Palazzo Circolone Review: A Charming Boutique Hotel in Poggiardo, Puglia

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful Italian escape, where mornings start slow, towns feel untouched by time, and afternoons are best spent by the pool with a book and a breeze, then let me introduce you to Palazzo Circolone.

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Tucked right in the heart of Poggiardo, a small town in southern Puglia, this 18th-century palace-turned-boutique-hotel is the kind of place that feels more like a secret than a listing on a booking site. With its mix of historical charm and modern touches, it’s perfect for anyone looking to soak up Italy’s slower side without giving up comfort.

Here’s a full breakdown of our stay and what you can expect if you decide to book it yourself.

Location

Palazzo Circolon e is located right in Piazza Umberto I, basically the centre of Poggiardo, and you can tell the moment you step out the door that everything is within easy walking distance. This isn’t a touristy town, so you’ll notice it is quieter, but it makes it so peaceful. You’ll pass locals heading to the bakery, catch a glimpse of old men chatting on benches, and feel like you’ve slipped into a postcard.

We parked our car just a few streets away on Via Fabio Filzi (which is free), but if you’re arriving mid-week, be aware that Wednesdays are market day, and the street turns into a vibrant bazaar, so park on Via Minerva or behind the buildings near this street instead.

Poggiardo is small, but a great base to explore the Salento region, whether you’re heading to the coast or hopping between olive groves and historic towns.

Check-In Process

The check-in was smooth and relaxed, much like everything else at the hotel. We were greeted by friendly staff who gave us a quick tour of the space, explained breakfast times, and handed us a room access code instead of a traditional key, a little touch of modern convenience that actually made coming and going a lot easier.

The Room

We stayed in the Mosaic Room, and it was honestly one of the highlights of our trip. It had this perfect blend of rustic elegance and comfort with soaring ceilings, cool mosaic-tiled floors, and an airy layout that made it feel more like a historical suite than a hotel room.

JULIAXEATS - Italy - Puglia - Palazzo Circolone

Despite visiting in the middle of summer, the room stayed cool throughout the day, and the bed was incredibly comfy like, sink-into-the-pillows comfy. It felt calm, quiet, and private, which made it easy to unwind after a day of wandering around town.

Facilities & Amenities

For a small hotel, Palazzo Circolone packs in quite a few thoughtful touches:

Pool: Tucked behind the hotel is a small but beautiful pool, lined with sun loungers and surrounded by greenery. It’s peaceful, private, and a lifesaver on hot afternoons. We found ourselves drifting between the pool and the common room more than we planned to.

Common Rooms: There are two shared lounges, one with a view of the front square and another tucked between the rooms with books, a TV, and a cozy reading vibe. These are perfect for grabbing a coffee or just enjoying the slow pace of Puglia life.

Breakfast: Mornings start with breakfast in the courtyard, and while it’s not buffet overload, it has everything you want with fresh fruit, pastries, bread, cheese, and Italian coffee. The setting is low-key and lovely, and there’s something about sipping your morning cappuccino surrounded by stone walls that have stood for centuries.

Service

From the front desk to the breakfast staff, everyone was genuinely warm and helpful. No one hovered or felt overly formal, but if we had a question about where to eat or what beaches were best nearby, the staff were always happy to help.

Dining

We had dinner at the hotel’s on-site wine bar and restaurant, Civico 13, which is convenient, and the food was delicious. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with a great selection of local wines and a menu focused on fresh seafood, pasta, and seasonal ingredients.

Read my review: www.juliaxeats.com/civico-13-poggiardo-delicious-blend-of-flavour-atmosphere-value/

If you’re too tired to go hunting for a restaurant after a day of exploring, this place is ideal. But honestly, even if you’re not staying at the hotel, it’s worth visiting for the food and the ambiance.

Cleanliness

The hotel was clean. From our room to the pool area and the common spaces, everything was well looked after. You can tell the place is loved and maintained with care.

Things to Do Around Poggiardo

While Poggiardo itself is small, there are still plenty of things to enjoy within and around the town:

Wednesday Market: Every Wednesday morning, the town comes alive with a local market that’s full of character. It’s a great way to pick up local cheeses, handmade goods, and get a real sense of community life.
Wander the Town: Take your time walking around, there are pretty alleyways, historic churches, and quiet little corners everywhere. It’s not about sightseeing, it’s about soaking in the atmosphere.
Day Trip to Santa Maria di Leuca: We booked a boat ride through GetYourGuide to explore the sea caves and swim in the turquoise water, 100% recommend if you’re looking for a cave and swim adventure.
Dinner at Civico 13: Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, this restaurant is a gem.

Value for Money

With rooms ranging between €70 and €100 per night, this place feels like a total hidden gem. You’re getting so much more than just a place to sleep, you’re getting history, breakfast, a pool, and a quiet slice of southern Italy that hasn’t been overrun with crowds.

If you’re traveling on a mid-range budget but want a stay that feels a little special, this is a great choice.

Final Thoughts

We came to Poggiardo with no expectations, and after our stay at Palazzo Circolone, we left completely charmed. The experience was relaxing, beautiful, and full of character. What stood out most was how the whole place made us feel unrushed, at ease, and connected to a slower, simpler side of Italy.

If you’re planning a trip through Puglia and want something authentic without giving up comfort, this is the place. Poggiardo might not be on every travel itinerary, and honestly, that’s exactly what makes it special.

Tips

Parking Tip: Free parking is nearby, but don’t park on Via Fabio Filzi on Wednesdays since it becomes a market.
Dinner Must: Visit Civico 13 for a cozy dinner in.
Quiet Time: Bring a book, there’s a lovely reading room between the rooms, perfect for chill afternoons.
Day Trip Idea: If you’re up for a little adventure, head to Santa Maria di Leuca for a boat tour to explore caves and swim in crystal-clear water.
Local Market: Visit Poggiardo’s Wednesday market to experience local life and maybe pick up some handmade goodies or fresh produce.
Hire a car: While Poggiardo itself is very walkable, renting a car is highly recommended if you want to explore more of Puglia. Many of the region’s most beautiful beaches, towns (like Gallipoli and Lecce), and countryside gems are best accessed by car. Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to wander off the beaten path and visit places that aren’t reachable by public transport.