglia.
And don’t forget Alberobello—it’s a bit further away from Cozze (about 70 kilometers or 43 miles to the southeast), but totally worth it! Alberobello is known for its trulli, which are traditional Apulian dry stone huts with conical roofs. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts visitors from around the world.
Things to do in Cozze Puglia
In Cozze, there’s not much to do except chill out, take a leisurely walk on the rocky beach, and make friends with the cats. But it’s a handy (and budget-friendly) spot if you want to explore the central part of Puglia and the Adriatic Coast.
Conclusion: Is Cozze a must-add to your Puglia itinerary?
So, does Cozze deserve its place on your Puglia must-visit list?
Unfortunately, this hamlet won’t be to everyone’s liking because it’s not as spectacular as some of the more well-known Italian destinations. Therefore, Cozze doesn’t usually top the charts for must-visit spots in Puglia.
Yet it’s a great place to unwind, reconnect with nature, and crash for the night, especially if you’re aiming to steer clear of the busier tourist spots after dark.
Plus, there are cats!
Visit next: The ancient city of Pompeii and its resident cats
Text and photos by Vanessa Morgan.
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